Roma, Atlantico, Italy, October 27th 2013
Dear John and PiL family, Thank you for a kick ass concert yesterday in Rome. I know you weren't too happy with the sound on stage but it was great from the floor. Gave me goose bumps. I couldn't have hoped for more or better (except if next time you maybe include FFF).
Lucas
Bologna, Estragon, Italy, October 26th 2013
pix © Francesco Pullè
Ancienne Belgique, Brussels, Belgium, October 24th 2013
Dear PIL, Thank you for the gig at the AB Brussels last night 24-Oct-2013. The third time I saw you all. An d it was the best gig ever. Lu Edmonds is a great guitar player. A lot of great songs, perfectly played, what a bass sound. I maybe just 40, I missted the early years, but Mr Lydon, you gave a lot for our money worth. Keep up the good work, you have been an inspiration for my all my life, with your attitude, your opinions, your lyrics and your music Thank you for performing Public Image, it’s my life song, which I live by See you as soon as possible PS: the new songs are great too!
Alex Vanuxem
Paris, Cite De La Musique, France, October 23rd 2013
Paris, Cite De La Musique, France, October 23rd 2013 - ARTE feed
Thank you for the wonderful concert of PIL at Cité de la Musique in Paris on 23 October 2013, and also the amazing live registration, with such a great sound! Learning that Public Image Limited would be playing in Cité de la Musique in Paris, we decided to go and make this our honeymoon.
Just the week before Bert Broodje, my husband, was at the opening of the Europunk exposition as one of the lenders of items from the Netherlands. The people of the organisation were happy to put us on the guestlist for the concert of PIL. Because of Bert's health (muscle weakness and pain) we would be in Paris for three days only, one day before and one day after the concert.
To see PIL is most important to us, as we have loved the music from the first single. Yet each concert is a new experience to us, and we love to see John, Lu, Bruce, Scott, and Rambo on stage. The songs, music, instruments, lights, the complete happening on stage and in the crowd. The concert was sold out and the hall was packed.
As the doors opened at 19:30 all went inside the concert hall and also the balcony's were soon full of lovers of proper music. Next to us were standing two young girls from Paris, and a father and his young son. When the lights in the hall dimmed and the band appeared on stage, they were welcomed with all cheers. The whole concert there was a great atmosphere, at the center of the crowd people were dancing, and singing along with Johnny.
Bert was in front of the stage with his walker, sometimes dancing and sometimes sitting down to rest a little, I was standing behind him enjoying the songs and watching the band playing their different instruments, "How is Bruce playing his drums?" It was fun to see John teasing Rambo a little with a towel, as it was very warm in the hall and on stage. Giving him the towel, John introduced Rambo to the crowd. It is always a feast to see PIL live and we hope to see the band more in future!
After the concert we returned to the hallway of the building for a drink and to have a chat with the member of PIL at the merchandise stand. Unexpectedly one of the staff members of Cité de la Musique told Bert that we could go backstage, which meant a positive shock for Bert whose greatest wish is to meet John Lydon once. As she took us backstage the lady went to see if we could actually meet John. As we waited Bert could calm down a little. Here we met Bruce and Lu and talked with them, and Bert also asked them for an autograph on the This is PiL CD.
It was getting later and we did not see the staff member of Cité de la Musique, we still wanted to wait for her answer. She told us that John had already left. We understood and thanked the lady for all they have done for us that day, visiting the Europunk exposition together and attending the concert of PIL in Paris. No disappointment not meeting John in person! We feel that John and Rambo outsmarted the fans by not using the expected exit doors. You know, seeing and hearing PIL is a meeting in itself! Love to you all, X
Bert and Amrita
Thank you for having passed in France, we missed you since so for a long time. What a wonderful concert you offered to us this evening! First, the concert hall was magnificent. I had a place in balcony, which gave a plunging view onto the stage and onto the crowd which waved at the rhythm of the basslines. It was visually very beautiful. Previously, I always was in front of stage to take advantage of the atmosphere. But in this concert, it was better to be in balcony, with the impression being just over John.
The sound had an exceptional quality, strong and very precise. I was already be in many concerts of PIL ( inside and outside), and every time I’m impressed by the high sound quality and John's vocal performances. But in Paris, I found myself in a PERFECT visual and hearing experience, settled in my seat with the group a few meters away from me!
As the concert was filmed on Web in ‘live’, it was forbidden to make photos and to film with its own telephone. The staff in the room was inflexible on this point. Everything was made so that the concert hall stayed in the black. Very good idea! No flash and no visual pollution. The crowd was completely focused on the group; people shouted a lot even if we don’t see it in the film. And what a perfect sound! The drum was slamming, the bass was piercing and vibrating, the silence was complete during Lu’s soloes of guitar. A magic experience, with the impression to be in studio session.
And John… your vocal performances, your presence... I could write it pages and pages… You make the stage tremble as ever. As you said : Vive la révolution! (I adore your French).
I’m so happy to see again the concert on Web in HD, by following this link:
http://www.citedelamusiquelive.tv/Concert/1010110/public-image-limited.html
Thank you John, you are one of rare persons not to pretend to be an other one. Your music and your ideas had a lot of influence in my life. Stay real!
