Well I was going to put the Michigan and Ohio State bands on here, but decided instead to recognize Ireland's fabulous effort against France in the World Cup with one of Ireland's finest traditional musicians — Sharon Shannon.

Something a little different …

Bruce Springsteen made his appearance in Cleveland last night, and flu aside I attended (why turn down the chance to spread the joy to thousands?). There were some magical high moments.

The Rising.

Badlands.

The entire Born to Run album.

Rosalita for the finale.

Fabulous.

Unfortunately for me — and I realize I may be in the minority — Bruce relied a little too much on his "pop" hits. Dancing in the Dark, Hungry Heart. Those kind of songs. See, Bruce lost his way a little in the '80s when he made that "music." He appealed to the masses, and Bruce never was made for the masses.

If you think he was, listen to JungleLand and tell me it'd appear on any AM radio station.

So as a Bruce purist (or snob), I'd have preferred more of his true-to-Bruce stuff.

Too, he also concluded one song before Rosalita with a fabulous version of "Higher and Higher" (Your love … has taken me higher … ).

He and the E-Street Band did a great job, but I ask: Did I pay money to hear him play other people's music, or to play his?

That being said, he played for three hours in a row, rarely paused and gave the kind of all-out, emotional and energetic performance he's been known for. There's only one Springsteen, and the fact he can do what he does at his age is quite something. As a friend said, a Bruce show is the one place everyone can get their money's worth and leave with a smile.

Even if he did play too many stinking pop songs.

And … one final visit by The Boss …

For the naysayers … I've been going to Springsteen concerts longer than you've been insulting me on this mog, or since before Born to Run came out. If you think he's coming to town and I'm not going to pump it up … well you don't understand the point of this log.

The dogs on Main Street howl …

And … still because it's Bruce … yet one more …

And … because it's Bruce … another entertaining moment …

There's a certain concert in town Tuesday night, and I will be there …

In the spirit of the season …

Another fine musician.

John Hiatt started these musical posts. Seems appropriate to return to him at some point.

Besides, I've got two kids with the flu and I've got to go to Pittsburgh, so I'm in a bit of a hurry …

And I don't care if Alan doesn't like him.