The heat wave finally broke. A cool summer breeze kicked up. I sat on a friends deck, overlooking the water, enjoying the freedom from routine. The other guests included Eric and Wesley. We hadn't all hung out in a few months, but the banter was familiar. The jokes and laughs came easily
There was cause for celebration - Wesley's Rodeo Parade project was releasing and EP at midnight. We played it all the way though, listening to the stories of each song. Themes of small towns and relationships past. How the process for each songs is so different. Some come rushing out, others take years to develop. I love the company of creative talented people. I didn't want it to end.
We previewed a few unreleased tracks as well and discussed the creation of art. The desire of the artists to continually want to improve the piece, and ultimately the need for them to set it free into the world, despite any imperfections. Only in that way can the next idea come to light.
My next idea was to jump in the car and accept a generous last minute invite to see the Dirty Heads and Slightly Stoopid at Hartford Healthcare area. Arriving a bit late, I snuck into the parking lot adjacent to the venue. Walking in during the Slightly Stoopid set, I was reminded of reggae shows from summers past. The vibe is light and breezy, the crowd swayed and grooved to the beats. Cares and worries left at the door.
In contract to the heady indie folk discussions earlier in the evening, the performance of these two bands is more a mood. Many of these songs have been on summer playlists over the last decade. The crowd ate it up - screaming the chorus to the Dirty Heads "Life's Been Good" a spin on the Joe Walsh classic.
"My black Impala goes 85
I lost my license, too high when I drive
I got a beach house, gold records on the wall
I'm in the water so don't even call"
We stayed late, until all the cars had all left the lots and they cleared us out.
Only the magic of summer could produce a night like this one. You have to enjoy them while they're here.
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