Webby Thoughts

We've had the opportunity for some cooler-than-usual activities lately, ranging from a Shakespeare play in a beautiful intimate venue to a rocking outdoor concert courtesy of Baylor BYX. Sandwiched in the middle of this was a last-minute concert that we attended in Common Grounds, which is a tiny little house-turned coffee shop adjoining campus.

Anyway, the featured artist is Derek Webb, who I have loved ever since his Caedmon's Call days. Now that he works alone, his music controversial enough to make me feel very hip and edgy when I listen to it. His lyrics are very thoughtful, though, and I appreciate the challenge of his ideas even when I don't completely agree with his conclusions.

Knowing that Common Grounds would be packed if only thirty people showed up, Stephen and I decided to bring some books and the computer and we camped out about four hours before the show (we actually only meant to be three hours early, but I had been mistaken about the actual starting time). It was pretty exciting, because from my seat I could see when Derek Webb got there and listen to the sound checks. I admit, only a little bit sheepishly, that I am fascinated by celebrities, and it thrilled me that DW had to walk right past me to get to the bathroom and also that I walked close enough to his guitars to read his phone number on the luggage tag. (I didn't write it down or remember it, I promise.)

Anyway, once the whole thing started, we were within spitting distance from the mic. There were lots of people crowded in around us, and after a couple of songs I was reminded of my least favorite kind of concert patron: the wannabe band member. This person knows every song word for word, and sings along with the artist at full volume. I think that the underlying desire of this fan is for the artist to hear his or her beautiful music and invite said fan to come sing on stage, and maybe even to come along for the rest of the tour. Unfortunately, this was not this fan's lucky day, despite his best efforts.

The whole thing got started late and ran even later, but the experience was worth the groggy eyes and general crankiness the next day. Concerts are fun!