In June 2000, when Pearl Jam took to the stage at the Pinkpop Festival, they were riding a wave of their fifth studio album, “Yield,” which had been released in 1998. This album marked a return to more straightforward rock, moving away from some of the complexities of their earlier works and resonating with a broad audience. What’s fascinating is how the band was still very much in the throes of navigating fame, especially after the pressures they faced in the '90s with the grunge explosion. By this point in their career, they were promoting their more laid-back sound while solidifying their live performance reputation—something that really shines through in this recording. Mike McCready’s guitar work in "Nothing As It Seems," showcased during this performance, highlights not just his technical skill but also the emotional depth that Pearl Jam brings to their music, enhancing the festival's electric atmosphere. It's a moment that captures both the band's evolution and the raw energy of live rock.