Part II: The Concerts. The People. The Memories.
After so many years and so many shows it's not just about the music anymore, it does play a large part obviously because if it weren't for the band I wouldn't go, but after years it's become much more than that.
There are so many groups, artists and bands that travel the world performing in countless cities, but few can match what DMB does. Yes there are bands like The Rolling Stones, Elton John, U2, and others who have an amazing live act, but they can't do it like DMB does. Every show DMB plays, they sell out. While these other acts are making more money by having their tickets cost up to $250 for face value, they aren't selling out entire 40,000 person amphitheaters. DMB will sell out in minutes for a show that's months away keep prices relatively low. Not saying there aren't scalpers out there, cause there are, but in general no ticket should be over $100. They have toured every summer for the past 15 years and are just now taking the summer of 2011 off. Year after year they put in 50+ shows all over the country and even the world and in those 15 years, no setlist has ever been the same. Bands like U2 will play one tour every few years and within that tour you will see the same songs if you go to more than one show. Not saying that you won't get repeats at multiple DMB shows, but there is always some variations between the concerts.
Each show has it's own element, vibe, mood and experience. I have been to 30+ shows and each one has been a completely different experience. There is no other band (and I have seen my fair share of live acts) that can perform the way this band does. From the first song to the last, they are 100%. They may not play a song that you want to hear or that you've heard before but it doesn't matter because odds are it's going to be different. Whether a solo is different, Dave changes the words, misses a line, has the crowd sing a verse, adds an intro or outro, it's all different. I've heard songs like Two Step and Crush so many times I can't even count them all but each time they've been different. For a while I was starting to dislike every time they played Two Step, then last year at Saratoga Springs Performing Arts Center (SPAC) I heard it again, but it was revamped, Carter added a 2nd badass drum solo. It blew me out of the water. That one moment at the show I fell in love w/ the song all over again.
there are a lot of people who have been to countless shows who go into the next concert expecting the perfect setlist, all the songs THEY want to hear. It's up to the band, they will play what they want to play. If you go into a show with your nose in the air expecting to hear something they haven't played in 6 years, you're going to be sorely disappointed when you don't get it. Going into every show just wanting to enjoy the music that you love you're going to have a good time. They go out there and do what they love for their fans (and of course for the money) going into a venue just wanting to have a great time is going to make the experience 1000x better. What matters most though, I think, are the people you're with.
Yes Dave says it himself "it's not where but who you're with that really matters" and as cliche as it sounds, it's true. I started going to concerts when I was in high school with my mom and a few friends. We'd show up to the show a few hours before, walk into the venue, sit down listen to the opener, wait for DMB and then leave right after the show. It wasn't until 2006 when I really experienced what it's like to be at a DMB concert. What I call my home venue is Alpine Valley in East Troy, WI. To me it's the best place in the country to see a show. Everyone is going to have their own opinion naturally but Alpine is my home. 06 was the first year I showed up early to tailgate with friends, we drank (yes underage) and we had a great time. From that moment on I knew I had to have an experience just like that at every show. Summer 2007 I stayed out on the east coast @ UConn during the previous year I had spent a lot of time on the Warehouse Message Boards (the official DMB fan club) talking to a lot of other fans who loved the band just as much as I did. DMB was coming to Hartford, CT and I was going to both shows, so finally I met so many of these people who I'd become friends with through one common interest. That weekend is a weekend I'll never forget.
Hartford 2007 changed my life instantly. I never thought that I could be embraced by a group of people so easily. I walked up to the tailgate and before I could even get a word out people were running up to me to give me a hug. In high school and somewhat in college I was never really accepted by a lot of people. I was left out of a lot of things for reasons I'll never know, but showing up at Hartford in 07 made me feel at home. I felt like I belonged. After meeting these people I felt whole (yes I know it sounds cheesy). Time continued on and I kept getting closer and closer with these people. Some of them I've become closer with online than some friend I've known for years. We have one thing in common to start w/ the band, but then we grow and expand from there. No judgments, no reservations, just be who you are. I've become so involved with this community that it often has consumed parts of my life. I'd rather go home and see a friend from the Warehouse than someone I went to high school with. They understand me, they get me, and they like me. More years pass, more shows, more tailgates, and more people. While we all have people we are closer with, it naturally happens, every person I've met at these gatherings has been good to me and I wouldn't change the experience for anything.
I've become so close with some of these people that we've even created Blackberry Messenger Chat groups so we have another way to keep in touch. Many people don't understand how we can all become so close with one another over something like a band. It's more than the band now, it's the memories that we're creating every time we get together. We don't even need the concerts anymore, we just need each other. This year may have topped the charts on my experiences at these shows. It started in New York @ SPAC this year. We had our normal group of UConn alumni who went upstate together and we spent the first night at our same tailgate just enjoying one anothers company and having a great time. The 2nd night I convinced them to come to the Warehouse gathering, BALLSfest. It's a huge gathering of hundreds of people with food, alcohol and music. While I only knew probably 50 people, it was a great time to meet new people and still have my friends there with me.
