Well, where to begin about this magical night? First, it was a blast meeting ClashCadillac, CPoguesFan, Territa, Phro37 and bro, and as noted Frances (she GHAB* for those who don't remember). Now that's freaky-Frances, in Austin, happens to notice Territa and Clash in the crowd, and introduces herself (after all the time that had passed). Rescind the ban-hammering, boss.
THE THANKS:
I'd like to thank ClashCadillac and CPoguesFan for their too-kind generosity; guys, I hope I get the chance to host you, and y'all are welcome 'round here any time; I'm sorry I couldn't take another rock show-sounds like it was a blast! Thanks to Philip, for doing the meet and greet and giving me a chance to say "hello" again. Territa's friend Eileen gave me a ride to San Antonio and picked a nice place for an early lunch (but not brunch

), and she's also a very fun person. I don't know how the pre-show venue was chosen, but it was perfect as well.
And special thanks to Territa who was along nearly every step of the way, pretty much driving me everywhere and otherwise making me feel special. Her hospitality was welcoming and generous (and these two days were the last before the deadline for an important project as well!). And Territa makes a mean batch of chili, too. Come out and see the coast sometime Territa.
THE BLURB:
The Pogues' show in Austin that evening transported me as no rock show has before. I was out of my fucking head (in a good way) during my favorite numbers and ended up muddy, drenched, hoarse, sore, and utterly wiped out.
THE DETAILS:
I liked the venue-it kind of reminded my of Knott's Berry Farm with all the exposed wood and the Old West vibe. Perhaps the sound wasn't as clear up at the front, but it was still pretty good, and the mix was great.
Man, it was hot in front of the stage (we were warned of this, and I was incredulous at the time). Now that I think about it, those lights were pretty much aimed right in the faces of those in the front, but whatever the reason, it was at least as hot (maybe excepting Borderland in London for WEW) as any indoor show I have seen. But there was a little rain, and the odd very cool breeze to keep the conditions from being oppressive. My new pair of shoes were shot to hell with the mud, rocks, rain, and beer.
The Pogues were on top form, making the same old songs crackle and burn with (a seemingly refreshed) intensity. The music was tight as always, and the top-hatted singer was on top of it nearly all evening. Not only that, but they each seemed, to a man, to be having a blast up on stage; lots of smiles and laughter were on display.
The crowd was incredible. We were loud, appreciative, and filled with energy and as Territa noted, we only grew stronger as the show went on. I got bounced around quite a bit and got sprayed with beer a few times, but I never felt in any sort of danger. It was like I was part of a tremendous, constantly undulating organism. The crowd was a big factor in the success, as far as I perceived it, of this show.
It lightly rained during "Soho" and "Sally" which was cool if coincidental.
I'll link up to a pic of Philip and me having a laugh as we exchanged those brief words. I'm sure those laughs were at our mutual hyperboles, and who can't help laughing at Beck, anyway? Nice to have made an impression, at the least!
THE END:
I am a lucky man to have seen such a show, and to have met all the fine folks. This was a great show, and a great little trip to Texas. WOW!
THE FOOTNOTE:
*Got Herself All Banned
Allow not nature more than nature needs, man's life is cheap as beast's.