Best of What's Around

So its that time of year again, DMB touring time. For a few reasons out of my control, I missed the entire 2007 tour. 2007 was the first year I had not seen any DMB / D&T / D&F etc type show since 1996 when I saw my first show at Jones Beach in June 1996. It was a strange tour to say the least with the passing of 'Roi and the additions of Timmy full time and Coffin replacing 'Roi. On top of these changes, there is a new album coming out this year. With all of these things in play, the 2009 tour dates were annouced and I thought I'd slowly get back into the groove and see a few shows here or there. Originally I was going to take it slow, but the dates and venues looked too good to be true. Turns out there are 9 shows on the Spring/Summer calendar for me! I already attened MSG and Izod, plus I have Vegas, Switzerland, Jones Beach (2x), Bethel, Chula Vista and Scranton all lined up.

Speaking of MSG and Izod, in general I was pleased with the shows. I think they did a bit too many repeats for back to back nights. But they dusted off some gems (Raven, Pig, The Maker) and played plenty of classics to keep a snob like me entertained. There certainly is a new sound for the band, Rashawn Ross is taking up more space with trumpet parts, Coffin is a totally different player than 'Roi, and Timmy is putting in lead guitar lines and solos. Going to DMB shows is always fun, and I think I've come to grips with the fact that this is not the DMB up to and including the BCTS days. There is a different sound, different direction in song writing, etc. I guess they have been around for 18 years, so it is ok to change things up and grow and mature as band. So there you have it, I may never be 100% satisifed with a DMB setlist or show, but I think I've come to grips with it, and regardless, its always a great time hanging out with friends and listening to (generally speaking) good music ;-)