That weekend is always hard to top but then this year I ventured to a new venue: Deer Creek. After hearing so many things I figured I'm in Chicago I can drive down Sat am and go to the 2nd night. Arriving at a friends house around 11 we left shortly after for the Poole House. The Pooles are a truly amazing couple who own a house nearby the venue with of course... a pool. The entire day is spent lounging, drinking, eating, laughing, and just relaxing with friends. We're away from all the under aged kids who are out of control and with the people we care about. That night I was supposed to sit alone in a single seat about 25 rows up from the stage. Another friend of mine had a single as well about 5 rows behind mine so she suggested we sit together. Behind her seat were 2 more of our friends... the other 7 people who were supposed to be around her didn't show up so we had 8 seats for 4 people. While the setlist may have not been the best... we had the greatest time. Thus creating: BEST... SEAT... BUDDIES... EVER!!!!! I woke up the next morning with bruises on my leg because I was dancing so much and hit the seats so many times.
My summer of DMB 2010 came to a close (for the time being, but since Wrigley has been announced 2 more shows were added) at Alpine. Because of work I only planned to go to the first night buttttttt the crazies that are known as my friends of course convinced me to stay for the 2nd night. I arrived in Milwaukee after a brutal commute from Chicago, but even the traffic couldn't get to me because I was so excited. Rather than staying in separate hotel rooms all over the city a friend was kind enough to open her parents home where they had plenty of land for us to camp on for free. Not many communities based around a band can say that they can do this. Friday night before the concerts was spent downtown Milwaukee at bars and camping in the backyard. Not getting back until the wee hours of the morning and we were still ready to go the next day for the shows. We left at noon on our Joy Farm school bus loaded with beer, alochol, and a buffet of food. Not many people can say they can board a bus with 40 of their friends and go to a concert like we do. There are too many things to even try to remember that went on during the weekend but without the people it wouldn't be the same. We created so many inside jokes, memories, nicknames, and whatever else we can think of that will stick with us for the rest of our lives. I mean hell, they convinced me to stay another night that's how much they mean to me.
While the band has a lot to do with our plans and our trips to see one another, without the band next year we're already planning to make the same trip to Wisconsin during Summerfest to check out other bands. Some of us are getting together for Labor Day weekend to camp, when I'm home in Milwaukee I always try to grab drinks with friends. I'm even going to ones wedding next weekend in northern WI. Yes we may have not met what would be considered the normal way, but how is it any different than meeting a random person walking on the street. Plus in our modern world, especially where internet plays such a large factor in all of our lives, who's to say what's not normal. I cherish every chance I get to see these people and so what if we go to multiple concerts a year, so what if it seems obsessive. I love my life and I love my friends that are in it. Judge me all you want, but I'm going to keep going to shows as long as the band is touring.
I love what this band has done for my life, they've introduced me to a world that I never though existed. Happiness, great memories, good music, amazing experiences, life-long memories, phenomenal people, and just an all around "good good time".
Thursday, July 29, 2010
Wednesday, July 28, 2010
Stay up and make some memories...
Part I: The Start, The Music, The Band.
As summer's end fast approaches I've begun to think a lot about the one thing that has consumed the better part of the last 10 years of my life: Dave Matthews Band. While most people make fun of me for my choice in music (and lifestyle) it's something I would never trade. Yes it could seem extreme and as some put it "obsessive" but if they could experience what I experience when I listen to the band then they'd understand. If they had something that they cared about as much as I do they would understand what this band means to me. I think it's a good thing to have something in your life that you can care so much about, it helps keep you sane.
I started listening to the band on a very regular basis when I was in high school thanks to my mother and now stepfather who are also big fans. I blame them for the obsession. I listened to Before These Crowded Streets for the first time a few years before and instantly fell in love with the rhythms, the lyrics, the percussion, the bass, the violin, the voice, everything. I know everyone will say how a song moves them and effects them deep inside their soul and others will laugh, but until you've heard that one song, you won't know what I'm talking about. When going through the BCTS album "Crush" began to play. From the opening bass lines, my heart melted. It's the perfect song, all of the elements put together are perfect. Nothing should be changed, it's the perfect love song. It's the pure love you have when you've met the perfect person to match your soul.
There were a lot of things I didn't believe in until I started listening to DMB. The songs that Dave Matthews (and other members who co-write songs as well) can be related to almost any mood you're in. Whether you're angry at the world, just happy to be alive, trying to live life to the fullest, enjoying time with friends, wanting to be different, confused, in love, or you just have no idea what's going on, there is always a song you can listen to. Lyrically they could be one of the most brilliant bands in history, while they may not write songs like the Beatles but what they do is so unique to them, that no matter who you are, you know "it's DMB". So many people who claim they don't like the music (which is more than okay) have never truly given it a chance. I've turned people on the music unintentionally and before they know it, they're addicted just like me.
I'm not a fan who wants all of their friends around them to be just as obsessed but there is one thing that always gets me. People who say the band sucks just because they don't like the music personally but they don't credit the members of the band for their musical talent. Even if you don't like their music, you have to appreciate and understand the level of talent in the band. While they may have not changed music like Led Zeppelin or Nirvana did with their styles of music, they did change the way other musicians and fans approach, listen and write music. They have a very unique style that only they can pull off. Leroi Moore, may he rest peacefully in heaven with other music greats, was as strong presence in the band that you can't help but just close your eyes and float away while listening to his solos on "#41" or "Bartender". Stefan Lessard, the bass guitarist, and youngest member of the band is oftern overlooked but as a 16 year old he obviously caught the attention of Dave Matthews for that's when he dropped out of school and joined the band. The thumping bass notes at the beginning of "crush" or his electric jam on "anyone seen the bridge" or the every famous fist pump during the "woo" on "warehouse" just make you want to dance. Boyd Tinsley, for 20 years has made the violin seem like the coolest instrument, even when he's moving around so much on the stage that you can barely see his face. The plucking at the beginning of "two step" or the phenomenal solo in "Lie in our Graves" gets everyone in the crowd excited.
