THE BUNNYMEN, IRVING PLAZA, NIGHT 1

That time had come to make the pilgrimage to the big city of New York to once again experience Echo and the Bunnymen at Irving Plaza.  I took a few days off to visit with family and friends and to spend some time on the beach.  And I did a lot of the latter, spending about 40 hours of the few days I was on the Island near the ocean.  I flew into NY, had dinner with family and at the end of the evening I requested to be dropped off at the beach I spent so much time at while growing up. All for the purpose of experiencing this beautiful place on the day of my birthday that began at midnight. A storm moved in while dancing on the sand in the darkness as I listened to music, legs wet from the surf. Strong wind and pelting rain whipped the sea into a frenzy, something that I had never seen before, the high tide covering the beach with water, waves lapping the sand dunes. What a loud night in the tent that the wind succeeded in flattening atop me. Wonderful!

Two nights with the Bunnymen.  I stayed at the same hotel as last time.  Killing time by hanging out on the street watching the world walk by, enjoying a cigar.  I did walk by Irving Plaza but saw no sign of the band, assuming that they had arrived early and were set up inside.  Dinner and then off to stand in line for an early entry and a place up front.

Need I say it was a fabulous show?  Their music carries me away to a beautiful, far off land.

Hung out at the theater exit hoping the band would be kind enough to come out and say hello.  I was not disappointed.  Gordie was trying his best to make friends with and attractive young woman.  Caught Will and Ian as they made their exit, thanking both for a wonderful performance. Will said that there was going to be an after party at a destination he provided, but my legs were not in a condition to allow me to walk that far that late at night.  Stephen, Jez and Nick acted like buddies on this visit to NY, departing together and heading off for what I assume was to look for some fun at a place of their own.  I did spend a little time speaking to them, telling me that all was well with the band, having found that place where they all worked well together.  And it showed in their performance with Ian giving a very relaxed performance and smiles being flashed by other band members, particularly Nick and Jez.

Back to the hotel where I had a slice of pizza before heading upstairs for a long sleep.  Plans were already made for some fun Sunday afternoon.