Most Anticipated Set: Morrissey : Coachella - Better Than DISCO's summer festival coverage

Coachella Most Anticipated Set
Morrissey

Of the 80's post-punk frontmen that I worshipped during my angst-filled youth (i.e. Ian Curtis, Robert Smith), Morrissey reigned supreme. This tearful obsession even went as far as stencil-painted sweatshirt, worn regularly up until the end of high school. Yet despite my infatuation with the sardonic crooner, I’ve been denied opportunities to see him live time and time again. Whether due to being a broke-ass art student or his “throat infection,” it took me seven years to finally breathe the same air as Moz (sans angsty attitude). As he gracefully walked onto the stage at the Wellmont Theatre in Montclair, NJ, he stood less than ten feet away from me, and I let out an unearthly shriek that had not emerged from the inner depths of my being since my tween years, when my interests veered more towards bands like 'N Sync. No tears this time, though.

Even at the age of 49, the sexually ambiguous singer puts on a dazzling show, playing not only his recent work, but also touching on his early solo career (Viva Hate, Bona Drag) and even some Smiths-era songs like "This Charming Man" and "How Soon is Now?" Considering his backing band could be body doubles of the original 80's lineup, with the denim shirts, combed-back hair and Gretsch guitars, the set list seems suitable. Despite a career spanning over twenty-five years, Morrissey's voice still sounds clear and unobstructed, absent of wear and tear. His adlibs in between songs range from the philosophical to the rhetorical, with a bit of humor mixed in, not unlike his lyrics. The only downside of his performance is the wall he builds between he and his audience—which tends to prevent much reaching out, but if you’re lucky you just might be able to crowd-surf to the stage, hanging onto a glimmer of hope that maybe, just maybe he'll reach out for a hug, or even a hand, until security swarms in and snatches you. Regardless, the live Morrissey experiences will leave you yearning to see him again, and again, and again. The “Charming Man” is at once intoxicating, hypnotizing and undeniably beguiling. I would not risk it, but if you want to take a stab at flinging yourself at the Moz, Coachella is as good a time as any.

Written by: Sara Greene