Boise bound: Josh Groban In The Round tour

After seeing Elton John in Las Vegas a couple of days ago, I had another concert to attend the following day.  It would take 9 hours and more than 600 miles to drive to Boise, ID to see Josh Groban in the first show of his In The Round North American Tour.  I had never seen Josh in concert, not that I didn't want to.  The last time he did a show in Seattle, it just wasn't convenient for me.  This time around, Seattle was also out of the question because I was already attending a different concert in Portland on the same day.  While planning my current road trip, I realized I could do the Boise show, although it would mean a long drive from Vegas on the same day.

Yesterday, I left Las Vegas at 6:30 am, which would be 7:30 in Boise.  Losing one hour to Mountain time would make things more challenging for me.  It was pretty much a straight shot on U.S. Highway 93 to Twin Halls, ID, then the interstate to Boise.  When I got there, thankfully there was no rush hour traffic problems.  I quickly checked into my hotel to freshen up and put on a change of clothes, then headed over to Taco Bell Arena, site of the concert. There was already a line of people waiting to get in.  The 6:30 doors opening time came and went.  About 15 minutes later, we were told the delay was due to the opening act still doing sound checks.  Hmm.  I thought they usually did those in the afternoon?

After a half hour wait, they finally let everyone into the arena.  But, the delay didn't seem to affect the start of the show...the opening act, Judith Hill.  She put on a very energetic set and got the crowd pumped up for what was to follow.  I had a great floor seat, which got me pretty close to the action on stage.

At the intermission, while they were removing everything from the opening act, I found out I was sitting in the wrong seat.  Rather, right seat, wrong section.  Turns out my real seat had a better view of the piano.  When Josh Groban took the stage, it was a surreal moment for me.  I was FINALLY seeing him perform live, and I found myself completely mesmerized.  Josh's voice was wonderful as he started things off with the song Brave from his new album, All That Echoes. 

I didn't have to wait long to hear my favorite song...February Song.  This is the song Josh co-wrote with my Number One music guy, John Ondrasik...better known as Five For Fighting.  The In The Round format allowed everyone in the arena to get a good view of Josh...he was constantly moving around.  His band sounded just awesome, especially with the addition of a six-piece horn and strings section.  During one humorous interlude, Josh answered a few questions submitted by audience members.  Another great moment happened when Josh performed a duet with Judith for a couple of songs.  And, it should also be noted that the ever-so-talented Josh dabbled on drums for two songs...amazing!

Josh performed his most well-known songs, as well as material from his new album.  It was so exciting watching him sing You Raise Me Up and Vincent...the latter originally made famous by singer-songwriter Don McLean. But, all good things must come to an end, and the show did seem to end all too quickly.  As I exited the arena, I decided to check out where Josh's tour bus was parked.  My friend Tara...who is a HUGE Josh Groban fan...said Josh often signs autographs after his shows.  There was an open spot along the barricade closest to the bus, and I staked out my spot.

In no time, the area was full of eager, hopeful fans.  I had forgotten to bring something to get signed, so my ticket stub would have to do.  As we waited, some of Josh's band members came out to interact with the crowd.  Josh's parents also came out to chat with people.  They are so proud of him, and they should be.  Such a talent!  After about an hour of waiting in the cold...yes, it was a bit chilly...Josh finally made his appearance.  We were told he would only be signing autographs, but I was determined to get a word in with him.  I took some photos of Josh doing his thing.

Finally, it was my turn.  I said HI to Josh, and as he signed my ticket stub I told him that this John Ondrasik fan...that would be me...thought he was awesome!  He thanked me, and said that he hadn't written John in awhile and that he probably should.  It was a wonderful way to end my truly memorable night.  As I was walking through the parking lot to my car, I saw Josh's bus leaving, escorted by two police cars with lights flashing.  Wow, police escort out of town...well, to the first intersection anyway.  It would be an overnight trip to Seattle for tomorrow's show at Key Arena.  I wish I could be there, but like I said, I'm already going to a show in Portland.  It will be the Pet Shop Boys on their Electric tour.  I have a VIP Meet and Greet ticket, and I'm looking forward to meeting them again.  Stay tuned...