Pink Floyd's iconic Dark Side of the Moon album was released in the United States March 1, 1973, and three days later on March 4th, the British band started their US tour at the Dane County Coliseum in Madison, WI. The concert kicked off with the song "Echoes" from their previous album Meddle, and four songs later the band played the brand new LP's songs in order. (See the complete set list from setlist.fm here).
Reviewer Michael Vena, writing for the Wisconsin State Journal, was impressed. In the review, titled "Pink Floyd Clouds Coliseum with Haze of Space Sound," he said the band demonstrated "a definite grasp of the visual and electronic potential of their music." He also described the special effects, including color-changing fog and a light show which he said at times overwhelmed Roger Waters' more sensitive lyrics. (Read the full review here.)
An estimated crowd of 9,000 was in attendance for the concert. Tickets sold for $4.00 in advance or $4.50 the day of the show. Sounds like the concert-goers got their money's worth, and got to be part of rock and roll history as well!
Dark Side of the Moon has sold 45 million copies worldwide, and is the 4th best selling album of all time.
"There is no dark side of the moon really. Matter of fact it's all dark." (from the song Eclipse, ending the album).
