Roger Waters: This Is Not a Drill — Live from Prague

The cinematic experience of Roger Waters: This Is Not a Drill — Live from Prague, brings to life the essence of one of the most influential and iconic bands in music history – Pink Floyd. Behind it all, is the creative force and mastermind that led Pink Floyd to unparalleled heights, Roger Waters. This movie event marks the beginning of his farewell tour, a poignant and timely reflection on the state of the world we live in today. It is a scathing indictment of the corporate dystopia that threatens to consume us all. The concert, filmed live at the O2 Arena in Prague, features an incredible lineup of 20 songs that span the careers of both Pink Floyd and Roger Waters as a solo artist. The setlist is carefully curated to showcase a wide range of styles and moods, reflecting the diverse musical landscape that has come to define Pink Floyd and Roger Waters. From classic hits like "Us & Them" and "Comfortably Numb," to fan favorites like "Wish You Were Here" and "Mother," there is no shortage of iconic moments waiting to happen. As the lights dim and the crowd falls silent, the stage comes alive with the opening notes of "Hey, Hey, Rise Up!" a call to action that is inextricably linked to the themes that underpin the entire concert. This opening song serves as a clarion call to raise awareness about the ongoing conflict in Ukraine, one that Roger Waters has been vocal about in recent years. The energy in the audience is palpable as Waters and his band launch into the rest of the setlist with a ferocity that leaves no one untouched. The concert is not just a mere showcase of musical greatness; it is an emotional and visceral experience that taps into the raw nerve of our shared humanity. Waters' powerful vocals cut through the sonic chaos, echoing across the auditorium and landing squarely in the hearts of the audience. Every song has a message, every message has a purpose. The music serves as a clarion call to wake up, to be aware, and to take action. Waters takes the audience on a journey through time and space, traversing musical landscapes that span decades and eras. He performs timeless masterpieces like "The Great Gig in the Sky," a haunting tribute to the departed Syd Barrett, which sends shivers down the spine. This is not just music; it's a spiritual experience that transcends the boundaries of sound and fury. The inclusion of Waters' new song, "The Bar," adds a fresh layer of depth to the concert. This emotive and haunting ballad is a scathing critique of the state of the world today. Waters' masterful storytelling weaves a tale that is both personal and universally relatable, highlighting the stark contrast between our collective aspirations and the harsh realities of our existence. The new song serves as a poignant reminder that, even in times of great uncertainty and change, music remains a powerful force for social commentary and transformation. Throughout the concert, Waters is joined on stage by a talented ensemble of musicians, each one bringing their unique perspective and skillset to the table. The collective energy is electrifying, with Waters' commanding presence at its center. As a unit, they create music that is at once both familiar and new, a blend of past and present that honors the legacy of Pink Floyd while embracing the limitless possibilities of the future. As the concert reaches its climax with the showstopping closer, "Another Brick in the Wall (Part 2)," the entire auditorium erupts into a frenzy of music and movement. The audience is on its feet, singing along, hands raised in defiance and triumph. In this moment, anything feels possible, and the collective energy is at its most transcendent. It is a moment that encapsulates the true essence of what this concert is about – the power of music to unite, to inspire, and to challenge us to be better versions of ourselves. In the end, Roger Waters: This Is Not a Drill — Live from Prague leaves an indelible mark on the audience, serving as a timely reminder that the power of music remains an unyielding force for positive change. It is a testament to the unbreakable bond between an artist, their audience, and the timeless power of music to touch our hearts, minds, and souls. This concert is not just a performance; it is a call to action, a clarion call to love, protect, and share our precious planet home. As Waters himself so eloquently puts it, "This is not a drill." It's time to rise up, to join the fight, and to take collective action in defense of the world we share.