I Probably have been to more concerts this year than I have in recent memory. I'll give my top 10 though.
1. Roger Waters - The Wall Live at the United Center (If you saw my post on the other thread, you know The Wall is my favorite album, and this was one of the best concert experiences I've ever had. Between the flawless performance, the awesome stage show, etc. it will be one show I will never forget.)
2. Halford at the House of Blues (Yes, I am biased here, but honestly this was probably the most FUN I've had at a show this year. It also helps that I was up front and center. Anyways, I saw his solo band at Ozzfest and while I enjoyed the performance, they seemed rather static on stage. This performance, however, the band was really energetic and moving all around. Even Halford, while he wasn't running like the others, was moving around the stage and not just stationed with his eyes on the monitor. In fact, I would say of the times I've seen him either with this band or with Priest, I would say he looked at the monitor the least Thursday night.)
3. Accept in St. Charles - This was absolutely the strangest venue of the year, but goddamn I was so glad to see this show after not being able to make it to Atlanta this year. These guys embarrass most bands that are half their age in terms of energy.
4. Scorpions at the Rosemont Theater - I found this to be a very odd venue for them as the show itself seemed like it was arena, even though it wasn't. One of the best hard rock acts I've seen live and considering how old these guys are, that's saying something. Plus, you add Michael Schenker playing with them on a song and you can't beat that.
5. Transatlantic at Park West - Pretty much what Met-Al said. When you play almost your entire discography and play it perfectly, you can't beat that. As far as musicianship, this was the most well-played show of the year.
6. Devin Townsend at Lincoln Hall - While Halford was the most FUN I've had at a show, this was the most entertaining. Not only is Devin solid live, but his antics are worth the price of admission alone. So good to see him do a headline slot. I honestly never thought I'd see that to be perfectly honest.
7. Iron Maiden at Midwest Bank Ampitheater - Maiden never disappoints live and even with a lot of material that isn't necessarily my favorite of theirs, they were in top notch form.
8. Blind Guardian at the Bottom Lounge - One of the best power metal performances I've seen. Also, their setlist was pretty much flawless.
9. Nevermore at Reggies - I always wanted to see this band live. I must admit I was hesitant considering some of the shows where people said Warrel was off. Thankfully, he was in excellent form here and Loomis is absolutely killer live.
10. Sonata Arctica at the House of Blues - I know most complain about their repeated setlist, but I was really impressed with their performance. Plus, I never had seen them before.
