News
Briefly
Calendar of Events
Commentary
Sports
Diversions
World News
Classifieds
Login
Letter Submission
Search
Archive
Publishing Policy
Mail Subscriptions
St. Cloud State University
College Publisher
Home
>
Diversions
Big Wu puts together big show
By Drew Sandholm
Published:
Monday, February 3, 2003
Media Credit: Adam Masloski
The Big Wu played in Atwood Ballroom Sunday night. The UPB sponsored the concert. The Wu, who call Minnesota home, had the crowd dancing throughout their two sets.
It may have been chilly outside, but things were hot at the Big Wu concert last night. Over five hundred music lovers packed into the spacious Atwood Memorial Center's (AMC) ballroom to see the nationally renowned jam band take the stage.
Touching upon many different styles of music, the Big Wu seamlessly combined everything from ska to bluegrass sounds. They played a wide variety of their songs, including many from their newest album, "Live at the Fitzgerald Theatre St. Paul MN 4-21-00."
Just as diverse as the many songs played, was the lively audience who enjoyed the show. With over 600 tickets sold, the AMC ballroom was crammed with students and local residents. Although scheduled to start at 7p.m., the show didn't get underway until nearly a half-an-hour later. The late start didn't deter the enthusiasm and warmth of the many Big Wu fans.
"I came here for all of the hype, (and the) energy that I saw around campus for the Big Wu," said second-year real estate major Tony Rae. "This is great. Everyone is dancing around, singing along and just loving the music."
As the music played, vivid colors flashed from the stage lights. Two large amplifiers blasted the melodic music to the fans. Audience members attempted to get as close to the stage as possible, singing along and throwing their arms into the air.
Much of the crowd was bundled into a mass of bobbing heads who swayed with the melodic harmonies. Many fans danced to the beat of the music as the Big Wu played.
Playing two sets, the band treated the crowd for nearly 90 minutes each set. During the brief intermission, fan's reactions appeared glowingly excited.
"The Big Wu is one of my favorite bands. They are playing really good," said first-year SCSU criminal justice major Ben Weiss.
"I've gone to a lot of their concerts. This one is pretty good considering they only now have one electric guitarist."
Presented by the University Program Board (UPB), the concert kicked off Snow Week. With nearly 40 volunteers, the event was highly anticipated. UPB considered the concert a success.
"I think it has gone extremely well," said third-year SCSU student and National Events Coordinator Amanda Hallfrisch.
"Everyone seems happy and I'll have to say that this concert really hit a certain crowd. It's one we have never hit before."
The 'crowd' is more than familiar to many Big Wu fans. This was apparent at the show as it drew a surprisingly closely knit crowd which seemed to bond naturally. Fun and active, these fans displayed an attitude many bands would aspire to get, but few actually obtain.
"The Big Wu: it's not just a band, it's a culture, it's a feeling. You live it," explained Rae. "They just play good music."
In recent years, as the Big Wu's discography has grown, so has its fan base. In years past, they packed the Red Carpet of St. Cloud and sold out the Paramount theatre. With such success in years past, it's was no wonder last night's show turned out so well.
