Change in all of its forms is fascinating, particularly in music. Bands change from tour to tour and album to album, even if just with a revamped, retooled stage performance. This is precisely why I was curious to see how the guys of Incubus had rewired their show since their last South Florida visit in 2007 with the Bravery. But the only problem was, whether because of passed time or inebriation, many of the details about that show in West Palm two years ago were now rather hazy. No matter; there's an easy fix for that, said the man with six Miller Lites in the tank. Where in hell was my wife with the voice of reason?
Generally speaking, a new record means new material for the tour. With Moments and Melodies, Incubus's newest release, that's not the case. After all, it's a collection of hits and B-sides with two new tracks. Again, no matter — Incubus simply doesn't disappoint live. Saturday night's performance at the newly renovated Bayfront Park Amphitheater in downtown Miami was brilliant. In a nutshell, Incubus kicked ass and let us know from the get-go it wasn't screwing around. The band opened strong with "Pardon Me" and followed with "Nice to Know You." From there, they didn't relent, barreling through a set chock full of hits while a sweaty, undulating sea of fans sang along in the balmy Miami night. "Anna Molly," "Stellar," "Megalomaniac," "Circles," "Love Hurts," and "Drive" all made appearances, to the crowd's delight.
I could try to dissect the show and classify differences and distinctions, but the fact is, seeing Incubus live is an emotional experience, and any logic flies out the window. Plus, I already told you I was drunk last time. And this time. So the guys will have to forgive me for using their line, but Incubus's live show was, in a word, stellar. Plain and simple.