30 Seconds to Mars
The Fillmore Charlotte
Nov. 1, 2010
The Deal: After two postponements, 30 Seconds to Mars finally performs its sold-out Charlotte concert.
The Good: The show started off with a high-energy set by The New Politics that got the crowd worked up and ready to go. Of course, after two postponements, the crowd didn’t need any more anticipation.
30 Seconds to Mars hit the stage around 9:20, with a delayed entrance by singer Jared Leto. His brother, Shannon, was quite impressive on the drum set for the duration of the show. The band did its best to get the crowd involved — sometimes to a fault — and Leto invited a couple dozen people on stage with them at the encore. Earlier in the night, Leto invited a guy on stage with a prosthetic leg who proceeded to take it off and hop around with Leto.
The Bad: Leto walked out on stage with a black jacket, pants and shoes, with sunglasses on looking like the Terminator and failing to shed any stereotype that he might be a stuck-up actor. It seemed to take him a while to gain comfort up on stage, but even then, many of his actions seemed a bit forced.
I appreciated his efforts in trying to get the crowd involved, but asking everyone to take three steps forward seemed to be a bit of a bad idea considering how many people have been crushed and killed at concerts over the years from fans pushing forward.
The sound quality improved throughout the night, but the problem lay with Leto’s vocals. The music was cranked up to a fuzzy overwhelming level and Leto’s smoothly toned vocals had trouble competing. It works in the studio, but the music was drowning him out live.
Leto likes to say the word “fuck”… a lot. We get it. You’re a rock star. No need to say fuck in every sentence you say. It gets annoying… for fuck’s sake.
The band stopped for a two-song break on acoustic guitar — “Alibi” and “Hurricane.” He then started off “The Kill” before the band rejoined him. A good effort, but again, Leto doesn’t have the vocals for this.
This may have been one of the stinkiest crowds I’ve ever been around. Seriously. The group around me reeked like ashtrays, beer breath and body odor.
I get it — you think Jared Leto is hot. I could hear many a uterus skip a beat when he walked on stage. That’s not enough to make a band great. And I don’t need to hear you screaming his name for the entire hour of the band’s set.
Leto asked people to get on shoulders… improving the view for a handful of people and ruining for others. Nicely done.
No photos of this one — the band didn’t want photographers in the photo pit and I had no chance of getting anything from the middle of the sold out crowd.
The Verdict: Fans of the band, I’m sure, thought it was an amazing show with a charasmatic frontman. For me, who isn’t too familiar and hadn’t seen them live before, I wasn’t impressed and was actually disappointed. I’ve been to 85 shows so far this year and this was one of the worst.
Leto layered on the cheese and offered up too many dramatic pauses and rock cliches. You postpone the show twice and just offer a 12-song set in return? Why not give it everything you’ve got for more than a measly hour — especially for those hardcore fans that waited outside all day for the show?
Setlist
Escape
Beautiful Lie
Search and Destroy
Vox Populi
This Is War
Alibi (Acoustic)
Hurricane (Acoustic)
Message in a Bottle tease
The Kill
Closer
From Yesterday
Kings and Queens
This article appears in Nov 2-8, 2010.
It’s funny how you “hated” the show, but yet wanted them to play another hour? Seems odd to me. Also, I don’t know what shows you’ve been going to, but Mars is awesome live. I wasn’t at the show at Charlotte, but I’d bet it was epic.
And really? You don’t think you’re being a tad bit dramatic with the 3 steps forward thing? “With people getting killed” — I’ve been to 5 mars shows. The last one was last month @ DeLuna Fest – I was up against the barricade with 60,000 people behind me – he told us numerous times to take three steps forward, and no one died. It’s a rock concert for heavens sake not. If you can’t take it- DON’T GO!
And what does his clothing have to do with his performance? And who doesn’t like the terminator?!?!?! Shades and a black jacket are Leto’s style – it has nothing to do with his freaking acting. Geez, seems you’re more concerned with that cliche’ than the rest of the audience.
I do have to agree with you on one thing – I watched some of the videos, and he did curse a bunch. He usually says fuck a couple times, but last night it was in abundance.
But saying that Jared doesn’t have good vocals really makes wonder if you were at the right show. His voice has been hoarse for a couple shows on this tour – but thats to be expected since they’ve been touring for a YEAR STRAIGHT.
Obviously you just didn’t allow yourself to enjoy Mars because they are great live.
Oh, and P.S. – even if Mars wasn’t a great band– You’re wrong, Jared Leto IS hot enough to make them great.
Brittany Lis sooooooo right 😉
Brittany – if you weren’t at the show, how do you know he said fuck so much?
Like I said – I’m sure diehard fans thought it was great. As a music critic, I was disappointed in both the performance and the fact they didn’t play longer — not for me, but for a crowd that has been waiting so long to see them play.
A bit dramatic, yes, but asking people to push forward when he clearly saw a 10-year old at the front of the barricade was a bit reckless.
Wearing sunglasses inside, at night, in a dark club — really?!?
“Wearing sunglasses inside, at night, in a dark club — really?!?”
