Some may wonder why Moz starts the show by shouting "Viva Mexico!" as the singer lives in L.A. and clearly knows he's not south of the border; in all likelihood Morrissey is acknowledging the fact that the school body at (and area surrounding) Hollywood High is predominantly Hispanic.
Cleverly beginning the concert with a take on "Alma Matters" from his debut album Viva Hate (that record's "Everyday is Like Sunday" would come late in the set) Morrissey takes the audience on an emotional rollercoaster ride, waxing melancholic one moment and turning pithy the next, the latter quality demonstrated vividly on "November Spawned a Monster."
The buoyant rave-up "You're the One for Me Fatty" and the Smiths' vegan anthem "Meat is Murder" are performed, as are favorites like "Ouija Board, Ouija Board," "Irish Blood, English Heart" and "Let Me Kiss You."
Moz is not known for doing cover songs but his interpretation of Frankie Valli's "To Give is the Reason I Live" fits in perfectly here and certainly Morrissey leaves it all on stage on this night, closing the set with the poignant "The Boy with the Thorn is His Side."
Many will always think of Morrissey's work with the Smiths as the music that defines his career; the adoring audience celebrating his solo output on this night would beg to differ.
4 Stars
Share this article
Kandace Springs - Run Your Race
On the Blue: New Horizons Cruise Day 1: Marbin Gets the Fun Started
Hot In The City: Prog Band Tu-Ner Coming to Phoenix
Megadeth Announce North American Destroy All Enemies Tour
Asia Announce The Heat of The Moment Tour
blink-182 Lead Inaugural South Star Festival Lineup
Enter Shikari Announce New Companion Record 'Dancing On The Frontline'
Sammy Hagar To Receive Star On Hollywood Walk of Fame
Beatles Legend John Lennon's Lost Help! Guitar Discovered After 50 Years
Paul McCartney & Wings: One Hand Clapping 1974 Live Studio Sessions Available For The First Time