While I love all the members of the band there are 2 who stand above. Carter Beauford, percussion extraordinaire and Dave Matthews, lyrical genius. Carter, the oldest member in the band now that Roi has passed away, still jams like he did 20 years ago. Not only does he play the standard drum set, but it includes any other percussion instrument that he needs. His 60 piece drum set would make any beginning, intermediate or advanced drummer drool, but the best part is that he makes it look easy. His movements are so fluid and smooth it's just mind blowing that he's 50 and doing what some 20-something year olds could never do. I often think that drummers in other bands watch and listen to him and just bow their heads because they will never be able to do what he does. His jam intros for songs like "you never know" and "say goodbye" make any fans jaw drop, but for me the song that makes my jaw drop all the way to the floor would have to be "Halloween". Such a brilliantly angry song and then to hear the pounding of the drums throughout the song and during his solo by the end you already feel better.
And finally the man who's name IS the band, Dave Matthews. Many people say it's arrogant to name the band after yourself, but as the co-founding member and lead singer it just sounds right. Many fans if you ask them who their favorite member is, it's not Dave himself (most will say Carter, his smile is irresistible). What Matthews has done lyrically, can put him up there with some of the greatest lyricists of all time. He has written everything from love songs ("Crash", "Crush") to living life to the fullest songs ("Pig", "Lie in our Graves", "Tripping Billies") to songs about death ("Shotgun", "You Never Know") to songs about god knows what ("Rhyme and Reason") and no matter what, there is always a song you can listen to. He may not be the best guitarist of all time but his style and the rhythms that he composes other musicians can't do it like he does. He even has songs that he can't play and sing at the same time because the guitar part alone is too difficult. His stage presence has drawn so many people into the music alone and without him center stage it wouldn't be the same band for most people. Some can't stand his voice but to me it's so soothing (even during the angriest of songs) with the hint of raspiness, no one could sing these songs the way he does.
tomorrow... Part II: The Concerts, The People, The Memories
As summer's end fast approaches I've begun to think a lot about the one thing that has consumed the better part of the last 10 years of my life: Dave Matthews Band. While most people make fun of me for my choice in music (and lifestyle) it's something I would never trade. Yes it could seem extreme and as some put it "obsessive" but if they could experience what I experience when I listen to the band then they'd understand. If they had something that they cared about as much as I do they would understand what this band means to me. I think it's a good thing to have something in your life that you can care so much about, it helps keep you sane.
I started listening to the band on a very regular basis when I was in high school thanks to my mother and now stepfather who are also big fans. I blame them for the obsession. I listened to Before These Crowded Streets for the first time a few years before and instantly fell in love with the rhythms, the lyrics, the percussion, the bass, the violin, the voice, everything. I know everyone will say how a song moves them and effects them deep inside their soul and others will laugh, but until you've heard that one song, you won't know what I'm talking about. When going through the BCTS album "Crush" began to play. From the opening bass lines, my heart melted. It's the perfect song, all of the elements put together are perfect. Nothing should be changed, it's the perfect love song. It's the pure love you have when you've met the perfect person to match your soul.
There were a lot of things I didn't believe in until I started listening to DMB. The songs that Dave Matthews (and other members who co-write songs as well) can be related to almost any mood you're in. Whether you're angry at the world, just happy to be alive, trying to live life to the fullest, enjoying time with friends, wanting to be different, confused, in love, or you just have no idea what's going on, there is always a song you can listen to. Lyrically they could be one of the most brilliant bands in history, while they may not write songs like the Beatles but what they do is so unique to them, that no matter who you are, you know "it's DMB". So many people who claim they don't like the music (which is more than okay) have never truly given it a chance. I've turned people on the music unintentionally and before they know it, they're addicted just like me.
I'm not a fan who wants all of their friends around them to be just as obsessed but there is one thing that always gets me. People who say the band sucks just because they don't like the music personally but they don't credit the members of the band for their musical talent. Even if you don't like their music, you have to appreciate and understand the level of talent in the band. While they may have not changed music like Led Zeppelin or Nirvana did with their styles of music, they did change the way other musicians and fans approach, listen and write music. They have a very unique style that only they can pull off. Leroi Moore, may he rest peacefully in heaven with other music greats, was as strong presence in the band that you can't help but just close your eyes and float away while listening to his solos on "#41" or "Bartender". Stefan Lessard, the bass guitarist, and youngest member of the band is oftern overlooked but as a 16 year old he obviously caught the attention of Dave Matthews for that's when he dropped out of school and joined the band. The thumping bass notes at the beginning of "crush" or his electric jam on "anyone seen the bridge" or the every famous fist pump during the "woo" on "warehouse" just make you want to dance. Boyd Tinsley, for 20 years has made the violin seem like the coolest instrument, even when he's moving around so much on the stage that you can barely see his face. The plucking at the beginning of "two step" or the phenomenal solo in "Lie in our Graves" gets everyone in the crowd excited.