A la prochaine !
Thanks to Rambo, the PIL team and to your professionalism !
Valérie Blot
London, O2 Shepherds Bush Empire, UK, October 21st 2013
Thanks so much for playing London last week. Seen you at Glastonbury earlier this year and we were all chomping at the bit to see you again. Amazing. John growling “We’re all friends here” into the gloom, keeping it together, holding it in, giving it all. The band playful, tight and ever-reaching. Albatross and This is not a Love Song were unbelievable.
Friendly hugs, grinning faces, encouragement as we sneaked through to the front (go on, go for it!). Had the best fun ever, until we got kicked out for having a cheeky fag- just before the encore, dammit! Tried our best with our heads pressed to the exit door (Public Image, Rise, Open Up - arrgghhh, can’t believe we missed those!), but didn’t quite cut it. Nevertheless, a brilliant, brilliant time, and we are lying in wait for your next visit…
Maria Herbert-Liew
Birmingham, O2 Academy, UK, October 20th 2013
Deepest joy! PiL returned to a Birmingham stage. The same stage as their triumphant December 2009 ‘reformation’ gig, and they were once again, most triumphant indeed. The setlist, I’m pleased to report, is sterling and constantly changing. No Flowers of Romance or Religion this time round, but Careering makes a return and The Body is given a rare airing.
Public Image, Rise and (This Is Not a) Love Song got the mosh-pit heaving, and Johnny’s three-tone shoes were just too cool for school. But even cooler was Scott’s Metal Box ’convict’ jacket, replete with song titles from the classic album. And check out the new ‘wobbly’ PiL backdrop, changing colours throughout the show. Trippy!!!
The sound was loud, clear and relentlessly intense, as well the PiL sound should be. The new songs held their own alongside the old classics, and the crowd was healthily diverse in age and style. The Selecter played a kick-ass support set that not many bands would dare to follow. It was a great, great night. Looking forward to my next PiL gig, which will be my eighth. Any chance of dusting off Low Life for an outing for the next tour guys? Love on! Rules are for fools!
Richard Harvey
Leeds, O2 Academy, UK, October 17th 2013
Hello to All @ PiL ! Many Thanks for Playing Leeds again, You All Played a Blinder of a Show ! Good Luck with the rest of the Tour Lad's, Enjoy & Cheers for now,
The Claude
Bournemouth, O2 Academy, UK, October 13th 2013
Bournemouth 13.10.2013 BLISTERING! and blew us away. Have gone away feeling not alone on this planet. John and the boys were on TOP form and an inspiration. MISS THEM AT YOUR PERIL Truly an awesome gig - I really don't know how to put into words but wanted to let you know how much we enjoyed this and went away feeling truly euphoric COMEBACK SOON! Your Public needs you xx
Karen Hall
BBK Live Festival, Bilbao, Spain, July 12th 2013
BBK Festival, Bilbao, July 12th 2013 - ARTE feed
Glastonbury Festival, Other Stage, June 30th 2013
PiL Official.com (aka the Ribena berries) do Glastonbury... We shone like beacons in the garden of Eden as did the band. We would like to thank absolutely no one in the hospitality camping section or Bristol airport thank you. "Where's the instructions?"
Day one. 1800 hours. PiL entertainment officer Macleod shows off PiL Official Glastonbury HQ...
Tesco tents and Argos sleeping bags'. No expense spared for PiL Official.com. Working class zeros...
The review did state that if 2 men were sharing they hoped they were close...
Sunday 0400. In our absence things had not gone as we had hoped...
Day 2. 0900 hours. PiL Official don't do tents. "That's the spirit" as Rambo later commented...
Day 2. 1600 hours. Soundcheck. PiL Official live to tell the tale (much to the band's amusement)...
Day 2. 1605 hours. 20,000+ people. Seagulls, sun, and Public Image Ltd. Perfect... Later to be followed by Oil of Olay, Olay, Olay and a little drinky. Mission complete...
You can now watch the FULL PiL stream from Glastonbury via the BBC website. The band were on fire - absolutely not to be missed...
PiL Glastonbury Festival, Other Stage, June 30th 2013 (full show & pix) (UK only)
This is Not a Love Song / Reggie Song / Warrior
/ One Drop / Death Disco / Public Image / Rise / Open Up
BBC YouTube - Rise live from Glastonbury
Manchester, Ritz, UK, 28th June 2013
Thanks for another great gig guys. Faultless performance and an excellent set given the tight time constraints. I know it's not your style to play old crowd-pleasers, so it's great to have Public Image back in the mix. It's a short sharp reminder of where it started, and so well executed. (Weird crowd - so many standing for the duration with their cell-phones / cameras above their heads filming and snapping!). (BTW love the 52 minutes still available on the Beeb from Glastonbury - - daylight lighting, superb sound and great camera direction from Auntie, picking up all the detail, not just John's ugly mug and toe-caps, but all of Lu's instruments, Bruce communicating with the band and the mixing desk, Scott and his PiL/Apple logo, the Brandy & spittoon, even Rambo and his mat. ;-) And did I mention great sound again.) Like a well oiled - but not too corporate - machine. Keep it up guys - see you again in the autumn.
