I decided to do a quick recap of MY tour, lol...
If I could describe all of the INXS shows I have attended in the last 2 yrs, with one word each....here is what I would get:
Seattle (Jan 2006) ~ Loud
Las Vegas (Jan 2006) ~ Party
St Charles (Feb 2006) ~ Thud
Nashville (Apr 2006) ~ Crotch
Reno (Jun 2006) ~ Poker
Berkeley (Jun 2006) ~ Crack
Sacramento (Jun 2006) ~ Hams
Lemoore (Jun 2006) ~ Nachos
Santa Barbara (Jun 2006) ~ Sweaty
LA (Jun 2006) ~ Again
LA (Jun 2006) ~ Professional
Hemet (Jun 2006) ~ HOT
Pala (Jun 2006) ~ Wedding
San Diego (Jun 2006) ~ Taxi
Anaheim (Nov 2006) ~ Munchy
Indio (Dec 2006) ~ Ninja
Ottawa (Jul 2007) ~ Lounge
Barrie (Jul 2007) ~ Crumpilicious*
Sault Ste Marie (Jul 2007) ~ Fin
*I'm a bad bad girl...
Monday, October 01, 2007
Friday, June 23, 2006
California Dreamin’ ... 2 weeks of INXS
From the Lobster Bisque in Reno to a Pina Colada by the Beach in San Diego. . .
2 weeks, 10 concerts, rockin’ music, hot guys, beautiful people and great fun. . .
What more is there to say?
Well…
This is my tale in excess… dancing and grooving INXS… all the way baby, all the fucking way!
First off, just for clarification, I KNOW Reno is in Nevada! But this does not matter… This story is what can only be described as a ‘dream vacation’. All of my travels during these 2 weeks were directed by when and where I was going to see Our Band play, who I was going to meet up and party with, how I was going to get there, and where I was going to stay… This was my version of back packing through Europe, if you will…
I was just following INXS all the way through California…
I saw some awesome music in some fantastic venues, some weird places, some brutal front row experiences, and got to capture some great photos and had an absolute ball the entire time. I am in this state of dazed ‘afterglow’ as I sit here writing this. The memories are floating around all twisted together…I have a HUGE smile on my face, my feet hurt like hell, and I have bruises I don’t remember where they came from. Have I mentioned how much FUN this was?
First off, here was the itinerary: Reno-Berkeley-Sacramento, day off, Lemoore(Fresno)-Santa Barbara, day off, LA-LA-Hemet, day off, Pala-San Diego. Can we say, EXCESS? I mean, who else should I see this much? I had to do it…their name, after all is: INXS…I mean, it’s only natural, no? So was my XS-ive journey in XS bliss…Thumbin(not really) my way through California! (And yes, that is 10 shows, count them: 10!)
Why, oh, why would I plan to go to 10 shows? What am I, a groupie? LOL…I’m not going to answer that!
For me, this was a seize the opportunity kind of vacation. It started out that me and few friends, that had attended a show or so together earlier this tour thought LA would be the place to see them, INXS, again. The Greek in LA is known as a great venue. Then a couple of us thought Reno the week earlier would be a good idea. Then, one of the folks that couldn’t make the Reno or LA shows, said they were coming out for San Diego. Then I found out I could not make my own local shows up here in Seattle and Vancouver (I had another non INXS adventure to Korea).
Then I looked at the rest of the tour schedule, and thought, why not go to the Sacramento show while I was down there…it is close to Reno, and there are a bunch of bands playing…I mean, it’s not all about INXS is it? (lol) Then of course, well if one is going to Reno and Sacramento, well, Berkeley is right in between, why not make it a trifecta? I was supposed to fly home for 4 days, then come back down to Southern California for the LA, etc shows. But then…well, I could just visit mom in Fresno in between, save a flight home, and catch the Lemoore show at Tachi casino(about 40 miles south of Fresno), and heck while I’m at it, what about that auction show over in Santa Barbara?
Ok, so we already know I was going to the LA shows, and really wanted to stay for the San Diego show a few days later…but you know… there is the Hemet show and the Pala shows in between?!?! Oh, what the hell, just book them ALL! Errrrr! How many shows is that? Oh my freakin’ god, I am going to 10 shows! For ONE band! Every single show from Reno to San Diego. I must have lost my ever loving mind!??!!? Well, yes, I did, and I am so glad!
Some Dreamin’ highlights…
Reno, beer literally flowing down our backs, girl fights, Front Row Center Baby! Drunken M&G with my crew (you girls rock!)…I told all the BINXS they were hot, except JD…totally dissed him, oops! LOL! Headlines: Lobster Bisque, 3card Poker, Double shots, INXS in the Pig Pen! Rock and Fucking Roll! BTW, the Garage is not where you park cars…just sayin’…
Berkeley, a cool breezy night, another set of rockin friends, sitting in a great venue, a better than expected seat, and oh my, open season to take pictures with the GOOD camera…I shot 400+ frames this night. INXS indeed! Also, seating, hard right circle section, non pit, GREAT seats. I was actually glad I had these seats rather than the pit...the stage was uber high, and we got a lot of up close attention over on the sides where the stage to the seats differential was not so dramatic...
The BINXS in Berkeley, aka INXS...
Sacramento, the Ranch, the hoedown, melting in the Sun! From 2 oclock on, rocking to the beat. Lovehammers, Scott Stapp, INXS, and a few others scattered in between… Sunscreen, water and sweat, working our way to the Front row, fighting off drunken stragglers, stage right for INXS. Open season to shoot semi daylight pics. 260 plus shots of INXS, 150 shots of the Lovehammers and Scott Stapp(and band)…A great afternoon spent, with an endless set of great music.
Sacramento photos:
Marty Casey:
.
Scott Stapp:
The BINXS, aka INXS...
A day of rest…
Tachi(Lemoore/Fresno)…where? LOL…kicking back in the 5th row, could have made our way up front, but enjoyed the heck out of a show with folks pogoing all around in the middle of nowhere California…good times. I had a dude sitting down eating nachos in front of me half the night…quirky night on the grass and folding chairs.
Santa Barbara, the living room, with 650 of my closest friends and favorite band. Chilled all the way back in 4th row, right/center aisle. Resisted moving up, though everyone around me was. The whole room was vibrating and bouncing, and it was SWELTERING inside this tiny theatre! Sweatin’ with INXS. Tres hot, LOL...
Another Day off, time to visit the Pier, stop for Ice Cream in Solvang, and traverse my way across the great state of California…
Lala land here I come. As I drove just over the Grapevine, change radio stations, what do I hear, New Sensation, baby, it was ON! It was time to hit the Greek baby! Checked out the venue, saw the crew off loading the equipment, made my way to West Hollywood to prep for a hoppin weekend in Hollyweird! And it was, weird, that is! I was mid pit at the first show, following a fun and bossy M&G.
The results of being bossy:
It was a hot weekend in LA, as in temperature…no sign of June gloom! But gloom there was, the security nazis were obsessive to the point of fucking annoying checking tickets for more than half the show, during and throughout some beautiful music.
It didn’t matter if you were in your exact right spot or not, you spent half your time having to find your ticket and reshow someone, mid song. Did the Band play ‘By My Side’? I don’t know(they did), I was getting totally wigged out trying to align myself properly with my assigned seat, watching legitimate front row ticket holders in front of me have their show interrupted as they scroured for in their purses and pockets for their ticket. What the Fuck ever! I agree, that only Pit seat holders should be in the Pit, but in the exact space, etc…sorry, this was out of fucking control, and they need to get a fucking clue.
Proceeding to my second Day in LA, I had a lovely seat just behind the pit, and a couple of empty seats next to me, that a couple of my friends were able to join me in for most of the show. Great night, INXS was putting it out there for the ‘Industry’…from all reports it was not a ‘front row show’ but rather a perfect professional production. They played to the venue at large. This was likely the best time to be where I was. Great night. Got to see some famous folks: Racheal Hunter, way more beautiful in person, just across the aisle from us, Paul Mirkovich (Rockstar HouseBand)…how hot is he in person?!?!? Great night at the Greek. Golden Circle indeed.
Overall LA…well, it was good, but oh, what was to come! The best part of LA for me, was the cool friends I got to hang with and others I got to meet. Good times. Entertaining shows.
Hemet, or more specifically San Jacinto, the Soboba tent Casino, outdoor venue, early starting concert, fight for our front row spot…and then…
The hottest freaking show, EVER! I mean EVER. Holy heck, lol. It is hard to describe. After squeezing one hip, shoulder, and boob at a time into my spot in front, next to my favorite gals ever! I was privileged to be witness to a show I will never forget. I am still quivering from it! How do I describe the endless * eyefucks *, the attention the entire front crowd got, the hot moves on stage…the boys competing with eachother for us screaming for them…the juicy apple stuff right next to me…the boys beside themselves watching. It was like one endless…well you get my point, no? OH.MY.FUCKING.HELL it was SO.SO.HOT! There was a whole different version of somethin’somethin’ during Taste It…a bit of Sax Sex(so HOT!), a bit of Love from the mic TO JD…There was shaking asses, hot stares, splayed squat action right in front of us, dealing cards(lol—funny moment, think 3card poker!), endless thrusting motions, grinding, Sexy Sax playing, hot, banging, vibrating drums…There was simply an audience writhing in ecstasy as the Band kept bringing it harder and harder. Hot. Hot. And more, Hot!
Fucking hottest show, EVER.
So what could follow this…well first a day off, as we were sated from what was an unbelievable night. I don’t think I could have gone to another show the next night even if there was one…it left you completely spent. Thank god there was a day reprieve.
So then we get to Pala…was this a pool party or a wedding? LOL…I get to the venue early due to some transportation logistics…I see everything getting set up…I see a lovely grassy area between the pool and the casino set up with white folding chairs and an aisle down the middle! Seriously , if I didn’t see the stage up front, I would have assumed it was set up for a wedding…I thought this was freaking hysterical. But no worries. As I expected via my earlier show observations, this show was going to be a free for all regarding placement of where you were in relation to the stage, regardless of what ticket you had. I was front and center, slightly right. Good show. Fairly hot. Some weirdness with the ‘big screen’ cameraman right in front of us half the show? WTF? Kind of put a damper(read blockage) on the hotness in front of us! All in all though a beautiful night, at a lovely venue….Just the way I wanted my wedding, errr, I mean to see INXS, lol ...
