2025 has already been an incredibly busy year. There is a lot going on at work and I am spending more and more time working. Any type of a break is much needed. When I found out that my old friend Mikey Erg was drumming for Laura Jane Grace and the Mississippi Medicals, I knew that I'd get a chance to step away. It was also the beginning of a shortened week as Bad Religion would be in town just a few days later.

I'd kept up with Mike and had an idea of what the schedule would be for the day. I decided to work the first half of the day and then head down as they would be traveling. As expected, work ran late and I logged off a little later than I had planned. I threw my things in the car and started to head downtown. I'd had a number of personal things to take care of, so I made a few stops along the way to get some stuff off of the to do list.

I got down to The Crescent Ballroom at about 5. Everyone was there but were going to be starting soundcheck in a bit. I decided to break off for a bit and take care of the homeless cat colony that I look after. It was earlier than expected, but they were fed and had water. I got back down around 6 and Mike was ready to go. He hopped into the car so we could hit up The In Groove. He caught me up on the way about being a dad, dentistry, and touring. I caught him up on the new car, work, upcoming shows, and a need to go back to Jersey. He picked up a few records and we headed back to the venue to grab some food.

I got the car parked and we decided to try a place up the street, State 48 Brewery. Honestly, the service sucked. We got in and stood around for a while before getting seated. Then it took a while to get service from a disinterested waitress. I ordered a burger with mushrooms that I was very excited for. Mike also ordered his food. What came out was not correct. My order was completely wrong; the wrong burger, incorrect fries, everything. We had a beer, ate our food, and headed back to the show.

We got settled in and watched the openers. It was a fantastic bill. Rodeo Boys opened and were fucking fantastic. Alex Lahey was up next and was just as great. Mike and I had a couple of drinks and caught up as we could while the night progressed. I also noticed that Bew Kweller was playing there later in the year which was fun. Mike had to go to work, so he headed back to get ready. I pivoted and found a great spot to watch from.

The set was fantastic. The lighting and sound were great. The crowd was really into is as well. Mike did a fantastic job on drums. I am always happy to see my friends excelling. After about 75 minutes the show wrapped up. I hung around for a bit and Mike and I were able to chat for a little while longer. Just after 12, they headed out to their van and I to my car as we parted ways. It was great to catch a good show and I am very grateful that I got another hang in with Mike.