Ian
Great night had at the ritz P.I.L are sounding better than ever seen them live 3 times since 2009/2013 and the gigs are fantastic. Some of the older tunes reworked are great keep up the great work john and co. Can't wait for there next album and let's hope you get an album release of the classics remixed. WOW WHAT A NIGHT next stop Birmingham.
Clive
photography © Paul Wolfgang Webster
Brighton, Dome, UK, 27th June 2013
Arrived in Brighton with my mate Rob to see the mighty PIL at the Dome. Hoping it would be as good as last year’s Concord 2 shows. We were not “Disappointed” As we walked down the road to the venue we bumped into the rhythm section and got Bruce and Scotty to sign our tickets. “Thanks boys”
After topping up on beer in the wagon and horses we headed into the Dome. From the opening Albatross to the set closer we never stopped moving. Moshing in the pit and then got down to front centre right on the rail. We love you Johnny. Went up the Evening Star for post gig beers and a couple of Krakens. Fell asleep on the train, and paid forty quid for a taxi back to Lewes. Would do it all again in a flash.
Pete
My last PiL gig was Reading 2012 and the Brighton Dome turned out to be another unique venue; my friend Marks favorite,being a resident of the manor.. I found the band lighter and maybe more playful than last year. the sound and space was great and people were dancing and enjoying the music. Looking forward to Shepherds Bush!!!!!!!!!!!
Nigel DS
Body & Soul Festival, Ireland, June 23rd 2013
Well , i had to come by and thank your good selfs for a outstanding performance at Body & Soul festival Ireland 2013 . I honestly was entertained to a dream state mind of pure magic of expression . Music of which is more like an ocean than a drop , can't get enough . John Lydon to say you owned the stage would be understatement , you played sunday night , here i am four days later , in my head am still there , pointing out to people around me , saying how f**king good is this . I could be wrong , i could be right am i not mistaken yous had just as much fun performing as we did viewing ? listen yas were f**king class end of story one if not the best gig i ever witnessed . Thanks for the buzz just f**king deadly :) .
Ully Bear
I took some photographs at the Body and Soul gig last night, it was outstanding , only took me 25 years to see PIL. Anyway, I was in the front row thoroughly enjoying myself in a prime position, best show i have ever been to. John and the band were brilliant.
Moscow, Izvestiya Hall, Russia, June 19th 2013
Moscow we salute you! John says: "Best PiL gig ever. Moscow we are family". Brilliant, brilliant, brilliant show. Brilliant nutty crowd, from the moshers and crowd-surfers to the stations of the cross, the band loved every second. Rambo had a busy night conducting the packed crowd, but he loved you. Security of one. We would like to thank everyone who made it possible. From PiL with love. Now, where's the vodka...
Public Image Ltd, June 19th 2013
Memories live in Moscow (posted by fan)
Soundcheck photos: Andrew Scrimshaw © PiL Official
Moscow, Press Conference, June 17th 2013
FULL PiL press conference (filmed by Rock n Roll TV )
Rock Summer Festival, Tallinn, Estonia, June 16th 2013
Dear Friends, In the name of myself and all the team of Rock Summer 25 I would like to thank you for coming to Tallinn, Estonia to celebrate with us the 25th birthday of the first Rock Summer festival and bringing joy to the hearts of Estonian music lovers. God bless you! With best wishes,
Jüri Makarov, Promoter of Rock Summer 25
An American here in Tallinn was at the Rock Summer 25 show tonight. Johnny agitated with the sound system as he said he could not hear himself, but rest assured we heard him just fine. Estonian crowd really into PIL tonight. Worth the wait as they were the 39th band to perform, out of a total of 40 for the weekend. Weather cooperated just in time as it poured earlier. Very symbolic as PIL played the first Rock Summer show back in 1988 when Estonia was still part of the Soviet Union.
I have now seen them in 3 countries, US, Canada and Estonia. I can not stress how much this meant to the Estonia fans tonight, since PIL played here during the Soviet era and Johnny mentioned that and mocked Russian occupiers-soldiers at one point. This was the 25th Rock Summer and PIL played the first one back in 1988.
Glenn
Thank you Balkans
Thank you Balkans. You are a PiL zone. We love you. Long may you shine. Some of the best PiL shows ever. Respect.
PiL Official, June 15th 2013
Zagreb, Club Tvornica, Croatia © Anastazija Vrzina
Belgrade, Club SKC, Serbia, June 13th 2013
I had the time of my life at PIL's concert! All the time I was enjoying the magnificent show from the center of the 1st row! I've even got in the newspapers! (holding the "horns":) -"Johnny Rotten knows the business. The crowd in ecstasy!"
The whole band had an incredible energy, but the most mesmerizing was Johnny's face! Who would say that the small venue like SKC could be worthy of huge star like Johnny and PIL??? Bruce Smith, Lu Edmonds and Scott Firth also did a grate job, the concert was flawless. The audience was very attentive the whole time. -
And now the most thrilling part of the story: CRASHING THE PARTY and MEETING THE BAND.
