Barcelona and a tale of two cities

Well, it's been a couple of weeks since I've gotten back from my big road trip.  But, it didn't take long for me to find some more excitement!  On Friday, November 2, I drove down to Seattle with a friend to see my favorite local band, Barcelona.  They are currently on tour opening for Blue October, and it's a great opportunity for more people to discover their music.

I took time off from work to make the drive down to Seattle, taking into account the rainy conditions and rush hour traffic.  My Blazer was in the shop to get a cracked heater core replaced, and I was using a loaner car.  I was all prepared to drive that loaner to Seattle when I got a phone call right as I was walking out the door...your Blazer is done!  YES!!!  I quickly exchanged vehicles, but it put me behind schedule.  As we neared downtown Seattle, we got stuck in traffic, made worse by the weather.  After enduring the agonizing stop-and-go, we finally made it to our destination.  We parked in the Pike Place Market parking garage...only $5 after 5:00 pm...and made the short walk to Showbox.  We grabbed a bite to eat at The Green Room, a comfortable and convenient place for pre-show refreshment. By eating or drinking there, you also get in the door before those waiting in line outside.

Like previous Barcelona shows, I had guest list privileges...love that...so my friend and I got in for free.  We found seats in the upper level, which gave us a good view of the stage.  Barcelona was not the only opening act for the night.  A Silent Film, a band from England, started things off.  Normally, I'm kind of leery when it comes to other artists that perform at the concerts I go to.  In other words, they end up being not my cup of tea.  But, I was pleasantly surprised with A Silent Film.  Their fast-paced, energetic songs reminded me of the 80s music and bands that I liked.

When A Silent Film finished their short set, they quickly broke down their equipment, aided by the Barcelona guys...so nice to see such camaraderie!  This was the first time I would be seeing Barcelona's current guitarist, Branden Cate.  He fit right in beautifully, both with his guitar and his vocals as the band played their six song set.

Lesser Things
Slipping Away
It's About Time
Come Back When You Can
The Takers
Falling Out Of Trees

  

Of course, I would have liked to hear a LOT more Barcelona, but alas, that is the nature of being an opening act.   I was hoping to see them afterward, but the band never showed up at the merchandise table.  I wondered if they were elsewhere at the club as Blue October took the stage.  Now, I can't say I know this band very well.  In fact, I only know one song, Into The Ocean, but I was willing to give them a listen. 

Well, I think I'll have to leave it at that.  Like I said before, not my cup of tea.  I didn't stay for the whole show, just long enough to hear that one song that I know.  Both of us had to work the next day, and I had a long drive back to Bellingham.  I never DID see the Barcelona guys that night, but I hoped things would be different at the next show.

As the tour continued, I saw them just three days later when they played the Commodore Ballroom in Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada.  Accompanied by a different friend, we made the drive north against rush hour traffic, which all seemed to be traveling out of the city.  We got there nice and early, which allowed us a leisurely dinner at Japadog.  At first glance, you would think this restaurant is your standard hot dog place until you notice the unusual toppings available.  I ordered the Terimayo...teriyaki sauce, Japanese mayonnaise and seaweed...and a side of fries seasoned with butter and soy sauce.  Awesomely yummy!  After our scrumptious meal, we walked to the venue and came across the bands' tour vehicles parked behind the building.  

 

When we reached the front of the ballroom, I was surprised to find just two young women waiting at the door.  Vancouver being a large city, I guess I figured there would be rabid Blue October fans there early...it was an hour and a half before doors opening.  Just as we joined "the line," a couple of guys showed up, and a threesome who drove all the way up from Portland, OR.  

I was confident I would be meeting the Barcelona guys at this concert, but I was pleasantly surprised when it happened BEFORE the show!  About a half hour to doors opening, the band emerged from the building.  I called out to lead singer, Brian Fennell, and he and the other guys came out to the line to chat with us.  Drummer Rhett Stonelake introduced me to Branden, the new guitarist...told him I was their biggest fan.  Awww...sweet!  The Commodore Ballroom turned out to be a very nice, large venue.  There were many tables surrounding a spacious floor area in front of the stage, and we grabbed one.  Like the Seattle show, A Silent Film opened the night.  After hearing them perform for a second time, I decided I just had to pick up their new CD.  

When Barcelona hit the stage, I made my way down to the floor.  Strangely, not only were there not a whole lot of people there, most of them opted to remain seated, at least for the opening acts.  I joined about 25 people standing, and had a great view of the stage.  Barcelona played the same set as the Seattle show, minus one song, Come Back When You Can. 

 

After Barcelona got done with their performance, I waited at the merchandise table for their meet and greet.  The drummer for A Silent Film was there signing stuff, but I didn't see their lead singer.  Then, Brian appeared and I immediately showed interest in the new Barcelona T-shirt on display.  He made sure I got the size I wanted, and after purchasing it, I asked him if he would sign it for me.  When Rhett and Branden showed up, they also autographed my shirt.  I praised Branden for his guitar work and vocals, and chatted with Rhett about his new cat.  I told Brian that I didn't much care for Blue October's music, but when he asked me about A Silent Film, I professed my appreciation for their talents.  Next thing I know, Brian picks up the new A Silent Film CD from the merch table to give to me.  Efforts to pay for it myself fall in vain...Brian was very adamant that I not!  It was a very sweet gesture on his part, and much appreciated!  Of course, my perfect night would not be complete without photos with my favorite music guys!

Before I left, I noticed the lead singer for A Silent Film had appeared at the merch booth, and I asked him if he would sign my newly acquired CD.  He introduced himself as Robert, and gratefully accepted my praise for their music.  I exchanged goodbyes and hugs with the Barcelona guys, and after one last glimpse of Blue October on stage, made the drive south back to the good ole USA. 

It's too bad I couldn't synchronize my vacation time with the tour, because no doubt, I would be following Barcelona for many more shows.  But, that doesn't mean that you can't see them.  The tour continues on down the West Coast for the next three weeks, ending in Dallas, TX on November 24.  And, check out A Silent Film, too!  Like Barcelona, they make great music and I'm enjoying their new CD!  Thanks so much for that, Brian!  Love you guys!