By: Ben Whalen (Stella Adler Studio of Acting)
You know what I’ve been craving for a long time: A chance to rock the fudge out, to just lose myself in the moment and forget about all the bullstuff, all the petty problems and stresses of everyday life. At 12 am, on a Tuesday night, two hours after their scheduled slot, the band Washington Square Park did just that: They ROCKED THE FUCK OUT! And better yet, they made sure everyone else in the crowd was rockin’ with them. When I pulled up to the muggy, lower-east side street and saw a blue neon sign that said “Bowery Electric,” there was no way I could have anticipated how sick the night would be. I haven’t had that much fun in a while. It was like I rediscovered music. There’s nothing like a live show, the real thing. Raw, unleashed energy.
The scene man, the fudgein scene. It’s the setting, your surroundings, your given circumstances. When creating a scene you have to make a statement.
This particular venue was perfect for what would soon happen. It was a small underground spot with a stage, a bar, some benches, and about 50- square feet of open space in front of the stage. The lights around the bar were low but you could feel the heat from the stage lights. It was a relatively small gathering, so none of that stupid crowded club atmosphere bullstuff. Just the music and us. The scene established that close connection between the band and the people. I found out that interaction is what it’s all about. The band and the fans fed off each other, it was like a crazy cycle of mutual respect and admiration. Washington Square Park isn’t by far the most talented band in the music industry, but it was one of the best shows I’ve seen. They gave that crowd everything they had, and in return the crowd rocked out harder than I’ve could have ever imagined. I saw one show and I’m a fan for life. This is the phenomenon of the “goin’ sick,” the scene, the complete musical experience and what it can do to you.
I used to laugh at people when they would talk about “the scene.” But when that band, played that song, at that place, and hit that note…it was special. The right setting with the right people creates a reality that satisfies your every need. And your needs become less as the music awakens your body and the energy enlivens your frickin soul. It’s like you lose yourself and find yourself all at the same time. The experience becomes your release and your salvation, it becomes your happiness, your breath, it becomes you. All this happens from being at the right place, at the right time, with the right people; it’s being in the moment. Music is just one of the most enjoyable ways to get there. All existentialism aside, it was one hell of a show!
Highlights of the night included: trading booze for weed, rolling up on a New York City street corner, smoking with a kid who’s government name is Blaze, the lead singer smashing his guitar against the wall (fudgein rock star move!), singing/trying to sing along to songs I never heard before, getting in the pit and rockin’ out, smoking cigs with band afterward and catching the last train home.
I hope this feeling inside me, and this whole raw music movement never goes away. I hope independent music continues to live on in the underground spots, garages and parties across America. I hope musicians and all artists continue to push the limits of their passion and creativity. The result is inspiring.
[youtube]http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Dctj8_g9SZ8[/youtube]
