Depends on the concert goer, really. At this particular time in my life, I'm not really interested in the spectacle so much as the love of the music, so the "it's a party" doesn't have the same appeal for me.

I'd rather see someone like Colin Hay play an acoustic set in a small venue where I can sit and have a whiskey than a big stadium thingy from a band that I like but don't love. The Cure have the full package, for me: The spectacle, the amazing sound live, and their music really resonates with me in a way that U2 doesn't.

I did see U2 on the Joshua Tree anniversary tour - and it was a great spectacle. My wife, who loves them, was over the moon. I was moderately entertained. Would've been a huge waste of money if I'd gone solo, but it was worth it because she loved it.

And one more add: Barenaked Ladies are the best value for my dollar when I do want the "it's a party" vibe. Not so much spectacle, but damn are their live shows fun. Some of their music really resonates with me but their live show prowess kicks it up several notches.