Then San Diego. We were set to see a concert by the Bay. Have I mentioned, San Diego? It was simply beautiful. The city, the beach, the venue. And of course, INXS. This was the show, most of us were able to get to all at the same time, some of my best concert buddies, and a few others I got to meet here. It was altogether, a perfect way to end my little Dreamin’ adventure.
My most memorable moment, was actually before the show, as we piled into the cab, realized we were one person over, and were trying to figure out how to get in…first we tried to get 2 people in the front…the taxi driver shook his head, uhmmm, no! LOL…We tried piling an extra person on someones lap in the backseat….taxi driver, uhmmm, no! errr, switch around seats, try again, get all of our butts finally in the back seat, noone on any one elses lap, finally cabdriver rolls eyes, but is like, okey dokey, lol…we glance to the left out our window before we pull away, and who is looking at us with WTF looks of hysterical horror? Just imagine, a couple of Aussies and a skinny tall Canadian getting ready to go themselves…yes, major looks of hysterical incredulity …we would be seeing them in a bit, on and around stage…oh my freaking god! Fucking hysterical indeed.
The show. Awesome. Beautiful night, hot band, great friends and fans. Hot music. Lots and lots of endless fun. Serious brutal front row. It was another free for all (suggestion, if not going to check tickets, might as well make the concerts General Admission, just sayin’!). Luckily, I got up front, as my front row ticket apparently did not guarantee it! It was a battle. But it was fabulous. The end of the night was perfect…A bike taxi ride back(freaking hysterical—our drivers tried to race—we laughed the entire way back!). A bunch of us gathered together after the show, we had Cosmos flowing, ordered the ENTIRE menu, and lolled around on this bed seating area where we were all hanging out. The band was there, but honestly I didn’t care. We were a group of friends, some of coolest people I will ever meet , hung out all night, laughing and enjoying a beautiful night. We said hi to a couple of the band members that showed up, but mostly kept to ourselves enjoying what was, for many of us, the end of this little journey.
Best of's:
Best venue: San Diego, can't beat the bayside locale ...
Runner up, Prettiest location: Pala, gorgeous surrounding view from the concert ...
Best sound: 2nd night at the Greek, LA
Hottest show, EVER: Hemet, of course, lol...
Best people to party with and best friends made through this experience? You know who you are! I will say, INXS, together again, made this possible, and the great people I have met along this journey through RockbandLounge.com have created memories and friendships, in my life, I will never be able to duplicate. So thanks to each and every one of you. Major *smooches*.
INXS, California Dreamin’…Over, and Fucking Out! Yeah Baby. Love and Smooches to all that I met up with along the way. Special Thanks to those of you that were gracious enough to open your homes to me and let me bunk in between our concerts! For those of you I shared hotel rooms, great seats, and swigs of vodka with…fun, straight up, shaken not stirred!
Next stop, Paris…just sayin…
2 weeks, 10 concerts, rockin’ music, hot guys, beautiful people and great fun. . .
What more is there to say?
Well…
This is my tale in excess… dancing and grooving INXS… all the way baby, all the fucking way!
First off, just for clarification, I KNOW Reno is in Nevada! But this does not matter… This story is what can only be described as a ‘dream vacation’. All of my travels during these 2 weeks were directed by when and where I was going to see Our Band play, who I was going to meet up and party with, how I was going to get there, and where I was going to stay… This was my version of back packing through Europe, if you will…
I was just following INXS all the way through California…
I saw some awesome music in some fantastic venues, some weird places, some brutal front row experiences, and got to capture some great photos and had an absolute ball the entire time. I am in this state of dazed ‘afterglow’ as I sit here writing this. The memories are floating around all twisted together…I have a HUGE smile on my face, my feet hurt like hell, and I have bruises I don’t remember where they came from. Have I mentioned how much FUN this was?
First off, here was the itinerary: Reno-Berkeley-Sacramento, day off, Lemoore(Fresno)-Santa Barbara, day off, LA-LA-Hemet, day off, Pala-San Diego. Can we say, EXCESS? I mean, who else should I see this much? I had to do it…their name, after all is: INXS…I mean, it’s only natural, no? So was my XS-ive journey in XS bliss…Thumbin(not really) my way through California! (And yes, that is 10 shows, count them: 10!)
Why, oh, why would I plan to go to 10 shows? What am I, a groupie? LOL…I’m not going to answer that!
For me, this was a seize the opportunity kind of vacation. It started out that me and few friends, that had attended a show or so together earlier this tour thought LA would be the place to see them, INXS, again. The Greek in LA is known as a great venue. Then a couple of us thought Reno the week earlier would be a good idea. Then, one of the folks that couldn’t make the Reno or LA shows, said they were coming out for San Diego. Then I found out I could not make my own local shows up here in Seattle and Vancouver (I had another non INXS adventure to Korea).
Then I looked at the rest of the tour schedule, and thought, why not go to the Sacramento show while I was down there…it is close to Reno, and there are a bunch of bands playing…I mean, it’s not all about INXS is it? (lol) Then of course, well if one is going to Reno and Sacramento, well, Berkeley is right in between, why not make it a trifecta? I was supposed to fly home for 4 days, then come back down to Southern California for the LA, etc shows. But then…well, I could just visit mom in Fresno in between, save a flight home, and catch the Lemoore show at Tachi casino(about 40 miles south of Fresno), and heck while I’m at it, what about that auction show over in Santa Barbara?
Ok, so we already know I was going to the LA shows, and really wanted to stay for the San Diego show a few days later…but you know… there is the Hemet show and the Pala shows in between?!?! Oh, what the hell, just book them ALL! Errrrr! How many shows is that? Oh my freakin’ god, I am going to 10 shows! For ONE band! Every single show from Reno to San Diego. I must have lost my ever loving mind!??!!? Well, yes, I did, and I am so glad!
Some Dreamin’ highlights…
Reno, beer literally flowing down our backs, girl fights, Front Row Center Baby! Drunken M&G with my crew (you girls rock!)…I told all the BINXS they were hot, except JD…totally dissed him, oops! LOL! Headlines: Lobster Bisque, 3card Poker, Double shots, INXS in the Pig Pen! Rock and Fucking Roll! BTW, the Garage is not where you park cars…just sayin’…
Berkeley, a cool breezy night, another set of rockin friends, sitting in a great venue, a better than expected seat, and oh my, open season to take pictures with the GOOD camera…I shot 400+ frames this night. INXS indeed! Also, seating, hard right circle section, non pit, GREAT seats. I was actually glad I had these seats rather than the pit...the stage was uber high, and we got a lot of up close attention over on the sides where the stage to the seats differential was not so dramatic...
The BINXS in Berkeley, aka INXS...
Sacramento, the Ranch, the hoedown, melting in the Sun! From 2 oclock on, rocking to the beat. Lovehammers, Scott Stapp, INXS, and a few others scattered in between… Sunscreen, water and sweat, working our way to the Front row, fighting off drunken stragglers, stage right for INXS. Open season to shoot semi daylight pics. 260 plus shots of INXS, 150 shots of the Lovehammers and Scott Stapp(and band)…A great afternoon spent, with an endless set of great music.
Sacramento photos:
Marty Casey:
.Scott Stapp:
The BINXS, aka INXS...
A day of rest…
Tachi(Lemoore/Fresno)…where? LOL…kicking back in the 5th row, could have made our way up front, but enjoyed the heck out of a show with folks pogoing all around in the middle of nowhere California…good times. I had a dude sitting down eating nachos in front of me half the night…quirky night on the grass and folding chairs.
Santa Barbara, the living room, with 650 of my closest friends and favorite band. Chilled all the way back in 4th row, right/center aisle. Resisted moving up, though everyone around me was. The whole room was vibrating and bouncing, and it was SWELTERING inside this tiny theatre! Sweatin’ with INXS. Tres hot, LOL...
Another Day off, time to visit the Pier, stop for Ice Cream in Solvang, and traverse my way across the great state of California…
Lala land here I come. As I drove just over the Grapevine, change radio stations, what do I hear, New Sensation, baby, it was ON! It was time to hit the Greek baby! Checked out the venue, saw the crew off loading the equipment, made my way to West Hollywood to prep for a hoppin weekend in Hollyweird! And it was, weird, that is! I was mid pit at the first show, following a fun and bossy M&G.
The results of being bossy:
It was a hot weekend in LA, as in temperature…no sign of June gloom! But gloom there was, the security nazis were obsessive to the point of fucking annoying checking tickets for more than half the show, during and throughout some beautiful music.
It didn’t matter if you were in your exact right spot or not, you spent half your time having to find your ticket and reshow someone, mid song. Did the Band play ‘By My Side’? I don’t know(they did), I was getting totally wigged out trying to align myself properly with my assigned seat, watching legitimate front row ticket holders in front of me have their show interrupted as they scroured for in their purses and pockets for their ticket. What the Fuck ever! I agree, that only Pit seat holders should be in the Pit, but in the exact space, etc…sorry, this was out of fucking control, and they need to get a fucking clue.
Proceeding to my second Day in LA, I had a lovely seat just behind the pit, and a couple of empty seats next to me, that a couple of my friends were able to join me in for most of the show. Great night, INXS was putting it out there for the ‘Industry’…from all reports it was not a ‘front row show’ but rather a perfect professional production. They played to the venue at large. This was likely the best time to be where I was. Great night. Got to see some famous folks: Racheal Hunter, way more beautiful in person, just across the aisle from us, Paul Mirkovich (Rockstar HouseBand)…how hot is he in person?!?!? Great night at the Greek. Golden Circle indeed.
Overall LA…well, it was good, but oh, what was to come! The best part of LA for me, was the cool friends I got to hang with and others I got to meet. Good times. Entertaining shows.
Hemet, or more specifically San Jacinto, the Soboba tent Casino, outdoor venue, early starting concert, fight for our front row spot…and then…
The hottest freaking show, EVER! I mean EVER. Holy heck, lol. It is hard to describe. After squeezing one hip, shoulder, and boob at a time into my spot in front, next to my favorite gals ever! I was privileged to be witness to a show I will never forget. I am still quivering from it! How do I describe the endless * eyefucks *, the attention the entire front crowd got, the hot moves on stage…the boys competing with eachother for us screaming for them…the juicy apple stuff right next to me…the boys beside themselves watching. It was like one endless…well you get my point, no? OH.MY.FUCKING.HELL it was SO.SO.HOT! There was a whole different version of somethin’somethin’ during Taste It…a bit of Sax Sex(so HOT!), a bit of Love from the mic TO JD…There was shaking asses, hot stares, splayed squat action right in front of us, dealing cards(lol—funny moment, think 3card poker!), endless thrusting motions, grinding, Sexy Sax playing, hot, banging, vibrating drums…There was simply an audience writhing in ecstasy as the Band kept bringing it harder and harder. Hot. Hot. And more, Hot!
