The evening opened with Molly Lewis, a professional whistler whose hypnotic melodies and cinematic presence stunned the crowd. For many in attendance, it was their first time witnessing whistling elevated to this level of artistry. Her performance set the tone for a night that would be both unexpected and unforgettable.
As dusk fell over the San Diego Bay, Beck emerged alongside conductor Edwin Outwater and the full Symphony ensemble. The early half of the set leaned into his more introspective and orchestral catalog, with sweeping renditions of "The Golden Age," "Wave," "Lonesome Tears," and a hauntingly beautiful take on "Everybody’s Got to Learn Sometime" by The Korgis. The inclusion of covers by Scott Walker and This Mortal Coil added further depth and mystery to the setlist, showcasing Beck's wide-ranging influences and respect for avant-garde pop history.
The Rady Shell once again proved itself to be one of the most stunning concert venues in the world. With its open-air stage nestled along the Embarcadero, panoramic views of the bay and downtown skyline, and near-perfect acoustics, the venue enhances every performance that graces its stage. Whether you're a lifelong San Diegan or a visitor looking for a memorable cultural experience, attending a concert at The Rady Shell should be on everyone's must-do list.
Though Beck is known for his playful charisma and unpredictable onstage antics, this show was noticeably more refined and subdued - a natural consequence of performing alongside a world-class orchestra. Gone were (most of) the exaggerated dance moves and quirky banter of previous solo shows, including his more raucous 2024 performance just across the harbor at Wonderfront Festival. Instead, Beck offered a focused, emotionally resonant performance that emphasized musicianship over flash.
But as the symphonic portion of the show concluded with "Waking Light," the energy shifted. The Symphony bowed out and Beck's full band took the stage, transforming the second half of the evening into a full-on rock show. The crowd lit up and packed in front of the stage for high-energy renditions of "Devils Haircut," "Mixed Bizness," and the fan-favorite slow jam "Debra," cheekily dubbed the "Gaslamp District Edition." Before closing the night, Beck offered a playful stage tour during "One Foot in the Grave," then launched into an electrifying finale with "Loser," sneaking in a crowd-pleasing "One Foot in San Diego" nod that had the audience roaring.
It was a night that felt both grand and personal, elevated by the collaboration with the Symphony but anchored by Beck's unmistakable voice and vision. In a city with no shortage of memorable live music moments, this performance was something rare: a perfect convergence of place, artist, and atmosphere.
But as the symphonic portion of the show concluded with "Waking Light," the energy shifted. The Symphony bowed out and Beck's full band took the stage, transforming the second half of the evening into a full-on rock show. The crowd lit up and packed in front of the stage for high-energy renditions of "Devils Haircut," "Mixed Bizness," and the fan-favorite slow jam "Debra," cheekily dubbed the "Gaslamp District Edition." Before closing the night, Beck offered a playful stage tour during "One Foot in the Grave," then launched into an electrifying finale with "Loser," sneaking in a crowd-pleasing "One Foot in San Diego" nod that had the audience roaring.
It was a night that felt both grand and personal, elevated by the collaboration with the Symphony but anchored by Beck's unmistakable voice and vision. In a city with no shortage of memorable live music moments, this performance was something rare: a perfect convergence of place, artist, and atmosphere.
For more information about The Rady Shell at Jacobs Park, including upcoming performances and tickets, visit theshell.org.
Originally published on July 30, 2025.