I had seen Neil Young before – up at the Big Day Out; though (good as the show was) that hardly counted. I spent half the set listening, not watching, reading my already-written review down the phoneline for transcription since the media-room’s internet connection had died. Rock’n’roll! And people tell you you’re lucky to get free tickets.

So I wasn’t going to miss a chance to see Neil again – and with Crazy Horse. You see, I love Neil solo but my first love might actually be Neil and the Horse, it’s about those big long winding roads of guitar solo, where they take you and wondering where he’s going, and who exactly is driving…

But I nearly did miss it. No free tickets for this guy! The promoter decided I was banned – no chance of entry. Ridiculous. And it’s never been explained why. It’s been the case for some 18 months now, beginning with this show.

A guardian angel provided me with a ticket – and I was in. A printout of an e-ticket is therefore folded up and jammed in my ticket stub box, because this was a really special show to be at.

Here’s my review. And here’s the full setlist from the night.

It was an emotional three-hour show. I spent several hours up after writing a couple of versions of the review and a blog for the next day. I was bleary-eyed at work the next day. But it was worth it. I only wish I’d flown to Auckland straight after to see the show again. I don’t often feel that way but it was definitely the case with this.

Come back Neil. One more time. Please…
Stubs is an occasional feature here at Off The Tracks – looking back through the ticket-stub box and remembering how the show went down.