While I love all the members of the band there are 2 who stand above. Carter Beauford, percussion extraordinaire and Dave Matthews, lyrical genius. Carter, the oldest member in the band now that Roi has passed away, still jams like he did 20 years ago. Not only does he play the standard drum set, but it includes any other percussion instrument that he needs. His 60 piece drum set would make any beginning, intermediate or advanced drummer drool, but the best part is that he makes it look easy. His movements are so fluid and smooth it's just mind blowing that he's 50 and doing what some 20-something year olds could never do. I often think that drummers in other bands watch and listen to him and just bow their heads because they will never be able to do what he does. His jam intros for songs like "you never know" and "say goodbye" make any fans jaw drop, but for me the song that makes my jaw drop all the way to the floor would have to be "Halloween". Such a brilliantly angry song and then to hear the pounding of the drums throughout the song and during his solo by the end you already feel better.
And finally the man who's name IS the band, Dave Matthews. Many people say it's arrogant to name the band after yourself, but as the co-founding member and lead singer it just sounds right. Many fans if you ask them who their favorite member is, it's not Dave himself (most will say Carter, his smile is irresistible). What Matthews has done lyrically, can put him up there with some of the greatest lyricists of all time. He has written everything from love songs ("Crash", "Crush") to living life to the fullest songs ("Pig", "Lie in our Graves", "Tripping Billies") to songs about death ("Shotgun", "You Never Know") to songs about god knows what ("Rhyme and Reason") and no matter what, there is always a song you can listen to. He may not be the best guitarist of all time but his style and the rhythms that he composes other musicians can't do it like he does. He even has songs that he can't play and sing at the same time because the guitar part alone is too difficult. His stage presence has drawn so many people into the music alone and without him center stage it wouldn't be the same band for most people. Some can't stand his voice but to me it's so soothing (even during the angriest of songs) with the hint of raspiness, no one could sing these songs the way he does.
tomorrow... Part II: The Concerts, The People, The Memories
Saturday, April 24, 2010
Ben Folds and a Piano
My first adventure into the big city could not have been any better. Tuesday afternoon I left work a little early to catch the 4:43 train into the city and of course the non Chicago resident that I am forgot to buy my ticket beforehand and the ticket window was of course, closed. It doesn't matter that much because you can buy your ticket on the train. After my adventure on the train I made it the Purple L Line and headed north to the Belmont stop.
I got the to the Vic Theatre to pick up my ticket from Will Call and of course the line was around the corner long before I got there at 6:30. I got a spot in line and waited but my hopes of being up close and center were severely diminished. They let us into the venue and me being on my own made it a lot easier to get around and manuver my way to the front. Getting into the venue I was expecting the front to be jam packed, but found it near empty and I still can't figure out why it was so empty in front of the stage. I perfectly centered myself at center stage and about 2 people back. Pretty much near perfect seating/standing for this show. The only thing I couldn't see were his hands which are always amazing to watch. Either way I was close and exactly where I wanted to be. We still had another hour until the opener came on so of course it was incredibly boring.
The opener was this chick, can't remember her name, from Australia. She reminded me a lot of Regina Specktor but with opera. She had quite the voice and had one of the best songs that night about facebook. It's surprising how short an openers setlist is, she only played a 1/2 hour. So once she got off the stage we waited for Ben. He just finished a new album so right before he came one they played 2 songs over the sound system and they were pretty good, from what I could hear. Ben came on stage to a thunderous roar and unlike some artists he just went right into the music. The entire show was a good mix of old songs, newer solo songs, and new songs off the new album. I found it funny that he wears these special band aids on his fingers to prevent blisters (yet it kind of makes sense) but he also forgot to put them on that night so he had to stop and have the roadie bring them out which of course prompted many people to shout out various things. They then reminded him that it was his father in laws birthday so we preceded to sing happy birthday so they could record it. He brought out the opener to sing the female part on "you don't know me" and it was just amazing.
This man seriously puts on one of the best concerts I've ever seen. His stage presence resembles that of an entire band, and he's just on his own w/ his piano. It's quite remarkable. He played some of my favorite songs including Zak and Sara, Underground, and Kate. Ben played a few new songs, not too many which was perfect, but one song that he played was pretty much pure brilliance. His new album he cowrote w/ Nick Hornby (High Fidelity) and I guess for a few months Hornby was obsessed with Levi Johnston, yes the guy who knocked up Bristol Palin, and somehow figured out how to write a song about it. Ranging from paparazzi to killing mooses, it pretty much sums up everything about his life and it's spectacular. I wonder what Levi is going to think once the cd is released. It's kind of strange going to a new concert thats non-DMB because I'm used to the 2.5-3 hour concert and this was only 2 BUT he played more songs and it was just as amazing in its own way. For the encore Ben came back out and played a new song then messed around soloing on his piano when from the side stage a roadie came out and brought him a snare drum. He then transitioned to the other side of the stage while the rest of the crew built the drumset around him and NOT ONCE did he stop playing. Even when he lost one of his drumsticks he stretched out got it while still hitting the symbol. Talk about talent. He closed the show with "One Angry Dwarf" and it was single handedly one of the best performances of any songs I've ever seen.
Ben Folds is one artist that anyone and everyone should go see at some point in their life. He's a fantastic performer with incredible stage presence to wow any crowd no matter who they are. I can't wait to see him again in the future.
Sunday, April 11, 2010
The Hunt for the Green Jacket
The Masters @ Augusta National, to me it's the start of Summer. Baseball season opening day has already come and gone and once those first couple of games are underway then it's time the Masters. The coveted Green Jacket. Augusta National is the most private and most prized course in the United States. Hell the groundskeeper pretty much has an unlimited budget in order to keep the course looking spectacular.
