I don't know that this will ever be home
From here I do not hail and feel adrift with no roots
Yet on golden nights such as this
I can't help but wonder if maybe this isn't the best place to be
As I escape the bustle of a river city of men
I feel the gentle rush of a summer breeze, reminding me that it is safe here
I keep my eyes on the road, impressed with the colors abounding ahead
Yet when I take the time to look from side to side
I see what cannot be fairly described
Uneven rows of mountains in the distance keep watch over their sisters, the rolling hills
Golden fields of grain are illuminated by a sun that for just one moment
Blesses us with the color of a sky on fire
The air is heavy with the scent of hay awaiting it's journey elsewhere
And of air more fresh than I can ever remember here
As I begin to travel the road that leads back to the city and the lights
I am frozen in a moment of beauty
The sun winks as it goes to rest behind it's mountain for the night
And the sky is left alone, wielding all the majesty it alone can muster
I let the tangerine melt into lavender and eventually back to a deepened blue
Before I step out of my comfort in this dream
It seems that despite my greatest effort life has taken be aback
And somehow, some way,
This has become my home, too
Saturday, July 13, 2013
Saturday, April 20, 2013
There Is No Fear In Love
Everyday a pendant hangs from my necklace that says, "There is no fear in love," an excerpt from one of my favorite bible verses (1John 4:18). You see, I need this reminder to help me fight my worst enemy- myself. I am my greatest obstacle and barrier to success. If I have a goal or ambition, I have always found a loophole or risk involved to help talk me out of stepping out of my comfort zone. It's an instinctual defense mechanism in overdrive that has always been my greatest foe.
However, what I am learning each and every day is that I have within me the strength to be more. If I have a desire to accomplish a feat, be it big or small, then I have some level of dedication and love for it. Where there is love, there shall be no fear, for fear involves torment (as the Bible verse later goes on to say). The hangover from letting go of a dream is proof of that turmoil. There is truly no greater disappointment than that which one can feel for themselves while viewing the road never traveled and wondering what it may have lead to. Inasmuch, there is also no greater feeling than reaching the end of a windy path that started in a scary wood, only to pour out to a beautiful, open meadow that no one else had ever laid eyes on.
In four months time, I have slowly forced fear to loosen its grasp on my throat. I have left a secure position at work because I had reached a stalemate and was no longer happy. I let myself take a leap of faith and take a position in the field I have been trained in and am content in my work now. That decision transformed my happiness in the workplace. I have since also fought tooth and nail for what I love, even when it would have been easier to let go. True love knows no bounds and I am learning that though it may not always be easy, it is always, always, worth the effort. My dream of becoming a music journalist has somehow sprouted in a small, yet not insignificant way. If this passion never takes flight farther than it has today, I can rest happy, knowing that my love for this art has been shared in a way that I am proud of. In a matter of days, I will be throwing caution to the wind-literally- and jumping off a mountain with a professional paraglider, trusting that our parachute will catch at the right moment.I've never been so frightened and excited in anticipation!
The best part in all of this- I'm not afraid anymore. I may have moments of doubt or concern, but my heart has matured and helped me realize that what I was most at risk for was missing out on life itself. No more standing in the background and admiring from afar. I want in, rain or shine, thunder, lightning, or snow. I'm all in. I'm madly in love with this life and I've been told that perfect love casts out fear (the body of that perfect verse). With God by my side, and perfect love in my heart, what can stand against me?
Nothing.
However, what I am learning each and every day is that I have within me the strength to be more. If I have a desire to accomplish a feat, be it big or small, then I have some level of dedication and love for it. Where there is love, there shall be no fear, for fear involves torment (as the Bible verse later goes on to say). The hangover from letting go of a dream is proof of that turmoil. There is truly no greater disappointment than that which one can feel for themselves while viewing the road never traveled and wondering what it may have lead to. Inasmuch, there is also no greater feeling than reaching the end of a windy path that started in a scary wood, only to pour out to a beautiful, open meadow that no one else had ever laid eyes on.
In four months time, I have slowly forced fear to loosen its grasp on my throat. I have left a secure position at work because I had reached a stalemate and was no longer happy. I let myself take a leap of faith and take a position in the field I have been trained in and am content in my work now. That decision transformed my happiness in the workplace. I have since also fought tooth and nail for what I love, even when it would have been easier to let go. True love knows no bounds and I am learning that though it may not always be easy, it is always, always, worth the effort. My dream of becoming a music journalist has somehow sprouted in a small, yet not insignificant way. If this passion never takes flight farther than it has today, I can rest happy, knowing that my love for this art has been shared in a way that I am proud of. In a matter of days, I will be throwing caution to the wind-literally- and jumping off a mountain with a professional paraglider, trusting that our parachute will catch at the right moment.I've never been so frightened and excited in anticipation!
