HIGHLAND PARK, IL - Garbage came on like a force as the band opened for Blondie at Ravinia on Saturday, July 22nd. The band came on stage promptly at 7:30 with lead singer Shirley Manson decked out in all red... red fishnet stockings, a red kimono with sequin dragons on the back and a red mini dress. Even her hair was bright red. With the ensemble, she wore black combat boots as she rocked the bands hits like "Stupid Girl," "Special" and "Only Happy When it Rains."
The Scottish singer talked about how much she loves Chicago and told the story of how she got in the band. It all started in Madison, Wisconsin when she was playing for Angelfish. Garbage band members went to check her out as a possible lead singer and Manson said they have never gotten rid of her since. She described her relationship with the band as the best love affair of her life.
Another formidable force, Blondie came on after Garbage as the headliner. Debbie Harry took the stage wearing a pollinator mask and a cape that said "Stop F***ing with the Planet." She stood with her back to the audience for an extended period of time likely to make sure that everyone got the opportunity to read the message.
The band's amazing sound and Harry's vocals didn't disappoint. They performed "One Way or Another" as their opening song then went into "Hanging on the Telephone," a new song called, "Fun," followed by "Call Me." The set list also included "Rapture," "Atomic," "Heart of Glass," "The Tide is High," and ended with "Dreaming." Amazing show all around.
And adding to the charm and nostalgia of seeing Blondie, Drummer Clem Burke wore a CBGB t-shirt. Keyboardist Matt Katz-Bohen wore a shirt that said "The Future is Female."
