I Think I've Figured It Out

So, I've been feeling kind of lame for wanting to go see so much live music. I've wondered if I'm having a mid-life crisis. I've actually wondered if something is wrong with me. I've spent way too much time worrying about why I seem to be obsessed. Then it slowly sank in. I've basically spent the past twelve years raising kids and not going out much or seeing any shows or listening to what I want to listen to. Now they are are older and more self-sufficient. Now I finally have some of my freedom back. So, I'm back to doing what I've always loved, listening to music. It's not new or different. I have been somewhat obsessive about music since high school. My obsession just had to take a ten year break and now it's back with a vengeance.

I'm not going to apologize to anyone about why I feel compelled to turn it up too loud or why I want to see tons of shows. I figure soon enough I won't want to, so why not enjoy it now? I still love my old favorites and am loyal to them, but I've found lots of new stuff, too. At one point in my life, I wanted to make a career of working in the music industry. Then I found out how completely slimey it is and gave up. It always made me a little sad that it never came to be, but I've never regretted the choices I've made regarding work. All this is to say, yes, I probably am a smidge more obsessive about music than most people, but I think it's part of who I am and I'm OK with it.

As for my very specific interest in The Bomb, it's pretty simple. Naked Raygun was one of my favorite bands "back in the day." They were incredible trailblazers, setting the table for success for so many that followed them. While they had a good ride here in Chicago, they never really achieved the level of success that many critics feel they deserved. Jeff Pezzati was their frontman and now fronts The Bomb. I'm there to show support for the years of amazing music he produced and to support his band in their efforts now. I consider him a hometown hero. Not only has he had his own bands, but he has been instrumental in supporting other local artists through his label. This guy is invested and is for real. I learned in college working at the station how important it is to support your local scene. It's kind of like buying books at the independent bookstore or from a small press. It allows for more variety and for different voices and styles other than the commercial mainstream to be heard. So, yup, I go to all their shows and invite everyone I know. Come if you like, stay home if you want. I fully realize that not everyone likes what I like, thank God.