The best part in all of this- I'm not afraid anymore. I may have moments of doubt or concern, but my heart has matured and helped me realize that what I was most at risk for was missing out on life itself. No more standing in the background and admiring from afar. I want in, rain or shine, thunder, lightning, or snow. I'm all in. I'm madly in love with this life and I've been told that perfect love casts out fear (the body of that perfect verse). With God by my side, and perfect love in my heart, what can stand against me?
Nothing.
Sunday, April 14, 2013
Justin Young Breaks It Down
Anticipation is a funny thing. It tends to force you into forming lofty expectations for that which you are awaiting. I realized this as I entered the dimly lit, modernly adorned pizza joint that reeked of glorious vegetarian pies. I was buzzing with butterflies in my stomach for what was to come, and looking for a good buzz from the local cider on tap as I found a table in the corner with my good friend. We sat down and my heart stepped things up a notch, reflecting my nervousness as I realized I was about to witness a performance that I had been hoping to see for four years.
But let's back up for a second so I can explain where this all began...
It was probably in 2009 when I was really deep into seeking out new artists that weren't mainstream. I can't rightly recall what brought me there, but I somehow stumbled across Justin Young's myspace page. He was a soulful acoustic artist with a whole lot of Hawaii streaming through his veins. I remember really loving that he had a very distinct sound that was a compilation of what appeared to be influence from his home state, and really rich, almost tangible soul. I hadn't heard anything along the lines of what he was doing and I gradually checked out more and more of his music over the years, always holding on to a glimmer of hope that he would come to my area for a show. Although that particular dream faded over time, my appreciation for Justin's style of music never did.
To make a longer story shortish, Justin finally made it to my area and I couldn't make the show. As completely bummed as I was for the misfortune, I was relieved to find that less than a year later, he'd be back and I'd have a chance to make it this time.
As the one hundred or so other people began to settle in their seats and have their pizzas brought to their table, I bantered with my friend a bit to escape my nerves as we waited for the show to start. In a matter of minutes, Justin came on stage with his only companion- an acoustic guitar. His relaxed demeanor seemed to kind of create the mellow mood you expect from a concert such as this. For anyone who has never experienced island music live, the one thing you need to know is that there is no place more carefree than where you are in that moment. That's so much of why I love anything with an island twist, live, it's incredible.
Hearing songs that I'd listened to so many times in my car or at home was as surreal, as it always is at a live show. Justin's vocals were impressively clean and he made the entire process look effortless. I've seen artists that either love what they're doing or are in love with what they are doing, and the difference is palpable in their performance. Justin was of the latter category. I got the feeling that whether he was in front of one or ten thousand people, he would have given the same solid show, because it's what he seems passionate about. There was a sense of synergy between him and his instruments that translated into a language all it's own. For me, the highlight of his song choice was most definitely Break It Down- a tune for the broken hearted that just refuse to give up. Another really memorable moment was hearing Puzzle Pieces, because there seemed to be a level of significance with it particularly. Of course, a great cover now and again is never a bad move, if done well. I was quite pleased to have Leaving On A Jetplane be the last song Justin filled the air with before closing out the experience I'd so long awaited.
Justin's performance ended, leaving me fulfilled as a music lover, and completely ready for the show to come with Anuhea, another amazing artist from Hawaii. (Her concert is a review all it's own, so stay tuned.) Considering I'd wanted for so long just to let Justin know how much I appreciate his music, I knew that this was likely one of my only opportunities. Not wanting to fangirl, and being more nervous than I ever should have been as a 25 year old grown woman, I made sure to finish my cider and waited until a little courage surfaced. A good twenty minutes later, the flocks of college girls getting pictures with Justin had settled back in to see Anuhea, who had just gotten the party started with some heavy reggae/island jams. Feeling her grooves, and having just enough gumption to say hello, I decided to check out the merch table where Justin was hanging out.
I picked out a cute Anuhea tank and Justin's new album, Makai, which I had yet to hear in its completion. More excited than I would have been pre-cider, I gladly used my card to pay for the merch and signed the dotted line with my finger (since it was attached to an iPhone), which for some reason was pretty funny right about then. A little sheepishly, I asked if Justin could sign my album, to which I was told that of course he could, and he even had a pen. How convenient. The short and sweet speech I'd always wanted to relay to Justin swirled around in my head as I found myself approaching him. My first thought was ,"Wow, he's surprisingly tall!" shortly followed by ,"Crap, what do I say?" I was trying desperately to convey myself as the kind of person who comes to a show for the music, not the musician, if you catch my drift. That was the truth, though, and why I waited to talk to him until that moment. It's often difficult as a married woman who just loves music, to attend shows without feeling that you're boxed in the same category as the less than savory fans with pointed motives. You know, the uh, well... ok I'll just say it, groupies. I hate that word, but they're everywhere at every show. It's always been about the music for me and I go out of my way to separate myself from those throngs of fame seeking chicas.
