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A large part of how enjoyable a concert is depends on how enthusiastic its attendees are. The performers feed off of the audience and the audience hangs on the rhythms and notes of the performers. Both Manu Chao and all the beautiful people at the Greek Theater listening and dancing to his music made this concert an unforgettable one.

A Manu Chao performance in the States is a rare occurrence so the show was a treat from the start. In America, at least, Manu Chao’s popularity was gained by word of mouth. I first heard about him from a friend who studied in Spain and came back with his CDs. I’ve also come across his music in various jukeboxes throughout San Francisco and heard it played at Cha Cha Chas.

Mexican rock band, Kinky, warmed up the audience keeping with the Latin theme. Then, one by one, the band members came out and started to play, finishing with Manu. They played with a more reggae beat that kept the audience jumping up and down for three hours.

The setlist, as best I can remember, included Mr Bobby, Por el Suelo, La Primavera, Me Gustas Tu, El Viento, Merry Blues, Bongo Bong, Clandestino, Radio Bemba and Mentira.

If you missed him, you can still catch him in San Diego, Vegas, Denver, Chicago or Brooklyn. See Pollstar.com for more details. Take advantage now, because there’s no telling when he’s coming back.