When it was first announced that there would be a 25th Anniversary concert at Red Rocks, the only thing folks knew what to expect was a performance from Ween and Primus. Trey Parker and Matt Stone we’re on the bill, but what that exactly meant was anybody’s guess. Coming into the auditorium let out some subtle hints. The stage appeared to be designed to have one band play on one side, while the other side was all ready to go to allow for a quick changeover. At center stage was a grand piano and mics. Turns out, Trey and Matt were there as performers and not just as masters of ceremony, though they certainly were most gracious and entertaining as the hosts for the evening.
The anticipation was palpable. Yes, this was the 2nd sold-out night of show, but it was the first night announced, so surprises were expected.
Ween took the stage first and Gene, Dean and the rest of the boys were in top form on stage right.
Next up, It was Primus’ turn.
South Park creators Trey Parker and Matt Stone took to the stage next, making a couple things abundantly clear. First, they love Colorado. Second, they love what they do, and seemed truly honored to be able to do it on the Red Rocks’ stage. Leading the crowd in singalongs from South Park’s vast musical catalog, they are clearly proud of what they’ve accomplished and regaled the crowd with origin stories galore interspersed with plenty of self-depreciation.
…and on it went throughout the evening - each performer taking turns, while the others would sit in lawn chairs and observe the festivities, when they weren’t joining in and creating the supergroup dubbed Primusween (pronounced Pri-MŪS-ween).
Now on night one, as Primus has been touring their Rush homage A Tribute To Kings, it was decided that they would cover the Rush classic Closer To The Heart, with Matt Stone playing drums along with Herb Alexander. For tonight, what Matt didn’t know, is that Trey had decided to surprise him by having none other than Geddy Lee and Alex Lifeson perform the song with the band.
As you can imagine, it was an emotional moment for all involved, as this was the first time Alex and Geddy had performed on stage together since 2015, before the untimely passing of drummer Neil Peart. The enormity of the moment was lost on no one.
It really was a show for the ages. One really got a sense that this was a once in a lifetime night. The emotions were on full display from Parker, Stone and in many in attendance including this particular writer. A great night of memories not soon to be forgotten.
