The Day I Hugged Matt Nathanson

I forgot to log out of Mary's account. So it says that Mary wrote this, but really it's Michelle typing here.

Anyway, it was a great day.

Note: On the afternoon of the show, my friend texted both me and Mary the following message: "Matt masturbation!!!"
Hahahaha auto-correct. Obviously I won't reveal who it was, but she was excited on me and Mary's behalf that we were going to get to see Matt masturbation Nathanson. Funny funny stuff.

But on to the story......

We had tickets to see Matt Nathanson, so I took work off because I wanted to make sure I could get in line by 4:30 so that I could get our usual spot upstairs, front and center. Doors didn't open till 6:30, and the opening band didn't start till 7:30. Is that dedication or what? Well, it's really more about comfort. I just knew that I wouldn't want to stand the whole time, and in order to get the limited seating upstairs front and center, I'd have to be there early. So I did my duty, and got there well before any significant crowds began to show. I'm such a loser, ha.

Well, it ended up paying off because as I was sitting there waiting, the only two other people that were there were these two loud annoying girls. They kept harassing one of the employees to let us in for the sound check. It was all in good humor, but still I thought no way is he going to let us in, these girls are too annoying. Well, lo and behold, a couple guys come out and ask if the 10 of us in line wanted to go in and meet him (the line had grown by then).

Uuuuummmmmmm YES PLEASE.

I felt bad though because the whole reason I had gotten there before Mary and Laura was so that I could save a spot in line. And by going in I gave up my spot....and I felt bad because I wanted them to be able to meet him too. But, you snooze you lose! (Ok fine, they had to work but whatever).

So anyway he and his band rehearsed a few songs, which was of course amazing. Then we got to take pictures with him. When it was my turn he gave me a big hug (not a side hug either - a front hug!) and asked my name. He then told me that he loved my earrings, and then asked where I was from. I know we talked a little bit more, but I can't remember what else was said because I was so starstruck. And then someone took our picture, and I was given a free signed copy of his newest album, Modern Love.

So by the time we finished, it was around 5:30, and to my surprise there were still only 10-15 people in line. Meaning I didn't sacrifice anything in order to meet him. Mary and Laura showed up soon after, and we chatted and took pictures while waiting, then finally got to go in a little after 6:30.

The first band was called Scars on 45. Almost always the opening band sucks. But Scars on 45 was really a pleasant surprise.

They're British. And I'm pretty sure it's no secret by now that those Brits can pump out some pretty awesome musicians.

And this song of theirs was apparently featured on Grey's Anatomy....a show which I admit I have never actually seen...

Good stuff, yeah?

Matt and his band started their performance a little after 8:30 and didn't finish till 10:15 or so. Which I thought was awesome. He of course played a bunch of his new stuff, but the old stuff was also very well represented. And...he is hilarious. Quite the comedian, very entertaining performer. And when he sings, he gets really into it. Like he sort of humps the air a little bit. But only a little bit. And he's a mad dancer...got some serious footwork goin on. Basically, he's not what I'd call hot, but the man has some serious sex appeal. Oh and fun fact....his drummer is from Orem, UT apparently. Cool, huh?

A refresher for those who think they haven't heard of Matt Nathanson. I beg to differ:

Now that we all know who this talented young musician is, photos from the evening:

The exclusive concert before the concert ;-)

My heart was pounding pretty hard right about then

Waiting in line...

Excitement

We were trying to get a picture of the stage in the background. No luck.

Looks like I'm high...

This is what happens when Michelle tries to be sexy. Quite scary, actually.

Mary's almost got the sexy thing down.

Scars on 45

Maaaaatt Nathanson!

I'm glad I captured this stance.

Bandmate. 

I'm not sure yet how this video is going to turn out uploaded on the blog, but the point is to show off his dancin skills.

And this is him performing "Faster." I know that videos from lame cameras like mine never capture concert moments very well at all....but the point is again just to point out how adorable a performer he is.

It was such a good time.

Next good bands coming up?
Cold War Kids - Oct. 27
Parachute - Oct. 28
The Kooks - Nov. 30
While I would really like to go to all of those....I think the only one I refuse to miss is The Kooks. The other two I can do without.