Fucking hottest show, EVER.
So what could follow this…well first a day off, as we were sated from what was an unbelievable night. I don’t think I could have gone to another show the next night even if there was one…it left you completely spent. Thank god there was a day reprieve.
So then we get to Pala…was this a pool party or a wedding? LOL…I get to the venue early due to some transportation logistics…I see everything getting set up…I see a lovely grassy area between the pool and the casino set up with white folding chairs and an aisle down the middle! Seriously , if I didn’t see the stage up front, I would have assumed it was set up for a wedding…I thought this was freaking hysterical. But no worries. As I expected via my earlier show observations, this show was going to be a free for all regarding placement of where you were in relation to the stage, regardless of what ticket you had. I was front and center, slightly right. Good show. Fairly hot. Some weirdness with the ‘big screen’ cameraman right in front of us half the show? WTF? Kind of put a damper(read blockage) on the hotness in front of us! All in all though a beautiful night, at a lovely venue….Just the way I wanted my wedding, errr, I mean to see INXS, lol ...
Then San Diego. We were set to see a concert by the Bay. Have I mentioned, San Diego? It was simply beautiful. The city, the beach, the venue. And of course, INXS. This was the show, most of us were able to get to all at the same time, some of my best concert buddies, and a few others I got to meet here. It was altogether, a perfect way to end my little Dreamin’ adventure.
My most memorable moment, was actually before the show, as we piled into the cab, realized we were one person over, and were trying to figure out how to get in…first we tried to get 2 people in the front…the taxi driver shook his head, uhmmm, no! LOL…We tried piling an extra person on someones lap in the backseat….taxi driver, uhmmm, no! errr, switch around seats, try again, get all of our butts finally in the back seat, noone on any one elses lap, finally cabdriver rolls eyes, but is like, okey dokey, lol…we glance to the left out our window before we pull away, and who is looking at us with WTF looks of hysterical horror? Just imagine, a couple of Aussies and a skinny tall Canadian getting ready to go themselves…yes, major looks of hysterical incredulity …we would be seeing them in a bit, on and around stage…oh my freaking god! Fucking hysterical indeed.
The show. Awesome. Beautiful night, hot band, great friends and fans. Hot music. Lots and lots of endless fun. Serious brutal front row. It was another free for all (suggestion, if not going to check tickets, might as well make the concerts General Admission, just sayin’!). Luckily, I got up front, as my front row ticket apparently did not guarantee it! It was a battle. But it was fabulous. The end of the night was perfect…A bike taxi ride back(freaking hysterical—our drivers tried to race—we laughed the entire way back!). A bunch of us gathered together after the show, we had Cosmos flowing, ordered the ENTIRE menu, and lolled around on this bed seating area where we were all hanging out. The band was there, but honestly I didn’t care. We were a group of friends, some of coolest people I will ever meet , hung out all night, laughing and enjoying a beautiful night. We said hi to a couple of the band members that showed up, but mostly kept to ourselves enjoying what was, for many of us, the end of this little journey.
Best of's:
Best venue: San Diego, can't beat the bayside locale ...
Runner up, Prettiest location: Pala, gorgeous surrounding view from the concert ...
Best sound: 2nd night at the Greek, LA
Hottest show, EVER: Hemet, of course, lol...
Best people to party with and best friends made through this experience? You know who you are! I will say, INXS, together again, made this possible, and the great people I have met along this journey through RockbandLounge.com have created memories and friendships, in my life, I will never be able to duplicate. So thanks to each and every one of you. Major *smooches*.
INXS, California Dreamin’…Over, and Fucking Out! Yeah Baby. Love and Smooches to all that I met up with along the way. Special Thanks to those of you that were gracious enough to open your homes to me and let me bunk in between our concerts! For those of you I shared hotel rooms, great seats, and swigs of vodka with…fun, straight up, shaken not stirred!
Next stop, Paris…just sayin…
Friday, May 19, 2006
INXS Nashville Video online viewing!
Watch the Nashville video here...you can download via the links on the previous post, but you can just view it online here!
via Youtube: Hot Girls...
via Google video:
Here is Never Tear Us Apart first...
Ok here's Hot Girls...don't laugh, I have some interesting 'camera angles', lol...
and here's New Sensation...this may be the most complete and well shot of the videos...I hadn't really gone back to watch it...these 3 were all from the encore, and when I was right at the stage, so there were no camera nazis, and the view was...spactacular, lol...
...the quality of the others...is meh...but still fun...
...might post a couple of the others this way soon...
via Youtube: Hot Girls...
via Google video:
Here is Never Tear Us Apart first...
Ok here's Hot Girls...don't laugh, I have some interesting 'camera angles', lol...
and here's New Sensation...this may be the most complete and well shot of the videos...I hadn't really gone back to watch it...these 3 were all from the encore, and when I was right at the stage, so there were no camera nazis, and the view was...spactacular, lol...
...the quality of the others...is meh...but still fun...
...might post a couple of the others this way soon...
Wednesday, April 26, 2006
Viva...NashVegas!!!
First...Me & the BINXS...at least a some of them look happy to be there, lol...
Originally posted at Rockband.com: Nashville recap Thread...
INXS Switched On Tour: Nashville, TN - 4/22/2006
...so I see we are writing mini novels now, lol...well here’s my entry...nothing really new...just the view from my own eyes and ears...all still in Nashville...
Viva NashVegas! Part One...Timing is EVERYTHING...
Nashville. Home of country music. A lovely city in the great state of Tennessee. An approximately 8 hour commute from Seattle, WA.
So, my dear Rockband, what oh what was I doing there(here for now as I am still)???
Well, when the set of shows including Nashville were announced, I hadn’t planned on a 2nd leg show until Vancouver in June(of course now it will not be until Reno, June 9, but that is another story!). None of the new dates were geographically pleasing nor time accommodating. I had done my BIG traveling for the BINXS when I ended up in St Charles almost 2 monts ago.
But, if you follow my always concise(NOT!) random posts, in March I found out I was potentially going to a conference in Nashville. And I remembered the BINXS were playing Apr 22...hmmm, wonder when the conference is exactly? So anyway, it turns out the BINXS and I are going to end up being in Nashville at the same time!!! I am freaking out!!! What to do, what to do? Well, I am batshit crazy, so I did what any other logical rockbander worth their BSC salt would do...I purchased a Platinum Ticket of course. The stars had been properly aligned...
Viva NashVegas! Part Two...the long wait...
Wow, I was so excited to be seeing the BINXS in a little over a month at that point! I knew a few other rockbanders were going and thought, cool, this should be a good time. Then a few more said they were coming, and then a few more, and on, and on, and on...wow a BUNCH of rockbanders were coming, to what soon became dubbed NashVegas. So it wasn’t quite as many as the actual Vegas adventure...but it was a lot for a show in ...Nashville! Kind of unexpected to me at least. As the time got closer, a few more peeps popped up as going. I was so excited to finally meet so many people, and visit again with a few I had already met. I was looking forward to this, honestly more than Vegas. For Vegas, I was excited, but very nervous. For NashVegas, I was just excited! I hope all the squeeing in the chat thread didn’t piss anyone off, but I think the whole crew was beyond themselves. The second leg was starting, some peeps were planning a 2-3 day BINXS roadtrip, many rockbanders were converging on NashVegas...the anticipation for a fresh round of live crack was palpable...
So finally, it was almost time to go to Nashville. My trip was not even a week away. The month had passed. I had received my email from the promoters regarding the M&G that my ticket included. I was a little nervous about this, but a few of us were going, so I was confident it would be ok. I got what I now dub my $350 backpack....it really is lovely. Very useful. I used it as my carryon on said trip as a matter of fact.
Then, something unexpected happened. I was lurking on Rockband, and noticed a new post on the Nashville thread regarding a ticket error. Anyway, after some various communications, I found out I was able to get my ticket upgraded... I just had to pick up new ticket when I got to Nashville.
So anyway, I was like cool! I was really impressed that the promotions folks would even follow up on something like this. Honestly when I purchased my ticket originally, I thought, wow, these platinum tickets guidelines must be kind of loose...but hey 2nd row behind pit is nothing to sneeze at, so I never complained...I mean I was getting to go, and it did include those fabulous extras, like a backpack, lol...But now, I knew I would get to be a bit closer! I was wondering where we would end up...
Viva NashVegas! Part Three...earlybirds catch the worm...
So did I mention...that flight I scheduled, was a RED EYE Friday night before the concert...errrr! This would mean I wouldn’t have slept for almost 36 hours when I would finally get to meet the BINXS face to face! Oooh, good planning...lol. So there it is. I leave for the airport Friday night around 10ish when my shuttle comes to pick me up. I get on plane at around midnight Saturday morning, and we take off shortly after. All goes well, I change planes in Houston, land in Nashville, checked bag arrives with me. All is good. I catch a taxi to the hotel... I rested for a bit, and then decided to head out. I called Numbers , and she was hanging out w/Adan, and company, and then WATT and NIF and we all decided to meet up for lunch...I think it was beinghuman, Aussieb, quietrokbabe and the aforementioned...Am I leaving anyone out...I have no idea...headcount anyone?!?!? Anyway, we all met up for lunch and it was like a bunch of old girlfriends getting together! I only had ever met NIF and WATT in person, but it didn’t matter...Rockbanders are an awesome bunch, and I never cease to have a good time whenever I meet up with any of them.
So we munch...and listen to some live music...there is live music everywhere in Nashville...some, uhmmm, well, they try! I think they even have live music in the ice cream shops here! It is music city after all... Anway, our lovely waitress was a bit slow...but it gave us all lots of time to visit. This wasn’t the whole contingent mind you, just the early birds...So once all food and drinks were finally delivered and consumed, we realize it’s about 3 already, and we are need to get back to make ourselves fabulous before heading off to meet our full rockband contingent at about 4ish...ok, so some are already fabulous, and didn’t need to do anything...me I had been up ALL night...I needed to freshen up!
Viva NashVegas! Part Four...Howdy, have you seen a Rockbander round these parts?!?!?!
So the time arrives, and folks all have headed/are heading over to Tootsies for the big rockband pre concert meetup. I get there and a bunch of the crowd is already in attendance...and I get to meet Kira! and then Hot & TLO show up...have I mentioned they are one hot couple? Lol...sweethearts they are! And at some point, Jausten and hubby join us, another hot couple!...and eventually Inzane gets there...and then, Sooner and Mii arrive...and I know I have missed people...and I know I met a few others, and others I didn’t meet still likely...but it does not matter...I got to hang out with all the fabulous rockbanders for many hours before the concert. Shortly after my arrival at the bar, we realized we needed to relocate out back, as the bar was super loud and stifling hot! Out back...paradise(much cooler—ahh fresh air)! And the party continued! Many of us were well lubricated(I mean drinks people!)...and it was a fun, fun time...much laughter, joking, and just plain BSC being BSC.
At some point the Band arrives in the alley out back by where we are hanging out. A few peeps go out to get a closer look....Most of us stay behind the gate/fence of the bar...we all kind of cheer w/the crowd when the boys get out of their cars and wave or smile our way...lol...their vision of most rockbanders...behind bars! Nice...I’m hoping we all look a bit fuzzy and are not discernable, lol...
So back to the drinking...well, since the gathering had started about 4ish...and we didn’t finally head in for good to the venue until 8ish, you can imagine...lol...I was mostly drinking mandarin vodka tonics, when I noticed some of my fellow BSC’s downing long islands...and old favorite of mine, so I decide to switch...uhmmm...holy heck those babies were STRONG...good stuff! Anyway, the group was fun, we were all chatting, drinking and having a good time. At about 6.45 the M&G crowd heads over to the Ryman right next door, to pick up our instructions...we run into Drumtech....one of our lovely rockbanders runs up and gives us a hug...he waves hello, etc etc...the details have been shared...I think I was a little buzzed, it’s all a bit hazy...
Anyway, at the venue, lol...we get this note that tells us to meet later again, at 8pm back at the venue...it struck us as funny...like what was going to be the next instruction??? Anyway, we have another hour, so what do we do, we head back to the bar and continue to party...
Really it could get no better. Everybody just continued to have a blast, or at least I hope we all did. I had a great time!
Viva NashVegas! Part Five...the Band awaits the Fabulous...
So, as you might have gathered...a few of us spurlged on the Platinum packages, for the awesome seats up close. I had gone to get my upgraded ticket earlier that day and found out I was joining the peeps down in the 2nd row of the Pit...and we were DEAD center...Squee ! it was going to be a great night.
So anyway, back to that one little extra that you get with those lovely ‘Platinum’ package tickets...you’re given the opportunity and privilege of attending a meet and greet with ‘select’ members of the band. We had all wondered for a while what the setup was going to be like. It continued to amuse us once we arrived back at around 8 for our second instructed time.
Eventually they moved the M&G group out of the center of the lobby...we were blocking the entrance a bit...causing a commotion and whatnot, lol. So they stuffed us behind the stairs and we waited. Eventually M&G coordinator dude comes around talks about what we are going to do, does a roll call, etc... Then he tells us we can’t take our libations up stairs, and one of the peeps I was right next to had just ordered a tall cold one (aka: a giant cup of beer), so 3 of us worked on downing this...we finished about 2/3’rds of it and then tossed it as the procession of peeps was led up up and away to the hallway around the side up the upstairs of the building.
And there we ended up, in the upper hallway of the Ryman, backs against the wall, single file...it kind of felt like we were there to get our mug shots or police line up or something, lol...it was a small space...we wondered what it was going to be like...hmmm....so anyway, M&G dude, continues to explain how it is going to go...then we see Tony/Security peek out...Precision, beinghuman and I are the 1st 3 in line...we see Andrew just beyond the door behind Tony...a few seconds later the BINXS were led out...
Being the brilliant men that they are...they of course split up, and half started at one end of the line, the other at the other end...Oh, did I mention, ALL of them were there! Squee! So they each proceed to stop by each individual and chat for a couple of seconds, we offer brilliant compliments, etc, they willingly sign something if we ask. They are tiny...did you hear me...they are TINY! LOL! I felt like a giant! But they are super sweet. And just gorgeous up close...The whole thing reminded me of a receiving line at a wedding or something. It was well organized, and I think worked fine. About as well done as something structured like that could be...I found it rather amusing...Oh, and witty gal that I am...yeah...remember how I said that my gift to them would be a ‘thank you’, well yes, I lived up to that witty repartee, lol..each BINXS I shook their hand, and said ‘Thank you so much, it’s been a great year!’...here, sign this! I just brought a cd liner...of which we got another when I left...so I should have been more creative? With both witty repartee and autograph target...not that it matters, lol...it was so cool just shaking their hands...I am 12! Squee I got to stare into their eyes , or rather down to the BINXS...well except for Jason...at least he was taller than me in my giant heals! But he is a twig! SKINNY! And yes, duh, he is uber hot...and a bullshitter... telling stories I tell ya!
Ok, so once they got through basking in our fabulousness, exchanging brilliant witticisms and whatnot...it was picture time...errr, I was not looking forward to this...I know I am going to look like a troll!!! But you have to...lol...well maybe not have to...but I am not a total wimp...so 3rd in line...the first 2 lovely gals were nice and petite, and fit in w/the group of BINXS perfectly...gorgeous, hot, etc...So me next...ok...uhmmm, I have to stand in front/middle of them??? Uhmmm, I’m a giant and they’re TINY! What to do...so I jump on up there, and try to scrunch down a little ...I think I put my hand on one of their shoulders or something...I think I smiled...I really don’t remember...their closeness all at once fried a brain cell or 2 of mine...so then, it was all over...the M&G at least...we picked up our stuff including a presigned liner...I think they said they will send us a signed program when they come out...anyway...off to the PIT!
Viva NashVegas! Part Six...DEAD CENTER...
This was going to be a great show...I think we totally missed the opening band...after the M&G another rockbander and I, BH, went to get another drink...I think we ordered doubles, lol... we conned Jausten’s hubby(I think??) who was already in line, to order ours ...thanks!!! So, we get to our seats and we are second row, like 6 feet from the stage...and uhmmmm...DEAD CENTER!!! Squee!!! ....the five minute clock came on shortly—did I mention, it was almost all rockbanders in our row...to my left was BH, me, Inzane, then in some order-not sure, NIF, Precisn, Mii, AussieB is here somewhere too...I lost track, lol...it doesn’ matter, they did not stay there long....anwyay, we did a little squee at 4:48, and then we squee’d like every 15 seconds until time equaled ZERO....then the BINXS were there! Suicide Blonde, it is the color of her hair... squee!
Ok, so a few details on the seating before I lose myself in the actual concert telling....the pit rows had 2 rows of folding chairs lined up...the rows were tied together so you couldn’t really push through the chairs from behind. Most of the second row ended up snaking around the end of the rows to stand right behind the front row peeps that were at the stage.
Myself and BH though were DEAD CENTER...so to scoot up the way the rest had...we would lose our angle...Our only option for maintaining, was to climb straight over...which we eventually did pre encore, when the lights flashed out...Personally, I was scared to go before that, because we were so exposed, visible to the ushers, etc. I should not have been such a wimp, but oh well.
As for cameras....I always struggle with this... will security care ? Do I really want to? Can I get some good shots from where I’m at? Etc, etc... Here, in Nashville, there was officially, a ‘no camera policy’, but it sounded a little hazy when we asked around...So like I said, once our 2nd row neighbors pretty much abandoned us...lol...we were very exposed to said ushers...and everytime I would do more than shoot a couple of pics w/the camera held up so I could actually see what was in the frame...I would get a good tap on the shoulder...this happened many times...each time, I would just put it away. I am actually surprised they didn’t take the camera away...I might have freaked out if they had....maybe they were told to only discourage? And not crack down too hard? I have no idea....I am happy that I was able to get many good pics and some fun, if kind of fuzzy video. A lot of the video, if not most of it, was shot without me looking through the viewfinder, with me holding the camera, literally close to the vest , lol...I would hold it basically down around chest level and maybe peek now and again to see what I was getting in frame... So all that said....one can imagine why some of it turned out the way it did! Now New Sensation, NTUA, and Hot Girls were all during the encore, so we had already climbed over and were right in front... I figured it was the end, more or less, and security usually gives things a pass during this time from what I’ve heard...so I was a little more brazen...and we had just hopped the front row, and were still dead center....I held the camera up a little bit, and actually tried to make sure stuff was in frame, and even somewhat focused....I am so glad I did...I am loving rewatching the stuff, even if the sound is a little distorted...I think that is because of location, and my little camera cannot filter that type of amplified sound...And the angles when OB was standing right in front of us...when he would lean in a bit, it felt like he was right over us...and he kind of was...it was crazy...it was awesome!!! Nothing beats the front ...I am so happy to be able to share that perspective a little via the pics and video. I think quality can be forgiven a little for sheer effect, lol...
Viva NashVegas! Part Seven...INXS, LIVE...in concert...
So the actual concert, the performances, the songs, the band...holy smokes....this is always the best part, and the part I am least able to describe. It’s always so fucking great. I am always beside myself. The highlights for me, were Elegantly Wasted and Hot Girls. I was SOOOOO happy they added those songs to the set list. Those were the 2, one from back catalogue, the other from Switch, that I most wanted in the show...I could not believe it the night before when I heard we were going to be getting to see these...I prayed we would get these songs in Nashville...I have to say, I was a little worried when we realized the set list was not the same...It was GTT when we realized the order was different...
Segue to GTT. A lot of folks have been very complimentary towards it, etc, etc. I have to say , I was not really moved. I could do with out it. I like it on the CD, but in concert, it just does not speak to me. Probably my least favorite of the night. I just don’t find that it blends with the rest of the set... I wouldn’t mind seeing either another ballad or maybe Remember Who’s Your Man in it’s place...heck, if we need to stick with Switch, I would even rather hear Like it or Not, and it is my least favorite Switch song, but I predict that it would be an awesome live performance...
I also really love the 4 song encore...I was worried though, when we had not yet heard Hot Girls...I so wanted to hear, see that one....and oh, it did live up to my expectations!!!...and it’s not even what JD did specifically, it was just the expression and feeling that he and the rest of the BINXS put into it...I know it is not the most brilliant of songs, lol...but , live...it was HOTTTTT!!!!! Smokin’ hot! Uhmmm, did you guys see his expressions in the video close ups?!?!? Let’s just say, *poof, thud, dead* may be an understatement. This and some of his antics in NLYG, really showed off JD’s heightened confidence and uber sensuality, and raw sexuality that has evolved(uhmmm, see the video—naughty JD!)...It’s not just Taste It anymore folks! I mean, Taste It continues to be the most outlandish of choreography, that if you concentrate is totally engrossing and thud-worthy...but OB has cranked his presence up a notch throughout the show....and it’s not just the outrageous... again, it’s the raw expression...hot, hot, hot...you must see it...I would say JD was so much more commanding on that stage than I have every seen him.
