Ever Since August

Nothing says springtime like a community room full of teenagers. Add five loud bands and you’ve got …. Saturday night. It’s been almost a year since the last time I heard Mark’s band play. You know what? They’ve gotten better. They describe their style as emo but I think indie rock is probably more accurate. Last year they were just a group of nervous sophomores on stage, each trying hard to remember their part. Last night, they took over the stage with confidence, making sure everyone knew they had a right to be there. I was really impressed with their tight teamwork, using their instruments to direct focus. Of course there were plenty of the requisite, well-rehearsed, choreographed moves. Mark’s parents must be glad to see all those years on a skateboard deck pay off as he leaped and twisted, his guitar just another body part. Here’s what else I noticed.

• Five band members number 25% more than four, but their music is 50% louder.
• Bands that don’t jump around aren’t very interesting, no matter how good their music.
• The more energized the band, the more the audience is drawn in.
• Being “with the band” is more about hard work than glamour.

My recommendation? If you get a chance, check them out.