First night, stood at the back, pretty underwhelmed. Second night, got to the front barrier, absolutely loved it. Truth is, Neutral Milk Hotel aren't a particularly well-rehearsed or exceptional live band, which given I've waited a decade to see them isn't something I hoped I'd have to say. With the exception of Jeff Mangum's abrasive yet remarkably powerful vocals, they're mostly carried by their enthusiasm and the audience response to their deservedly revered catalogue of songs. That explains why the experience was so much better from close-up, where the regular failure to keep in time didn't matter as much as the fact I was surrounded by hundreds of other fans singing "In The Aeroplane Over The Sea" at the top of their voices. Don't think anyone could accuse this of being a masterclass in performance, but as a chance to join in a communal singalong of some of my favourite songs of all time it was pretty unimpeachable.
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