Gin Blossoms were playing at the Coach House. I’ve always liked the first album (yes, that long ago) but thought they would not sound like that since the lead singer is no longer with the band. But for the sum of $30 then I would know.
I had ponied up an additional $10 for better seats and the $10 goes to whatever is on the dinner menu. You don’t go to the Coach House for the fine food.
Coach House said ‘need to get there no later than 6pm for the dinner menu’. Unsaid was, ‘and since you are there almost 3 hours before the main act, you might as well spend $$ at the bar’. W-a-y took early.
But my seat was a good location with my back to the walking aisle. More on this later. Paul, a transplanted Londoner took the seat next to me and 2 women and a man sat across. Time to kill so we talked about Gin Blossoms, music in general, work and soccer.
Gin Blossoms took the stage about 9pm. The lead singer worked the crowd, and passed out 2 tambourines to audience members so they can participate. They played almost 2 hours. The lead singer wanted everyone to stand for the last 3 songs of the main set. The Coach House is a table-seated area but when everyone stands, people will move forward and fill the aisles. Not really a problem for me since the aisle was behind me but I suddenly had arms holding IPhones reaching over my shoulders. Too close to me. I pushed a few away from me.
The band was good but I did have the feeling I was watching a tribute band. Lead singer’s voice was different just enough to give me that feeling.
