They Might Be On Tour
by Shaun "Bastard" Nelson

It turns out that my good friend Greg Bender and his sister coincidentally both went to the same rock concert. People like Greg Bender are always amazed to discover that music is the common bond that brings people together. And for good reason -- people like Greg Bender are simpletons.

But for those who are well read, the bond between music and family is not only well known -- it's a pleasant side benefit.

So why don't I go to more concerts? Music is best when it's performed live? Right?

Er, Mostly. A lot of isn't, because the hours and hours spent in a sound studio to get the best sound and blend of music is what you pay for when you buy an album. What are the odds that they'll get it right the first time, when it comes to go time? And to top it off, there aren't a whole lot of groups that I'd even bother getting off my ass to go see live. Oh, I'll listen to music on my mp3 player and maybe it happens to play on the radio. But some bands are better live, by my count, maybe three or four bands at most. And now that I think of it, I'm pretty sure Kenny Wayne Shepard is dead.

Needless to say, my ass has been getting wider in the waiting. Until today, when I learn the best band in the world is stopping by on a local leg of their worldwide tour for a little throwdown. Not that this group would describe a concert as a "throwdown," but the concept holds. John and John hold nice little concerts, little and nice. One local opening act, and then about two sets of music, maybe an encore. Nothing stunning, just a solid night out.

So, somewhere at Rutgers University, on Nov 8th, They Might Be Giants are holding a concert.

You can bet your ass, I'm getting off my ass to be there.

- Shaun "He Might Be a Bastard" Nelson

They Might Be Giants
Nov 8th, New Brunswick, NJ
Nov 16th Town Hall, Manhattan

©2001 Shaun Nelson