I'd like to say that we had a complex conversation about music, or the venue, or even about his tour, but my smart assery got the best of me. Instead of letting him know that his music made me appreciate a whole new genre of music and delve deeper into acoustic soul music, I complimented his uncanny ability to open my album plastic in one swipe. How dashing of me! Of course there was the run of the mill, "You were really great, I'm so glad you came here..." comment, but I immediately regretted it as it spewed from my mouth, even if it was true. Way to be generic, girl. So Justin, if you're reading this, that awkward chick in the brown shirt and skinny jeans is always that awkward, but truly appreciated your performance and music. Thanks for making Oregon a priority, it was a great experience.
As all good things must, the show ended and my friend and I were left with memories of only moments prior that will be with us for years to come. I chalk this up as yet another step in my musical pilgrimage, may it never end.
But let's back up for a second so I can explain where this all began...
It was probably in 2009 when I was really deep into seeking out new artists that weren't mainstream. I can't rightly recall what brought me there, but I somehow stumbled across Justin Young's myspace page. He was a soulful acoustic artist with a whole lot of Hawaii streaming through his veins. I remember really loving that he had a very distinct sound that was a compilation of what appeared to be influence from his home state, and really rich, almost tangible soul. I hadn't heard anything along the lines of what he was doing and I gradually checked out more and more of his music over the years, always holding on to a glimmer of hope that he would come to my area for a show. Although that particular dream faded over time, my appreciation for Justin's style of music never did.
To make a longer story shortish, Justin finally made it to my area and I couldn't make the show. As completely bummed as I was for the misfortune, I was relieved to find that less than a year later, he'd be back and I'd have a chance to make it this time.
As the one hundred or so other people began to settle in their seats and have their pizzas brought to their table, I bantered with my friend a bit to escape my nerves as we waited for the show to start. In a matter of minutes, Justin came on stage with his only companion- an acoustic guitar. His relaxed demeanor seemed to kind of create the mellow mood you expect from a concert such as this. For anyone who has never experienced island music live, the one thing you need to know is that there is no place more carefree than where you are in that moment. That's so much of why I love anything with an island twist, live, it's incredible.
Hearing songs that I'd listened to so many times in my car or at home was as surreal, as it always is at a live show. Justin's vocals were impressively clean and he made the entire process look effortless. I've seen artists that either love what they're doing or are in love with what they are doing, and the difference is palpable in their performance. Justin was of the latter category. I got the feeling that whether he was in front of one or ten thousand people, he would have given the same solid show, because it's what he seems passionate about. There was a sense of synergy between him and his instruments that translated into a language all it's own. For me, the highlight of his song choice was most definitely Break It Down- a tune for the broken hearted that just refuse to give up. Another really memorable moment was hearing Puzzle Pieces, because there seemed to be a level of significance with it particularly. Of course, a great cover now and again is never a bad move, if done well. I was quite pleased to have Leaving On A Jetplane be the last song Justin filled the air with before closing out the experience I'd so long awaited.
Justin's performance ended, leaving me fulfilled as a music lover, and completely ready for the show to come with Anuhea, another amazing artist from Hawaii. (Her concert is a review all it's own, so stay tuned.) Considering I'd wanted for so long just to let Justin know how much I appreciate his music, I knew that this was likely one of my only opportunities. Not wanting to fangirl, and being more nervous than I ever should have been as a 25 year old grown woman, I made sure to finish my cider and waited until a little courage surfaced. A good twenty minutes later, the flocks of college girls getting pictures with Justin had settled back in to see Anuhea, who had just gotten the party started with some heavy reggae/island jams. Feeling her grooves, and having just enough gumption to say hello, I decided to check out the merch table where Justin was hanging out.
I picked out a cute Anuhea tank and Justin's new album, Makai, which I had yet to hear in its completion. More excited than I would have been pre-cider, I gladly used my card to pay for the merch and signed the dotted line with my finger (since it was attached to an iPhone), which for some reason was pretty funny right about then. A little sheepishly, I asked if Justin could sign my album, to which I was told that of course he could, and he even had a pen. How convenient. The short and sweet speech I'd always wanted to relay to Justin swirled around in my head as I found myself approaching him. My first thought was ,"Wow, he's surprisingly tall!" shortly followed by ,"Crap, what do I say?" I was trying desperately to convey myself as the kind of person who comes to a show for the music, not the musician, if you catch my drift. That was the truth, though, and why I waited to talk to him until that moment. It's often difficult as a married woman who just loves music, to attend shows without feeling that you're boxed in the same category as the less than savory fans with pointed motives. You know, the uh, well... ok I'll just say it, groupies. I hate that word, but they're everywhere at every show. It's always been about the music for me and I go out of my way to separate myself from those throngs of fame seeking chicas.
