Alter Bridge at the Skyway

Went to my first concert all month last night, and joined friends in seeing 3 Pill Morning, Adelitas Way and Alter Bridge. I wasn't feeling the best when I got up yesterday, but I started feeling better as the day went on. I got to the venue in time to join the growing line around the corner. There I caught up with a friend and we had to laugh at the honesty of a homeless person's sign stating that he was "too ugly to prostitute."

Shortly after 7 pm, we would our way upstairs to the venue. There I made my way to the stage where I met another friend who had never been to the Skyway Theater before. Shortly before 8pm, Minneapolis natives 3 Pill Morning took to the stage, launching an energetic half-hour set. This was my first time seeing the band since Rockfest in Cadott WI on my birthday in July. I've gotten to become friends with the band members, and was happy to catch up with them and share a few laughs after the show.

Next up were national artists Adelitas Way, who began their set with the single "Sick" from their album Homeschool Valedictorian. This was my first time seeing the band since they headlined the Park in Fridley this winter, and they really kept the growing crowd involved in the show. Shortly after they closed their set with their first hit song "Invincible," the crowd rushed up to the stage, making it impossible to track down some friends who arrived after I did.

Fortunately, the set change wait wasn't long, and Alter Bridge started their set before 10 pm. They always sound rather polished, but they are human, and aren't afraid to admit it. Frontman Myles Kennedy admitted to being a little nervous before the band launched into their first-ever electric live performance of their new song "My Champion" from their upcoming album, and realized drummer Scott "Flip" Phillips was trying to slow him down and keep him on pace during the song.

This was my first time seeing Alter Bridge headline a show, and my first time seeing the band in five years. Their musicianship always amazes me, and watching Mark Tremonti perform live anytime is something nt to miss! They put on a great set, closing their regular set with my favorite AB track "Rise Today" before a two-song encore of the new song "Show Me a Leader" and the classic track "Open Your Eyes."

After the encore, I found more friends, one of whom had just scored a Mark Tremonti guitar pick! We made our way to the merch table to catch up. While at the merch table, another friend told me a cool Sevendust story. Long story short, I learned that drummer Morgan Rose knows me by name! That fact just made a great evening even better.

Next show for me isn't until Breaking Benjamin in October, although I may be back blogging if the MN Twins break their record for having their worst season ever. Until then, have a great week, everyone!