The first show was headlined by the masked metal band Mushroomhead at Opinion Brewing in Newport, MN on a rainy Tuesday. My friend got to my house in the afternoon, and I drove us to the show. We got there in time to see the last couple of songs from a local band and a new band called Raven Black from Los Angeles. I wasn't sure what to expect, but I grew to enjoy their songs during their set. I bought their debut EP "Seven Sins" at the merch table afterwards and had some nice chats with them.
The next band was the Cleveland natives UnSaid Fate. I hadn't seen them since their show with Mushroomhead at Pov's in Spring Lake Park, MN last fall. Even though their bassist was absent (he was "detained" by the authorities), they still put on a great show. I also got to catch up with their singer Jackie LaPonza after the set. She was just as nice as ever, very friendly and we exchanged laughs, stories, and a couple of hugs.
Next up were national act Sunflower Dead. I'd heard their songs plenty of times before, but this was my first time seeing them live. They put on a great set, and I made sure to congratulate them after the show. The guys in the band were very humble, and insisted on posing for a photo with us too!
My friend and I had purchased the Mushroomhead package before their set, and were lined up to meet the band in the dressing room. We got individual and group pictures before their performance. It was a very cool experience, and our picture was also featured on their social media sites.
Mushroomhead's headlining set was impressive as always: I said that it's just not the same unless you're splashed with water from their drums that sit on the corners of the stage. I first heard of the band with their song "Sun Doesn't Rise" from the Freddy vs. Jason movie soundtrack and it was great to hear that song live again with a few classics and newer hits. Jackie LaPonza also joined the group onstage for a few songs.
My friend and I chatted with a few friends before calling it a night and heading back to my house. We were in for a long travel day to Stevens Point, WI the next day to see Another Lost Year and Saving Abel at Live on Main.
I found us a good deal on a hotel room and downloaded driving directions on Wednesday morning, and we were soon off on another rainy day. The hotel was better than expected, complete with a pool and hot tub that were perfect for relaxing in the next morning. We got to Live on Main in time to see several songs from Another Lost Year. This was my first time seeing them live, and I have to say they did a good job of keeping the crowd involved.
Following the show, my friend and I were able to chat with both bands. All the musicians I talked to were very friendly. I've been Facebook friends with Saving Abel's lead guitarist Scott Bartlett and finally had a chance to talk with him in person. Very cool dude, but then their entire band is amazing! Very down to earth and appreciative people.
I drove my friend and I home last night after a good night's sleep and a good lunch. I wasn't expecting to go to any shows at all this week, but I'm sure glad I did. I had a lot of fun, heard some great music, made some new friends and got to know some current friends better.
Well, that's all for now-staying quiet until a few shows next week. Until then, have a great weekend, everyone!
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