I'd like to say that we had a complex conversation about music, or the venue, or even about his tour, but my smart assery got the best of me. Instead of letting him know that his music made me appreciate a whole new genre of music and delve deeper into acoustic soul music, I complimented his uncanny ability to open my album plastic in one swipe. How dashing of me! Of course there was the run of the mill, "You were really great, I'm so glad you came here..." comment, but I immediately regretted it as it spewed from my mouth, even if it was true. Way to be generic, girl. So Justin, if you're reading this, that awkward chick in the brown shirt and skinny jeans is always that awkward, but truly appreciated your performance and music. Thanks for making Oregon a priority, it was a great experience.
As all good things must, the show ended and my friend and I were left with memories of only moments prior that will be with us for years to come. I chalk this up as yet another step in my musical pilgrimage, may it never end.
Wednesday, February 6, 2013
My Heart Is In Uganda
Today, my heart is in Uganda, a land I've never had the pleasure of visiting, though I think of it often.
A woman I consider a good friend of mine has dedicated her life to loving Uganda and it's people. She is the person with whom I took belly dancing classes and went out dancing with, the friend I've had long conversations with about life and God, and whose amazing wedding I was gladly a part of. She moved only months ago, but as I view the beautiful pictures she's posts online, I can see that she is right where she belongs. Yet she does not do it alone. She has married an amazing man who's mission is to better his community and teach them to be self sufficient and not depend solely on foreign aide to survive. Seemingly a simple idea for life, but much harder to implement in the reality of a world that needs motivation, education, and guidance to keep a community together and encouraged to help one another not only in this generation, but the next - when poverty is a very stark reality. Their goal is not just to get through today, but to build a future in Uganda, one village at a time. And they are not just talking about it, but really doing it. I've seen my friends start programs to educate about HIV and AIDS, how to practice basic hygiene, and learn important tasks such as raising animals and using them to support a family. Again, seemingly simple ideas, but they are being used to change lives.
As a person who has always lived a life of extreme luxury in comparison to the very simple ways that my friends live, I am so humbled in realizing what I have. I am also embarassed that by 25 I have not reached out more to help others. What is life if it is spent solely on oneself or family? Is there not an entire community surrounding each of us, and outside of that a larger region? Are we not each capable of changing and affecting our own worlds to some degree? My friend grew up in the very same country community of less than 10,000 people that I did. She played on the same volleyball team in high school as me, and attended all the same events. We are not so different, but the one element that changes everything is that she has chosen to act, just as her husband has spent so much of his life doing. Her life has been sacrificed here in the US, she does not have the opportunity to see her family or friends as often as if she were here. She does not get to spend holidays with those she is close to in the states. Yet we love her nonetheless, because with the man she was so clearly meant to be with, she is changing this world one heart at a time.
I am so proud to call her and her husband my friends. I must also say that her life everyday inspires me to become a better person and open my eyes to the things that are so often unseen in remedial news and subjects that come across facebook and social media. My life is changed simply by knowing one couple that has given everything for the greater good. We are not all called to international missions, many of us are not called to do leave our immediate community. But we are all called to love. Within our towns, schools, workplace, and family, we all have the option to love and be a great influence, to live by example and change lives by being the kind of person we want to encounter in others.
As the great Mother Teresa once said, " I have found the paradox, that if you love until it hurts, there can be no more hurt, only more love."
Thank you Elysia and Keneth for being the kind of people that myself and others can be so proud to know.
Sunday, December 30, 2012
2013 Here I Come
I find it rather ironic and hipsteresque to be doing this, but I feel that for me it is a tool for learning, healing and goals. This has been a year of trials and tribulations that my life has had yet to experience. Lots of twists and turns and ins and outs. Lots and lots and lots of learning about myself. It's difficult to accept that the person you've always viewed yourself to be is not always the person you truly are through your actions. It's also interesting to discover that about those around you. So, as one could imagine, I have many goals in the coming year to keep me on track with becoming a better version of myself each and every day. They are as follows.
1) Treat those I love with compassion and never take a second with them for granted.
2) Treat others as I would truly want to be treated if I were in their shoes.
3) Continue chasing my passions with vigor.
4) Do something outside of my comfort zone.
