Public Image Ltd live @ Big Night Live, Boston MA [10-03-26]

Where does one even START with Public Image Ltd and John Lydon. Is he divisive? Absolutely. Is he talented? Arguably, yes. Did he revolutionize music? In some people’s minds, including his own, this is probably true. I’ve always wrestled with Lydon’s music and personality post-Sex Pistols. I love the Sex Pistols. Probably more than I should, but Public Image Ltd has been a band I’ve wrestled with. Post-Sex Pistols, it seems like John Lydon has been the only one who’s continued to make music that has been critically acclaimed. The rest are cashing in on their past.

So, I admire that about Lydon, and I wanted to give the first two PiL albums a fair change. I put them on heavy rotation, remember them being fine, and cannot recall a single song after having put them away. They seemed too stream-of-consciousness and purposely impenetrable. PiL is heralded as a highly influential band, but I just don’t know if their reputation precedes them.

Then there’s Lydon’s personality itself, focused more on being a contrarian and pointing fingers than offering any perspective on issues. He’s a weird dude.

But here I am, watching them at Big Night Live, and having a great time. I don’t know if it’s all the history and baggage that comes with this band, but watching it all unfold on stage is entertaining as hell, especially for such an early show. Grounded by a killer rhythm section, the guitars and vocals are allowed to go off the deep end, making whatever noise they want…for what seems like forever. Must be why guitarist Lu Edmonds was using an electric mandolin and Lydon had his lyrics/notes in front of him during the performance. Big Night Live’s security was pretty lax as well, as anyone with a photo pass was allowed to remain in the barricade and enjoy the show. So, I had the best seat in the house. It was only 10 songs, but a handsome performance by the band, and a lively crowd cheering them on.

Honestly, I might want to go back to their catalog and dig deeper. This performance might have converted me, finally.

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