The Black Keys

Where to even begin with my love for this band? I’ve loved them since back in high school which now feels, well, like a century ago. Going on long drives and playing Thickfreakness front to back repeatedly. I’ve always been enamored with the simplicity in their grimy garage band sound. Towards the end of last year, I finally got to see them live. And it was a remarkable experience.

Walking up to The Forum in Inglewood, CA I was so excited, I was also very happy to get out of the car after an almost 3 hour car ride due to rain and LA drivers not being functional. I also somehow lucked into free parking, which I was hesitant about at the time, but am so grateful for. Shout out to the two employees that had my back. You’re the best, and I’ll never forget you! The show itself was remarkable. Modest Mouse opened for The Black Keys, and they were everything that I thought they’ be and more. It was a night of songs from my childhood and with the energy that Modest Mouse brought my soul began to be filled with joy. It truly was an phenomenal line up, I never thought I would get to see either band, but here I was seeing both.

They brought all their energy and left it on the floor, and set the perfect scene for The Black Keys to take the stage. Then there they were, the two I’d waited all these years to see. They played songs from their entire discography which is one of my favorite things. I was having the best time ever, and really taking in the music especially the old classics. The new stuff is great, but definitely has a different vibe, as they have more people on guitar creating a somewhat less grimy sound, which I’m not opposed to, it’s just not the classic sound. Change like anything is necessary for bands over time and let’s face it the change could have been worse. Regardless, I had an absolute blast grooving to the songs with my friend Jess. They then talked about how they were going to bring someone out to play with them. IT. WAS. JOE. WALSH. Yes, The Eagles very own, Joe Walsh. Someone that I had grown up wanting to be as great as, and that was a huge inspiration for my dad, a musician. Well as you can imagine, my head just about exploded when he walked out on stage. I had seen him many times before, but this was the perfect combination I never dreamed of. This show made you feel like they were back in a big way, and like you were watching them record their demo in the garage all those years ago. I am so glad I got to see such an inspiring night of music. I was in my own little world of enjoyment throughout the whole night. It was great to see the guys tear up the stage and bring so much joy to a sold out arena.

Unfortunately, The Black Keys are one of the many bands that have had to cancel their tour. Many people are out of luck right at this moment, but I would absolutely recommend seeing The Black Keys when you have the opportunity. They are a rock band like no other.