I have written about this band before see the blog here
This time around, man, was it a trip. On 09/26/25, I got to see my friends Collective Soul at Toad’s Place—a huge bucket list moment. Even better, I met the whole band…well, everyone except Ed. One day, I know I’ll get the chance to shake his hand and tell him how much his writing inspired me to start writing songs of my own. Until then, I’ll just have to catch them live again.
A huge thank-you to Will for granting me a backstage pass, and to my friend Jimmy Koplik for the ticket to the show. Life has thrown me some hard times lately, but having people who look out for me is a gift like no other. I’m beyond grateful.
Now, the show itself. Getting to see Collective Soul that close was unforgettable—but let’s rewind a little. First came the New Haven ritual: parking on Broadway and walking through Yale to Toad’s. It’s always a nice, scenic walk with plenty of cool restaurants along the way.
The wait in line was its own kind of fun. I got to chat with friends and family of the opening band Modern Refuge, fellow Collective Soul fans, and even a few people who—like me—missed out on the sold-out Foo Fighters show (not my fault I was rocking to Judas Priest and Alice Cooper at the amp!). Modern Refuge absolutely delivered. This was my first time seeing them live, though I had met them before at the very first East Rock Porchfest they hosted. I didn’t catch their set back then because I had to drive the station van back to headquarters—but this time, I got the full experience. And I’ll definitely see them again.
Then came the main event. As Collective Soul took the stage, the crowd erupted. Toad’s was the perfect venue—intimate, electric, and I was right up close. They played everything a fan could hope for, and I couldn’t stop smiling.
But the best part? The after-show. With pass in hand, I had the chance to talk with Johnny first, then Will, Dean, Jesse, and Tristan (Will’s son). Watching a father and son play in the same band was inspiring—it made me want to be that kind of dad someday, sharing music and life together. Special thanks to Pat's Soundbytes for the group photo (Two Radio Hosts and Two Bands). Also I should mention Will and Tristian will be on a song of mine, the plans are in the works.
Ed headed back on the bus, so we didn’t meet this time. But one day, Ed, I’ll thank you face-to-face—for being the reason I keep chasing music in the first place.
