Wow, Maryland Is Snowy
Maryland? Treaure the (frozen) Chesapeake — (GladysFL) — Baltimore Sun
My homeland is covered in a blanket of white. I'm astonished by the numbers I'm seeing. 4 feet? I hope everyone is safe, warm and at home. For those elsewhere in the country (like me), checkout the views via MDOT cameras. My favorite is the I-95 corridor.
Mini DMB Tour 2009, Ellen
Thank you Warehouse! I just attended the most intimate Dave Matthews Band show in my personal history. They gave away tickets to see the band perform on The Ellen Degeneres Show. The performance took place outside of Ellen’s soundstage at the Warner Bros. Studios in Burbank, California. I’d venture to say only hundreds of people were in the audience. Dave and the guys showcased three new songs and one old favorite. What an unforgettable experience.
The story begins with an innocent email from the Warehouse on Thursday, September 10:
“Greetings from the Warehouse:
We are excited that Dave Matthews Band is scheduled to make an appearance as the musical guest on the Ellen DeGeneres Show on Wednesday, September 16th in Los Angeles, CA. The Warehouse has been provided with an allotment of tickets for the TAPING ON TUESDAY, SEPTEMBER 15TH and we are pleased to offer the tickets to Warehouse members that may be in the Los Angeles area at the time of the taping!”
Without giving it much thought, I replied within four minutes of receiving the email. I let it slip into the back of mind; I didn’t want to get my hopes up too high. Friday evening, I answered a phone call from an Ellen representative. I was on the list! Wow! I was super excited, and I just couldn’t believe I would attend.
Once Teresa came home from work, we talked about her attending the show with me. She couldn’t get off work with such little notice. During the school year, Teachers certainly get the short-end of the stick. It was a shot in the Dark but I called Dave. Dave lives in Flordia, but he loves Ellen. I know he watches the show everyday. Plus, he’s a huge DMB fan. Of course, he wanted to go, but the flights would have to be relatively cheap. He hung-up the phone and started searching. About thirty minutes later, he called me back. He found a flight into Long Beach. Amazing. I had my plus one to see Dave Matthews Band on The Ellen DeGeneres Show.
Dave arrived safely, and our journey began around 11AM on Tuesday. We had to checkin by 1230PM at the LA Zoo. The Zoo parking lot is much larger than the studio, so all attendees were bused from the Zoo to the studio. This is wear the waiting began. We waited in the parking lot for our bus. Each bus could only hold 50 people. Emily and a couple of her friends also won tickets, so we rendezvoused in the lot. They arrived much earlier, and they were on a bus faster than Dave and I.
Once we pulled into the Warner Bros. Studio, the buses were lined up tightly. The buses were air conditioned, but we had to sit for over an hour on the bus. They played rerun’s of the Ellen show, and it wasn’t horrible. I’d never seen a complete show, and I was pleasently surprised. Ellen is really witty, and her talk show is very entertaining. I became disappointed because I knew we wouldn’t see the taping. We were told we wouldn’t enter a soundstage. The concert stage was setup outdoors.
Eventually, we were filed off the buses to the concert stage. The studio roads, which are numbered like regular streets, are narrow. The sound-stages must be three or four stories tall, and they seemed strange to me. They have zero windows, so they appear very ominous. I was glad to see the concert stage was setup in the corner of the lot. Two sides of the concert area faced an outerwall which separated the studio from the streets of Burbank. Behind the stage was a two story building which looked like a hotel. I’m not sure what that building was. The final side was the end of a soundstage, but it was decorated with huge 3D Warner Bros. superheroes like Batman and Superman.
Emily had secured a sweet spot stage left. She sweet talked the security, and we easily joined her. I’m not sure where Dave and I would have found ourselves, but it wouldn’t have been this close. We were within five or ten feet of the horn section. Amazing. My excitement dwindled on a bit because we had wait another hour in the hot hot sun. This did include the taping of the show. The sound was broadcasted over the PA, and we heard Ellen interview Jen Aniston. I would have liked to see it, but again, I can’t complain too much.