5) Focus on things that enrich my life and avoid anything that would negatively affect it.
6) Look less to the future and live more in today.
7) Live by the words that I write.
8) Take that road trip.
9) Do anything I'd like to before becoming a mother.
10) Live as healthy of a lifestyle as is reasonable and possible.
1) Treat those I love with compassion and never take a second with them for granted.
2) Treat others as I would truly want to be treated if I were in their shoes.
3) Continue chasing my passions with vigor.
4) Do something outside of my comfort zone.
5) Focus on things that enrich my life and avoid anything that would negatively affect it.
6) Look less to the future and live more in today.
7) Live by the words that I write.
8) Take that road trip.
9) Do anything I'd like to before becoming a mother.
10) Live as healthy of a lifestyle as is reasonable and possible.
Saturday, November 17, 2012
The Red Hot Revolution
I've always prided myself on being pretty submerged in the world of music. It's just part of me, I suppose. Throughout the years, I've seen upwards of fifty acts- everything from country, to Christian, to rap, reggae, and rock. I've seen a little bit of everything, but I was not at all prepared for what was in store for me when I went to see one of my favorite bands of all time, The Red Hot Chili Peppers.
It was cold outside the Rose Quarter, in the lines of fans waiting to check their tickets and start rocking. That 30 minutes felt like a brief eternity, but it was well worth it when my husband and I made our way to our seats and realized that we were only 6 rows up from the side of the stage. Couldn't have gotten a better view if we'd tried.
We were taking some run of the mill Facebook pictures on our phones when I spotted Blackie Dammett, Anthony Kiedis' dad. I don't know what's wrong with me, to be honest, because I'd like to think I'm one of those cool fans that doesn't get star struck. But no, I blurted out without thinking, "Hey! That's Anthony's Dad!!!" My husband of course turned around just in time to see Blackie booking it the other way. Sweet, so I had become that fan. Yuck. I tried to compose myself after being really embarrassed by my lack of discretion (although in all fairness, there were literally 4 people in our section at the time and none of them heard me). We settled in, welcomed some good friends we hadn't seen in forever, and readied ourselves for a wild night.
The opening band was The Rebirth Brass Band, a New Orleans based group that was full of funk and soul. I couldn't help but bop along to the beat of the snare drum as it mingled with the sax, trumpet, trombone, and tuba. I fought the urge to stand up and bust out some salsa moves that I didn't even know I had until I felt it in that music! The only disappointment I had with this fantastic opener was that the entire audience seemed to have a lack of enthusiasm for these amazing musicians. There were very few people even moving, and none were standing. Since we're being candid here, I was a bit embarrassed that Portland would react in such a way. I know they have more soul than that and it seemed really disrespectful to be "too cool" for a band that was showing up everyone, and had just traveled here from the other side of the country.
Remember now that our seats were stage right, so before anyone else realized it, I saw Flea come out, all incognito in a beanie and big ol puffy jacket (like we wouldn't recognize someone with his build and moves at his show). I had read that he really loved this band, so it was cool to get to see him enjoy their music as a fan himself, dancing along, moving with the grooves. He has always played trumpet and I can imagine that he must have a great respect for these guys, because they really brought it! It was sad to see that once people around Flea realized it was him watching, that they bothered him and tried to get pictures and talk to and touch him. He literally just ignored them and tried to enjoy the show, but it became a fruitless effort and he had to move away from his fans, presumably so that they would focus on Rebirth rather than him. I'm proud to say that when I noticed him, I just whispered to my husband that that's who was down there, but didn't say anything else so that no one in our section at least would do anything.I realized then more than ever that Flea and the rest of the guys were just like myself or my husband, people that love music and like to experience it. Yeah, they have sweet jobs, but at the end of the day, we're all just people. As that reality sunk in a little more, I stopped worrying about what Flea was doing and soaked in Rebirth and the incredible talent that I was lucky enough to experience. If at any time in my life I have another chance to see them, I'm going to boogie down so hard, because I'm already regretting not letting loose and living it up as completely as I could have during their show.
Changing sets after Rebirth created a sense of anticipation that was palpable. The whole Rose Garden just was buzzing and I could hear people all around me talking about how stoked they were to be there and guessing what songs would be played. And before we knew what hit us, the lights were down and this show was getting started.
