I really needed this show. Between a lot of good happening (becoming an ISSA finalist, my autism diagnosis, signing with OOB, interviewing more guests, and playing Magic: The Gathering) and a bit of bad too (got to even it out, I guess), I just needed a break — one I could completely escape into. This concert absolutely provided that. Thank you, Brian, Nikki, Joe, and Chris!
This was also my first show at District Music Hall since they bought the place from what was once Wall Street Theater, where I used to work.
Giant Waste of Man was a great opener, and I really enjoyed the 20+ song set from Silversun Pickups, though my back definitely could’ve used some repositioning afterward. Am I getting too old for the pit!?
I brought my friend Carlo along for the ride (even though he drove). This was a much-needed concert — not just any concert, but my first one since my heart attack and autism diagnosis. I’m doing okay, and this proves it. I have to keep going despite it all. Silversun Pickups, just like The Posies, Collective Soul, Badfinger and The Beatles, among many others, are huge inspirations to me.
Brian was on our radio show at Unlikely Places twice! We connected and became friends, though this was my first time actually meeting him in person. I’ve seen the band four times now (I think — maybe more before this). The first time was with Third Eye Blind at the Toyota Oakdale Theatre, and then I saw them again with Evan from my first band, The Sane Riot, at College Street Music Hall where Minus the Bear opened!
This was my favorite time seeing them, though the Toad’s Place show was also really good, with Girl Tones opening. There was just something in the air at the District Music Hall — good vibes all around. I even made some new friends.
I’m glad I brought my friend Carlo. We play Magic: The Gathering together at Blueberry Cat in Prospect, CT on Monday nights for Commander, and we also used to go to high school together.
Waiting for Brian afterward was a lot of fun. Huge thanks to tour manager Todd Clifford for the hospitality (and the water!) and to the one and only Nikki Monninger, who was amazing to talk with and catch up with. We also got to meet Chris and Joe!!
Tristan P, Brian’s guitar tech, even ripped open a Pokémon pack and gave me the holo card that I later had Brian, Joe, and him sign. We all hung out for about an hour talking video games (I hope you and Tristan beat Cuphead, Brian), Iron Maiden (Watch “Burning Ambition” people!!), and The Lord of the Rings. Brian even attempted a breaking of the Fellowship by grabbing for the One Ring.
Brian, you are the real deal. To all of Silversun Pickups and the crew — thank you!!
Love -J
You can hear and see Brian Aubert on Unlikely Places here: