The Old College Try

Well, it seems I have taken over a new realm for my mental defecations. I like the classic blog format of this particular host. It's not too myspace-y, nor does it seem to want to be.
For about 4 years I had a stint on xanga, which I liked because of the personalization features, however it's just trying so hard to be myspace, and--let's face it--it is dead. I have had a myspace for awhile, on and off. I don't care much for it, and keep my friends to a minimum. I just keep it there for shits and grins, I suppose. Of course there is facebook, but I view that more of a profile and interpersonal communication device rather than a forum to share thoughts.
So here I am, and maybe this new, strictly blog format will promote more developed thoughts from me, and not just the fecal deposits of my brain.

So, on with a real post here:
Last night I went to see Melt Banana in Lawrence with a friend of mine. It took awhile for the show to start and the first two bands were experimental/noise bands--ick. The very first, I can understand their concept because they were more experimental. Their drum kit was fashioned out of some old margarine tubs with what I'm assuming to be sensors in or some way to amplify and alter the sound. They also had an ancient drum machine and a whole bunch of crazy shit. I can imagine such as a fun thing to play around with in one's garage, but it's not really performance material in my humble opinion.
On the side after the experimental guys was a local noise ensemble, which was just horrendously bad. I think they may have played six chords the entire time ( average of about 3 per song). It was just foul. The worst part was that all the little hipsters there really thought it was the cat's pajamas. They were moshing and bobbling along with this shit. My friend and I just exchanged grimaces and watched Melt Banana set up all their pedals and whatnot.
After the horror of the middle act was over we found a nice spot a row or two away from the stage, in the middle. Melt Banana came out and as soon as they ripped into the first chord all hell broke loose. From my left several bodies came dodging through, ripping into the crowd causing many to loose their balance, and leaving others completely disoriented. After about the third body relentlessly ripped into me I fell on my ass, and had to retie my shoes. I eventually made it out, and from a distance mosh pits are okay, and especially good for a cruel laugh.
Melt Banana was really fun. Japanese people are great (not to be mistaken with Koreans, who are definitely NOT) and crazy, which always makes for a good show. And even though my ass hurts and my ears are still ringing, it was the most fun I have had in awhile.
I don't really care much for the metal/hardcore scene, I will say that the Japs really know how to do it right. When I first heard of Boris, I was a bit reluctant to listen, but then I heard the Sinking Belle, and was hooked. Though Boris is not exactly in the same category as Melt Banana, I think the Japanese do metal/hardcore much better than anyone else.