amazing

thoughts from last night's nada surf show in tempe...

negative elements that can never seem to find their way out of the concert experience include the doors opening at 8 for a show that was supposed to start at 7 and set change delays without having to make any set changes (see: needless delays v2.0). neither surprises me anymore, but the mere possibility exists for me that one day, for one show, a seamless transition of arrival and band changes will bring to life the full experience of what often has the potential for life-altering musical envelopment. and clubs with quasi-orgasmic interiors for hosting live music should never, ever, ever be placed in a strip-mall bordering a campus road. the jump from outdoor disappointment to indoor elation was nearly enough to injure my fragile heart.

more prevalent memories from the evening involve a band that simply puts on one of the best shows in the country, simply because they can, and the friends that they chose to do it with. the choices for opening acts were perfect appetizers, slowly but surely drawing the crowd from the novelty of mingling in a live music venue bar to being capable, and willing, to let the music affect them. rogue wave was particularly impressive, putting forth a diverse but not meandering display of talent throughout the night's setlist. sometimes too much like death cab or wilco, but never always like too much of anything.

ffwd --> define time well spent. matthew caws has what what everyone else in the room has taken upon themselves to rely on someone else for. the ability to transform every bit of the walls, people, and single malt scotch into his own personal creation. the environment bends to both his voice and the melodic background set forth by a band that continues to be undervalued by those who should simply know better at this point. good music is in, because it can never leave our longings. shows like the one presented last night fill this need in the most fundamental ways, leaving all of those who experienced it as different human beings. music has a way of changing us, and knowing exactly how you want to be changed is best learned though the sounds of those more talented than the rest. for over two hours, nada surf held the stage and all who gathered round it in complete captivity, and it is the latter of those involved who should feel most blessed.