Nassau Coliseum, New York, New York

Opening Bands: Dangerous Toys, Bonham

I have see tne Cult on every tour since Electric, which is about 18 shows. There were some interesting circumstances during this performance. They had two warm up bands this evening: Dangerous Toys and Bonham. I was surprised at how good Bonham sounded, but Dangerous Toys need not be on that stage that night. The Cult opened up with New York City. I was shocked at how big and bloated Ian had become. I went to the beginning of the tour, when they opened for Metallica, and got to witness Ian's alchol abuse. Even though, they sounded great and Ian was a wild man on stage that night. The last 1/2 hour of the show it went down hill. Billy walked up to Ian and lifted his shirt, showing off his beer gut to the crowd. Ian was not happy with this and screamed at Billy between songs. I was right next to the stage on Jamie's side, and saw Jamie trying to calm Ian down. Right after this, Ian blew out his voice.

The next time, and every show after that I saw, they were so much more focused and over the top perfect. It was after this tour, I believe, that Ian cleaned up. I saw Ian at the Doors show in NYC last month (April 2003), and can't get over how great he looks and sounds.

Mark Gambuzza

Setlist:

New York City
Lil' Devil
Automatic Blues
American Horse
Sun King
Edie (Ciao Baby)
Rain
Peace Dog
Sweet Soul Sister
Wild Flower
Fire Woman
She Sells Sanctuary
Love Removal Machine