|
|
 |
|||
|
IN THIS ISSUE:
Page 1 Page 2 Page 3 Page 4 The Reviews Page 15 Page 16 Page 17 Page 18 Page 19 Archives |
BAYFEST 2003 - THE REAL DEAL
Isn’t it nice how things always seem to work out? Conveniently my road trip buddies and I would be in Birmingham on October 3rd attending a Jackopierce concert so we decided we would drive down to Mobile the next night and see BTE at Bayfest. Boy, were we in for a surprise when we got there. In my opinion, this had to be one of the worst laid-out festivals I had ever seen. It was spread out over 5 blocks in downtown Mobile. And the map we were given frankly - sucked. BTE was out in BFE. I generally don't mind walking, but this time my feet really hurt as my flip-flops rubbed a painful blister on my big toe. I kept chanting "Ezra, Ezra, Ezra" in my head. At this point nothing was going to keep me from them.
We finally found the stage where BTE was playing, and proceeded to wait for the show to start. The opening act was a band called The Ugli Sitck and they were very good (for more information, see I was very happy that they played one of my favorite songs – "Leaving Birmingham." The only downside was that the stage lights pointed directly in our eyes blinding us. Nevertheless, I think everyone enjoyed their set. Finally it was time for BTE to come on stage. The whole front row waited impatiently for the show to start. When we got a glimpse of the guys heading towards the stage everyone got excited. The show opened up with "Recognize." Unfortunately, Tom immediately had equipment trouble. He looked frustrated and confused. I worried that this show would not have a happy ending, but it seemed the bugs were worked out quickly and Tom kept playing.
Next up was "Misunderstood." Tom was still having some difficulties with his bass. Travis was having equipment troubles too. The stage crew ran up and adjusted his cymbals. Kevin even commented on the problems and asked Tom if every thing was all right. Once again, it seemed that everything was taken care of and the crowd got revved up with "Good." "Rolling" quickly followed. The entire front row was singing along to the songs. |
Kevin then wowed us with an emotional "Live Again." The band got the everyone in a great mood with "Extra Ordinary." They then kicked things up with "King Of New Orleans." KG really got into singing a cover of "Debra" to my friend Jodi and either Ash or Dina (I couldn’t tell from my point of view). Following that, "Rosealia" served as a platform for the considerable talents of James Arthur Payne. The band ably displayed their jam bad abilities.
I never tire of "At the Stars" no matter how many times I hear it. It’s one of my personal favorites. It was time for cell phones and lighters when the played "A Lifetime" and relived old memories. Audience Participat-shun was almost nixed as Kevin couldn’t seem to
find anyone to play "This Time Of Year." Thankfully devoted fan Jonathan
belly flopped on the stage (with the help of security) to save the day.
I must say, he did a wonderful job that night and was our hero for the
night. The last song played was "Desperately Wanting", and BTE played
hard on it and made it a great closer. Sadly there was no encore. .
Other highlights of the night were: All in all it was a good show and we had loads of fun. Thanks BTE, for putting on another great show!
|
||
