Okay, so I've restarted this thing. Decided I need to vent my thoughts.
So last night I go to check out the Fray. Back in 2006 I became obsessed with this band, about to hit the big time...their song was all over US radio, but despite significant airplay, they were struggling to get anywhere with their debut Australian release Over My Head (Cable Car). Of course, I knew what was coming next: a powerful, hauntingly beautiful ballady type track called How to Save a Life, a song which I knew was sure to strike a cord (or many) with the listening public...anyway, their first gig was an intimate little thing at the Gaelic Club in the City, a small crowd of maybe a few hundred gathered...me being the obsessed widdle fan I was decided I would try to get their early to make sure we were right at the front. Not only did we get their early, we were the first ones there, and we got their during their sound check and man they were incredible...we actually got to watch it, and then the lead singer came out to meet and greet us and sign a few things...and I shook his hand, told him how awesome I thought their music was, and how it really struck a cord with me...I'm sure he's heard it a million times now, but I knew I was probably one of the first international fans he'd heard that from. Anyway, needless to say they were awesome and I have remained obsessed since.
Last night they were incredible. It's amazing to hear a crowd of 5000 odd fans screaming the lyrics to How to Save a Life, knowing the licks just as good as the man who performs the song night-in, night-out. But wtf is with kids nowadays, not learning to experience the music, but wanting to savour it with their mobiles? I'm as big a fan of the music as ever, but sticking your phone up ain't gonna help you remember the moment...you're more likely to hear a bunch of people around you singing the lyrics, and when you happen to get the actual vocals of the lead singer, you find yourself obsessed with remaining in frame, instead of appreciating the music and talent of the band you're paid $80 or so to see...a video phone might be great for other things, but honey, the music is only there once. Don't try to savour the moment using your phone, you've got your memories for that.
And man the memories of last night will be with me forever. Look after you indeed...
