So, I went to another concert. Actually, this one is the one I gave myself for Christmas. I really enjoy Frighten Rabbit. They are a Scottish band that plays in DC a lot. They have a great sound and beautiful lyrics. It was their 10th anniversary show for an album I have only recently discovered. They wanted an intimate concert, so they played at the black cat on 14th. The Black Cat is one of the smaller venues in DC, but it has been around forever and is owned by the 9:30 club which is another long running DC venue where the band usually plays.
I was under the impression that the doors opened at 6:30, so I hustled from work to get in line. I was wrong. The doors didn’t open until 7:30, so I didn’t see a point in waiting outside in the cold and I had time to get a meal and sit in one of my favorite German inspired beer gardens on 14th street. To be fair it is a bit of an expensive beer garden. I always think of beer gardens as being affordable and relaxed. This one is relaxed but in the middle of a busy district in the city where affordability is relative.
It was a fantastic concert and I learned about a band called Wintersleep. They opened the show. I’m not really a big fan of opening acts. Sometimes it doesn’t make any sense why the promoter put the two bands together in one show, but Wintersleep was the perfect foil for Frightened Rabbit. They had great lyrics and a similar vibe. They were a bit more ethereal in sound though, I think. Apparently, they have been around since 2003. How have I not heard of them before? Maybe I have heard them on one of my Spotify lists? I have no idea. Also, they did a marvelous job warming up the crowd. I may have already purchased a song or two of theirs for my listening pleasure.
Unfortunately, FR didn’t go on until 10pm, which the grandmother that I am thinks is a bit too late for a Tuesday night. That being said, they totally rocked the night. I danced, I sang, and I laughed. It was great to be able to dance to the music as opposed to my last concert experience. I was much closer to the stage then I like being, but it was worth it to see the lead singer’s facial features and playing. I do have a pet peeve though when I go to concerts and that is when really tall men feel the need to get right up in front of a low stage. I don’t understand their need to push in front of people, why do that if you can already see over everyone’s head?? It boggles the mind. Tall men aside, I was able to see pretty much the entire stage. I’m coming to the conclusion that I really enjoy live music, even if there are a shit ton of people there. I’m usually not one for crowds, but I guess I can make an exception for some great music.
Providence to Washington DC 