I arrived 4 hours before the show.

I started about 3/4 rows back & made my way up front for the first time when the crowd got wild and started pushing. I ended up going all the way to the back to help some people get water & then i made my way up front again shortly after.

if you're up front though you will be pretty squished & it may be a bit difficult to breathe, but if you're determined you'll find a way to get up there.

there will be a lot of people leaving up front so you should find some entries that way, just pay attention to the motions the crowd is moving in. Many casual/nodding their head fans won't mind if you slip in front of them, just try not to be an asshole about it and use the "i'm looking for a friend".