Finally, the moment came we all were waiting for. As a really horrible “MC” tried to warm up the crowd, I spotted Dave walking from the middle of the lot toward the stage. He was trying to cover himself with his shirt, and he was quickly behind the stage before many other people noticed. Minutes later, he lead the entire band onto the stage. Wow, you could almost hear them talking. I couldn’t get over how close I was to the stage. This is what I saw…
Tuesday Sep 15 2009
The Ellen DeGeneres Show
Warner Bros. Studios
Burbank, CA, USA
1. Why I Am
2. Improv Jam
3. You & Me
4. Crash Into Me
5. Shake Me Like a Monkey
Ellen introduced “Why I Am” completely through a TelePrompTer. Everyone forgot about the heat and let the music take over their minds and bodies. Most of the crowd near the stage was singing, dancing and pumping their fists into the air. Dave and I danced up a storm. I even snapped a few good pictures! The band was really into the tune. I like the song as a single because it doesn’t seemed forced. Its a total tribute to Roi. This fact permeates each performance, and you can feel the love radiating off the band into the crowd.
The “Improve Jam” was Timmy. Ellen has this funky theme song. After “Why I Am,” the house played the song to cut to commercial. Timmy picked up the riff, and the rest was history. Carter jumped onto the beat along with Stefan. Soon, the horn section was dropping notes over the beat. Dave was slapping his guitar and doing a bit of dance. Soooo much talent. Sooo little effort to create something cool. I think this little tune took everyone by surprise. Oh yea, Dave and I were dancing.
“You and Me” was decent. I don’t really like the verses of this song, but I really dig the chorus. “You and me together, can do anything, baby!” Great lyric with a really bright backing sound. Its a real uplifting tune. Dave and I kept up the dancing.
Before “Crash into Me.” Ellen spoke a bit with Dave. He was his usual awkward and yet intriguing self. Ellen proclaimed her love for the music and the band. She even noted how “happy” all DMB fans seemed to be. The crowd erupted over that comment, and she is pretty close to being right. Most shows are awesome experiences. Why else would I keep on going?
“Crash Into Me” was “Crash Into Me.” On Tuesday, Dave and I argued. He didn’t think there’d be a single old tune. I said there had to be at least one. I was hoping for “Ants” or maybe “What Would You Say.” I was right, but I didn’t guess right.
Maybe “Crash Into Me” was a blessing in disguise. It left everyone wanting more, even the band. Everyone was just warming up (to the music not the afternoon heat). Dave turned to Carter, and you could tell what was happening. They were egging each other on, and Dave was saying “one more, one more!” Ellen wasn’t going to stop ‘em, and they broke into “Shake Me Like a Monkey.” This is the first tune on the new album, and it really moves. Another tribute to Roi, so the emotions run deep through the band and out into the audience. Plus, its a great song for dancing. It was a solid close to a short set. I really wanted more, but it wasn’t too be.
Ellen wholeheartedly thank Dave and the rest of the Band. She acknowledge their long standing policy of not performing on daytime TV. Dave responded by singing her praises. Apparently, the entire band really digs her energy and show. I’ll have to say, the entire afternoon was full of good vibes. Even though we sat around waiting most of the time, everyone connected the show was very courteous and kind. It was a welcome change from the harshness felt elsewhere in greater LA.
Well, I still have to say Wow. I count myself blessed to have attended this show. I’m not sure I’ll have a similar experience, but I sure hope I do. I was totally happy with the short set. “Why I Am,” “You & Me” and “Shake Me Like a Monkey” are among my favorites from Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King. A big thanks to Emily for grabbing such a great spot. To Dave, thanks for making the trek all the way from the East Coast! It was great to have you around if only for a short while. Finally, thanks again to the Warehouse and Ellen. Y’all put together a very memorable day for me.
Here are videos of some songs. At the noted times, look out for me. I’m wearing an army green shirt. My hair is rather long. Dave is taller than me and standing to my right. He has a shaved head. I think he danced more than me. Shame on me.
Simeon Sightings:
None :(
——
Why I Am
Simeon Sightings:
0:50 (right side, dancing)
2:10 (right side, taking picture)
2:33 (right side, dancing)
3:40 (right side, dancing)
——
Shake Me Like A Monkey
Simeon Sightings:
2:40 (right side, dancing)
3:10 (right side, dancing)
Mini DMB Tour 2009, Night 3
The last full concert of my mini tour. So sad. I was just getting use to a concert almost every night. Saturday’s show was down in Chula Vista which is near San Diego. The amphitheatre was a new one for me. I hoped is wasn’t going to be a cookie cutter, but I didn’t have high expectations. Eric was out from the East Coast for the show, so I was really excited to see him. If the band kept played a mostly new set, the night would be a success.