A friend and I wanted to meet the band so badly, but there was no chance of doing it the "legal" way, so we had to find the alternative...and we did. I spotted Johnny's "crest" through the window on the 1st floor (though the security told us that he had left-but I knew they were lying) and than Alexandra (my friend) spotted the way of climbing the roof :) She started climbing. I knew that was our ONLY chance, so I followed her with no turning back. The security started yelling at us, but we were already on the roof and with an rush of adrenalin run to THE window and tried not to pay attention to the security. As soon as we reached the window, we were SAVED. Thanks to RAMBO, we got in and we were very nicely welcomed! The room was full and everybody started applauding us! It took us a moment to realize it, since we were in shock;)
Then we met the great Mr. JOHNNY Rotten! ( I must say he looked very fresh at the time!:-) It was such an honor! We exchanged a few words ( he was very friendly, even though we crashed uninvited and he was probably tired from the show -so, hats off! ), took a couple of very nice photos and after that he gave us autographs!
Beneath his signature he wrote: "Was here". -On the letter "W" he put two dots, so I asked if those were tits and HE told ME I have a "filthy mind"! Oh, such a grate laugh we had, I'll never forget! My friend unfortunately doesn't speak English, but she was happy just for being there. She tried to fit in, and LU helped her with a few Serbian words -that was a very nice surprise! Btw, I couldn't b e l i e v e when LU came to us ASKING for photo cause we were "so brave"! -And I still can't believe! Again, the honor was ours!
Had also a nice chat with BRUCE, who was very kind (now I regret for not asking the drum sticks!:) and took a couple of photos;)
With SCOTT I've exchanged just a few words on his way out, and took a picture (of course), but he left a very good impression, as everyone in the band!
We have also met the PIL's "CREW". Everyone was super nice to us, but Mr. "RAMBO" left the most pleasant impression with an friendly look on his face and his soothing voice with nice accent. We had a lovely chat and at the end of the party we all said goodbye, wished all the best and kissed tree times (the Serbian way). We also got a few compliments from the band & the crew;)
We had to say goodbye one more time, so we waited for everyone to get into the trailer. THEN I realized I didn't took a picture with Rambo, so I tried to get him out of the trailer and he really wanted to get out, but it was too late:( They left and we left waving.The only thing I regret is not taking a picture with him as a memory, cause he's different from the other bands managers, with his hospitality and an open heart. He proved his greatness when our, SERBIAN security, who doesn't even know how big legends Johnny and PIL are (cause they listen only to "red neck's folk music") was rude and rough to us, Rambo stood for us on the way that I'll never forget. I hope we'll meet again one day.
The concert itself was excellent, but this whole experience has made our night. It was the best night in our lives and we'll remember it as long as we live. THANK YOU!
Milica
Brillant outside venue with a really good sound system, well worth the journey over ! zagrab was good, but beograd was excellant ! shine !!!!!!!!!!!
Simon Gilmartin
Nocturn Magazine, June 14th 2013 Picture Gallery 70+ pictures © Jovana Milovanović i Marko Ristić
I have read somewhere that the English use “brilliant” meaning “good”. What about “fucking brilliant”? That’s the way I would describe PIL’s last night performance. The band was on top form and the crowd responded properly. They played about 15 songs and I’m sure they had as much fun as we did. I’ve seen them last year on that Belgrade Calling piece of crap festival, but this small club outdoor stage was much better environment to soak full PIL experience.
The audience was also interesting mixture of youngest and oldest, and there were only about ten Sid Vicious- postcard punk-lookalikes attending and being rebellious by spraying beer over themselves. Anyway, Mr. Lydon sang his heart out, Lu did weird things to weird things with strings, Scott moved our bowels with his bass and Bruce beat the shit out of the drums and kept them all together. No fireworks, no shitty large video beam nonsense, no annoying light show distractions, just four guys doing what they do best and that is playing some loud and really fucking interesting music. Although I’m a huge fan of all their studio albums, this is the band that you should experience in live performance to get them right.
Do I buy Public Image Ltd because it’s British? Or because it’s made from Britain’s finest? No. I buy Public Image Ltd because it tastes the best :) This is the band that I like. This is PIL. May the road rise.
PS, Can you please hire some Mick Jaggers witchdoctors to prolongue your lives so you could do more excellent gigs and albums for the next 35 years?
Vladimir
This is Not a Love Song - live in Belgrade (posted by fan)
Zagreb, Club Tvornica, Croatia, June 12th 2013
There are no words that can describe PiL's performance here in Zagreb on June 12th. This was the first time that I've ever seen them performing live, and it was beyond belief, great powerful energy that just wrap you up in your own PiL zone. Fucking awesome! When they first came out on the stage, you could smell the great respect the audience is having toward John and the band. There were a mixture of youngsters and oldies in the audience, all united under PiL's logo, and also a few Sex Pistols t-shirts jumping around trying to do pogo. :) Lu was busy changing instruments and making wonderful noises with it, Bruce was great on drums, Scott even celebrated his birthday that night (John sending a balloon to the audience) and John did what he do best, he sang from the bottom of his lungs. His powerful voice made rightful symbiosis with the music.