I’m not sure about that, but maybe it has to do w/ all the photos taken? I mean w/ the flash… you can easily get “blind”… just sayin’ 😉
I really hate to say it but I agree totally with this review. I waited a long time spent lots of money for an hour show!! A show that could barely be heard because it was a jared leto sing along, and that’s the way he wanted it. He didn’t sing at all!! While this was not advertised as a family friendly show, to speak to a 10 year old directly and then to proceed with a barrage of mother fucking fuckers fuck, pretty lame. I’m sure her parents wanna thank you for that. The fact is we are seeing a solid rock band convert to the world of hormonal rock and it’s a shame
Thank you Jeff for this review!
You hit the nail on the head.
I was at the show, as well, and there wasn’t even a “Good” for me. Jared Leto is the most despicable frontman I have ever seen (and I have seen a lot of bands in my life). I don’t even know what to say. His antics were, like you said, so incredibly forced and his excessive cursing, give me a break! I had massive second hand embarrassment watching and hearing him.
And boy was his singing awful.
Also, what’s with the acoustic stuff? I want to hear the band play and not watch the Leto ego show.
Encouraging the people to sit on someone’s shoulders and to go three steps forward is just nasty. Way to ruin it for everyone.
It’s not even dramatic to say that people get crushed and might die, it is simply the truth. One day, something will happen if he keeps doing this.
And no photographers allowed? What a diva act by the band/Jared!
This was definitely the last time I saw this lame excuse of a band.
I can totally understand why this was the worst of all your shows, Jeff!
I’ve never seen this band live or anything but it sounds to me the reviewer really, really hates Jared Leto. Did he fuck your mom or something? Jesus.
A lot of front men swear on stage. The taking steps forward would of piss me off, I ain’t gonna lie. Nothing worse than being crushed at concerts.
oh, never mind. The reviewer is a man. Of COURSE he hates Jared.
This review and it’s claims is no longer valid. sorry.
I am a man. I was at that show. And I can freely admit that Jared fucking Leto is a very goodlooking guy and could probably bang any chick he wanted to(probably has).
And yet, for some reason I am totally not jealous. This dude is a joke. Everything Jeff wrote is true. Leto is a poser and beyond annoying. His voice wasn’t good and most of the time he didn’t sing anyway and I had to listen to a choir of screaming girls because Leto was too busy strutting around like a dickhead.
My friends laughed at me and felt sorry for me when I told them I had to go to this gig (because my gf dragged me along). And even my girlfriend who liked them before was majorly disappointed.
fair enough. You don’t have to like the band or Jared. I’m not a big fan of either. Well, besides his work in Requiem for A Dream, I don’t know too much about him. 30 seconds to mars isn’t my style of musi either. My point is this review seems to ooze the reviewer’s hate for Leto a bit too much. It just sounds personal. It sounds like something I would write about a high school cheerleader who is prettier than me and fucked my boyfriend.
I am a girl and have seen this band a handful of times including a few from this recent tour. As much of a fan of the band as I have been and still am, I have no doubt in my mind that what Jeff reviewed was completely NOT personal. If half of their fans of their past albums are sick of his stage antics as of late, it’s not surprising a music critic would pick up on them as well. If this review ‘oozes’ of the reviewer’s hate for Leto, I suggest you go take in a show then see if you still think that or see he is actually reviewing the show pretty acurately, unfortunately.
I went into this show with an open mind. Leto is a great actor – but that’s what is sad… he appeared more like an actor on stage instead of a musician that’s passionate about his music and has the vocal talents to support it.
okay, first of all, since when did ROCK CONCERTS have to be family friendly, honestly gtfo here. Kids shouldnt go to rock concerts, obv rock musicians cuss. so shut up.
@Adam B: there is a difference between saying the od swear word
and what Jared does. Jared clearly thinks he is super badass and some kind of rock god.
In reality he is making himself look like a total tool.
I wasn’t at the show in Charlotte, but sounds exactly like the show I went to. Which just confirms that it is all one big act by Jared, the Hollywood actor.
Nothing “real” or “heartfelt” about this performance.
Good review, Jeff.
I’m sorry that some of you have had bad experiences seeing 30STM. I attended my first Mars show in September at the HOB in Myrtle Beach. I too thought it dangerous for Jared to tell everyone to push forward, especially since I thought I was squished to begin with. It was too much for me personally but the gal I was with hung in there and said the pushing settled down shortly after and she was glad she had toughed it out.
Once I had removed myself from the front of the stage, I was able to appreciate the show. It is a show. A dramatic, theatrical, well planned show. Yes, Jared curses a lot. Yes, Jared performs. That’s what he’s supposed to do. I have to say I’ve been to many many concerts and I’ve never felt such energy. The band gave 180% of themselves to their fans. To me, 30 STM is all about positivity, empowerment, inspiration, rebellion, originality and confidence. They make you feel the music not just hear it. It took me days to come down from the show. I’m so glad I was a part of that experience.
As far as Jared’s vocals go, he is an amazing singer. Did he let the fans sing more of the songs than he did, for the most part. That’s what makes you part of the show not just a witness to it.