The rest of the BINXS...well others have said, Tim did seem a bit more reserved...though I do catch a couple of shots on video of him interacting with the crowd...I don’t know, maybe he was just tired from the travels...or he was just more intense...he did seem rather intense in some of my still shots...you never know. Garry was as happy as always, but he seemed to stay back by the drum kit just a bit more...though I did catch a couple of him coming forward...I love the shot of him with his bass and the 3 others and the guitars...hot...and just beautiful! Also, because of my angle, I really could barely ever see Andrew...Jon looked like he was as on as ever back there, banging away...very intense...lots of stick flips, lol...I’m thinking the slappy girls were happy! Kirk seemed rather playful...him and JD had more than one moment...and in NTUA, there is clearly something cracking Kirk up...can’t remember what it was?!?!? They all played brilliantly of course...they are so clearly a complete band...it seems very solid now, not questioning or nervous or anything...the confidence of their union is shining through, and the music sounds great...Even songs that are not my favorite, ie: Kick, I see how they play the heck out of them...they freakin rock each of those songs...all very good.
Viva NashVegas! Part Eight...the boys, and their Crazy Cool Drool Worthy Ensembles...
Squee, well I at least have photo/videographic evidence to help me recall this!!! Upon meeting them earlier, I was still all agog, and not able to really properly catalogue anything beyond their uber hotness, lol...
So , JD...the Batshit...that zip up red shirt....uhmmm, uhhhhh....fukluasinfvjk! it was so hot...guh! And there were points in the show where he teased us...zipping up and then further down...no words...and then he changed to the ‘Sinner’ shirt...LOL...how appropriate...And the hair and trimmed up stubble...ALL.KINDS.OF.HOT!!!! seriously, everything was working...I know we have already discussed the fine courdoroy pants...I still have to say, I have a bit of a soft spot for the lace ups—I remember them well...may they rest in peace, lol...the final Tshirt, an oldie...and of course the asshat made a bit of appearance for the encore...I have to say I developed a little bit of a fondness for it over the course of the concerts, and I had never really cared for it previously...I guess, as with most things Batshit, it grows on you...So conclusion...the Batshit...still hot, lol..
Ok, now Tim, since he is so popular, nowadays, lol...can you believe how fit he is...I swear, he seemed so tiny! Face to face...and all kinds of hot...Up on stage, uhmmm, nice jeans...I got some good pics of those, eh?!?!? And, ooh, the button ups are clearly working for Timmy....good on ya mate! I swear, he seems younger every time I see him...he is seriously drinking from the fountain of youth...
Kirky...how hot is Kirk...did ya’ see the shot I got of him on the Hot Girls video...hoowah! Kirk...mate...howyoudoin??!?! And he is a charmer...he was one of the first ones I met in the M&G line...a twinkle in his eyes...always, and a grin ready...Also, I think they were all or some wearing different clothes to the M&G than on stage...I swear Kirk was wearing some sort of suit at the M&G??? I also remember the others in other than stage clothes...buts it’s all a bit of a blur...maybe I am just dreaming? Oh well, I guess I will see for sure when I get the pic...
Andrew...totally adorable...GGB, totally working those distressed leather pants...I’m thinking the Garrem wenchubines were likin’ it, likin it! And Jon, kind of hot up close...have to say of late, I haven’t been feeling Jon on the hotness scale...but he was probably the one I felt the least gigantic in front of lol...so that was hot! Hey, it doesn’t take much...I am already predisposed to finding these guys hot, so it is a short trip...oh, and he does have pretty pretty eyes...
So in conclusion, OB:OB...still hot....bwah!
Closing statements...Rockbanders Rock Nashville...
Well, the end of this night as with everything else, has already been well documented. I had the pleasure of ending the night with some of the most fabulous BSC rockbanders, again over at Bailey's, etc...Yes we did run into Drumtech...yes him and saxtech(new nickname for Kirks tech) came in after us...we ordered them a round...LOL, yes thank god they stuck w/the cheap stuff...What a couple of sweeties...they came over to chat of course before they left...so being the fabulous hot rockbanders that we are...we of course held court...
And while at Bailey's we also posted for a bit...NIF was a doll and brought her laptop w/wireless connection and we passed it around each posting a little bit for you all...we really enjoyed being able to share a bit...after all, rockband was why we were all there together...ok, now I have to stop, before I get too mushy...It was an awesome night...
...and for those that had their own adventures...all is good...for those I did not meet, I wish I had, and maybe we will someday! And for those I did, know I value it so much...it made the night to spend it with all of you fabulous people! Love you all...
Ok, that's it...over and out...Viva NashVegas!
>>>Nasvhille Concert Photos Slideshow Here<<< My Video from Nashville as posted on the Chat and Nashville threads...here's some not so good *low quality* video from my camera...hey at least I rotated it, lol...through much of the video I was not able to look through the viewfinder to see what I was shooting...I surprised the BINXS actually appear to have heads! bonus ;)again, it is low quality...and mostly clips, though Amazing Grace, New Sensation I believe are complete...first: Never Let You Go - clip only Nashville via megaupload indiscernable faces, and really short clip, but OB looks really hot doing this side to side hip sway...Original Sin - bad audio - short clip Nashville - via Megaupload ...oh and it features OB dancing around w/the flag that Inzane brought ...New Sensation from Nashville via Megaupload Amazing Grace - Nashville via Megaupload with just a bit of the beginnning of Elegantly Wasted.... Taste It - 2nd half clip Nashville via Megaupload ***if you download none of the above, you may want to give these last 2 a try...HOT...*** ...so...here's the last of the video I have from Nashville...looks like I unknowingly saved the best for last...but very much, not least...looks like I finally found ONE that I didn't have to rotate and convert, lol...here's most of Never Tear Us Apart in .mov(Quicktime format) via megaupload...again better quality than the others...maybe that doesn't say much...but oh my lord...you can feel how close we were on both this one and HG when OB is like right over us... oh, and here's Hot Girls .wmv via megaupload...there is a bit of a rough splice in it, because I had to rotate the second half...note to self, don't rotate camera half way through, lol...anyway, some of it wanders...but the parts where OB and or his package are right on top of the camera...holy heck...*edited to update Hot Girls w/second version including a couple dropped frames from the splice...
just a taste...
Where in the bleepin' heck is Missouri ?!?!?!?
My St Charles concert recap originally posted at
INXS/Lovehammers Tour: St. Charles, MO - 2/28/06
St Charles...
Well, what could I possibly add??? Likely, and realistically...probably not anything that has not already been said.
So has this ever stopped me before...NO! and will it stop me now...NO! Ha, you knew this would be the answer...wordy mcwordy and all: this was my experience in XS!
So here you have it...LIVE (well it was originally written, LOL) from tittie city! St Louis International...
Let's start at the beginning...no not last summer...that has been done...the beginning of this journey was the post concert crash following the Sin City adventure in BSC...yes, you all remember that...whether you were there, or hosting your own version of a pitty party, you remember the BSC that was Las vegas...where was there to go from there? For many of us, myself included, that was to be the end of the journey on this 1st AMAZING! leg of the Switched On! tour...it was suppposed to be the ultimate in all that was BSC...it was fabulous...it was Sin City...but, my dear rockbanders, it.was.not.the.end!!!!!
So for those of you crazies that were fortunate(or unfortunate, LOL, you make the call!) to be online a couple of days past our return from the city of Sin...you remember this one CRAZY night when a few of us lost our ever lovin' BSC minds and decided to jump on some FRONT ROW tickets in MISSOURI!!! Missouri! what the Hell?!?!?!? Well, the previous weekend in LV, Our Boy, as we all know, developed a nasty bit of bronchial pnemonia...icckkk! and the Binxs has to reschedule about 3 dates...one of which was the St Charles concert originally scheduled for Feb 1...the new date was Feb 28...and within a couple of days of the reschedule a few tickets made their way to EBAY...guess, just guess who found them....well our very own fabulous Glam of course! From what I understand, she found 2 tickets and immediately bought them for herself and Hot Girl...but did she stop there? No!!! she noted that there were another set of 4 available for $200/ea and posted about it (w/o link)...I first saw this, and randomly commented, somewhat whistfully to the effect...wow, tempting....Glam responded...go for it... I got a RL phone call and was about a half hour behind...I got off the call, and catching up, found a couple of other of my fellow BSC were seriously considering...our very own SlideOverHere, OCGirl...I was like, WHAT? are we seriously looking at this?!?!??!? answer: YES!!! some more back and forth, maybe half an hour to an hour later...with much BSC encouragement from Glam we had decided to go for it...but we needed a 4th! a couple of others were maybe thinking...not sure...a few emails were sent to those not on the board....then...Heaven Sent logged on, and asked if we were still looking...she was IN!!! We had FOUR!!! We were just about convinced to go for it...and asked Glam to post us the link...with in 15 minutes, we had nailed logistics and done the deed! Rockband was going to ST CHARLES, FRONT ROW!!! CAN YOU BELIEVE IT?!?!?!? Well this was just the beginnning, and not the whole crew...just a tease of what was to come.
The rockband contingent was not yet complete. The front row crew was on board, but there were others...Our very own NIF had 2nd row to the original date, and was absolutely going to the new date...and she was scheduled to go to the acoustic preshow, so she was SUPER excited, but that is her tale... W.A.T.T. also managed a close seat(second row) again, her own tale...Susu and hubby! also, came to join the BSC ...Was that all???? NO! Going into the last week preceding the concert...Our very own Cheryl decided this was the concert to be at!!! Cheryl was coming!!!! Rockband was well represented in St Charles!!! Squee! Now there may have been others, but these are the folks I met in addition to the Front Row Crew...the rest of this story will primarily be in reference to the crew up front...but a few of the others were able to just about join us...I will let them tell their story...the rest is my story, 24 hours off the front row...
