her sugar is raw

Last night Michael and I went out to see the Queen of Pop in Boston. This is the second Madonna concert I had ever attended live and after the euphoric glory of experiencing her "Reinvention Tour" I couldn't wait to see what Madonna had in store for this go around.

Over all I enjoyed every second of the "Sticky & Sweet Tour." I was up for about two hours straight dancing my heart out. My proximity to Madonna ensured that I had an excellent time. I was basically hyperventilating seconds before she came out because I was going to be a few feet from the divine.

Though I do have to say that compared to the "Reinvention Tour" this current outing seems a little sub par. The Madonna's stage show seemed to lack a narrative that is always apparent in her concerts. While parts of "S&S" were amusing and enjoyable, such as the 80's Brooklyn inspired motif for "Get Into The Groove," other parts felt in consistent in the larger context of the production.

The high point of the night for me was her rendition of "Like A Prayer," arguable one of her best songs. Madonna transformed this gospel inspired pop gem into a ethereal trance number that sent my soul spinning, which was reinforced by large video screens promoting shared values of the world's major religions. Another high light was the gypsy rendition of "La Isla Bonita" and the intimacy of "You Must Love Me," although Madonna has always had my heart since "Lucky Star."

The lowest point for me was the rock version of recent classic "Hung Up." It is such a great dance anthem, turning it into an electric grunge rocker ditty was kind of unbearable for me.

At the end of the night Madonna left me energized and satisfied, but I lacked the inspired awe to change the world that I had after the "Reinvention Tour." Overall the show was enjoyable, and considering the current state of Madonna's personal life I do not blame her for the inconstancy in her performance. At the end of the day though she is still the Queen of Pop and worth her weight in gold.