Evan Kirkendall had PM'd me a few weeks ago and told me that he'd be at the Filmore on November 29th. He asked if we could meet.
As I had other responsibilities the last time he came to Detroit, I knew that I'd have to meet up with him on this visit.
We had PM'd a few times back and forth, and during this back & forth he remembered...or I re- mentioned, that my youngest daughter was a big fan of ATL. (She had been to at least two of their shows in the last year)
Evan, being a gentleman, insisted (multiple times) that I bring her along to meet the Group.
Well... when I mentioned ATL ... she about went into convulsions. So... after stern warnings to her NOT to be a PITA, I agreed to take her, and we ended up bring her girlfriend too.
I couldn't very well accept Evan's and ATL's hospitality without providing dinner for the Group and Tour personnel.
(The last time they were here, I sent Subs, Salads (pizza?)... but the delivery person was told the Group had already eaten... So... she gave the food to Security. I later learned that it wasn't exactly what had happened.
)
We arrived just as sound check began, and after setting up the food in the Theatre's lunch room.. the sound check was over.
But, Evan told the girls that we'd have to stay for the pre-show meet and greet. He pulled me off to the side and asked if we had tickets? I replied "No, but I was going to the box office to purchase some."
Evan then told me that the show was sold out. (the first show I've heard of being "sold out" in this financially depressed City in a while) He then insisted that we stay for the show, comp'd.
During the warm up groups, Evan and I got to talk shop. He's a knowledgeable young man,(and gave a lot of praise to this site's own Phil Graham, for his mentoring) and, he knows exactly what he wants from the sound system.
During ATL's performance, I observed that he definitely knew his way around his Digi Console. He wasn't a "fiddler", he was direct in his Eq/level/Comp/Verb time changes.
Using the six pack of B2's he carries, along with the House's Nexo Subs, Evan could get the LOWS! (somehow, I don't think enough Lows)
I enjoyed my time at the Show, and really was impressed with such a serious- minded,young Sound Tech. The Girls recapped every bit of the Show on the ride home. (some better left unsaid)
Thanks to Evan and ATL for a great evening, and both girls are thrilled with the signed ATL CD's!
You're welcome at the ranch any time you're in town.
Me (with a terrible sinus headache... athough it was clearing up by the end of the show) and the Hospitable Evan.
Cheers,
Hammer
ps. I hope you all enjoyed the Dinner