Teresa and I drove down Saturday morning to meet Eric and Jessica. All four of us stayed in downtown San Diego. Eric picked a great hotel. We decided to eat lunch in Pacific Beach, so I suggest the Pacific Beach Alehouse. I can’t get enough. Everyone enjoyed the awesome views and great food. Eric liked sampling the local beers. The surf was really rough, so the waves were a sight to see.
In Pacific Beach, we gathered sandwiches and beer for tail-gating. After a quick stop at the hotel, we drove down to Chula Vista. The traffic wasn’t bad getting into the venue. We were forced to park on a dirt patch, but it was really dusty. The parking lot scene was OK. Jessica’s friends from Encinitas joined us, and we made friends with our neighbors. Eric and I relived some of the glory days. Jessica told some stories as well. Shes been to as many shows as Eric and I.
As the sun started to set, we decided to venture into the venue. Unfortunately, Teresa and I didn’t get to sit with Jessica and Eric. However, we did meet Emily down in the Pit. My friend Monsour met her at the West Palm shows, and I was excited to finally meet her myself. After a few phone calls, we found each other stage right. She is awesome! She was totally pumped for the show. Our conversation was cut short by the house lights going down…
Saturday Sep 12 2009
Cricket Wireless Amphitheatre
Funny The Way It Is *
Spaceman *
Don’t Drink the Water *
Proudest Monkey * >
Satellite *
Shake Me Like a Monkey *
Lying In the Hands of God * >
Seven *
Crash (Into Me) *
You Might Die Trying *
Why I Am *
Lie In Our Graves *
Squirm *
Alligator Pie *
You and Me *
Jimi Thing *
__
Baby Blue +
Grey Street *
Time Bomb *
Show Notes:
* Jeff Coffin
+ Dave Solo
I didn’t get the full “Funny The Way It Is” effect at the Greek. As the house lights go down, the entire stage is veiled in a white sheet. You can only see the shadows of performers, instruments and gear. As the first note pounds through the sound system, the sheet quickly pulls up and into itself. Its a jaw-dropping moment that sets the mood for the set. I wish the rest of the show was as exciting. The only cool thing about the venue was the absence of a roof over the seats. You don’t need one in the desert. The rest of the venue was definitely cookie-cutter. The set was alright. Don’t get me wrong, DMB nailed “Don’t Drink the Water,” “Shake Me Like a Monkey,” “You Might Die Trying,” “Why I Am,” “Lie In Our Graves,” “Alligator Pie” and “Grey Street.” However, the only new tracks were “Proudest Monkey” and “Crash.” I can live without “Crash,” but “Proudest Monkey” was cool. Due to poor timing on my part, I spent part of it in the bathroom. I can’t complain too much (would have been great to hear), but I wish I’d heard some different tunes.
Highlights for this day were the people. It is always great to see Eric, and I’m glad I finally met Jessica. She is a lot of fun. I’ll see y’all in March for ABB! I was also glad to finally meet Emily. Since she’s just down the road in SD, I’ll be seeing her at a few more shows in the future. Finally, I’ll stop short of saying this was a bad show. It wasn’t. I still danced excessively. I sat in fantastic seats thanks to Eric. I just felt slighted which is selfish. When you see a run of shows, a few always standout and a few don’t. I’m glad I had two out of three standouts. All was not lost. On Friday, I was confirmed for my tickets to a taping of The Ellen DeGeneres Show featuring the Dave Matthews Band. Yes! The tour continues tomorrow!
Mini DMB Tour 2009, Night 2
Night Two Woohoo! More DMB!!! After yesterdays great set, I was very excited to get back to the Greek. I was attending the show with Teresa, Tina, Jess, Jaime and Ken. It was an all Long Beach affair.
We couldn’t fit all six people in one car, so Teresa and I rode separately. We arrived a bit early, but we ate our pre-show meal directly next to Ken’s parking spot. It was totally random. They literally parked in front of our picnic area. We shared drinks and food, but we didn’t stay too long. Everyone wanted to be in the venue around 7PM.
I broke down this evening, and I purchase the poster to the left. You like it? I actually like the layout of Night 1, but I like these colors better. I also really like the Los Angeles road sign.
My Night 2 seats were much better than Night 1; I was 7th row dead center. It was a perfect spot to see all the band members. Its so much fun to watch everyone play and interact. Plus, most of the fans there are genuine fans (thanks Warehouse). This makes for a great scene and plenty of dancing!
