Friends And Music Through Various Connections But Mainly Here At The Archer Ballroom

I've never dabbled in music in my life. But like most people, I love good music, and I am lucky enough to live in a place where music and musicians are brought to me.

I knew of John and Maren, the folk duo, Photographers, through friends in their home of Traverse City, Michigan. After meeting them in person there at the end of 2009 through a random occurrence, I followed them on Flickr but never expected for it to move past that. That was until I was viewing the Ballroom to see if I wanted to move in. Never would I have guessed that Maren and John would walk down the stairs and tell me they lived here. I had heard they moved to Chicago but would have never guessed they would live in the same space I was about to move into with Erin. We are the best of friends now and I'm happy about that. They are generous and loving musicians who take beautiful photographs.

John and Maren have invited us to see a couple of shows since we moved in. Breathe Owl Breathe was the first band. J&M knew them from their home and had played some shows together. We saw them at Schuba's and they were nice enough to put us on the guest list. B.O.B. really captivated Erin and I and brought a northerly winter's inspiration to the both of our lives. It was incredible. They stayed on our floor for two nights and I enjoyed the time I spent with them. Micah told me about his children's book he is writing about a mole and an ostrich that meet underground. That's when I knew I really liked him.

Lastly, the other night John and Maren mentioned that this "...amazing band is playing at Schuba's and they have us on the guest list. Do you want to come?" So as we trust John and Maren, Erin and I followed. Once again, our minds were blown. Daredevil Christoper Wright were not only the kindest humans but play an absolutely stunning set of music. All three musicians, drums,vocals/guitar, vocals/etc are integrated into one gloriously organized, harmonious chant. They all smile throughout their set and I'm not sure they realize it. That's as important to me as them casually and unpretentiously discussing art theory on stage between songs . I didn't get to spend much time with them because of work hours but I look forward to having our Eau Claire friends back here in Chicago.

I think the web of overlapping friends will continue to spread and I learn of new connections every day. As a matter of fact, Zach Green, my best friend here in Chicago, recommended that his friend's band, Northern Howl, play here in the Ballroom. I went to go listen to their music and saw that Daredevil Christopher Wright was their top friend. Long story short, Northern Howl and recent Ballroom friends, Daredevil Christoper Wright are very close. By the way, check out Northern Howl. Algorithm is on repeat for me.

I feel like soon the inevitable will happen. Music will become a bigger priority in my life and something I need and desire. I have yet to figure out how to utilize these experiences and connections as more than amazing friendships and great concerts. But I am wondering if that is necessary. Yet, the egging feeling to create, enjoy, and love that is in my stomach will remain if as passionate and motivated individuals such as the above keep entering my life. I'm ok with that.