Fine Line Tunes or Bucky's 3rd Gemini Syndrome Show

Just got home in the wee hours of the morning from seeing newer metal band Gemini Syndrome with special guests Saul, Antistar and 9Electric at the Fine Line Music Cafe in downtown Minneapolis. This was my third consecutive year seeing Gemini Syndrome, in 3 different states (Fargo, ND in 2014 and Eau Claire, WI in 2015). I decided to go to the show after seeing lead singer Aaron Nordstrom's YouRock Foundation video on YouTube, and had a great time! My only regret is that more people weren't there to experience the fun!

I got to the show and made my way to the front row in time to chat with fellow concertgoers and wonder why a telephone was attached to the mike stand. My question was soon answered as it would be used by the bassist/vocalist of Iowa natives Saul, whom I'd last seen on one of the side stages at Locofest in Algona a few weekends earlier. They played a handful of original songs and Pink Floyd and Tool covers before departing. The singer was really cool, he chatted with us in the front row for a bit and handed out guitar picks.

Next up were my friends in Antistar. They put on another great set, full of songs from their debut album. They were excited to be opening for Gemini Syndrome, and their enthusiasm was evident in their performance. I enjoyed the set and chatting with the guys after the show.

The final opener was the only band I was unfamiliar with: Hollywood, CA natives 9Electric. They came out on stage with a kind of 80's swagger and tunes that reminded me a bit of Billy Idol in his heyday and pop-rockers like My Darkest Days. They got the crowd involved, and livestreamed their show. The lead singer even got out in the crowd a few times to keep them active. They finished with 9 originals and a faithful cover of AC/DC's hit "Dirty Deeds." After I snagged a guitar pick from the electric guitarist's pedal board, I made a mental note to check out their music at the merch table after the show.

Shortly before 10 pm, Gemini Syndrome took to the stage. Although it was a little difficult hearing Aaron's voice through the mike, the crowd didn't seem to mind. They put on a powerful set full of songs from their debut album "Lux" and the new release "Memento Mori." It was great to see the current lineup rockin' out! They finished with the new single "Remember We Die" and fan favorite "Stardust."

After the show, I chatted with friends new and old, bought a few discs from 9Electric, and some of the guys in Gemini Syndrome. I got a photo with their friendly drummer Brian Steele Medina before heading outside on a beautiful night.

Just to the left of the doors outside, I saw a few people chatting with Aaron Nordstrom. I took the opportunity to get another photo with him, and chatted with him about a new tattoo a friend of mine had recently done for him. I left the venue with a smile on my face after another great show!

Next show probably won't be until Alter Bridge at the Skyway Theater in Minneapolis next month. Until then, have a great week, everyone!