Every golfer who sets foot on the grounds almost always takes a second, deep breath and just pauses. The history and the legends who have walked this course is astounding. A lot of players, veterans and first-timers, can't handle the pressure that comes with the tournament but then some thrive on it. Those who do thrive are the ones who find success at the Masters. I've been watching golf all my life. I've been to countless tournaments and watched at least 5x that on tv and there is no tournament (in the US at least) that comes with the same pressure like the Masters. The British Open is a whole different story.
The days leading up to the first round are always quite relaxed. The always entertaining Par 3 Contest on the courses Par 3 holes is almost as great to watch as the tournament itself, but for different reasons. The Par 3 Contest is a fun event, players bring their families, kids and other fans into the fun. Many players have their kids caddying for them and it's just a great chance to let loose before the tournament begins. Despite all the fun of the tournament, many are very supersitious when it comes to the contest, and for good reason: no player who has won the par 3 contest has won the Masters. A lot of players will flop a shot, hit a ball in the water, or have their kid or a fan hit the putt for them. The day that someone wins the tournament after winning the par 3 contest will quite possibly be the greatest win in Masters history, from a superstitious standpoint at least.
First round play came on Thursday. Not only was the anticipation of the tournament to begin high but Tiger Woods' first tee shot in his rebirth in the sport was even higher. Before Tiger even teed off there were lots of suprises and lots of good golf. Tom Watson and Freddie Couples, 2 of the oldest players in the field, were battling it out for the lead. Not many people were expecting to see them play as well as they did. It's amazing how different a year can be at the Masters, or in any sport for that matter. Last year's champion may not even cut while another player who just skated through at a few strokes under par all weekend could walk away as the champion. No tournament can do that to any other golfer. Tiger's return had dominated the media leading up to the tournament. No one really talked about the tournament itself but rather on what Tiger was going to do. I thought before the 1st round that the weekend was going to be a disappointment because of the hype behind Tiger's rebirth. Boy was I wrong.
This weekend was single-handedly the best Masters tournament I've ever seen in my life. From the first round it was nothing but spectacular golf. And unlike most years this year it wasn't just about a handful of players doing well, the entire field (at least those under par) played amazing after amazing shots. Eagles from the farways, outstanding chip shots and long birdie putts were the theme for this weekend. More players this year were in the zone for the tournament. While some putts wouldn't sink and other tee shots were better, the majority of the field was playing each hole with extraordinary skill. Other than the champion, Phil Mickelson, the biggest story has got to be Tiger, of course. The man disappeared from golf following his personal life meltdown and the world was anticipating when and where he'd make his return. Boy did he not disappoint... at least the fans. He ended up in 4th which by no means is a bad tournament but for Tiger, it's a failure. Like he said he comes to win and when he doesn't he fails. That's the true sign of a competitor.
This year however it was Phil Mickelson's tournament. Even when he wasn't leading he was right in the mix, never more than a few shots out of the lead. After the 3rd round he was one shot out of the lead, but I don't think anyone expected him to have the kind of Final round today that Phil had. No bogeys... none... not one... zero...zilch. Phil played about as close to a perfect game that one could play in golf @ Augusta. After the 3rd round back-to-back eagles and a near triple eagle it would be hard to top that on Sunday. However somehow Phil managed to do so. With daring shots and brilliant putts he was able to shock the golfing world with what might be the greatest shot of his life in the rough on the 13th hole. He could have played it safe and just drove the ball out into the far way but what he did was brilliant. He took the risk and hit the shot full swing and landed the ball right where it needed to be. Pure brilliance.
Watching each round this weekend just reiterated everything that I loved about the game of golf. It was thrilling, exhilarating, and just down right entertaining to watching all weekend. People who think this sport is boring should have watched this weekend and they would have experienced the magic of the Masters.
Every golfer who sets foot on the grounds almost always takes a second, deep breath and just pauses. The history and the legends who have walked this course is astounding. A lot of players, veterans and first-timers, can't handle the pressure that comes with the tournament but then some thrive on it. Those who do thrive are the ones who find success at the Masters. I've been watching golf all my life. I've been to countless tournaments and watched at least 5x that on tv and there is no tournament (in the US at least) that comes with the same pressure like the Masters. The British Open is a whole different story.
The days leading up to the first round are always quite relaxed. The always entertaining Par 3 Contest on the courses Par 3 holes is almost as great to watch as the tournament itself, but for different reasons. The Par 3 Contest is a fun event, players bring their families, kids and other fans into the fun. Many players have their kids caddying for them and it's just a great chance to let loose before the tournament begins. Despite all the fun of the tournament, many are very supersitious when it comes to the contest, and for good reason: no player who has won the par 3 contest has won the Masters. A lot of players will flop a shot, hit a ball in the water, or have their kid or a fan hit the putt for them. The day that someone wins the tournament after winning the par 3 contest will quite possibly be the greatest win in Masters history, from a superstitious standpoint at least.
First round play came on Thursday. Not only was the anticipation of the tournament to begin high but Tiger Woods' first tee shot in his rebirth in the sport was even higher. Before Tiger even teed off there were lots of suprises and lots of good golf. Tom Watson and Freddie Couples, 2 of the oldest players in the field, were battling it out for the lead. Not many people were expecting to see them play as well as they did. It's amazing how different a year can be at the Masters, or in any sport for that matter. Last year's champion may not even cut while another player who just skated through at a few strokes under par all weekend could walk away as the champion. No tournament can do that to any other golfer. Tiger's return had dominated the media leading up to the tournament. No one really talked about the tournament itself but rather on what Tiger was going to do. I thought before the 1st round that the weekend was going to be a disappointment because of the hype behind Tiger's rebirth. Boy was I wrong.
