Hip, or Just Broken Hip

Last night was another Bright Lights Big City experience (sans the Bolivian). If you don't recall the opening line: "You are not the kind of guy who would be at a place like this at this time of the morning. But here you are, and you cannot say the terrain is entirely unfamiliar, though the details are fuzzy."

I was quite proud of myself a few months ago when I special ordered The 88's latest cd that my friend at the indie record store had never heard of them. Soon thereafter, I read they were coming to town. I had to go.

But as the date came closer, my level of energy started to take a nosedive. I can barely keep my eyelids open this week and my voice tone makes Debbie Downer sound like Zig Ziglar.

But after The 88 appeared on How I Met Your Mother, I took it as a sign. I had to go. Especially after The Wiggles reference. Apparently, Melissa didn't see the same signs.

I really thought my weekday nights of going to shows was coming to a close. Apparently not.

I've always loved bands that wear suits and ties when they perform -- yes, especially ever since Duran Duran. To me, it radiates that they take themselves, their music, and their audience seriously. Plus, I secretly wish I had the guts to dress like they do. Solid brown suits, a green shirt, and a bright yellow tie. Just way too cool.

Their music is a great mixture of late 80's/early 90's pop with some Kinks thrown in. And a pianist/keyboardist that could hang with Ray Manzarek for quite some time. He's really that good.

But back to the Bright Lights Big City reference. The show was at the Gypsy Tea Room about a mile down the road from work. I just love working next to Deep Ellum. I may never leave. I worked late and ended up skipping dinner. Add that to the loud music, and I soon developed a headache that lasted until just a few hours ago. And after standing for a couple of hours at the bar so I could catch parts of the Cavs/Wizards game, I was finally forced to find seating along the walls to relieve my aching back.

I ended up chatting with a couple from Denton. If you have known me for several years, you'd find me talking with complete strangers somewhat out of character. My M.O. - if a stranger starts to make conversation, I'll nod my head politely and exchange non-personal and meaningless words. Then break for the nearest exit sign.

Not last night. I was in the mood to jump out of my personality and not be me for a night. It's very easy for me to do that listening to live music.

After a few minutes of semi-awkward conversation, we hit it off like we were long lost friends. We went immediately to learning each other's names to rudely making fun of each other. And once the show ended, we parted ways as quickly as we met. I love single serving friends.

My best story for the night - since I lost my driver's license, the only way the bouncer would let me in was to give me the Minor's Mark - black X's on each hand. Do you have any idea how embarrassing it is for a slightly-greying man to be lumped in with boys who are just learning to shave?

My step may be a bit slower today. And the three aspirin took a while to work their magic. But I'm joyful today. I'll take it.