first impression

Today we had the first rehearsal with the band.  Gotta say if you're into punk rock, or into a stimulating light and video show this one is going to rock!!  The stage layout is very simple, just the three guys, but the lighting and video are awesome.  Our call today was 11am but the band didn't start rehearsal until 3.  They ran through most of the set, we took a break, then did a few more numbers till about 8:30 tonight.  Mostly I stay by the stage as a backup to the monitor tech.  There was a problem with the 'drum arm' which is being called the fly swatter or spatula so we didn't rehearse that part, but everything else seemed to be working out.  Jason and Ski are doing a great job on sound.  I'm glad to be a part of this team.
Travis brought his kids to rehearsal today.  His son is about 6 years old and is a total punk rocker.  He's cooler than I could ever think of being.  He had a gold chain with a money sign around his neck.  Ha.. I'm sure it was real gold.
Oh yeah, I was on my computer just passing the time and Travis was passing by so I looked up and gave him a head nod and a how's it going look.  He came over and said 'Hey I'm Travis' and gave me a fist pump. Oh yeah.  I'm cool.  Haha..
I found out the other PA tech, Kevin, is only doing a few shows with us.  He's actually the systems tech for Pearl Jam and has to get back with them in early August.  My friend Chuck, from Cincinnati will be taking his place.  As much as I like the guys I'm working with, it will be nice to have a familiar face.
It's funny, I think the guys on the audio crew are a lot like me.  We sometimes struggle to find things to talk about because we don't just talk for the sake of talking.  I'm sure as we get to know each other we'll have better conversation.
Well here's some pics of the rehearsal.  I'm not sure if I'll get in trouble for posting these before the tour begins but oh well.  Keep it on the down low.

                                                     The fly swatter
                               

Here's monitor world.  The blurry guy in green is our monitor guy, Ski.

When welding aluminum they need to use the red barriers to keep the gases contained.

It may be hard to see but this is what I'm responsible for each day.  3 columns of speakers. One large one in the center.  One medium one to the left and a small one pointing downward just to the right of the large one.