After getting lost for numerous hours, weaving inbetween streets that had NO relation to where we were trying to get to, we made it to Studio Seven on S Horton Street. I for one, would like to say it was FLIPPING COLD OUTSIDE.
That aside...
The whole thing started at 7:30, which was half an hour before we thought, but since we made it on time (even after being lost) it was fine. 11 out of 12 bands were about to make it there that night, so Jessica and I had a long road ahead of us.
All of the bands had talent (or else they wouldn't even be there), but some of them weren't for me. Most of the time I was intrigued by the intrumentals moreso than any of the vocals. I always love to watch the fingering that the guitarists and bassists have as they play, some of it was quite impressive. It makes me regret not playing the violin, or learning how to play the bass sitting in my room.
The fans were something else. For a majority of the bands they were cool, cheering their band on and dancing/head banging to the tunes. During The Promisehold's performance there were a few guys that just got up in your face and pushed people around. I got smashed into a few times and after my arm had enough I had to slip infront of Simon Young (The Slants) to avoid it. I feel kind of bad though because then he got run into a few times >_< Sorry about that, Simon! But with Jessica to my left, Jen Cho to my right, and Simon behind me I felt a lot safer.
Jess and I had to leave for a little bit and just get out of there when Vintegass started playing. There were 200 pound guys smashing into Jess just freaking out and running around. I'm all for headbanging and jumping up and down and getting a little crazy, and call me a concert noob, but I don't think smashing someone to the point where they can seriously get hurt is cool. 15 6' 200lb guys vs Jessicas like 5'1" 110 pounds... don't think so.
We came back after awhile, seriously tired and just zoning out. I'm sure the other bands were great, but I was just too damn tired to really pay attention even if I was standing infront of the speakers.
Finally The Slants were up, and I forced myself to wake up. It didn't matter though, as soon as the music started playing I was wide awake.
Okay, honestly, I admit that I didn't think there was a large fan group there supporting them that night. I saw the groups for bands such as Vintegass, Witnessex, and Tsavo and it got me scared. I only found 3 other fans besides Jessica and me, and two of them had to leave before The Slants even got on! I made sure to cheer extra loud (not that I wouldn't anyway). I was really happy when the people came up and supported them. There was a really good group of people out there cheering. It's good to know that there are really dedicated fans. I tried to cheer as loud as I could, and I think my voice reached them (well and the fact that I stood right infront of them...)
There were some disrespectful people booing and putting thumbs down, and even going as far as doing inappropriate hand ...movements. But all of that didn't matter, they played on and completely smashed the competition.
Afterwards, Gaijin (does this guy have a real name?) and Simon came down to talk to me and Jessica and thank us for supporting them. It's really nice that they take the time to talk to fans and supporters. Even if I seem like just another fan/supporter, it still means a lot. Gaijin even gave Jess and me a Hello Kitty guitar pick. Pretty sweet.
I'll admit it here that I feel like a complete idiot when talking to someone. I'm not a good conversationalist, and I completely hate those awkward moments where nobody has anything to say. I wish I could just keep a conversation going with them or something. But I guess what is there for a high school girl (who doesn't know much about music or bands) to say to rockstars?
Anyways, we waited for the results and of course the announcer stalled. I was practically waiting for him to say "after this commercial break". He announced the first winner and of course, it was The Slants! It goes to show you that originality and good energy really pays off. I'll be honest here yet again and admit that I was slightly doubtful. The crowds for bands like Tsavo made me really worried. I guess that doubt and worry was all wasted, because they completely dominated.
On a random note, I've come to the conclusion that Simon Young as a certain quality that makes you really want to hug him. But of course, you can't because you'll be a crazed fan/creeper. I think there were at least 3 times where I just wanted to jump up and hug the guy. Of course I wouldn't do something like that, but does it make me creepy for wanting to? Oh well, Aron gives away free hugs, and that's always cool. Free hugs seems to feel better than having to ask for one.
Even after a completely stressful and crappy day, their performance and win made it worthwhile. I'm hoping that I can make it to Portland on the 15th to see them again since all ages shows are rather limited, but it depends on Natsuki's plans. Lets keep hoping and see!
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tired
squeeful
indescribable
crushed
Hopeless