Mr. Lydon left a great impression here in Croatia, doing interviews, drinking beer, all in all just being himself. He is a great man, honest and intelligent, he brings values out on the open, and is not afraid to speak his mind. He already found a place in the hearts of many Croats, together with Public Image Ltd. Thank you, Johnny Rotten for coming to Croatia finally! :) You could sense that these four honest guys are doing what they love, and that's what makes their live performance so great. Live they sound even better than threw the record; it's an experience I highly recommend.
Thank you PiL , come back to us soon! Croatia applauds to you! This is PiL,...and PiL is the energy!! :)
Kristina
Mixer.Hr, June 13th 2013 Picture Gallery 25+ pictures © Inka Lo & Ivan Gari Suvalj
Heavy lifting!
Albatross live in Croatia (posted by fan)
Leicester, O2 Academy, UK, June 10th 2013
Hello to all in P.i.L World !!! We've just been to 2 Cracking Public Image Ltd. Gig's @ Oxford & Leicester 02 Academy's. Both show's we're 1st Class Stuff, as Always !!! Death Disco, Public Image & One Drop we're our Fav's from both Shows. 1st Class Music, From a 1st Class Band as Always.
Public Image - you've got what you wanted - Well what more can i say ??? The Best as ever, Cheer's to All @ Public Image Ltd. And we'll see you all in Manchester, Also a Thousand Thanks to all the Lad's @ P.i.L for want you do to make these Tour's Happen.
Cheer's To John & Rambo From Claude & Janette
Sorry Jonny you're going to have to continue leading the revelution for a while, didn't see many student rebels in the audience tonight! This is the 4th time I've seen you guys since you reformed and you just keep getting better. The mix of the old classics and the new is a fantastic set list. That bass level is so powerful you should give a health warning :-) Warrior and Not a Love Song were going to be my favourites until you came out with Public Image, fantastic, live music as it should be. Long may you continue,
Neil Shaw
Oxford, O2 Academy, UK, June 9th 2013
Tremendous gig in Oxford Sunday night, with John in fine voice and great spirits. Nice intimate venue too... (I don't think I've ever seen anyone play the banjo with a violin bow before I saw PiL!). Yea! That was the 6th PiL gig for me, already looking forward to the 7th. Rules are for fools! Love on!
Richard Harvey
WOW!!!..Each time I see PiL live, I come out saying "That was the best gig I've ever been to!"...Tonight was no exception. Starting off with the venue...In a word,it was Perfect! Small and up close. As John commented from the stage, "I can see every one of you..That's the way it should be! " And now to the gig..From the first note to the last,it was full on energy. Old favorites mixed with newer favorites...The old songs sounding as fresh as ever,with Public Image and This is not a love song, lifting the floor up!
Scotts bass and Bruce's drums punching you in the chest and causing y'trousers to flap...I was wearing skin tight drainpipes,yet my strides were flapping like a goodun! Lu is just a genius...end of!...and as for John, he summed himself up 'spot on' when introducing the band and referring to himself as 'Johnny fuckin fabulous'! The bouncers got a bit excited at one point,dragging a few punters out until John,quite rightly,told them..or rather demanded,that they be brought back in..which they were...The innocent victims would've had a great tale to tell at work today,how Mr.Rotten saved them from an early exit...Great stuff! Two hours of sheer brilliance was over all too quickly.
The best gig ever..although i'm sure that next time I see them,they'll prove me wrong... again! Thanks for a awesome night....John,Lou,Scott and Bruce... Four Geniuses at work!!!
Andy
As always, I found myself sonically absorbing 'DEATH DISCO' via surround sound in my head. The mesmerising performance from John is a joy to behold every time. I always make my way to the front of the barriers when the doors open, and the wait has always been worth it.
PIL have always moved me and like 'ALBATROSS' my journey with the band, will be long-lasting. Always appreciated and thank you as always....
Kevin 'George' (The lucky No:1 gold ticket holder)
So after seeing the explosive show at Bournemouth back in 2012 I decided to go see PiL again if they gravitated back to England, low and behold they did, hmmm I thought I have friends and relatives that live in Oxford that I can crash at... Yeah lets do this.
So after a few hours of traveling up to Oxford I found myself in (with the exception of a pub) the smallest most personal venue I have seen, perfect, also I saw an 11 year old going in to see PiL which was cool to know I wasn't the youngest.
Also I was expecting either the throbbing synth bass beginning to Love song or the roaring drum roll to Deeper water to kick things off but to my surprise four enclosed walls which for the venue was kinda fitting, not one song in that show was the same to the show I saw back in Bournemouth, sadly no religion or lollipop opera or bags/chant but it was good to hear memories four enclosed walls and Public Image (which I might add makes people move like hell it was rather hilarious, as soon as it started the entire front where I was went ballistic). But also Love song, Deeper water, deaths disco even my frave song open up was different, still the same songs at heart but radically different to the first time I saw PiL.
Next time I know PiL don't do requests as John Lydon pointed out in Oxford many a time but I hope to hear Bags and lollipop opera making a return with religion, or maybe some completely different PiL songs.
