So, I was at this show. Really solid show, as I've seen him maybe 10 times or so, and he never disappoints. I was appalled at the lack of consideration by the audience, though, and I've been to hundreds of concerts.

1. Some lady in the section next to mine stood up and clapped and yelled for the entire first hour of the show. She even did it during the quieter acoustic parts and, as a bonus, she wasn't even on the beat - at times, it was like random clapping. It was somewhat comical at first, and then it got ridiculous. Her entire section started yelling "Stop clapping!" and eventually, security came and she ended up leaving. Some guy even threw a cup at her as she was being taken out. Bizarre.

2. A few idiots near the top yelled "we're from Dundalk!" and other similar nonsense, again during the quieter times. I guess they were trying to continue the negative stereotype of Dundalk.

3. I had the misfortune of sitting in front of two chatty women, one who was with her son. Naturally, they yelled out dumb comments at times when JM was trying to talk to the crowd or give some of his stories, and they talked in loud voices throughout the show. Eventually, her son asked her to stop yelling. They also talked so much during the show that I started looking for an open seat somewhere else. They left with about 6 songs left, so I was able to watch the end in some peace.

I just don't get people. Sorry for the rant, but it was pretty disappointing - I get precious few chances to see this man play live, so I don't really want to hear you talking about fluff the entire time. Fortunately, JM put on a terrific show as usual, but my feeling at the end was a little bittersweet.

Things I really enjoyed:

- the slapping stand-up bass used in a couple of songs - thought that was pretty cool considering that parts of the album were done in Sun Studios.

- John's stories and talks with the crowd. He's still funny, poignant, takes a jab or two at the government, and gives me something to think about when I leave.

- "Jackie Brown." Always gives me chills when he plays it. Just a very sobering and thoughtful song. Next to "Theo and Weird Henry", it's probably my favorite of his.

- I hadn't been to a JM show in about 5 years, so it was great to see him in such a small venue. I was planning on introducing my fiance to JM live, but she was too sick to attend, which was a bummer. Next time.

- Thought it was interesting that they introduced him as being from Bloomington. Maybe they were talking about where he resides now? Seymour isn't Bloomington. Not a big deal, but I found it interesting.

- Got to see some Indiana University gear in the crowd. Being a transplanted Hoosier in Baltimore and an IU grad, that was pretty cool.

- Coming off the heels of Lady Gaga entering the Grammy's in an egg or whatever, it was so refreshing to see a man just get up on stage and play music and entertain people. I saw Roger Waters do The Wall a few months ago and, while I absolutely loved it, I also loved JM's show in a completely different way.

Anyway, glad I was able to find a community like this. Nice looking board you have here!