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DAY TWO :: 07.09 :: SUPER DEE
Dave Schools :: 07.09
Greek, Berkeley by Dave Vann |
It's a liberating feeling walking into a highly anticipated show with little or no expectations at all. Whatever was about to happen in the Greek would have no real impact on my life as it would (or could) for many of the "Spreadheads" that traveled the country to be there. I remember how it felt to walk into the gates on night two of a three-day run at an epic venue for my phavorite band. It was amusing how clueless I felt when someone in the bathroom line asked me what song I thought they'd open the second set with.
Sure, I've got some favorite Panic songs, and I can even sing along to a chorus here and there (I've been sitting next to The Kayceman for three and a half years, it would be hard to not have at least SOME knowledge). Let's just say, for argument's sake, that my Widespread Panic perspective is a relatively fresh one. With that said, from my eyes, this was a solid American rock 'n roll show. It is important for the balance of society that a group of six musicians come together on a stage in front of affectionate fans and play gratifying music with confidence. There is no real mystery with this band nor any fancy tricks or mind games. Widespread Panic is a band that wears its heart on its sleeve.
John Bell :: 07.09 Greek, Berkeley by Dave Vann |
That is not to say that this band is "simple," by any means. What Widespread Panic puts out there is emotionally complex music. There are extreme highs as in "Fishwater" and "Down" (ironically) and soul fillers like the beautiful "Pilgrims" and the Bloodkin cover "End of the Show." There are lengthy narratives, like the classic "Barstools and Dreamers," that put me right in the campfire circle. Two of my favorite songs of the night were relatively new songs: "You Should Be Glad" and "Time Zone." If I am into the new stuff, that's a good sign for the future of me and this band!
For the die-hard Widespread Panic fan, it's all about the lyrics and John Bell's delivery. JB poignantly sang to me, "The barstools built for dreamers / We'll fit fine and find / All the world's dreams have died / But tonight they're only taking thirsty people." And then later he reminds us that "The babies haven't learned any words yet (no) / They only know what the people feel." Music is like this too – universal.
WSP :: 07.09 :: Greek, Berkeley by Dave Vann |
One of the great things about a rock band with strong lyrics is the potential of the sing-along. This is my absolute favorite thing about actually being at a Panic show, ideally in the thick of the horde. It is exhilarating to be surrounded by people all pumping fists and singing in unison, "You and I both know / We'll just wait until it all calms down / Down Down Down Down." I only wished I knew all the words too so I could join in!
One more point I'd like to make is about the amazing Dave Schools. If JB is the soul of Widespread Panic, then Dave Schools is the heart. Just watching him manhandle the bass, not to mention sing lead and back-up, gave me a comforting feeling that we are all connected somehow. His bass playing is some of the best I've heard in any band at any time.
On the whole, I've got to say I enjoyed my time with Widespread Panic immensely. I'm not about to jump on tour or anything, but I do look forward to the next time that Love Tractor comes through my neighborhood.
Special thanks to www.everydaycompanion.com for an incredible amount of Widespread Panic information.
-SuperDee
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