It took 'til 2 a.m. but finally got my photos in order. Only a couple to post here because the links are a pain. But as a whole, they showed a whole lot of happy people getting along real swell. How else do you explain people hanging out for hours after the last band packed up?
The bands were great. The support expressed by vault members for the artists was one of the best things about the event. Big love. And it wasn't enough that the musicians set-up early/played/packed up for FREE, but nearly all of them were there for the entire event, helped everywhere with everything, and did more than their share of manning the merch/food tables. Dex killed it on stage but Sarah leaves a lasting memory of talent and sincerity. I am now a full-on fan of Sartain. If he comes to your town he is not to be missed. The 1-10's have a hell of a lot of talent and their CD sounded great in the daylight.
It took a day or so for people to fully relax (or maybe it was just me.) This was my first event where nearly everyone I knew I didn't know at all. But as one might have guessed, the majority of people are genuine, kind, and just fun to be around. I'm happy that when I read a snarky comment by Larry, his voice now rings in my ears, and that whenever Bobbie posts, I'll think of his contagious laugh. The look on Scott's face when he won the UGWNL signed DVD was priceless - I would listen to his animated recounting of the story endlessly. Finally meeting the fair brendaclay who has a sense of humor like a whip, and is soft to boot (a lasting impression for sure.)
The URP tour is better than good. If you are anywhere near Nashville be sure to drop in as they are pleased to show you around house. It is mesmerizing seeing those behemoth machines churn out vinyl. We took our time, and our guide was happy to oblige. Trashcans of broken vinyl that you wanted to slather on like sunscreen. The diversity in music being committed to wax was fantastic to witness. Rows upon rows of crisp UGWNLs stacked next to Lady Gagas newest release (which I understand is being churned out almost daily now.) You come out feeling that its all the same, and its all good, and its all special. (Perhaps Karen's peach a little more so. Or maybe I was intoxicated by the smell in the sleeving corner of URP.)
Random ramblings: Sandra's pigtails, and cheeks set in a permanent smile. I want to adopt Will. UK Dave is far more interesting than his career choice would imply. Derrick is a clever guy to be around - don't let the accent fool you. Mark is a gentleman with an oversized heart. I've had an apostasy regarding gogo and burlesque dancers. Goodies donated by fans and TMR raised over $500 for Nashville flood relief. The end.
If I've left anyone out, I assure you that it is me, not you. If you were at the event and/or I took a photo of you and you don't see it here ping me. I enjoyed every minute of it.
Photo 1 - Sarah Romweber
Photo 2 - MagicSkipper & WillPhail(?) of the 1-10s
Photo 3 - AlabamaWoody
Photo 4 - JeeJet, PeterG, Dylanfan (center - white shirt & hat), BrendaClay (grey shorts), Grim (the tallest one there)
Photo 5 - Beakersoul, ElDuderino, Pug
Photo 6 - Dex
Photos 7 & 8 - Lots of happy people, most of whom have not complained since
Photo 9 - The Turncoats featuring our/the Vault's own Turncoat and Red Raccoon. Great band.
Photo 10 - Drummintodabeat, MagicSkipper & Dylanfan
Photo 11 - Parasite Diet (Starring Pug)
Photo 12 - 80sskatebetty
Photo 13 - JeeJet & 80sskatebetty managing the raffle
Photo 14 - Dan Sartain and happy listeners