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Written by Marsha Buehler & Jeff Beckmann Monday, 22 July 2013 17:35

"Pigocalypse is upon us" was the theme of the night as carnival-like pig masked men and women walked skillfully on stilts through the crowd preparing the audience for a well-choreographed concert.  

 

Verizon Wireless Amphitheater, St. Louis

El Monstero ran away with the night and stole the show at Verizon Wireless Amphitheater on July 20, 2013. You could just close your eyes, and it was just like listening to the real Pink Floyd!! (“...just two lost souls living in a fish bowl, year after year…”).

As sunset approached Verizon, the laid back, mellow crowds sauntered towards the concert gates to listen to one of St. Louis' best local concerts of the 2013 season! Stormy clouds gathered all around but managed to stay at bay as the famed Pink Floyd Tribute band, El Monstero, prepped for the stage. "Pigocalypse is upon us" was the theme of the night as carnival-like pig masked men and women walked skillfully on stilts through the crowd preparing the audience for a very well-choreographed concert.  

Local DJ, Favazz of KSHE 95, welcomed the impressive crowd a little after 8:00 pm. The stage show was complete with pyrotechnics, dry ice, choreography, and video to enhance their stage presence. Kevin Gagnepain and John Pessoni, formerly of Stir, joined Jimmy Griffin and Mark Thomas Quinn on stage, who performed flawlessly for the thousands of fans gathered to see the long awaited super band play live.

Shortly after the band took the stage, a flurry of conversation rushed through the crowds who pointed towards the actors dressed in military style attire walking a prisoner in white chains through the crowds amplifying the anticipation of the opening song, “Mother.” The theatrics continued with the school master who graced the stage leading right into Pink Floyd's popular song “Another Brick in the Wall.” El Monstero far exceeded expectations and proceeded to blow the crowd away with their synchronized timing, well mastered guitar licks, fantastic sound, and exact vocal precision. About this time a search helicopter flew over the lawn flashing flood lights upon the lawn crowd. This prompted concert goers to stand and get the party started.

The sound system was tuned to a perfect pitch, which resonated onto the lawn of happy concert goers. There was definitely a party going on at Verizon.

As the show continued, the humidity dropped, and a cool breeze blew through the crowds, providing a perfect summer evening under the stars listening to great music as provided by El Monstero.

The fireworks at the end of the show were a grand finale that onlookers were not expecting. As the last song, “Wish You Were Here,” began, workers released giant bags of beach balls to the masses, which resulted in the crowds volleying them across the large audience bringing the concert to a satisfying, appeasing conclusion for all. The diverse group of concert goers were mellow, there were no fights, everyone was just smiling and singing to their favorite tunes. It was just a bunch of good people spending a gorgeous summer evening with their favorite (or new favorite) band. El Monstero surpassed all of my expectations with their talent, their showmanship, and ability to bring Pink Floyd to the hearts of Pink Floyd fans. As stated by a young fan, Tommy, "They are f*&%*g awesome!" And I agree! | Marsha Buehler & Jeff Beckmann