I've heard stories about the on stage antics and chemistry between these guys, but it's a whole different medium to experience first hand. It is so apparent that they have several decades of experience working with one another and learning how to play off each other. Had no one known that Josh was only in his second official year with the band, they'd have never sensed it otherwise. He fit into the crazy crew like the missing piece of a puzzle. I really can't describe Josh's presence other than to say that it makes sense to me that he and John have collaborated together, because they both have a quiet confidence about them- and this kind of indescribable comfort in what they are doing. It's like Josh was just really lost in his guitar, letting himself channel through it, letting it move him wherever it chose to. I gained a new found respect for him because of that. He was dressed in a ragged over sized t-shirt and some really normal red track pants, looked nothing like the rock star he is, but it didn't matter because his heart was pouring out of his guitar and that overshadowed everything else about him. Anthony's dance moves were so clearly from what he was feeling and not in any way choreographed or planned, and I loved that so much about him. It took all of two songs for him to lose his shirt, and I don't think a soul in that place was surprised when it happened. Anthony is as known for being half naked as he is being a health nut. This aspect of his life was made apparent by the fact that at 50 years old, he was in very good shape and looked nothing short of healthy and vibrant. For some reason, seeing his famous tattoos in person was another one of those humbling moments that made me realize that he's just a guy, mind you with sweet tattoos, but there's nothing mystical about them, other than that they mean something special to him personally. Anyway- Anthony and Flea just did whatever felt good, and sometimes that included galloping around, other times it was rocking that bass so hard it just made sense to lay on the ground to do it. This free spirited nature took Flea across the stage in a walking hand stand that could probably rival an amateur gymnast. I found it to be really endearing that Anthony and Flea wore coordinating one and a half leg pants with tube socks and sneaks. It seemed kind of like an homage to the days when they did far more inappropriate things with their wardrobe, or lack thereof. Chad had a really great energy about him and seemed content in his role which is the funny guy, Mr.Personality. But mostly, he's just a really incredible drummer who seems to absolutely love what he is doing. He was throwing out drum sticks every few beats there for a while and got the hugest grin on his face when he'd look out at the crowd. We got a really good taste of his fun side when he hung from the lighting fixture at the end of the night, and left the stage with the standard tongue out, rock on horns in the air before he was out.
All of these elements collided in such a way that a really beautiful show was born. Although the lights and effects really added to the atmosphere, I would have been completely content to have them on a bare stage with a white background. I was just in awe of these men I'd grown up listening to and was so excited to be sharing this moment with my husband and friends. It really was surreal in so many ways. The set list was comprised of a wide variety of their best songs, not all huge hits, but well worth experiencing nonetheless. I've always been a bigger fan of some of their b-sides and lesser known songs, so it was awesome to hear Universally Speaking and Can't Stop right along with Snow and Under The Bridge. It was a well rounded experience in terms of the songs that were displayed. I've read that the Chili's don't often change up this set much, but as far as I'm concerned, they could do any combination of every song they played that night for every show forever on and it would still be an unforgettable time.
This is definitely speculation, but I would say Anthony must have been sick that night, as he was sipping tea consistently between songs. Maybe it was just the effects of being on tour that was roughing up his voice a bit, maybe nothing was wrong, I have no idea. Regardless, his voice sounded incredible, far greater than I expected it to be live, actually. The one time he was having a tough time, he took a tea break and Flea and Josh gladly obliged to jamming with Chad for a bit. I thought it was so awesome that they had this synergy about them, always facing one another, feeling the music and letting it lead the jam. That is what music is all about, allowing it to just be, rather than creating a template for what we expect it to become. That was another really big moment for me that night, as i looked out at the crowd and realized how everyone was so pumped and moved by this beautiful thing that was happening onstage, I realized the immense power of music can have over our emotions. It can make us feel some intense things, and in that moment, I felt a sense of pride for these men and what they have preserved over the years and evolved into.
Of course no show can go on with only a band, there are always people behind the scenes and sometimes on stage, that help make it happen. Case in point: Mauro Refosco, a brilliant, well educated, trained percussionist from Brazil that played so many unidentifiable instruments that I can't even begin to explain. He played this thing that looked like a tree of tambourines, some bongos, and several other types of percussion instruments that made the concert so much better for their contribution of texture to the music. He jammed with Chad during a solo and that was really awesome to see because they were really in their zone. It was pretty clear that he was having a great time as well, which helped for sure. The addition of Mauro to the I'm With You album, and on tour, is proof that RHCP has discovered over the years that expanding their breadth of instrumental variety adds so much dimension to their music. I compare where they are now to the Blood Sugar Sex Magik album (which is amazing, don't misunderstand here), and they are two different musical forces. It was a real pleasure to have the opportunity to experience a musical evolution, as it were, in the concert as they visited a little bit of several of their albums. I feel that this showed the stark contrast of where the Chili Peppers have been as a band over the years.
