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Eurotrash Takes the Stage at the Ritz...by NikiJ

Even though I bought tickets to Garbage over a month ago, going to the show was a last minute thing. The girl I originally planned to go with bailed so I was really happy when Queen P called me the morning of the show, volunteering to go. We knew Raleigh, NC was far but we were unprepared for the 5 hour trek that awaited us. After getting lost and then getting directions several times we finally arrived. Unfortunately it was almost 11 and Girls Vs. Boys had already played.

Inside the Ritz, the crowd was dense and there was a buzz of high anticipation. Queen P and I went up to the balcony to obtain a better view. We were unlucky enough to land a spot next to an obnoxious, mean, ugly couple. The guy kept moving his head to block our view and, when a space became available, stuck his fat ass in the way so we couldn't snag it. Despite the deliberate obstacles we managed a pretty good view.

As the lights dimmed there erupted a great roar and Butch Vig, Duke Erikson, and Steve Markes came out. Suddenly Shirly Manson came bouncing on stage and the crowd became fevor pitched. She wore all black- black cargo jeans (very cool), and a black tank with her hair pulled back in cornrows. She gave off the feel of a sassy bad girl. I was struck by her vocal prowess and stage presence. The playing was solid, the bass was kickin' but it was all about Shirly.

They played an even mixture of songs from their first cd 6 and their newest release, Version 2.0. As well they played a pretty song called Thirteen, available on the B side of "Push It".

I thought the overall performance was really good. Shirly, however, reminded Queen P of Gwen Stefani as far as looks and dancing. I also found it annoying how Shirly kept slicking up the audience, saying, "you're the best! I've never said that to an audience before." and, "after this I'll never forget Raleigh!" It left a bitter taste in my mouth. I don't like being fed lines.

Queen P and I left the show a little early, right after "Only Happy When It Rains", to begin the journey back. A little tired but fairly satisfied (that is until we ate at the Denny's in South of the Border, and encountered their greazzy omelets!). I'll definitely go see Garbage again, just as long as they play closer to home.

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