First, the S'ssssss. Then Fuck Your Face. Now Most Shows Spell Something. Backwards! But, once again, one ultimately needs to forget the gimmick. Because what's style without substance? All three run-opening shows over the last the three years have shared a common characteristic: Face Melting and leaving a Blank Space Where My Mind Should Be by the end of each show.

There are folks 'round here that are much better qualified for the blow by blow/song by song description. I feel it suffice it to say that the sheer execution of said setlist was essentially off-da-hook for the entire evening, IMHO only one jam (Twist) did reach for yet did not achieve total liftoff. Everything else did, from the Ghost start to the wonderfully wistful Meatstick closer with a blow-me-away Easy To Slip slipped in there in the middle as a musical pearl. Sneaky good this band is...and my birthday show still awaits me today! How lucky does one get...ready to receive the further embarrassment of musical riches they have in store for us over the next two nights. This is why one travels thousands of miles in order to celebrate with dozens of friends over an entire weekend. Because in the end, they do love Dick's...wow!

Peace,
Alex

PS: Happy Birthday also to Matty at Waterwheel!