My journey first of all was on the DL...noone in RL knew I made this trip! I, myself am still in shock as I type it...what the heck?!?!? I was basically planning on going to freakin' Missouri (St Charles a suburb just out of St Louis) to see INXS...again, what?!?!? But as many of you know, the chance at Front RoW BINXS is just about impossible to resist...and the stars were aligned w/the right price, affordable airfare, and a crew willing to put in together...Can I just say...FRONT ROW CREW, you ROCKED!!! you are all the most FABULOUS bunch of gals I barely know, but now, seriously...I consider all of you friends...you are now part of this weird middle BSC version of my RL...it's almost surreal...have I said, I am still in SHOCK! Squee!!! Now I also want to give a shout out to the rest of the others not in front...NIF, you are the sweetest! thanks so much the heads up on the acoustic! unfortunately we were not able to try to get into that, as timing with everyone, just did not work out...but we did get to tune into the radio for both interviews and acoustic sets thanks to your notice, so THANK you girl! Susu came over and chatted w/us in between the LH's and INXS...girl I barely got to introduce myself! we so have to hang out! Well, the Front Row 6(Glam, Hot Girl, SlideOverHere, OCGirl, HeavenSent and myself) were all up by the rail for the Binxs...Slide and OCGirl were able to get closer to center right next to Glam and Hot Girl! for the BINXS...Heaven Sent and I , were right in front of Tim's area of the stage...stage right.
The stage set up...Well, there was a barrier in the Arena, about 3 feet, that separated the front stage from the front row...we were not impressed! But it wasn't changing...so it was what it was, LOL...Even with this, some of our front row crew(FRC), certainly got some serious love! from OB:OB...the individual experiences will be their own stories...the group stuff...that has been revealed...I might comment on, because it did impact my overall experience...in a good way! But, mostly, I will just give you what I got out of the night, from my spot up front! Let me just say, right now...I did not touch the pretty...I did not kiss the pretty, I did not get any picks, I did not get any drum sticks...should I be disappointed? Let me tell you why not, and why this was the most phenomenal experience of my life! Well concert experience...and overall, let me tell you, it ranks right up there!!! Major Squee!!
Can I just right now state the obvious? Front.Row.Baby!!!!! This is the only way! Well, I may be channeling OB on that one...I may in fact attend some upcoming INXS not up front...but it doesn't mean I don't want to be, and will be whenever I can! Because...it is the fucking best! (see, I'm like JD...I just can't get through this without the f-word...I telling you, it is not freakin' possible, LOL!!!) Whenever, and whatever you have to do, if you love INXS, get up front as much as possible, you will never be dissapointed! You may be on your last dollar, but it is always worth every single cent you pay...I don't know why? I seriously would not do what I am doing for anyone else...but I have done it twice now...and I am very certain, I will likely be doing it again(front row that is).
Now just to reiterate, for perspective, this was my 3rd overall Switched On concert attended, the 2nd up front, more or less...
Well, the LH's...they were good. If you are a big fan, you may even say great...Me, I bought their album, and am a casual fan. I have to say they get better every time I see them. Marty is what he is...a really white guy with a very unique and compelling stage presence...some of us were loving them, the rest were certainly enjoying...My observation, compared to previous shows, were that the overall crowd were more into them, at least the frontish part of the of crowd...we were on our feet from the beginning! They were a pretty good set up for the crowd to get ramped up...they are a darned good opening act...I am usually not into the openers at all...the LH's are gaining my appreciation by making theirselves an act worth showing up early for...
Moving on to why I was here...because, my name is ems and I am an XS head...that's what we're calling ourselves right? LOL! By the way, that is what certain people called me all day yesterday, ems that is... LOL...never been called that before in RL...but apparently, when in MO...just call me ems...why not, it is BSC land after all...at least it was yesterday:)
Ok, focusing on INXS...fuck!(sorry!, NOT!) They were so fucking great, I am sorry, they were...this is what being up front does to me...it makes me type words that I would not do otherwise, really I am a nice and lovely retiring sort of rockbander, yes? LOL...now FRC(front row-ish crew) don't laugh, I am!! So INXS...they freakin'(see I am trying, LOL) blew my mind...AGAIN! Every time...it is unbelievable! I mean, I expect it, but wow, it just continues to amaze me...And they were, BETTER THAN EVER! They sounded FUCKING AMAZING!Holy freakin' cow! I seriously do not know how they do it, but they do...and Jason, the Batshit...OH.MY.FUCKING.GOD! Fuck! (not sorry!) ...Ok, so those of you that read my Seattle recap(sorry, LOL) know, I then really really focused on each and everyone of the the BINXS, then...but yesterday, was all about the Batshit in my world...Can I just say, he is the absofuckinglutely freakin'best! Oh my god! Holy smokes...and smokes is right...that man is so beyond hot! duh! But seriously, even when it was too much, I made an extra special effort to focus on OB last night...I know, the horror...what a trauma, NOT! LOL...geez, how can a man be that...I cannot even describe it...he sounded great...but it is soooooo much more than that...Holy shit! they so knew what they were doing when they chose this guy...Our Boy...they, all six of them are INXS...and OB, as the front man, is everything one could dream of...and the ladies...very much including myself, were likin' it, likin it...to say the least...don't worry, I am going to say more...LOL...
I am not even going to say much about what they were wearing...we've all seen their various wardrobe choices...there were no headlines here...and the Lace up pants, baby, were very much! in attendance! Did I mention the LACES? More on that later...Also, we all know by now, that the Batshit had another Batshit moment last week, and went and buzzed his lovely, very pretty, locks...but can I say right now...The man is so HOT, that it does not matter...in fact, I will say this right now...I think I like him better this way...now I think he is prettier and more beautiful w/the hair...he is lovely...but with the buzz...I don't know how to say it, other than he is ALL MAN...AND SMOKIN HOT!!! Maybe that's it...he looks more mature this way...rougher...a bit more knowing...anyway...
So, blah, blah, same set list, including Disappear, with New Sensation in the encore, still no Stairs...Remarkable vocal moments...NLYG, the scat/rap towards the end...unbelievable...spot on! Oh, and Devil Inside...he did a little something different w/it towards the end...OB has made it his own! I loved it! The Tim/JD slide during NYT...very cute...The boys...all of them, lots of man love, they are all so cute w/each other...love them all...you can see the bond has grown! You can also see the growth of them on this tour, from the 2nd show in Seattle that I attended, to this one(close to the end of this first leg) six weeks later...they, and OB, have just blossomed, both musically and as a whole...INXS, completely, and totally, INXS...WOW...Oh, and the voice stuff...the entire FRC pretty much agreed that OB sounded AWESOME...BEST YET!!...so anything to the contrary...well is just contrary for contrary's sake...just sayin...
Ok, now back to what I owe y'all...especially if you have read to this point...you deserve this...anyone here remember how I've basically been the lone ranger not on the Taste It mic sex love train...well that is all, completely over! I am on it, I am driving it, and I was loving it!!! OMFG...it is not the same, people!...the relationship between OB and his mic...has matured, it has grown...among other things, LOL...and it is ...pause...must take a minute to collect myself...ok, back...can I be so bold as to say, it made me feel a certain way... BWAH! that is an under statement...Holy cow...in the words of Tim Farriss...watching that, is the most fun you can have with your pants on! I mean, holy heck! OB has something going on with that mic...I'm just saying...fan's self...And can I say, that man has the most amazing tongue...flick! jeez...I cannot even do it justice with words...between the caressing, undulating, licking, fingering, thrusting etc...and well...I am just going to say...OB was feeling a 'certain way' by the time he was finished...just sayin....Anyway, seriously, when he started in on that mic, I was really focused...I mean, I was going to 'get it' one way or the other...I had to get over being contrary to the whole thing...I mean, maybe I had missed something before, right? So I told myself this time...pay very close attention...evaluate, be objective, tell it like you see it...don't laugh...Can I just say, right now, there was no laughter...not from this girl, not this time...with in a split second, I was *poof*, gone, I don't know what it was...but it was more, different, did I mention, more? Because it was...more! Seriously, once it started, I just sort of stood, there, no longer forcing myself, totally, and compeltely mesmerized...I wasn't even dancing...I was just there watching, in my head, totally there...I mean, the rest of the arena did not really exist for those seconds, minute, whatever...ok, that's it, I cannot anymore, it just was. That is the end...you just have to Taste It...I don't know if they will perform this in the next leg or not...so I am unbelievably glad I was able to see it as it has evolved...and to really come to appreciate it...because it was a sensual work of art...so have I paid my pennance enough? LOL...
Moving on....
So our FRC did make some signs...a couple of the folks held them up...they will and have share/d what they like...I will just say...SIMPLICITY WORKS! as does 'quid pro quo'...seriously, tit for tat...pun intended! In related news, there was definitely some tasting going on up front...there was some touching...there was some pulling...at one point the Batshit, actually hands a very special front row gal the laces of his pants...basically let her pull them like 3 feet out across the barrier...OMFG...not my story...but holy heck...very lucky...and OB was loving it...There were also, many lucky BSC's that were attened to w/picks and drum sticks...the front row got much love both tangibly and visibly...while I didn't touch, etc, personally, there was definite and specific eye contact with a few of OB:OB and all of us!
Disturbing note...at one point, towards the end some random gal, not part of our crew, pratically pulled Tim off stage so that he fell into the gap between the stage and the rail...I was freaking out seeing it from the side, I think he came w/i a hairs breath of knocking the back of his head on the stage...I don't even want to contemplate what could have happened ...but that was NOT COOL! I don't care what folks touch, what folks caress, etc...the BINXS are big boys, they only let happen in that way, what they want...but don't harm my boys!! I mean there could have been serious injury here folks...do not pull them off stage...if they want to come down, they will hop down on their own volition, jeez...! I do not know who that gal was...but I hope that I don't see that again...I hope people realize, stuff like that, more than anything else, will make the boys hold back from coming to the edge...or mandate larger gaps...I know this is rock and roll...but it is not wrestle mania, LOL...just don't harm my BINXS and all will be good! 'nuff said!
Love for the BINXS Crew! OB:OB loves their crew...and we love them too! We chatted early, before going into the venue w/one crew member by the name of 13...he was very friendly, and honestly we were just shooting the shit with him, not trying to use him for info really in any way...be friendly with these guys, they are cool and share a valuable view point, are responsible in large part for the success of these shows, and hey, it is good karma! I personally would love to thank each and everyone of these guys for helping support our beloved BINXS. So, in this vein, our sign gals, made 2 signs for the crew members we have made a connection with: 13 and our very own Drumtech...At the end of the show, we gave them their signs...they came up and were very thankful! They definitely knew rockband was in the house!
Back to the overall concert experience, bloody hell...it was a great one! From the first to last note...great! Spot on, in every possible way...After the concert, when we were seriously asked like 10 times by the ushers to leave the venue, we finally left...a few of the FRC definitely experienced some post concert bliss...and I did get to see the St Louis arch...wondering where that leap came from? Well, NOW, we like to say...what happended in Missouri, stays in Missouri....at least just a little bit...besides that, the fact that we did not get to sleep until about 4am-ish...after posting a bit of teasing recap for y'all...it was altogether a fabulous night.
