Kickin It Ol' Skool
I embarked on an adventure last night reminiscent of olden days. I rode along for a trip. The journey took three kids two and half hours from home, on a school night, for a concert. What year is this? 2000? Ah the days of no cares. We went back for an evening.
Last week, Sarah talked me into driving down to Charlottesville, VA for a concert (Mecca for the dmb fans). The venue was Starr Hill. The band was Blue Merle. They have an EP out called "The Fires." The single, "Burning In The Sun" has been played on WRNR. I really like the sound. Lucas Reynolds, the lead singer, has a melodic voice almost like Chris Martin. The band is comprised of acoustic guitars, electric guitars, mandalion, violin, upright bass, keys, and drums. They do an excellent job of building numerous amounts of sound. Very Dynamic. I was exicted for the show.
Around lunchtime, I talked to Avi. He wasn't doing much on the account of searching for a job. He was easily convinced to tag along for the ride. I took the Metro across town. We picked up Avi off I-66, and made it out past Manassas by 6pm. That was impressive. We made it to C'ville by 815 just after doors. The show was free so, I was a bit worried we might not get inside. We had no problems. This was the second Wednesday in a three week residency. The band just finished recording their album in C'ville are set for a Feburary 15th release. They must be hanging out in town getting promo ready since Red Light/Coran Capshaw is managing the operation.
The first band was just crap. I mean horrible. How many bad openers have we sat through? Who knows. The sound was also terrible. Starr Hill is OK for sound, but you need the touch to make it great. We hoped for better from Blue Merle, but were sadly dissappointed. I taped, but even the tape is eh because; of the sound. Tuff room to mix it is.
All that aside, I really enjoyed the set. It was short, only about an hour and ten minutes. I assume they don't have much material. Reynolds seemed awkard and excited on stage. Overall, the band had good stage presence. They weren't trying to be cool. The songs have a lot of potential. Plenty of crazy sounds to pull for a great affect. The lyrics arn't as catchy as pop, but have plenty of emotion. Its a good thing. I'd love to catch the act again in a better sounding room.
The ride home found us at Sheetz. I love Sheetz. We really don't have any in Maryland. You can live out of these places while on the road. We were back in Arlington by 230am. Not too late of a night. I am fine today, and it was so much fun!! Thanks to Sarah for providing the car and Avi the entertainment. I don't think I can do this all the time, but at least I know it can still be pulled.
Comments
Maybe you should spend less time driving 2.5 hours to see shi**y bands and more time creating a new simeons.net design...I'm tired of looking at this...it's so 2002...ok work break over
