Only now, a week later, am I here reacting to the new show. I've been traveling and very busy this past week, but I managed to read almost all the instant reactions to the setlist as it was being revealed (I went page by page, to simulate the anticipation for each new song).
And what can I say is that the main set is incredible. Let's be honest, after a tour totally focused on us, the die-hards, it was understandable that the band would play a safe set, more aimed at casual fans. And what do they give us? Killers, Phantom, Powerslave, Rime, Seventh Son and Hallowed in the same set! Honestly, I don't understand all the criticism. I think they managed to strike an almost perfect balance between pleasing both us, the die-hards, and those who are seeing the band for the very first time or who don't know much beyond the classics. The only unforgivable thing, as is almost unanimous here, is Aces High opening the encore. There was no need for it to even be on the set, let alone in a position that does nothing to favor Bruce's voice or the band's energy. Swapping her places with Number of The Beast would already be a great step, but knowing the band, I think it's unlikely that will happen. As for the deeper cuts, besides having Killers, Murders, Phantom, Rime and Seventh Son, which I consider as such, Infinite Dreams would certainly make the setlist perfect, but anyway, you can't have everything.
As for the biggest news, Simon is doing really well (I'm pleasantly surprised) and the new production is beautiful and different from anything we've ever had, which is great. It was about time the band allowed itself to be more modern, both to attract younger audiences and to give us a bigger stadium show. The Legacy of The Beast production, which is the band's best ever, would be hard to beat. So I'm glad the band has gone down a completely new and different path.
That said, let's enjoy it! Our favorite band is still giving us an excellent show after 50 years on the road! That's cause for celebration, right?