Of everyone I saw at Lollapalooza, Jane’s Addiction’s headlining Sunday performance was undoubtedly the most over-the-top. Who else would have a helicopter circle the concert grounds just prior to a performance to illuminate the fans and stage? Moves like this had front man Perry Farrell’s fingerprints all over them. And being the catalyst for this whole Lolla phenomenon, we shouldn’t expect anything less than the biggest and baddest display of rock possible from Farell and his Angelino brethren Dave Navarro, Eric Avery, and Stephen Perkins.

After the first song was done, security let a select number of us photographers in, and once they gave the green light, it was an adrenaline rush-driven stampede trying to get into the pit. Once inside, I dashed around trying to find a solid vantage point, away from the gigantic film rigs and increased security lineup. Perry Farrell’s presence alone is larger-than-life, but everything about Jane’s Addiction stage set-up and show was impressive. And being able to capture the action so close—for at least a few songs—was surreal.

Ferrell moved around on stage the most, though guitarist Dave Navarro made sure to give Lolla-goers their money’s worth too, making sure his slick guitar work was directly in the light. One of the best moments was when Farrell and Navarro stood side by side, the former shaking some maracas while he admired the latter jamming away.

I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the visuals and how vital they were to completing the show. The explosive lighting was amazing in itself. And with oversized banners featuring curvaceous and masked women dominating the rear wall, Farrell clearly didn’t want his audience to keep their eyes off the stage; a pair of hot dancers that rocked wild gray wigs only enhanced the vividness of it all. I’m not really sure how Jane’s Addiction could even top this set, but I wouldn’t be surprised if in a year from now they do just that.

Words and photos by Max Herman