Concerts: An Experience All Their Own

For those of us lucky enough to have attended a concert, we know how much of a unique experience such an event is. But there are many that do not see the benefit, or even the point, of spending money to see an artist perform the same songs they have on their album.

Well, as an avid music listener, I believe that there’s a huge difference between hearing an artist live versus hearing them through your headphones. I was lucky enough to get tickets to see my current favorite band, Beirut,  at the Electric Factory just this past Sunday and it’s something I’ll never forget.

I arrived at the venue a little over thirty minutes before the doors opened, so I could be as close to the stage (and front man Zach Condon) as possible. The wait flew by and we were soon escorted inside. I managed to get a spot a few feet away from the stage and stood my ground for the next hour, my eyes on the mics and drum-sets before me.

The opening act, a young woman named Basia Bulat, came on an hour later, performing a half-hour set that was both entertaining and refreshingly different. But even despite the talent I just witnessed, my excitement was growing for the group backstage.

To my surprise, I encountered many kind people during the show. One girl offered her spot in front of me on a raised area of the floor, my shortness highly evident. Another extremely tall guy in the front told me to let him know if he was ever in my way while I snapped photo after photo.

Their generosity made the thirty minutes fly by and Beirut finally took the stage and proceeded to blow me away.

I could see Zach at the center microphone flipping his hair out of his face, eyes closed as he leaned forward to sing. I could feel the power of the brass and drums, sounding out a lovely refrain.  Those moments alone were well worth the price of admission and then some.

Perhaps concert-going isn’t for everyone. But for those who truly love music, just being in the same room as your favorite musicians while seeing and hearing what they do best is an experience you can’t buy on iTunes.