I thought it would be a nice change to see the band play in an auditorium rather than a smoke-filled bar or club. I thought wrong. Not that the band didn't sound good, they were in fine form and sounded great on every song. The venue just felt all wrong to me. The place was completely lacking in energy and "atmosphere" even though the audience was attentive and somewhat enthusiastic. Maybe I'm just spoiled from getting to see them play at the Chameleon (and other cozy venues) so many times. I guess most else just pales in comparison to the special hometown shows - packed from top to bottom with fans old and new, special appearances by Steve, Mike lugging in his upright bass. Hopefully I'll be able to make it to the Chameleon and/or Jammin' Java shows. The Calvin show just left me completely wanting.
The setlist was probably similar to the Tin Angel show with the two piano songs - "Happy" and "Mac". I don't have recording equipment so I didn't record the show. I did have a camera along but opted to enjoy the show instead of snapping pictures. I've always felt like taking pictures is distracting to the band/artist anyway.
I had never heard the opening band (Jacobstone) before. Given a more appropriate, intimate venue I might have liked them a bit more. Some of their songs seemed unnecessarily long, but maybe I was just eager to hear the headliner. The lead singer had an outstanding voice though. At the very least they were a nice change from Denison Witmer. (it's not that I dislike Denison - he's just opened for the innocence mission every single time [!] I have seen them since '97 or '98)
The band didn't come out to meet and greet the fans out front but they were in a hallway off to the side of the auditorium for a good while after the show, talking to fans and signing CDs. I don't have any new band news to report though. Somehow I always forget to ask band-related questions when I see them.
Despite the lifeless venue, the show was still good (i can't even imagine a bad innocence mission show), but not nearly as amazing as usual.
Heather
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