Thursday Sep 10 2009
Greek Theatre
Funny The Way It Is *
Spaceman *
The Stone *
Dive In *
Satellite *
Everyday *
Improv *
Why I Am *
Typical Situation *
Gravedigger *
Seven *
Out Of My Hands
Rhyme And Reason *
Shake Me Like a Monkey *
You and Me *
Lie In Our Graves *
Alligator Pie *
Ants Marching *
__
Sister +
Time Bomb *
Show Notes:
* Jeff Coffin
~ Dave, Carter Rashawn and Tim
Hmm, I still can’t decide which set was better, so I’m not going to choose. There were only five repeats which were all new songs. I can’t get enough of “Funny The Way It Is,” “You and Me,” and “Alligator Pie.” “Spaceman” is another awesome new tune. During “Alligator Pie,” Jeff was singing and dancing while he wasn’t playing. He doesn’t even have a mic. “The Stone!” I called it from the first couple of notes from Stefan. The crowd sang ”#36” background vocals for “Everyday.” I love the vibe it produces. Carter was even directing the first ten rows on when to start the “Honey, Honeys!” You’ll notice “Improv.” It was a cool little diddy kinda started by the horns. It was so much fun to watch everyone play off each other. They were laughing and enjoying the spur of the moment music. “Typical” is always an emotional one for me. I dance the entire song. “Gravedigger” is another emotional song with Dave belting out the lyrics. It tough not to reflect on the sad sad pleas. Teresa pointed out how dirty “Seven” actually is. I hadn’t noticed. Dave said he really likes it, so go figure. “Rhyme And Reason” was another non-stop dancer. “Lie In Our Graves”—what can I say. Boyd not only jammed the beautiful bridge, but he stayed completely covered. I love the bridge of LIOG so much. Carter broke into “Ants” right out of “Alligator Pie.” During “people in every direction,” the house cameras panned through the first few rows, and Teresa and I were on the big screens! I’d say the encore wasn’t as good as Night 1, but “Time Bomb” is an OK tune. It might be one that grows on me.
Wow. Any night you get four UTTAD inclusions is a great night. As I’ve said before, the new tunes are definitely cool. I was with a great group of friends. I’m sure glad they enjoyed the show! We’ll have to catch some more shows next year. The seats really made the evening. There is so much energy upfront. The band seemed to be having too much fun. Great Show. Time for a quick break, and its on to San Diego.
Mini DMB Tour 2009, Night 1
Its time for my yearly DMB fix, and this year’s happens to be a mini run! Three shows in four days! What year is this? How exciting. Last night was the first of two shows at the Greek Theatre in Los Angeles. Saturday night, they’re playing in Chula Vista just outside San Deigo. That is a ton of dancing.
I attended the first show with Noel, Mike and Dan. I arrived early, and enjoyed the peaceful setting of Griffith Park. The Greek tailgating scene is lacking, but the tranquility of the park more than makes up for the loss. It is a welcome change.
The show was scheduled to start at 7PM without an opener. I haven’t seen the band without an opener in sometime, so I wasn’t sure what time they’d take the stage. The time ended up being 730PM, and they played for two and half hours.
Wednesday Sep 9 2009
Greek Theatre
Don’t Drink the Water *
Stay Or Leave *
Seven *
You Might Die Trying *
Shake Me Like a Monkey *
Lying In the Hands of God *+
Why I Am *
Crush *
Funny The Way It Is *
Squirm *
Where Are You Going *
Alligator Pie *
Dancing Nancies *
So Damn Lucky *
You and Me *
Grey Street *
Jimi Thing *
__
Baby Blue ~
The Maker *
Tripping Billies *
Show Notes:
* Jeff Coffin
+ Nestor Torres
~ Dave Solo
I was able to predict a few of the songs including “Don’t Drink the Water,” “Grey Street,” and “Tripping Billies.” Not surprisingly, those were three of my favorites! They played a fair amount of tunes from Big Whiskey & The Crew Crux King. I had high hopes for “Funny The Way It Is,” but it just didn’t kick as much as I’d like. However, I dug “Alligator Pie.” “Lying In the Hands of God” was also great, and Nestor Torres really tore up the flute solo. By far, the best jams were Crush and Jimi Thing. Crush had the entire venue dancing. During Jimi Thing, everyone had a chance to jam including Tim, Rashawn and Jeff. Dave even brought back his Scat, and it was better than I remembered.
A decent show it was. I really enjoyed the intimate feel of the Greek. Dave and the Band choose a nice mix of songs. If anything, the show left me wanting more. I guess that is always true. At least this is the beginning of my mini run, and I have two more shows to enjoy! Bring on Pig, Warehouse, Two Step…
