It's the line that calms us all, like a bell on fire
It's the line that calms us all, and how we love the call
Aim the sound at me
Out of all the concerts we attended, we never managed to experience a concert in Athens. In case some of you are not aware, Athens is a huge scene for music. Such artists as R.E.M., B52’s, Widespread Panic, Indigo Girls, Neutral Milk Hotel… the list goes on, have originated from this town. So as a nod to the past two years living in Georgia and its music, our first leg of the adventure begins at the 40 Watt Club.
We spent time with my parents, dropped off Dublin (our cat and recent addition to our family), and headed down the Atlanta highway to see Mates of State. Mates of State might not be on the top of the charts because they are more of an indie band, but because of this fact they have a cult following of die hard fans, us being two of them! After grabbing a bite to eat at Dave’s favorite veggie restaurant The Grit, we waited in line for the concert to start. The husband and wife musicians pushed their kids in strollers through the crowd. I think Dave and I and a few other people were the only ones to notice.
Finally inside the theater, we realized how small and intimate the space was. What we did not realize, was how this first concert was going to set the stage for our trip. Upon arrival, we purchased several CD’s and a band shirt with a ship. If music is our sweeping undercurrent, than the ship is our vessel. I turned to Dave, “I could be an anchor. Drop me in the bay and watch me hold you steady.” It's the way I see it and oh what a point of view…
The concrete floors were porous and stained with an aroma of mostly Terrapin beer. We found a cozy vinyl seat in a side room with a red ambient glow from retro glass lamps. Just in case you were bored, there were old school arcade games. We ordered drinks and anxiously awaited the start of the show when we heard the first song of many on our journey. We recognized “Free Energy” instantly and pushed our way to the main stage. Dave and I were able to stand directly in front. Our clothing (and come to think of it…skin) thundered through our bodies from the speakers. By time the headliner Mates of State came on, there must have been no more than 60 people; however the energy from the crowd was incredible and the band rocked the house! The singers teased each other mid-song; one tapped the others ass with a tambourine, which in return would try to throw off the beat. It was inspiring watching a couple that travels from state to state in an RV, both passionate about music, and so madly in love. After the show, we were assured that this crazy idea of a journey was exactly what we needed. We just needed to stop, shake it off, and re-arrange.
To be Continued...