Live from New York… It’s Better Than Ezra

I have to be honest. When I started planning my NYC trip and saw that Better Than Ezra was playing, I thought it would be interesting to see what was going on with a washed up band from the ’90s. I was absolutely wrong about the “washed up” part and absolutely right about getting a ticket, because this was an amazing show. I had seen this band a few times in the ’90s, really liked them, had a couple of their CDs (Deluxe and Friction Baby). But, I had lost track of them, didn’t see them coming through Austin on any tours. So glad to be reconnected. Lead singer Kevin Griffin, was cuter than I remembered, and over the years, he has perfected a comfortable, humorous and sincere stage presence. This was a fun show, but it totally rocked. They played old and new songs with the same energy. And, did I mention the crowd? Apparently, there is a huge fanbase that still supports Better Than Ezra. There were easily 1500 people at this show, everyone knew every word. I see lots of shows, and I have to say, this one was waaaaay up there in terms of music, fun and enjoyment. Triple threat. Tom Drummond is still with the band, but other members are newer. They’re a quartet now, rather than a three-piece, but the chemistry with the current players was right on. I hope to see BTE again really soon. Hopefully they’ll swing through Austin.

Oh, and to top things off, a few celebs dropped by. Peyton and Eli Manning were watching the show on the right side of the room, on the other side of the barriers right next to where I was standing. They were literally inches from me. See photos below. They came onstage right before King of New Orleans (they’re from New Orleans, although they both play for NE Super Bowl winning teams). They came out later and threw some footballs out to the crowd, too. Only in NYC!!!

Here are a few photos. I’ll try to upload some vids soon. Off to Hoboken in a few for Old 97s!!!