If I had the power to go back in time to see a performance of a dead musician it's hard to know who would top my list but I can be sure that Townes Van Zandt would be way up there. So, I'm sure you can imagine my joy when Townes' young (notsomuch anymore) protege Steve Earle told a story about old Townes and his horse Amigo riding through the mountains of Colorado together. He followed this wandering memory with a song. What song was it that graced my ears? I have no idea. I record photos not set lists.
The last time I had the pleasure of stepping into the church-turned-rock-club was in 2003 for Ween. Back then there was beer flying off the 3rd floor balcony and insanity oozing from every corner and, I'm not complaining, but it was nice to enjoy that beautiful space with some acoustic guitar and good, old American folk rock.
It caught me off guard to see a DJ booth set up knowing that I was there for Steve Earle but when I saw the portrait of GW Bush with devil horns and the word SATAN scrolled across his head, I figured it must be alright. And it was! Actually, it was better than alright, it was perfect. Seeing him sing a love song with his new lady love and also shouting it out loud that music has the power to help end wars, he seemed inspired and on fire. Top it off with some Townes Van Zandt and you have a soul-satisfying night in Amsterdam.
The show was delicious! The venue, beautiful and the photos....well, judge for yourself.
