Sloan

I think this was the oddest Sloan show I'd ever seen. I wonder if they would agree that it was one of their strangest venues.

This was my 3rd Sloan show, and first since July '97. However this was my first time after being familiar with all their releases.

First off, this is a resort town along the CA coast about 1/2 way between LA & SD. I knew there wouldn't be many folks in attendance. Other than a few hard core fans who drove from LA (and me from Vegas), it seemed like a mix of tourists, locals, and college kids who would've been there no matter who was playing. I'd say there was about 30-50 people watching as the Fab Four played. Really sad, because I saw greatness!

The funny thing is the venue's layout: long bench/table seating with the tables perpendicular to the stage, and no dance/pit area. In Vegas a lot of showrooms are set up that way (which I hate because you have to stay seated and crane your neck left or right to face the stage), but this had quite a different feel. More like hunting lodge/dining hall, and as soon as the band started, the old folks moseyed on out. Since the crowd was sparse, I didn't mind standing when others stayed seated. Plenty of room to maneuver.

Music related comment: The band kicked ass, like they were playing to thousands. I can't remember much about which songs they played, how the sound was, etc. But I really appreciate the fact that the band seems to genuinely enjoy themselves on stage. Witty banter, jokes, crowd interaction, the works. So what if only a few dozen saw it. Sloan made the best of it and I love them for it. I have yet to be disappointed by this band in the 7 years I've been a fan.

I love the fact that I don't care what songs are/aren't on the setlist, because they all rule. I'd be just as happy if they played the new CD in it's entirety or if they played all covers. There aren't many bands you can say that about.

Needless to say, I can't wait to see them again in 2004, at all their SoCal gigs.