As the last notes of Give It Away wrapped up, I instantly began to miss this show I'd been looking forward to for months that I didn't want to admit was over. Never in my life had I experienced something so musically unforgettable as this concert. There are some moments in your life you know that you will hold in such high regard that you will use them as the standard by which to compare all other similar experiences. By a landslide, The Red Hot Chili Peppers set and hold that standard in my heart, and will forever be the act that I will be comparing my coming musical adventures to.
Cheers to the Chili's for an unbelievable night.
It was cold outside the Rose Quarter, in the lines of fans waiting to check their tickets and start rocking. That 30 minutes felt like a brief eternity, but it was well worth it when my husband and I made our way to our seats and realized that we were only 6 rows up from the side of the stage. Couldn't have gotten a better view if we'd tried.
We were taking some run of the mill Facebook pictures on our phones when I spotted Blackie Dammett, Anthony Kiedis' dad. I don't know what's wrong with me, to be honest, because I'd like to think I'm one of those cool fans that doesn't get star struck. But no, I blurted out without thinking, "Hey! That's Anthony's Dad!!!" My husband of course turned around just in time to see Blackie booking it the other way. Sweet, so I had become that fan. Yuck. I tried to compose myself after being really embarrassed by my lack of discretion (although in all fairness, there were literally 4 people in our section at the time and none of them heard me). We settled in, welcomed some good friends we hadn't seen in forever, and readied ourselves for a wild night.
The opening band was The Rebirth Brass Band, a New Orleans based group that was full of funk and soul. I couldn't help but bop along to the beat of the snare drum as it mingled with the sax, trumpet, trombone, and tuba. I fought the urge to stand up and bust out some salsa moves that I didn't even know I had until I felt it in that music! The only disappointment I had with this fantastic opener was that the entire audience seemed to have a lack of enthusiasm for these amazing musicians. There were very few people even moving, and none were standing. Since we're being candid here, I was a bit embarrassed that Portland would react in such a way. I know they have more soul than that and it seemed really disrespectful to be "too cool" for a band that was showing up everyone, and had just traveled here from the other side of the country.
Remember now that our seats were stage right, so before anyone else realized it, I saw Flea come out, all incognito in a beanie and big ol puffy jacket (like we wouldn't recognize someone with his build and moves at his show). I had read that he really loved this band, so it was cool to get to see him enjoy their music as a fan himself, dancing along, moving with the grooves. He has always played trumpet and I can imagine that he must have a great respect for these guys, because they really brought it! It was sad to see that once people around Flea realized it was him watching, that they bothered him and tried to get pictures and talk to and touch him. He literally just ignored them and tried to enjoy the show, but it became a fruitless effort and he had to move away from his fans, presumably so that they would focus on Rebirth rather than him. I'm proud to say that when I noticed him, I just whispered to my husband that that's who was down there, but didn't say anything else so that no one in our section at least would do anything.I realized then more than ever that Flea and the rest of the guys were just like myself or my husband, people that love music and like to experience it. Yeah, they have sweet jobs, but at the end of the day, we're all just people. As that reality sunk in a little more, I stopped worrying about what Flea was doing and soaked in Rebirth and the incredible talent that I was lucky enough to experience. If at any time in my life I have another chance to see them, I'm going to boogie down so hard, because I'm already regretting not letting loose and living it up as completely as I could have during their show.
Changing sets after Rebirth created a sense of anticipation that was palpable. The whole Rose Garden just was buzzing and I could hear people all around me talking about how stoked they were to be there and guessing what songs would be played. And before we knew what hit us, the lights were down and this show was getting started.
I've heard stories about the on stage antics and chemistry between these guys, but it's a whole different medium to experience first hand. It is so apparent that they have several decades of experience working with one another and learning how to play off each other. Had no one known that Josh was only in his second official year with the band, they'd have never sensed it otherwise. He fit into the crazy crew like the missing piece of a puzzle. I really can't describe Josh's presence other than to say that it makes sense to me that he and John have collaborated together, because they both have a quiet confidence about them- and this kind of indescribable comfort in what they are doing. It's like Josh was just really lost in his guitar, letting himself channel through it, letting it move him wherever it chose to. I gained a new found respect for him because of that. He was dressed in a ragged over sized t-shirt and some really normal red track pants, looked nothing like the rock star he is, but it didn't matter because his heart was pouring out of his guitar and that overshadowed everything else about him. Anthony's dance moves were so clearly from what he was feeling and not in any way choreographed or planned, and I loved that so much about him. It took all of two songs for him to lose his shirt, and I don't think a soul in that place was surprised when it happened. Anthony is as known for being half naked as he is being a health nut. This aspect of his life was made apparent by the fact that at 50 years old, he was in very good shape and looked nothing short of healthy and vibrant. For some reason, seeing his famous tattoos in person was another one of those humbling moments that made me realize that he's just a guy, mind you with sweet tattoos, but there's nothing mystical about them, other than that they mean something special to him personally. Anyway- Anthony and Flea just did whatever felt good, and sometimes that included galloping around, other times it was rocking that bass so hard it just made sense to lay on the ground to do it. This free spirited nature took Flea across the stage in a walking hand stand that could probably rival an amateur gymnast. I found it to be really endearing that Anthony and Flea wore coordinating one and a half leg pants with tube socks and sneaks. It seemed kind of like an homage to the days when they did far more inappropriate things with their wardrobe, or lack thereof. Chad had a really great energy about him and seemed content in his role which is the funny guy, Mr.Personality. But mostly, he's just a really incredible drummer who seems to absolutely love what he is doing. He was throwing out drum sticks every few beats there for a while and got the hugest grin on his face when he'd look out at the crowd. We got a really good taste of his fun side when he hung from the lighting fixture at the end of the night, and left the stage with the standard tongue out, rock on horns in the air before he was out.
