Sitting at 38,000 feet seems like the perfect place to reflect on my first trip to the new Wembley Stadium - on Saturday we went to see Muse live, supported by Dirty Pretty Thing, the Streets and Rodrigo Y Gabriela.

We rolled up at about 6pm - and found it easy (but expensive) to park - short walk into the stadium, followed by 5 of the longest escalators I have ever seen, we had seats in the top tier but not far back from the stage - so we had a pretty good view. Dirty Pretty Things were just finishing - with ‘Bang, Bang you’re Dead!’ After a short wait, The Streets took to the stage, sounding altogether a bit lost in the massive space, I also thought they looked a bit out of space amongst all the satellite dishes and strange decor that was ready for Muse. Mike Skinner tried some rabble rousing singing, channeling Freddie Mercury in between the hits.

About 8.40 - the lights dimmed (and it was just getting dusky) - and classical music struck up, with Muse emerging from under the floor (probably near the center circle) and parading back to the stage flanked by a troop of guys in what looked like chemical hazard suits.

And then - all hell got let loose…

Anthem after anthem, hit after hit…2 hours of bombastic space-techno-rock. Superb drumming, fearsome guitar playing and great vocals added up to one of the best live experiences I’ve ever had. The lights and effects coupled with a brilliant show and 70,000 people were completely enthralled.

Highlights for me : Plug in Baby, Take a Bow and the crazy scanning satellite dishes that had huge spotlights in the middle of them.

My gallery of photos from Muse at Wembley on June 16th is here.