Train back to college first thing Monday morning, in my waistcoat and military parade jacket stinking of beer and sweat cause some over excited people kept throwing pints all over the crowd and the stage at one point. But very happy.
And a few days later they announced Bournemouth in October. Oh well what a pity looks like I'll have to go again ho hum dear me what will I ever do?
Robin
Great Gig on Sunday, great atmosphere and great to see PIL at Oxford. Albatross and Deeper Water got the old hairs on the back of the neck going. Great banter with Jonny and the crowd, I will never forget seeing the bouncer receiving a verbal ear bashing from Jonny:).
I was well impressed with Lu and his mastery of the electric guitar and also using a violin bow to create an interesting sound from his banjo. I can't wait to see PIL at the Shepherds Bush Empire in October of this year. PIL is cool, it's great to see real musicians performing. I know PIL don't do requests, but please, please, please come back and perform at the Oxford 02 Academy again soon.
Pete Young
Finsbury Park, London, UK, June 8th 2013
PiL having a lark at Finsbury Park (posted by fan)
Melbourne, Palace, Australia, April 11th 2013
Amazing, brilliant, awesome were just a few of the words that came to mind walking out of the palace theatre last night. I never thought I'd have the privilege to witness John lydon live and of course the rest of public image and the show did not disappointed. John was awesome on stage and sounded great. I was in awe of him from the start to finish. The setlist was great aswell although I didn't hear a personal favorite religion, I was very happy to hear public image. I hope its not so long again for pil to come back to Australia. Thank you for a great night. Proper music for proper people.
Billy
Walking down Melbourne’s Bourke Street that cold Thursday, I noticed a few figures standing in front of the Palace Theater, where Public image Limited (PiL) was set to hold their show that night. But it was still around 4 p.m. I was pretty sure the show was still hours away. I approached the figures, several of whom were wearing t-shirts with a picture of PiL member John Lydon.
Yes, the show was at 7 p.m. No, nothing is really going on right now. “We’re dedicated” one of them said.
Nearing PiL time, the crowd began to grow restless. The spot just across the stage began to be in high demand and I had to grip the fence to stay anchored. A man wearing a leather jacket and a union jack scarf pushed his way to the front, yelling “Where’s Johnny?” And when the band did kicked off their set my first reaction was merely trying to reconcile the clashing thoughts in my head. A peculiar experience, really.
I haven’t always lived in Australia and where I was before, especially during my teenage years, a PiL album is quite hard to come by. I merely read bits and pieces of the lyrics from books about punk and the Sex Pistols. And of course lyrics of PiL and the Pistols songs, along with other “punk” songs I listened to are parts of my growing up process. They made me question many things and reluctant to trust certain authorities.
I soon found myself in the field of journalism, which allowed me to keep questioning things. Ironically, mainstream media and the writers of these lyrics can be in less agreeable terms at times. So it was only recently that I have been acquainted with the songs in full force, thanks to Youtube and updated record stores collection. And now I am actually seeing these lyrics performed live.
It was a little bit much to actually take in, but soon I was giggling at Lydon’s remarks of Melbourne needing “more Aborigines”, gawking at Lu Emonds’ string actions and dancing along with the crowd, which grew wilder with each song. I was hardly able to keep myself from being swept away by the front row folks during “One Drop” and “This is Not a Love Song”, but my efforts paid off. During the encore, I was more or less able to have more room to dance while still getting an eyeful of the band – the girl in front of me apparently has had enough of being shoved around.
Nearing the end of the set, Lydon puts his fist to his chest before swinging the arm forwards. “Heart, heart, wings of the dove.” I found out later that he has been inquired whether he was making a Nazi salute when he produced the same gesture on a certain television interview. Yes, the one that caused him of being called a “sexist” by some media afterwards.
Lydon? Sexist? Really? I recall his acquaintances with powerful female figures. Sure, those were unpleasant things to say to a woman, but to label him a sexist? Again, too much to take in a few days’ go. The show was good fun. Good music, good venue and even decent chats with former strangers afterwards.
dina indrasafitri
Sydney, Enmore Theatre, Australia, April 10th 2013
Moshcam: Full show (Sydney, Enmore Theatre, April 10th 2013)
Moscham: Backstage interview (Sydney, Enmore Theatre, April 10th 2013)
Moscham: Preview and fans interviews (Sydney, Enmore Theatre, April 10th 2013)
Brisbane, Hi-Fi, Australia, April 9th 2013
At approx 9.35pm John and the band walked onto the dimly lit Hifi Bar in West End Brisbane. Dressed in what looked like prison issued shirt and pants, the ever excited Mr. Lydon from the get go had the crowd eating out of his hands! Opening with a blistering 4 Enclosed walls, John howled his way through the track to get the crowd pumped up! A scintillating 15 min Albatross had John and the band testing their music prowess to the limit as they riffed and danced their way through a mind blowing live performance! Closely followed were...Deeper water, memories, Reggie song, Disappointed and a blistering Warrior, not before John had to duck off for a quick piss as the other members kept playing!
