Pearl Jam Keeps Sacramento Alive
Pearl Jam is currently on their Dark Matter World Tour, where the band has already performed 51 different songs. Unlike many arena acts that stick to a fixed setlist each night, Pearl Jam embraces spontaneity by throwing curveballs, including airing out deep cuts and skipping the expected hits. This approach was evident at their recent Sacramento show at the Golden One Center, which played to a sold-out crowd.
Pearl Jam's refusal to adhere to a predetermined format—whether playing a beloved album front to back or debuting new material mixed with hits—not only enhances the repeat value of seeing them live but also challenges the perception of arena acts as mere well-oiled machines delivering performances rather than true concerts. In today's age of Setlist.fm, where fans can instantly access setlists, this unpredictability adds to the excitement of wondering "what's next?" after each song.
The band kicked off a recent show in Sacramento with "Pendulum," which was a tour debut. Eddie Vedder, now 59 years old and still sporting his iconic baritone, appeared on stage in a hat and jacket, showcasing a voice that remains as powerful as during Pearl Jam's early '90s breakthrough, despite the band members' evolution in style and appearance over the years. This evolution seems fitting as Pearl Jam, now considered elder statesmen of rock, have transitioned into roles they once rebelled against during the grunge era's pushback against the establishment. Despite the evolving musical landscape since their defining era, Pearl Jam continues to release albums and sell out arena shows, even though their last platinum record was Yield in 1998.
Following performances of "Nothing as It Seems," "Present Tense," and "Given to Fly," Vedder and the band introduced five tracks from their latest album, Dark Matter, which resonates with echoes of their '90s peak. Songs like "Scared of Fear" and the album's title track allowed guitarist Mike McCready to showcase his skills, while the introspective ballad "Wreckage" would likely have been a fan favorite if released earlier in the band's career.
Attending a Pearl Jam tour without expectations proves rewarding. While classics like "Daughter" were performed, "Elderly Woman Behind the Counter in a Small Town" was omitted. Instead of "Corduroy," Portland was treated to a dynamic rendition of "Not for You," a favorite from Vitalogy.
Vedder engaged with the audience between songs, sharing anecdotes about fans and loved ones, playfully teasing band members to sit up straight because their wives were in attendance, and celebrating Mike McCready's 19th wedding anniversary. Before launching into "Seven O’Clock," Vedder mentioned receiving numerous requests for that particular song. Following the performance of the new track "Upper Hand," Vedder explained that they had played all of Dark Matter over the past first stops on the tour. Like "Wreckage," this soaring anthem would have been a hit in the '90s.
After closing the first set with "Porch," the band exited the stage briefly. During the break, Vedder playfully interacted with the crowd by writing on an amplified dry erase board and inviting requests. He also gave shoutouts in writing to Sleater-Kinney, Quasi, Mudhoney, and Steve Albini. Just before returning to the stage, he wrote, "How about this for a request? More reasonable laws about gun access and safety and fewer laws about a woman’s body!!!" This reflects Vedder and Pearl Jam's earnestness in both their politics and their music, distinguishing them from their grunge peers. Moreover, the band has maintained stability with its original core members—Vedder, McCready, Stone Gossard, and Jeff Ament—continuing to play together. Drummer Matt Cameron, who joined in 1998, has also been a steadfast member since.
In the ‘90s, a Pearl Jam concert was a cathartic experience. In 2024, it has evolved into a grand rock spectacle, balancing nostalgia with a commitment to keeping that emotional resonance alive. Vedder returned to the stage solo for a cover of “I Won’t Back Down,” sharing that the red guitar he played was a gift from Tom Petty and deserved to be taken on tour. Later in the encore, the band honored Victoria Williams with a rendition of “Crazy Momma,” during which Vedder handed out cups of wine to front-row audience members.
The encore reached its peak with the powerful trio of “Once,” “Alive,” and “Footsteps,” known among Pearl Jam fans as the Momma-Son Trilogy—a nod to the band's rich lore. “Alive” turned into a jubilant celebration, with Vedder throwing tambourines into the crowd. The evening concluded with the introspective new song “Setting Sun,” a fitting end reminiscent of starting with the final track from their latest album.
Given their extensive catalog, hearing all desired songs in one show is improbable, yet the concert felt remarkably generous. For those eager to hear “Yellow Ledbetter,” taking a chance elsewhere on this tour might pay off—but there are no guarantees. Pearl Jam's unpredictable performances continue to captivate, offering an experience that is both nostalgic and forward-looking.