Thank you to all the FRC and extended crew--I'm saying it again gals, you ROCK! Love You:) Cheryl it was great spending some extra time chatting w/you at the airport before your flight! Heaven Sent you are an inspiration! Slide...girl, you are freaking awesome! fearless! Glam, you are the sweetest! whipHot Girl a riot! OCGirl, can you believe it?!?!? WATT, Susu, NIF great to finally meet you!
OK, that is FINALLY it...I truly commend you if you even bothered to read this...and remember...the obvious...always go FRONT ROW BABY, when ever you freakin' can...you will never regret it! Love you all...over and out, from STL......
Edited by - emswazzu on 03/02/2006 5:47:41 PM
Vegas, Baby, Vegas!
INXS / Lovehammers Tour: Las Vegas, NV - 1/28/06 My Las Vegas concert recap originally posted at www.rockband.com Ok, some folks have mentioned they don't want to 'bore' you with more of the same...me, I don't care:) This is what I have to say, and it is what I'm sayin' I'm not trying for funny, because it wasn't that type of concert for me...I'm not a great writer, so you can look to some of our more fabulous interpid posters for this, I just say what I like, because I want to, so here ya' go, like it, or not:) |
Edited by - emswazzu on 01/31/2006 06:19:17 AM |
The BINXS Reign in Seattle...
INXS / Lovehammers Tour: Seattle - 1/19/06
My Seattle concert recap originally posted at www.rockband.com
| My report, new items as of today(1/20) are demarked with *NEW*, this report is FINAL (well except for correcting any spelling/format, etc, that I might have missed). Also, it's now realllllyyy loooooooong...sorry, scroll on by if you like, but if you are so diligent as to re-read every word, well then, enjoy! ETA note added on 1/22, bottom of report. *WARNING* repeated use of words that, well, are meant for mature readers only. For those that are faint of heart, read at your own risk, or scroll on by. I thought of editing, but, this a fully honest and purely emotional account. Enjoy. All spoiler tags are REMOVED...see the fully ordered set list: be *WARNED*...in general these threads are for full record, so spoilering, not so much necessary :) Set list, songs in order, none surprising: *SPOILER TAGS REMOVED* Suicide Blonde New Sensation Devils Party Mystify Disappear By My Side Afterglow Taste It Original Sin Hungry Never Let You Go Need You Tonight What You Need Kick Devil Inside Pretty Vegas ~Encore Stairs Never Tear Us Apart Don't Change INXS *FUCKING* ROCKED!from our Seattle concert...SQUEEE!!! gotta' pinch myself, I was actually there, and it was SO FUCKING GREAT! I can barely contain myself... Headlines: *reformatted from previous version* I have included quite a bit of fun filled random observations/commentary/anecdotes...I added more as I decompressed a bit. I am trying for witty, but sometimes I'm just cheesy, so sue me, LOL. I hope you enjoy... Overall performance commentary (beyond the obvious-see above): Obviously the BINXS were fanFUCKINGtASStic! So beyond that, they sounded so tight, just as has been said of this last weekend in LA and just yesterday in Vancouver...the BINXS were on FIRE! They all were the fucking music man, it was beautiful... The stage presence: (more on their individual presence/hotness in the fashion/drool report) I was able to be up close (5ish ft)from about 4 of them, alot of Timmy and GGB(as you will read below) and they all worked the stage, Kirk and Timmy of course were the biggest wanders other than OB...I would even say Kirk, Tim, GGB had the most intense audience penetration, LOL...what I mean is that they connected. Of course the most I saw of Jon was when they walked on and off pre/post encore--but the drums, they were ROCKING, so I will forgive the lack of Slappy pretty...Andrew did come up front a bit more during the encore songs, at one point he and Tim were in the middle of the stage behind OB, rocking out, the 2 Farriss boys, on their guitars(song? the Stairs?)...OB worked the whole stage...he was REALLY making an effort. I do think he still has some nerves, and is working out his style...so I KNOW it will get even better, not to say he wasn't fucking awesome, because he WAS!! *NEW* What they wore *Fashion & Drool report* ....I have alot of drooling over OB:OB hotness thrown in for good measure...LOL! OB/JD/Jason/Batshit: the LACE UP PANTS BABY! These were very nice-VERY NICE!...And those that talk about 'different outfits'...uhmmm, no...he was just wearing layers (see HOB descriptions) starting w/the famous/imfamous BUCKLE jacket...not a fan of that, it actually looks ok in some of the press shots I saw, but I think it should be retired, me no likey...but OB doesn't wear it long, only one song or so, then sheds it, rolling down the long sleeves of his next layer...he's getting warmed up! Not sure (you may want to check the other recaps) how long he kept this LS version on, but eventually he was fully 'warmed up', and we were down to just the HUSTLER tee...I think this is going to be a staple, so if you don't like it, oh well...and he looks fucking HAWT! in it, so whatever...He was also wearing shades for about the same amount of time as the jacket, much better once those came off. I really cannot say enough about how beautiful the Batshit is ...he just is...it almost hurts to look at him...in fact, I tried to feast my eyes on all of OB:OB, just for balance...not sure that helped, as they were all so hot...but alas, our boy Jason, the sex on a stick reference, is correct, though not in the outrageous way we remember from OS...but anyway, *POOFS* all around...so nothing shocking here... Gary/GGB/Gaz/the Sultan: uhmmm, get your sporks out ladies...because this guy is so fucking HOT! that you are going to be fighting off the hoards...hoards I say, of swooning ladies. Honestly, all the boys have IT, but I will leave that for later. So, GGB, well, he was wearing the sleeveless button up, new tats, tight pants...at least in the thigh area...can't remember material, sensory overload...I can tell you it looks like he is a boxer brief guy, because I was close enough to see lines on his thighs ...is this TMI? sorry Binxies...Anyway, he was sooooo happy, smiling and kind of doing his thing(his side to side bounce/dance while playing the bass) up and down the stage...he spent alot of time coming up front, I was a little surprised, but I have to say, I was loving me some GGB...he just has an aura of personality on stage that exudes pure happy enjoyment, that is both beautiful and hot...and did I mention the thighs ladies...remember, HOARDS! Tim/Timmy/the Sheriff...aka: the fucking hot guy that was like only 5 feet away from me almost the entire night! Oh, yeah, he also plays a guitar...So what was he wearing...Sunglasses for most of the show, but when those came off, near the end (not sure if it was before or after the encore) you see his BEAUTIFUL eyes...ok, I know this guy has as many years on me as he does on the Batshit, but it doesn't matter, some guys have IT...Timmy is one of them...Ok, back to the fashion...He was wearing the Wings shirt...and some pants I know we've seen...I could probably go through the photos and pick them out, but I am too lazy...whatevah! he looked HOT! and he was JUST LOVING EVERYTHING, especially the front rows...but he was very democratic...he moved around ALOT and also, and maybe its just because he knows what he's doing, he both managed to have presence that was personal, yet it seemed appropriate for the entire audience...can't quite say it right, but our Timmy is a professional, and he knows what he's doing up there...oh and he plays some guitars...some really beautiful ones...I'm sure one was the Blue Kirk/Dirrrty Kirky/Kirky ...I didn't get as much up of close looking at Kirk...though he did come over to our side quite a bit, but not as much obviously as Tim/GGB...Loving the stubble look on Kirk, it really works for him...wearing one of his 'interesting' button ups...typical Kirk fashion...I didn't even notice his glasses/shades, they must have looked good! Now that man on the Sax...SEX! He is so masterful with that particular instrument...and his and JD's interactions...*POOF*, especially when OB gets down on his knees in front of Kirk...no words...they were both *POOF*...oh, and he also plays guitar...yep, brilliantly...he did make eye contact w/us a few times...and I know he was holding back a giggle during the last song, Don't Change, as that was the *Double Dare* moments, and Kirky knew what was up... Andrew/Andy/Sunggles and Jon/Slappy I am combining these 2 not because I equate their hotness, but because I had the shortest/furthest viewing of them...Andy, was well, wearing the DAD jeans...but he's a cutie...and an awesome musician, so we'll give him a pass...he did come back out during the encore wearing this one jacket that I think looked really nice ...kind of bomber style...anyway...Now Slappy, he was too FAR away most of the night for me to enjoy his beauty...I did catch some of it though...I can't say exactly what he was wearing...some tshirt(LS or SS not sure)...but he look REALLY GOOD! I probably saw his the most clearly on exit/entrance of the close/encore, he turned and waved...at the end(of the regular set or the encore, I'm not sure) he also came off and when OB, others were throwing stuff, he threw out 1 or 2 pairs of drum sticks...oh, and he played the *FUCKING DRUMS* BABY! and they ROCKED! so that is all I have on the Slappy report. And thus ends the specific report of the fashion/hotness/stage specifics on OB:OB... Seating...And I used this term loosely... Sat in First row Tim/GGB side of stage; oh, and I think I'm deaf! ...right ear feels funny, we were right infront of the speakers...I was close enough to see the pores on the skin of all except Andy and Jon...there was a really small pit area in front of us. Only about 5 feet to stage...but kind of behind this rail...The best seat I could have had really. *NEW* If you have the means and/or the patience, try to get to at least one show where you are sitting *up close*...I mean, the BINXS perform to the WHOLE venue, but there is NOTHING like being close...it is almost undescribable. *Words of caution*, especially if you are either right in front of stage, or if you are right next to speaker: you may want to actually contemplate bringing some earplugs...not to completely block sound, but to protect your ears...Now you might say, hey, it's worth it to hear them full on...However, while I might agree with this in theory, not only are my ears still ringing, but right ear is still not quite right. I have never experienced quite this level of after effects, and while I hope it will diminish, for all I know, I might have actually permanently damaged my hearing...this can happen folks...be careful, enjoy yourself, dance like crazy, make moo cow eyes to all the BINXS....just remember these words... Some more great moments and anecdotes: OB tossed water at us it landed on the pit and the first couple of rows, and it felt goooood...it was a bit warm after all:) He did this twice, the first time was during Kick, the second time was either during PV or The Stairs...can't remember, notes unclear Lots of love in the first few rows from Timmy and Gary... Package check: Timmy-check, JD-check, Gary-check, Andrew check, no visiblity due to obstruction: Kirk / Jon Provacative items tossed on stage during encore, check...more on this later...eta: see double dare report below... LH--touched Marty...by accident...more on that later *see commentary on the Lovehammers' below an interesting moment, mobbed BSC maddness: ok's here's just a bit more...OB did come down into the crowd...what song...FUCK! I cannot remember...it was right next to us...but he was about 10 feet away, so no I did not touch the batshit...but he did not get far...he had 2 'puny' security types trying to help out, but the masses behind us pounced, and it