This weekend was single-handedly the best Masters tournament I've ever seen in my life. From the first round it was nothing but spectacular golf. And unlike most years this year it wasn't just about a handful of players doing well, the entire field (at least those under par) played amazing after amazing shots. Eagles from the farways, outstanding chip shots and long birdie putts were the theme for this weekend. More players this year were in the zone for the tournament. While some putts wouldn't sink and other tee shots were better, the majority of the field was playing each hole with extraordinary skill. Other than the champion, Phil Mickelson, the biggest story has got to be Tiger, of course. The man disappeared from golf following his personal life meltdown and the world was anticipating when and where he'd make his return. Boy did he not disappoint... at least the fans. He ended up in 4th which by no means is a bad tournament but for Tiger, it's a failure. Like he said he comes to win and when he doesn't he fails. That's the true sign of a competitor.
This year however it was Phil Mickelson's tournament. Even when he wasn't leading he was right in the mix, never more than a few shots out of the lead. After the 3rd round he was one shot out of the lead, but I don't think anyone expected him to have the kind of Final round today that Phil had. No bogeys... none... not one... zero...zilch. Phil played about as close to a perfect game that one could play in golf @ Augusta. After the 3rd round back-to-back eagles and a near triple eagle it would be hard to top that on Sunday. However somehow Phil managed to do so. With daring shots and brilliant putts he was able to shock the golfing world with what might be the greatest shot of his life in the rough on the 13th hole. He could have played it safe and just drove the ball out into the far way but what he did was brilliant. He took the risk and hit the shot full swing and landed the ball right where it needed to be. Pure brilliance.
Watching each round this weekend just reiterated everything that I loved about the game of golf. It was thrilling, exhilarating, and just down right entertaining to watching all weekend. People who think this sport is boring should have watched this weekend and they would have experienced the magic of the Masters.
Tuesday, April 6, 2010
NCAA Men's Championship 2010
Like every other sports writer and sports fan stated it was David v. Goliath last night in the championship... Duke v. Butler... experience v. not. But it didn't matter last night. Duke (Goliath) ended up winning last night but only by 2, in a game that most people thought was going to be a blowout over the Butler Bulldogs (David). Unlike the story, David did not conquer Goliath last night, but they put up one helluva a fight.
Last nights game is the reason why I watch college basketball. While I was definitely rooting for Butler (mostly b/c of my hatred for Duke) all I really wanted to see was a good game, and boy did we get one. The lead was never greater than 6 and Butler never gave up. I mean come on if that last minute hail mary shot by Hayward had gone in it probably would have become the greatest shot in NCAA history, yes Duke fans, it would have been better than Christian Laettner's shot in the East Regional in 1992. Yes that wasn't the championship BUT it's one of the greatest shots in NCAA History. Hayward put up the shot and everyone held their breath, but as it hit iron everyone let go with either a sigh of upset or a scream of joy. Either way you look at it, Butler fought until the very end.
Butler's Coach had said it perfectly during pre-game interviews:
"We don't need to be better than them 364 days out of the year, we don't need to be better 23 hours out of the day...we just need to be better than them for 40 minutes."
And man did they come close. It's like I said previously, it all comes down to one number, on measurement of time: 40 minutes. No one thought they would be able to hang with the dominant force of the Blue Devils for 40 minutes but they did, until the very last second. Everyone will be talking not only about this tournament, but specifically this game. It's probably one of the best games of the tournament ever. Not to mention it was a 5 seed vs. a 1 seed but it was a downright gritty game. Each team, each player played as if it was going to be their last. Everything was put on the table but Duke just had a little bit more in their corner. That game, and this tournament as a whole, shows that it's not about who's got the better shooters or the better all around players, but who can grit their teeth for 40 minutes to come out with a higher score.
Tonight is the women's championship. UConn v. Stanford. The UConn women are the most dominant force in women's basketball, and possibly in men's basketball as well. They don't lose, at least for 77 games. However their last loss... 2 years ago TODAY... to whom????? Stanford. They have already beaten Stanford this year but like last nights game, anything can happen. UConn is 6-0 in national championships but I know that they're not playing like it's theirs... they know it's going to be a tough game and they're just going out to play like they do every other game.
U-C-O-N-N UCONN UCONN UCONN!
Last nights game is the reason why I watch college basketball. While I was definitely rooting for Butler (mostly b/c of my hatred for Duke) all I really wanted to see was a good game, and boy did we get one. The lead was never greater than 6 and Butler never gave up. I mean come on if that last minute hail mary shot by Hayward had gone in it probably would have become the greatest shot in NCAA history, yes Duke fans, it would have been better than Christian Laettner's shot in the East Regional in 1992. Yes that wasn't the championship BUT it's one of the greatest shots in NCAA History. Hayward put up the shot and everyone held their breath, but as it hit iron everyone let go with either a sigh of upset or a scream of joy. Either way you look at it, Butler fought until the very end.
Butler's Coach had said it perfectly during pre-game interviews:
"We don't need to be better than them 364 days out of the year, we don't need to be better 23 hours out of the day...we just need to be better than them for 40 minutes."
And man did they come close. It's like I said previously, it all comes down to one number, on measurement of time: 40 minutes. No one thought they would be able to hang with the dominant force of the Blue Devils for 40 minutes but they did, until the very last second. Everyone will be talking not only about this tournament, but specifically this game. It's probably one of the best games of the tournament ever. Not to mention it was a 5 seed vs. a 1 seed but it was a downright gritty game. Each team, each player played as if it was going to be their last. Everything was put on the table but Duke just had a little bit more in their corner. That game, and this tournament as a whole, shows that it's not about who's got the better shooters or the better all around players, but who can grit their teeth for 40 minutes to come out with a higher score.
Tonight is the women's championship. UConn v. Stanford. The UConn women are the most dominant force in women's basketball, and possibly in men's basketball as well. They don't lose, at least for 77 games. However their last loss... 2 years ago TODAY... to whom????? Stanford. They have already beaten Stanford this year but like last nights game, anything can happen. UConn is 6-0 in national championships but I know that they're not playing like it's theirs... they know it's going to be a tough game and they're just going out to play like they do every other game.
U-C-O-N-N UCONN UCONN UCONN!
Sunday, March 28, 2010
NCAA March Madness
And what a tournament it has been this year. This is hands down one of the best tournaments in years. And I even say that over last year when my team, UConn, went to the final four (and lost) because last year was predictable. It was 3 no 1 seeds and a no 2 seed in the Final Four. This year we have two #5 seeds and a 1 and 2 seed. 4 seeds were knocked out of the first round (Vanderbilt) 2 seeds were knocked out of the 2nd round by 10 seeds (St. Marys over NOVA). And while many people want to see the best teams in the country go at it, this to me is what this tournament is really about.
Unlike the MLB or NBA playoffs, it comes down to which team shows up in 40 minutes. Not in 7 games because in 7 games the better (higher seeded teams) is almost always going to win. In one game, 40 minutes, you really find out which team has the grit and the heart to pour everything they've got into that one game. Especially for these lower seeded teams they've got nothing to lose and this is where you see these players shine. We've seen it in past years from teams like Davidson and this year in St. Mary's or Cornell. It's even become a saying from the 2006 George Mason team... an 11 seed who made it to the final four: "Who's going to be this years George Mason?"
While I was in my freshman year at UConn we pretty much were the team to beat. We had everything we needed to win a championship. That year, that tournament was what made me love this sport and this tournament. We were watching the UConn/Washington game in the dorms, the Huskies v. the Huskies. Everyone together in a room rooting UConn on. We ended up winning in Double OT and you could have thought we'd already won the championship, however that was only to get us to the Elite 8. While we were focused on watching our team win George Mason was ruining brackets and surprising everyone. We meet George Mason in the elite 8, a game I'll never forget. In short words, we lost. In OT to a team that wasn't even close to the team we had... (Rudy Gay, Hilton Armstrong etc). Once the time ran out no one said a word, and we all pretty much went to bed. It was heartbreaking and no one can understand that heartbreak until they're team has lost a game like that.
While the loss was devastating, I have to give it up for George Mason. They were an 11 seed facing a 1 seed. A 1 seed that was dominating the tournament and had won the championship 2 years before. They didn't succumb to the pressure, they didn't cave, they did just the opposite... they rose. They rose to the occasion and ultimately became the better team. They played a better game, scored more points, got the rebounds and beat us. It's still heartbreaking and I DO NOT like to discuss it but George Mason really proved that it's anyone's tournament to win. At any moment a team can turn something magical and be the upset. David can conquer Goliath.
This years tournament was saw three 1 seed teams go down. The first being Kansas losing to a #9 seeded Northern Iowa. Despite so many people who had Kansas going deep, or even winning the tournament, they have to respect what Northern Iowa did. They truly played a magnificent game and for that team, that community, that school, it's their moment. They'll forever remember it as the day they beat the overall #1 seed in the NCAA tournament. That is something no one can ever take away from them. This tournament is a chance to prove to everyone that just because you have a lower seed or a less difficult conference to play in, you're not down for the count. It's 40 minutes of basketball. 40 minutes to make mistakes, do things right, hit a three, make a foul, call timeout, grit your teeth through the sweat and pain. 40 minutes to win.
In one week we will know who will be playing for the championship between the Final Four teams: Butler Bulldogs (5), Michigan State Spartans (5), West Virginia Mountaineers (2) and the Duke Blue Devils (1). These 4 teams are playing for another 40 minutes of game time. Another 40 minutes for the chance to claim the championship. It all comes down to one number... not the number on the scoreboard, or the number of points an individual player can score. But rather one measurement of time that will determine who was the better team.
40 minutes.
Unlike the MLB or NBA playoffs, it comes down to which team shows up in 40 minutes. Not in 7 games because in 7 games the better (higher seeded teams) is almost always going to win. In one game, 40 minutes, you really find out which team has the grit and the heart to pour everything they've got into that one game. Especially for these lower seeded teams they've got nothing to lose and this is where you see these players shine. We've seen it in past years from teams like Davidson and this year in St. Mary's or Cornell. It's even become a saying from the 2006 George Mason team... an 11 seed who made it to the final four: "Who's going to be this years George Mason?"