All of these elements collided in such a way that a really beautiful show was born. Although the lights and effects really added to the atmosphere, I would have been completely content to have them on a bare stage with a white background. I was just in awe of these men I'd grown up listening to and was so excited to be sharing this moment with my husband and friends. It really was surreal in so many ways. The set list was comprised of a wide variety of their best songs, not all huge hits, but well worth experiencing nonetheless. I've always been a bigger fan of some of their b-sides and lesser known songs, so it was awesome to hear Universally Speaking and Can't Stop right along with Snow and Under The Bridge. It was a well rounded experience in terms of the songs that were displayed. I've read that the Chili's don't often change up this set much, but as far as I'm concerned, they could do any combination of every song they played that night for every show forever on and it would still be an unforgettable time.
This is definitely speculation, but I would say Anthony must have been sick that night, as he was sipping tea consistently between songs. Maybe it was just the effects of being on tour that was roughing up his voice a bit, maybe nothing was wrong, I have no idea. Regardless, his voice sounded incredible, far greater than I expected it to be live, actually. The one time he was having a tough time, he took a tea break and Flea and Josh gladly obliged to jamming with Chad for a bit. I thought it was so awesome that they had this synergy about them, always facing one another, feeling the music and letting it lead the jam. That is what music is all about, allowing it to just be, rather than creating a template for what we expect it to become. That was another really big moment for me that night, as i looked out at the crowd and realized how everyone was so pumped and moved by this beautiful thing that was happening onstage, I realized the immense power of music can have over our emotions. It can make us feel some intense things, and in that moment, I felt a sense of pride for these men and what they have preserved over the years and evolved into.
Of course no show can go on with only a band, there are always people behind the scenes and sometimes on stage, that help make it happen. Case in point: Mauro Refosco, a brilliant, well educated, trained percussionist from Brazil that played so many unidentifiable instruments that I can't even begin to explain. He played this thing that looked like a tree of tambourines, some bongos, and several other types of percussion instruments that made the concert so much better for their contribution of texture to the music. He jammed with Chad during a solo and that was really awesome to see because they were really in their zone. It was pretty clear that he was having a great time as well, which helped for sure. The addition of Mauro to the I'm With You album, and on tour, is proof that RHCP has discovered over the years that expanding their breadth of instrumental variety adds so much dimension to their music. I compare where they are now to the Blood Sugar Sex Magik album (which is amazing, don't misunderstand here), and they are two different musical forces. It was a real pleasure to have the opportunity to experience a musical evolution, as it were, in the concert as they visited a little bit of several of their albums. I feel that this showed the stark contrast of where the Chili Peppers have been as a band over the years.
As the last notes of Give It Away wrapped up, I instantly began to miss this show I'd been looking forward to for months that I didn't want to admit was over. Never in my life had I experienced something so musically unforgettable as this concert. There are some moments in your life you know that you will hold in such high regard that you will use them as the standard by which to compare all other similar experiences. By a landslide, The Red Hot Chili Peppers set and hold that standard in my heart, and will forever be the act that I will be comparing my coming musical adventures to.
Cheers to the Chili's for an unbelievable night.
Friday, September 21, 2012
Forgiveness
One of my many aims in life is to love like this woman loves. At the end of my life, I want to know that I used my ability to do the hardest thing that we as humans can do: forgive. We are all called to it and have been given it freely, and yet we so rarely take advantage of such a tremendous opportunity. How free of our soul's cancers we'd be if we just stepped out into the uncomfortable air, breathed it in, and accepted that this too is part of life we must face to get to the good stuff.
I hope you took the time to watch this video. It is well worth the 5 minutes it takes out of your life.
Subscribe to:
Posts (Atom)