almost got really UNPRETTY...so batshit quickly escaped back to the stage, again right by us, but out of reach...he was really closer when he was actually on stage right in front of us...more soon, brain still healing... LH love for BINXS...or rather peaches rev's up the crowd... ...so peaches(I just like calling him that...after tonight, I feel like I can, so I will...) gave a lot of love to OB:INXS through out the LH set...says how much they have helped them (LH), him, etc...how great they sounded in Vancouver...weren't we super excited to see INXS tonight...all of this through about 3ish commentary breaks in their set...I have to say, Marty knew/knows what his job is...they (the LH's) are the opener...they are there to support INXS...I think Marty delivered on this... Double Dare report... So for folks that were around earlier this afternoon, I did throw out a nutty thought...well this is a rock concert right...shouldn't the BINXS get some kind of naughty presents on stage? I had the opportunity, so I thought I should take it...Some suggested 'Magnums', but I went with an old favorite...and I got the good stuff, DKNY thongs...hey they were a 3fer...LOL. So anyway, I was a bit of a scardy cat, not wanting to get in 'trouble' for throwing any type of 'projectiles'...but as I said, this is a ROCK concert! so I just waited to pick my moment...I had showed my bounty to the gals from 448 earlier they kind of giggled nervously...I think they were either amused or scared of my BSCness (ummmm, and I think I showed peaches ex...said he would only get one if I got a good eye fuck...I so did NOT know who she was...and no eyefucking occurred so, anyway, back to BINXS) So, they were tossed during the final song of the encore (to minimize security risk) Don't Change...I didn't actually hit the BINXS, and they didn't acknowledge to the crowd that they knew what was floated onto the very front of the stage...but Kirk and Tim did see...and gave me and the Aussie gal(old time INXS fan) I ended up sitting w/in the front row an amused look...I think Kirk was trying to keep a straight face...and NOONE else at the WHOLE fucking ROCK CONCERT did anything, even remotely similiar...ok, I was at a Bryan Adams concert in college...and they had bras and all sorts of shit thrown up at them, and they were not even half as cute as OB:OB...just saying...folks need to go a bit more crazy...this is ROCK AND FUCKING ROLL PEOPLE!!! just sayin'... *NEW* Lovehammer commentary: I'm going to start off w/a brief commentary on the both my impression, the Aussie INXS fan I was sitting with, and their general reception... First, we have the Mad Conductor, aka: Peaches...he actually is kind of 'pretty' in his own special way...v.v.skinny ass as someone else points out...he did come down into the audience at one point...came right by me TWICE...Oh, and did I mention, I touched peaches(?) by accident!...Well, as I said, he came on down, he wasn't being mobbed... anyway, I gave him some lee way the first pass...then just past me, he started climbing back a few rows over the seats...this was pretty cool...I thought I should try for an inconspicous pic here w/my phone, so I was fiddling...and didn't realize when he was coming back through...so...he kind of bumped right past me--full side body contact...and I didn't even realize it until he was passed...and then I was like...hmmm, probably should have paid more attention to mahty, than the camera, but oh well...and while I think we all, in the front row, got some looks, Marty did try more of a full theatre eye fuck than anything too personal...though there may have been a few when he was climing into the audience not sure...There was little standing for the first 2/3 of the LH set, until peaches pretty much ordered it, since he figured we could 'sing along' . . .peaches ex was a little surprised folks weren't on their feet earlier...she was, then sat down w/us in the front row--I think I might have snarked on Marty here--Oops again!...only a couple of the folks in the pit were even standing...once we all started standing (again, at peaches request) there was one chick in the pit that sat there calmly w/her legs crossed...wonder who she was? ...Oh, and the guyliner was in full force...when he came down into the audience...I could see it up (REALLY) close and it was starting to melt a bit...Their perfomance...well, it was an INXS crowd in Seattle, I think, but there was some love for LH's as well...and the theatre was more or less full when they started which is something for an opener, so good for them...and Marty acknowledged this and thanked everyone...RE: the actual performance...I have mixed feelings...I think they are good at what they are...not sure if that will translate into being huge stars ? Peaches coaxed everyone out of their seats for the final bit of their set...saying how now they were going to play some stuff that we actually knew the words to, LOL. They did a kick ass rocking version of Ring of Fire (v.v. different than the Coldplay version btw) and then Trees. Oh, and I think I snarked earlier on one of their songs(Rain on the Brain off of l'strange) to peaches ex...oops!...I mentioned how it sounded just like the one he was 'writting' w/Andrew on the final RS clinic...but that he had written it for 2 albums ago...OOPS! sorry, didn't know...oh well...And the gal I was there with told me after the show, that she thought they were pretty good...she hadn't really heard of them before, and didn't really remember him from the show, as she had only caught a couple of eps (the horror!). She also said how he actually really reminded her of Michael...in the way he moved...I think this is what the Binxies had mentioned before, and I guess I can kind of see it, maybe a little, whatever...so that all I have to say about that. LH's, over and out. *NEW* ok, so I should actually talk about the SONGS at somepoint, because they were INXS! and they were ALL SO FUCKING AWESOME!! Song/performance notes: INXSThe songs...ok, so the other concert goers on this thread have really given more details than I can on the individual songs...I am going to tell you what I think in general some of the featured performances. My favorites: Loved Devil's Party, Original Sin, Never Let You Go. NTUA is a classic, and they were fabulous on it. OB has really learned to pull this one off, the whyy-yy-yy-yyy part is there, the SAX is there. All good. There was a bit of the pogo in the audience for Pretty Vegas '...it aint pretty' pogo, pogo, hee! Ok, and this is just my opinion, but I thought he sounded alot like the original on Devil Inside. It was kind of eery really, but spectacular, so that's all I am going to say on that. NYT, love this song, loved OB's interpretation, 'you're one of my kind....' , yeah BABY! H.O.T. Ok, now I am going to comment on Taste IT...I might need to hide from the tomatoes here...So my take on this HOT song...Well OB:OB performs/plays this song brilliantly, given. And yes, the Batshit does more or less DO the the mic and ultimatedly, the mic stand...but from my vantage point, it all got a little comical...at one point I was holding back the giggles...I am chalking this up to the fact that I was watching this from the side rather than straight on...from which I am sure, from the front, it was H.O.T.; but from my side, I just thought it looked silly. *hides* But that doesn't mean it wasn't kinda' hot anyway, I mean, it was OB, and I'm not completely immune here, but its all ok, I said what I said, and that's all I am going to say about it...besides if you're reading this freakin' novel I have written, you may miss it anyway, so, oh well. And I loved every freakin' one of these songs, but others have given more thoughtful commentary, so I'm going to leave it at that. *NEW* About the Crowd in general... The crowd was overall pretty good. The place was packed. And as mentioned earlier, it was pretty full from the beginning, even for the LH opener. I would say the average age was close to that of the tenured BINXS (mid 40's), probably alot of 30 somethings, a scattering of newer fans and more than a few 50 fans. I would say the older the fan, the more they were likely a fan of INXS, the original...but that is not necessarily true for the Batshit lovers...they came in ALL shapes, sizes, and ages... During break, the crowd milled around mostly in seats, watching the clocks, of course some ran to 'powder their noses', get water, review the merchandise selection. I mainly stood in the front row looking back and surveying th audience...accumulating all this information...I should have probably searched out other RB'ers...I had the seating chart, but I was nervous and super excited about the BINXS taking the stage, so did not stray too far...or at all, away. Countdown 20 min, ended, as folks have mentioned the last 10 seconds, folks stood up, counted down, were cheering as the BINXS took the stage, the screens/curtains or whatever lifted, (blinding) lights on, Suicide Blonde, OB in buckles, Andy playing the bitch right out of that harmonica...and they played and they played, and we danced...Though nothing too crazy, at least up front, sounds like the further back (or up in balcony) it got, the more interesting...go figure...I don't think there were any youngun's up front...though I did see a couple of Hot Chicks come up to the security guy up front, at one point, trying to flirt their way into the pit...no dice beyotches! Again, everyone was standing the whole time...though, I'm not sure the newer fans were very familiar w/the back catalogue...Me, I was singing along to EVERY song BABY! I swear, the music was so great, I closed my eyes a couple of time, and just lost myself in it, dancing and singing...but then I had to wake up, after all, there were all of these HAWT guys on stage !! that were ROCKIN'!!!! My opinion, I kind of wished the front crowd (pit and rows) were more BSC...they were almost kind of mellow...I think the balcony was the most rocking, whenever I looked back, they were CRAZY up there...I thought that was awesome, and the boys certainly were throwing the love to the WHOLE place, so it was all good. *NEW* Regarding the pre-concert meetup...I did meet w/a bunch of 448'ers and at least on gal from Davesboa(sp?) at Von's, they were all very nice, and friendly. I ended sitting next to a bunch of 'em in front, though I didn't wear one of the bracelets. The 448er (Skyhooked) that I sold my row V tix to made up some cool pins that she generously gave me 1 of, so special thanks to her! I met Impatient, she stopped by after she finished w/the M&G...she shares her experience, that I see is posted below. Very sorry we MISSED YOU IJ!!! and anyone else! It was fun, and everyone I have met is super nice. At Von's they were playing what sounded like the Best of INXS while we were there...and yes, I could name that tune w/i the first few bars...I know my INXS people! Again, I wish I had made the rounds per the seating chart I printed out, but I was just too caught up in the madness, and anticipation, so, it is what it is! Love you all! Sorry for the extended text, but I wanted to get it all out and on record, so scroll by if you will, but if you did take the time to read this, I hope you enjoyed and are super psyched for your show! Because, it will be: fucking GREAT! *1/22 ETA* one final thing, that is not in my original report...there were 2 backup singers....I thought there was only going to be one...and for those that were wondering, I mentioned in the chat thread that OB, and some of the rest(tim and/or ggb) did use the ramp behind Jon/drums at this show... Also, sorry for all the many uses/instances of the f-word...but is was absoFUCKINGlutely necessary! So there. *Kisses* The End ...well until next week...VEGAS BABY! |
Edited by - emswazzu on 01/27/2006 7:26:30 PM |
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)