I am truely sorry, but I can imagine the “negative” Mars re-view from someone who knows what they’re talking about… He had good points!
Jared isn’t always that good live, Shannon always kills it! (again he leaves out Tomo *sigh) And if all the peeps got was 12 songs… I’d be upset too!!!
J does say “fuck” one too many times and everybody knows how I feel about the 3 steps forwards… BUT I still love the energy and the crowd! And J does know how to interact with the crowd!
And the chicks calling out “JARED” all the damn time, simply AIN’T ECHELON, they’re fangirls with no lives! I am an ECHELON, so I do really love seeing these men live 😉 That’s all I can say :p
OK I agree the 3 steps forward shouldn’t have been done. I was first one at barricade,directly in front of Jared’s microphone with sprained ankle. I was crushed enough & couldnt move, sometimes couldn’t breathe. But this is the only negative comment I have to make. My theory is he wanted to get the fan girls chanting “Jared” out of the pit. This was my 8th show since December. It was Epic, Jared performs, he is not a poser! The outfit is for an effect. The band gives all and let’s us participate. If you are not an Echelon than you don’t understand! Jared was an ultimate composer and we have fun joining in. He pays attention to the crowd and looks at you. Not very many performers do that. He noticed my friend and I turned and sang to each other not to Jared and he smiled at us in approval. I’ve seen over 40 artists perform in my life and never, ever got that connection. How many bands let their fans sing on their cd, perform in their videos, get invited to a special screening of their documentary or a sneak peak of their new cd? Or have their face on their cd. Better yet, get recognized by band members and they acknowledge you on stage. When there was a bomb scare in February at the Hive and we were evacuated, Tomo escorted about 20 of us for about 6 blocks until we were at a safe range. How many rock stars do that!!! I think you non-believers are just fuckin jealous!
i think the thing i’m most upset about is the fact that they only played 11 songs (they didn’t play FROM YESTERDAY like the setlist above says). 10 really because “message in a bottle” was only the first verse.
so after having the show postponed for 6 months and the date changed 3 times, we get a set 6 songs shorter than it was initially supposed to be. and as a personal note, i was really let down by the focus on new songs.
i can deal with rough crowds. i can deal with over the top theatrics. that’s expected. but what i can’t accept is being sold short.
i still had a fun night, my brother was even one of the lucky few that got on stage, but reflecting back on it i’m left wanting more.
I didn’t go to this particular show, but did go to the Cleveland show on October 22, and I completely agree with this review. I am a girl, so I admit that Jared’s looks are worth the price of admission. However, the constant banter of “I want you to scream, fuckers” thing gets old. I’ve seen 30STM perform five times and I think i have had enough. I left the last show feeling empty. The band does nothing to connect with the audience, with the exception of holding the microphone out so that everyone can scream the lyrics, which is just plain lame. I still love the band and will always swoon when I see Jared Leto, but I think next time I will save my money for a band that is more worthy and charismatic, like the Foo Fighters.
I’ve got to pretty much agree with this review. I love 30STM. Never been to any of their shows (till this one) but I’ve been to plenty of other band’s shows to know what a GREAT show is. I think this reviewer was generous by counting 12 songs–was the 20 second opening ‘song’ really a song? Message in a bottle? C’mon..that was the first line or two. I don’t remember From Yesterday either…. So that leaves NINE songs…. Since when does a band play for ONE MEASLEY FREAKING HOUR (a good portion of that just trying to teach people when and where to clap, and cajole them for not being excited enough) and call that good? Am I just out of touch? Do they only play one hr. at all their concerts? I bet they don’t leave the stage in NYC or London or whereverthefreak Europe after an hour, (10PM!!! for Christsakes!…I had a later curfew when I was 11!!!!!!!) and Jared Leto wants to promise me that I’m going to have the best freaking night of my life with them? I was indeed having a great time until the ‘set’ ended abruptly with clearing the fans off stage. No goodbyes, no “Thanks, Charlotte!”….again, having been to many many concerts, I kept thinking, man! That rocked! I can’t wait to see their second set!!! But then it dawned on me that they were dismantling the drumset and wheeling out the crates…packing up. WTF?????????????????? It took awhile for that to sink in, that it was over. I enjoyed what I saw, but can’t believe that after dicking us around for 7 months and four reschedules, that’s all I got for driving 4 hours there and back, getting ‘sick’ days off from work and finding overnight care for my kid. Jeeze. While I still enjoy their music, my enthusiasm for the band has been greatly diminished. I’ve seen no-name hole-in-the-wall club bands give far more to their fans than this.
I’ve just seen some videos in the Youtube of 30 STM concerts live. I’m SOOO desappointed. The review is right. Jared has no vocals; OK, he’s awesome for let us, fans, scream and sing the songs, but only 7 songs? OMG!
Tomorrow I’m going to them concert, here in Portugal, and it will be the most important day of my life, even I do not like it !
JARED LETO ROCKS, and nothing will never change it.
Some of you, are so mean, for saying things that we REAL fans, don’t agree. I do think, that this review is right in some stuff and wrong in others.
Jeff, I expected more for you, sorry…