Too often these days, the word 'epic' is somewhat overused: however, when describing 30 Seconds To Mars' sublime, forever-memorable show at Plymouth Pavilions last Friday; it is not.
Support band You Me At Six, magnificently opened with an audience-rousing set, that in an enjoyable, energised 45mins included well-known, crowd-pleasing singles 'Stay With Me','Bite My Tongue', and the pogo-tastic 'Underdog'; leaving the assembled masses suitably amped for the headliners.
As Jared, Shannon & Tomo aka 30 Seconds To Mars commandingly took to the stage, the crowd went wild. The atmosphere; simply electric.
The impressive, punchy set-list, was a mixture of tracks from recent album Love Lust Faith & Dreams with a few classics peppered inbetween. A ridiculously amazing, cohesive set, that included 'Do Or Die', 'Closer To The Edge' , 'Kings And Queens' and a special bonus on this night just for Plymouth: 'Vox Populi' (A Call To Arms), kept the senses wired and alert throughout; and was edgy, mesmerising and without doubt, rockin'.
Brilliant lighting effects, captivating artistic video-screen footage, giant multi-coloured balloons, and confetti-cannons added a myriad of extra excitement to the already fun, frenzied flavour. 30STM as a whole were outstanding. Cool, aloof ,Tomo provided unassuming, exact bass and keys, whilst Shannon's amazing accomplished drumming was a show in itself; but it was charismatic frontman Jared that had everyone in the palm of his hand, and rightly so. His enigmatic beautiful soulful personality, genuine showmanship and limitless talent was wholly engulfing and entrancing - not least in his solo-acoustic section where, laid-bare, he exuded raw ability in the majestic 'From Yesterday', and transcendental anthem 'The Kill'.
In an electrifying night where Jared fully engaged with the lively crowd, the encouraged audience- participation was much more than just that - it was a chance to be part of it all: the experience, the band, the Echelon family.