Not to be there shy one, John could not resist having a word about deceased former UK Prime Minister Margaret Thatcher before thundering into an amazing Flowers Of Romance. One Drop had the younger generation singing with John and then the action really heated up with the pogo dancing with Death Disco. This is not a love song and a soaring Public Image! A 3 min delay after John and the band signed off, saw the guy's return with 3 magnificent encore performances starting with Out of the Woods, a mesmerizing Rise and Open Up closed the show with a bang!
John never missed a beat and Lou Edmonds guitar playing was clinical to say the least! It was 20 years since Pil played on these shores and from the crowds appreciation at shows end and John's ability to encourage crowd participation, one can only hope that they will tour again in the near future. John, I tip my hat to you your still rocking all these years on and you will always be the godfather of punk!
Mike Simpson
Greg is my name. Local fellow and enjoyer of PiL. I'm not a jorno or anything close, just a fan. I saw PiL in Dec 1989 at the Easts League Club in Brisbane. Great show then! The 2013 show was EXCELLENT!, funny how time moves on for the living, in 1989 I remember more beer and bad behaviour at the Easts gig than the 2013 (same crowd!) However it did not stop the PiL family having a blast and catching up with old time 'punkers' or should it be punters. The mix suited the music and the venue really did justice to all. Cosy, all hits no misses. Thanks to all who managed to put the gig and tour together, Thanks!!!!!! to John and the boys,
Greg
It was a wonderful show and evening all round. A huge thanks to all concerned for coming our way. Highlights were many but I'll stick to a few of the musical ones. A special mention must go to a stunning version of Albatross, I love how you are doing Flowers of Romance (please keep it up), and the 15-20 minutes that made up Out of the Woods and Rise were twenty of the best live minutes I've experienced.
A big thanks to the four guys for giving it your all for the two plus hours. You were all in fine form indeed, proving what John said at the end, that you do it because you love it. Finally a special thanks to Lu for giving me a few minutes after the show even though you were with friends. As I said then, thanks for your great work on the night and throughout the years.
Christopher
This is the 3rd time that I saw the live of Public Image Ltd. What first to see was "9" tour at BUDOKAN in 1989. The 2nd time was Summer Sonic Festival in 2011. When re-formation Sex Pistols is included, I Saw the John Lydon-on stage-is the 4th time. Although I don’t understand (whether it is many or whether it is few...),This time was the best anyhow! It was the wonderful live which I can declare so.
The present member who does both activities with John Lydon is three musicians, Lu Edmonds (Gt.), Scott Firth (B.), and Bruce Smith (Dr.). Touch with now in peak condition through recording of the tour of the revival in 2009 to many, and the new work for the first time in 20 years "This Is PiL.". I think that PiL should make more albums from this member.
The opening song of the live was "Four Enclosed Walls". First, what I was surprised at rather than anything is a technique of John as a vocalist. John's voice became entangled with the heavy and groovy tribal beat. A call & response was also cool!! I thought that It was wonderful with becoming a sing-along with the song from "Flowers Of Romance." John's voice changes anger, a sneer, joy and sadness into "A Shout". I was impressed very much by the voice of his rich power of expression.
PiL performed "Albatross" by which the rearrange was carried out to the length for 15 minutes or more. They save a tension firmly, without slowing. Especially I thought that Lu Edmonds's guitar performance was wonderful. Lu plays not only a guitar and also a banjo and a lute. He has the presence of the same like as John. His idea and performance style became a big driving force of PiL revival, I imagine.
Although original "Flowers of Romance" was bassless, it was updated to the version with a bass this time. Great! We moshed and sung to “Public Image” and “Rise”and more... The last song is "Open Up". It is mash-up of a machine beat and live music. So We danced!
Even now, "PUBLIC IMAGE", "METAL BOX", and "FLOWERS OF ROMANCE" are innovative. The present PiL has updated them firmly. I regard it as very wonderful.
Re-formation Sex Pistols' John Lydon seemed to be the comedian. In today's PiL, he seemed to be The Master (from the movie of Paul Thomas Anderson). John is expressing the humor of believing the surface. But he believes only music. So I love the music of Public image ltd.
ICHIRO INUKAI (COOKIE SCENE)
Backstage and Beyond Japan 2013
© PiL Official Ltd 2013 / Photo: Tomohiro Noritsune
Tokyo, AX, Japan, April 6th 2013
© PiL Official Ltd 2013 / Photo: Tomohiro Noritsune
Tokyo, AX, Japan, April 5th 2013
This is Not a Love Song live in Tokyo (posted by fan)
Nagoya, Diamond Hall, Japan, April 2nd 2013
© PiL Official Ltd 2013 / Photo: Tomohiro Noritsune
When show was over, the audience severally talked being excited. Their early Passion is felt’ It showed all. A voice to have convulsions, a minimum drum, song such as the incantation.
A solid guitar and base, the lump of the sound, wave of the light.
John Lydon raise both hands and instigate. Second song start, Take off a white jacket, he is light with a red shirt. With expression of the ecstasy, he cries like a dog, wave a wing like a bird. Peek-a-boo.!! He is like the mischief kid. I don't know legendary period of P.I.L. but now they are still great!!!!
