Explosions in the Sky

My friend Chris asked if I wanted to join him and his friend Beau to see Explosions in the Sky on Monday evening. I'll be honest and admit that I didn't even know they were coming to town and also admit that it was a band that I hadn't listened to in quite some time. But I was definitely down for it, especially since I had never seen them live before.

I was first introduced to Explosions in the Sky back in my Florida State days by Jordanna. She forced me to listen to them as she claimed that it was "life changing" music (or maybe that was Natalie Portman who said that about The Shins?). So I gave it a shot. I enjoyed the music quite a bit and found that it was great music to work and program to. For those who aren't familiar, Explosions in the Sky is an instrumental rock band and I've always had a hard time getting into all instrumental bands (save for Godspeed You! Black Emperor).

When I was asked to go to the show, it was almost like a blast from the past. The first thing I thought of was Jordanna (oh how I miss her)! I didn't think there would be many people at the show but when we arrived at In the Venue there was the longest line I had ever seen in my life! This band has quite a following, apparently. But the line moved rather quickly and before you knew it we were inside with our beers listening to the very Brian Eno-esq (from his ambient days) opener. Chris said the music made him feel like he was in his mother's womb again.

Truth be told, I really wasn't that excited about seeing Explosions in the Sky. However, when they took the stage I was captivated from beginning to end. I have NEVER had as many goose bump inducing moments at a concert before and have never had tears swell up in my eyes at a show. Holy shit, they put on a good show. I recognized many of the songs and it brought me back to four years ago when I was in Florida (when I listened to the band the most) and took me back to so many memories. I had forgotten how powerful their music is... Without words and lyrics they managed to put on one of the most emotional, fiery, beautiful, and captivating concerts I have ever been to. It sounds cheesy, but their show and music evokes emotions that rarely gets tapped into for me.

At the end of the show the band left the stage and the lights came on. Most people stuck around expecting an encore, however the concert staff tried to get everyone out saying there wouldn't be one. The band members came on stage to get their equipment and one of them announced they don't do encores because the break ruins the intensity and emotional atmosphere they created during the show. I completely agree. If they had started playing again it wouldn't have been the same. So glad I made this show!