Sloan

Gosh. Where do I start? Greatest show (for me) ever? Well, it’s true. The fact that I was fortunate to sit in on the sound check did probably tip the scales.

This is my third Sloan show, and I really think, the best. Played hit after hit, were in great voice, they were smiling and laughing and I was having the time of my life. Here’s the set list:

Penpals
Losing California
All I Am
Witch’s Wand
Fading into Obscurity
Something’s Wrong
911
HFXNSHC
Blackout
Before I Do
Cheap Champagne
Reach Out
Ready for You
Believe in Me
Take Good Care of the Poor Boy
I’m Not a Kid Any More
The Dogs
People of the Sky
Down in the Basement
Everything You’ve Done Wrong
Who Taught You to Live Like That
The Other Man
Money City Maniacs
(and I never wrote down the three songs in the encore)

One song I’d wanted to hear, and was so appropriate for San Francisco is “Losing California”. However, before the show, I asked Patrick if he could include it, and as you can see, it was the second song of the show. As much as I wanted to hear the song, I wanted to see Andrew tear into the drums.

But as much as I truly enjoy watching and listening to the guys of Sloan, meeting and talking to them is even better. Of course, Chris and Jay work the crowds, but I had the chance to talk to Andrew and Patrick, too. Mike Nelson was his usual affable self. Glad to see that Greg was still providing the keyboard work, too.

The opening act, The Golden Dogs, were quite entertaining, and a great opening act. Jessica Grassia-Azzolini, the keyboardist is one of the most energetic band members I’ve ever seen! Plus, they showed up in their Dodge Ram van with Ontario plates less than an hour before the show! Got caught up in the Bay Area traffic.

Every time I see Sloan, I appreciate them more and more. Thanks for the terrific show, guys!

Lee Hower
Sacramento, California