Metallic guitar shines, bass howls like a heavy tank. The drumming is mechanical but hot.Sorrowful cry. I saw the pistol which he stuck into the temple. John took down both hands like a conductor and finish the song. Collect inward, spit it out and explode. It sounds from the distance of the space and time. PiL's music is full of the paradoxical hope to the future. It suggests the magnificent journey.
‘Never surrender’ John Lydon singing..
Offering romances in full blossom, John blow a kiss for all audience. He laughs with every effort, claps hands, raises hands, a call and response happens.
He calls everyone!! He talks with a whole body. Is it ironical or love? Anyway, I want to sing together. John puts both fists on the brow, and barks. An unbelievable voice is given to me. Everyone dance, someone is going to take my beer by mistake, and party was out of order really!!
This is a love song.. John said hello! hello! Hello! hello! still repeating.. Almost at the end, a riot happens, from front of arena, several people move at high speed in the dumpling..
It was like the quarrel between mice. The point unlike a mouse is multiplied weight and the acceleration. The staff controlled them. There is power to move a person in the song, but a scuffle was unsuitable there.
PiL songs have the rhythm such as native music and itself unique humor. Just a song lets person dance more than a music genre. It was shower of sound of the blessing. My mind was moved, my body was moved so intensely. When I looked up, there was Christ who clowned, laughed and sang out.
Toyokazu Mori & Noriyo Hotta
Shanghai, Mao Livehouse, China, March 31st 2013
I haven’t seen John since the Filthy Lucre tour in Australia when he was full of angst and venom. What a change in Shanghai where I caught PIL at my favourite venue – Mao Livehouse. John and PIL were fabulous, great sound, great songs and the consumate showmen. The crowd was that fantastic chinese mix of young Chinese Goth types and sad old fart expats (like me) but I think everybody enjoyed the experience from first to last. The 1 hour 45 minute set was just great and featured every song that we know and love about PIL. The sound quality was tremendous and the song list substantial. It was great to take my 18 year old to the show and see her chonk on to the tunes I have grown up with. John was funny, irritating and kind all at the same time – which is why I hold him in such high regard. A great gig and a fresh window for Shanghai! Kindest regards to the band!
Greg Watt
pix by Simon Blanchard
After being a P.I.L fan since the 1980's I was so happy to hear that P.I.L were coming to China. The first show in Beijing was in a very cozy place which was packed out. The atmosphere was amazing,even before the show, and when Johnny and the guys came out on stage the place went electric. The band are tight, and creative and Johnny was as he always is incredible. There was a great selection of P.I.L songs from early classics to the new album which is fab.
Everyone was in a fantastic mood and it was a great party. After the show ,I was in a lucky group that got to spend time with the band backstage. All the guys in the band were so warm, and happy to let us hang out with them. We stayed with the band until after 4 am chatting and feeling like one big P.I.L famil. Johnny, Rambo and the band really took care of us and were really really nice lovely fella's, which was wonderful and touching
We then flew to Shanghai for the next show, although a different crowd,the band were again amazing,and me and my wife were up front and center which was fabulous. Full of energy Johnny and the guys delivered an amazing performance... Im now in envy of the Japanese, who now have the band there !!! What a wonderful weekend Thanks Johnny, Rambo and the band
Steve and Tiffany
Open Up live in Shanghai (posted by fan)
Beijing, Yugong Yishan, China, March 30th 2013
Check out the Coaker site in China to see some great videos from the recent PiL Beijing show.
Coaker: PiL Death Disco live from Beijing, Yugong Yishan, China, March 30th 2013
Coaker: PiL montage from Beijing, Yugong Yishan, China, March 30th 2013
Don't miss this video of Mr Edmonds doing the Yanger in Chaoyangmen! Watch here.
(thanks to Jady)
Special hanks to Aurelien for these shots!
pix ©Фуко, www.foukography.com
A few words and pics from the PIL concert in Beijing. As a PIL and Johnny fan for many a year and living in China for EVER, starved of good live music, a miracle happend, John and the boys got in to China and rocked Beijing. The gig was superb, the band on form and the crowd loved it. The set was not quite what I expected with an unusual set list, but John did get in a few favourites with interesting arrangements and good chat with the crowd. (no stupid uniformed nonsense as other bands have rattled on about) Just true Johnny observations, well done John.
We managed to get backstage for what I thought would be the usual quick photo and maybe an autograph or two. How wrong could I be, John and the band ( with open bar) stayed and chatted with us and around 20 other fans from midnight until gone 4am. John and his manager Rambo looked after us like proper mates! We drank, chatted and had a true and honest laugh. In fact even tour manager Bill tried to get John to leave and he was having none of it. Johns actually a fucking good bloke, no pretence or bullshit, he answered all of our questions about PIL, Pistols, personal life, butter ads, politics and even the 'dont tax my drugs' appearance on Question Time. He listened, commented and asked.... what a fella. I cannot say how well we were looked after and thanks from all of us for a truly special night.
PROPER MUSIC FOR PROPER PEOPLE, GO AND SEE PIL AND MEET JOHNNY IF YOU CAN!
Phil
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