…so afraid that you’re gonna show, that they’re gonna know, that you’re normal. normal?…

Living the night by hitting the keys.

Yesterday I went to the Jackie-O MotherFucker and Godspeed You! Black Emperor concert. Let me say that it was AWESOME!

Nathan and I went there to ensure that he did indeed have his name on the list, and then walked around downtown for a while.

At 6:30 Dan (jigsaw666) came up and introduced himself. It was one of only a handful of close encounters I’ve had with people from the wonderful world of LJ. His friend dorkybex later arrived and Nathan parted with the extra ticket he had…

We went inside and stood for the standard hour or so until Jackie-O MotherFucker took the stage. They were quite entertaining and I’m sure I would enjoy their albums. However, one member had been stopped from crossing the border into Canada. Damn borders. They didn’t seem as cohesive as they would, I assume, normally be and there were some sound problems(guitar being too predominant). That said, I really enjoyed their set and I’d certainly go see them any time they return.

After the standard time Godspeed You! Black Emperor took the stage. Their entire 2 hour set was one of the most beautiful works of art I have ever experienced. I’m serious. In the sadness and conflict to their music(at least that’s how I have come to undestand it in the short while I have known of the band) there is such a real beauty. Lyricless works that last for many minutes came soaring from the stage, and their video projected upon the walls filled in the space the darkened stage left. Looping images and words gave a greater strength to the sounds. The burning words such as Hope and Burn All Flags carried much when encased by the astounding music. It was the longest set I have ever stood through, and I eventually had to leave the venue for some fresh air and movement or else risk passing out. It was remarkable music though, and the time went by all too fast. I will go to see them again any chance I’m given. You really should too. To do otherwise is to miss some truly beautiful art.

After the show I caught a bus and then called Ashley once I arrived back here. She’s been having troubles with sleeping and depression caused by school, and I always feel so helpless to do anything for her. All I’m able to do is listen and speak a little. I would do absolutely anything to make her happier, I really would, and will as soon as it’s possible for me to do more.

Once Nathan arrived home he told be a bit about the show that I missed. He said that GY!BE mentioned their opposition to Bush, the war and other things, including the border incident. GY!BE were nearly arrested in the US and suspected of being terrorists a while back. Yes, people who don’t like capitalism and the government, question the direction of the world, are serious about their beliefs and make music are obviously terrorists.

Now I think I’ll attempt to get some sleep. Perhaps I will, or perhaps not.