While I was in my freshman year at UConn we pretty much were the team to beat. We had everything we needed to win a championship. That year, that tournament was what made me love this sport and this tournament. We were watching the UConn/Washington game in the dorms, the Huskies v. the Huskies. Everyone together in a room rooting UConn on. We ended up winning in Double OT and you could have thought we'd already won the championship, however that was only to get us to the Elite 8. While we were focused on watching our team win George Mason was ruining brackets and surprising everyone. We meet George Mason in the elite 8, a game I'll never forget. In short words, we lost. In OT to a team that wasn't even close to the team we had... (Rudy Gay, Hilton Armstrong etc). Once the time ran out no one said a word, and we all pretty much went to bed. It was heartbreaking and no one can understand that heartbreak until they're team has lost a game like that.
While the loss was devastating, I have to give it up for George Mason. They were an 11 seed facing a 1 seed. A 1 seed that was dominating the tournament and had won the championship 2 years before. They didn't succumb to the pressure, they didn't cave, they did just the opposite... they rose. They rose to the occasion and ultimately became the better team. They played a better game, scored more points, got the rebounds and beat us. It's still heartbreaking and I DO NOT like to discuss it but George Mason really proved that it's anyone's tournament to win. At any moment a team can turn something magical and be the upset. David can conquer Goliath.
This years tournament was saw three 1 seed teams go down. The first being Kansas losing to a #9 seeded Northern Iowa. Despite so many people who had Kansas going deep, or even winning the tournament, they have to respect what Northern Iowa did. They truly played a magnificent game and for that team, that community, that school, it's their moment. They'll forever remember it as the day they beat the overall #1 seed in the NCAA tournament. That is something no one can ever take away from them. This tournament is a chance to prove to everyone that just because you have a lower seed or a less difficult conference to play in, you're not down for the count. It's 40 minutes of basketball. 40 minutes to make mistakes, do things right, hit a three, make a foul, call timeout, grit your teeth through the sweat and pain. 40 minutes to win.
In one week we will know who will be playing for the championship between the Final Four teams: Butler Bulldogs (5), Michigan State Spartans (5), West Virginia Mountaineers (2) and the Duke Blue Devils (1). These 4 teams are playing for another 40 minutes of game time. Another 40 minutes for the chance to claim the championship. It all comes down to one number... not the number on the scoreboard, or the number of points an individual player can score. But rather one measurement of time that will determine who was the better team.
40 minutes.
Sunday, March 21, 2010
Please forgive me, if I act a little strange
So last night I had a hot date w/ my friend Sara. We went to the David Gray concert @ the Riverside here in Milwaukee. It was definitely a new experience going to a concert where I had no idea what the show was going to be like. Oh and btw we had 4th row no big deal.
He came out around 9 and it was fantastic from the very beginning. Many of the songs I didn't know by heart seeing as I only really started listening to him a few weeks ago but that didn't matter. It was all amazing. He did play the 3 songs that I do know well: Babylon, This Year's Love, and Please Forgive Me. You can really hear him putting it all out there in his voice. I think that my favorite thing are his mannerisms and the way he moves on stage. It's all just so cool to see a different musician than my usual DMB concerts and to see what they are like in concert. It was a completely different vibe than a DMB show, kinda similar to a Dave & Tim concert. The Riverside is an older theater in Milwaukee and a very classy kind of feel to it. Even the entire band, including David Gray, were wearing suits. At the end of some songs or during some other ones there were a good amount of people standing, but since the 3 rows in front of us weren't dancing we stayed seated as well so as not to disturb the view of those in front of us. He closed w/ Please Forgive Me and it seriously was one of the best songs I've seen live. He extended it from the original version and got the crowd into it. David Gray is definitely a show I'm going to go see again and would recommend that if you get a chance to go and see him to do it.
On another note, it's March Madness and Madness doesn't even begin to descirbe how crazy this tournament has been. #9 No.IA defetaed overall #1 Kansas. Villanova lost to St. Mary's, New Mexico lost to Washington, Cornell got the first Ivy League win since 1998. There have been so many upsets and ridiculous amounts of brackets are shot to hell but that's what this tournament is about. I love it. THIS is why college basketball is the best, these teams are just incredible and it's so much fun to watch. More to come after the rest of these 1st round games are done.
He came out around 9 and it was fantastic from the very beginning. Many of the songs I didn't know by heart seeing as I only really started listening to him a few weeks ago but that didn't matter. It was all amazing. He did play the 3 songs that I do know well: Babylon, This Year's Love, and Please Forgive Me. You can really hear him putting it all out there in his voice. I think that my favorite thing are his mannerisms and the way he moves on stage. It's all just so cool to see a different musician than my usual DMB concerts and to see what they are like in concert. It was a completely different vibe than a DMB show, kinda similar to a Dave & Tim concert. The Riverside is an older theater in Milwaukee and a very classy kind of feel to it. Even the entire band, including David Gray, were wearing suits. At the end of some songs or during some other ones there were a good amount of people standing, but since the 3 rows in front of us weren't dancing we stayed seated as well so as not to disturb the view of those in front of us. He closed w/ Please Forgive Me and it seriously was one of the best songs I've seen live. He extended it from the original version and got the crowd into it. David Gray is definitely a show I'm going to go see again and would recommend that if you get a chance to go and see him to do it.
On another note, it's March Madness and Madness doesn't even begin to descirbe how crazy this tournament has been. #9 No.IA defetaed overall #1 Kansas. Villanova lost to St. Mary's, New Mexico lost to Washington, Cornell got the first Ivy League win since 1998. There have been so many upsets and ridiculous amounts of brackets are shot to hell but that's what this tournament is about. I love it. THIS is why college basketball is the best, these teams are just incredible and it's so much fun to watch. More to come after the rest of these 1st round games are done.
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