@MOstGhoSt said:

i loved this concert live and this afternoon listened to the recordings and realized what it was that made me feel so good and happy at the night's conclusion.
it was that there were multiple moments where the songs just sounded so beautiful, somewhat soft, cascading.... the tone i noted was something lovely and this is a little different from my usual concert experience.

the sound was amazing. i was untroubled with anyone nearby chatting and the bass sounded excellent from my seating proximity to the stage. so these factors enhanced my listening pleasure.

most of the songs sounded very very beautiful and cascading. in set two i had a dancing sensation like walking along, taking a walk at a pace that felt really cheerful and adventurous.

Interesting comments. I think you're on to something. When I listened to Fuego (the album, not the Halloween show) I picked up on the gentleness and softness of many of the tones on the record, but sort of dismissed that as "studio" effects. Certainly, it left the impression of being mellow.

I felt much the same way as you did. I attributed it to my state of mind (relaxed) and the venue, with with I'm intimately familiar, but now upon reflection I believe you are right. The band seems to be setting a direction here. The last couple years the jams have been driving and anthemic, but it would be fascinating if they change that trend and become more melodic, trippy, more purple, if you will.

We'll have to see. They certainly explored that with Carini last year. What will be the choice-du-jour this time around?