But the 9:30 Club has almost always been about rock. The Smashing Pumpkins did the opening honors when the club moved in 1996. Michael Stipe of R.E.M., in town for a bigger show, walked on the stage and sang a knockout a capella version of Fleetwood Mac’s “Landslide.” It’s a place that can accommodate the glorious busking of Mary Lou Lord and an unannounced set by Radiohead. Touring acts, pampered by the staff and a backstage that actually includes showers and good food, tend to show up on stage happy and ready to play.

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Saw both of the bolded events above on the same night in 1998.  But they left out the short set that Pulp played that night.  It was the last time I saw them.  The other thing I remember from that night was new it-couple Brad Pitt and Jennifer Aniston rocking out on the dressing room balcony.