In Media Res...

An explosion of sound danced in my ears and my brain took a few moments to process the incredible sounds as my eyes gazed at the colored lights. The sound was so strong it vibrated throughout my being and it was like a wake-up call, reminding me of who I had been at 19 and other ages as well. I was thoroughly alive for the next two hours as I went through a myriad of emotion on a musical journey with one of my favorite bands I've ever heard or seen. It was like re-discovering a long forgotten part of my soul. Scott pointed out the tech working the lights and we were fascinated by the machinery that he manipulated as he sang every word and moved with the songs like a fourth band member working from afar. Halfway through the set the fire alarm rang out and people didn't seem concerned, the band played on and we looked around but everything seemed fine. If the techs weren't moving and the band was still going, I figured we were good. After the song, the singer commented that it happened to them all the time. Funny. Black Rebel Motorcycle Club has an awesome female drummer, did I mention how great she is? Need to see them again.

We began the evening by going to dinner and watching the sun gently settle among the clouds over the water in the harbor. The novelty of a different atmosphere made it charming and we shared jokes and conversation at our table. He reminded me of a fine whiskey that acquires subtle nuances and character as it slowly ages, clearly attractive with more to offer each day. My best friend.

Upon arrival at the House of Blues, we were escorted to prime seating next to the lighting tech within excellent view of the stage. My foot surgery was clearly a perk! Unusual paintings covered the ceiling, meant to evoke images from New Orleans and a standing room only venue lay the canvas for the night. The cocktail server and I put our heads together for a moment, resulting in a fabulous Southern Comfort, Sprite, and a lime that had a good wallop to it. Ah yes, now I could settle in and anticipate what lay ahead.

The opening band took the stage and by the second song I began to pay closer attention as I heard some influences of the Ramones, Stones, U2, and others. The singer had a classic rock and roll scream that he used at just the right moments to add flavor to the songs. I was moving in my seat.  Definitely impressive. The name was unusual, Bass Drum of Death. Go figure.