Category: Tears for Fears Regional Fan Club News & Online Fun
There are a many different fan clubs generated by fans in various nations and regions of the world. Here are a few of those dedicated groups who meet up regularly.
Here’s another one to savour today… Even Orzabal’s weakest track is far better than most musicians will ever achieve in and with their best. Like all of the music of Tears for Fears, this album holds up very well, even after twenty years. Indeed, the flaws I thought I perceived when this album first came out simply don’t hold up. I don’t think the flaws have disappeared as much as I simply didn’t understand or appreciate what Orzabal was doing in 1995.
In hindsight, I appreciate the art and the choices he made to make this art. Not that he needs my appreciation, but Orzabal certainly has it.
Review retrospective: Tears for Fears, RAOUL AND THE KINGS OF SPAIN (Sony, 1995; Cherry Red, 2009).
Twenty years ago, Roland Orzabal (born Raoul Jaime Orzabal de la Quintana to an English mother and a Basque/Spanish/French father) released the fifth Tears for Fears studio album, RAOUL AND THE KINGS OF SPAIN.
Overall, we should remember, 1995 was a pretty amazing year for music—really the year that saw the full birthing of third-wave prog.
Raoul’s mythic mother.
Not all was prog, of course, but there was so much that was simply interesting. Natalie Merchant, TIGERLILY; Radiohead, THE BENDS; Spock’s Beard, THE LIGHT; The Flower Kings, BACK IN THE WORLD OF ADVENTURES; Marillion, AFRAID OF SUNLIGHT; and Porcupine Tree, THE SKY MOVES SIDEWAYS.
As the time that RAOUL came out, I liked it quite a bit, but I didn’t love it. The first five songs just floored me, but then I thought the…
Many write about the band and we like to share their thoughts with our friends and fellow travel fans: “Orzabal and Smith aren’t living on or in the past. They are at the absolute height of their game right now. And, of course, they’ve earned every single accolade they will receive.” Read More as we prepare to post a slew of photos from this past week in Tears for Fears Travel Fan land and upcoming concert info… Thanks!
In my post two days ago offering a twenty-year retrospective of RAOUL AND THE KINGS OF SPAIN by Tears for Fears, I made some bald claims:
Orzabal has never embraced the term “progressive,” identifying it with Pink Floyd, but he is certainly the most experimental pop musician alive—rivaled only by Brian Wilson, Paul McCartney, Robert Smith, Andy Partridge, and Peter Gabriel. From my perspective, Orzabal is the greatest living pop musician, but I think this would be open to debate. And, of course, the debate would demand a proper definition of pop.
A good friend of mine (a fellow music lover and a fellow Kansan), Derek, properly challenged this assertion of mine while also admitting how much he loves Orzabal.
I did my best to defend my claim. Here’s the conversation:
Derek: “From my perspective, Orzabal is the greatest living pop musician…” Wow! I’m still trying to wrap my head…
We should be discussing the Canada show first but this one has been on everyone’s radar so let’s look at it right now before it gets too late. As noted on Twitter and our Travel Fan FB page, Tears For Fears are scheduled to play at the Freedom Hill Amphitheater on the 24th of September. Reviews for this venue state that it’s intimate and a great place to see a band. Maps show that this location is right off of 16 Mile Rd but the official address is different (see below). I haven’t been in Michigan since I was a toddler so I can’t even picture where this venue is exactly.
Past attendees wrote about VIP options, saying they are hosted by the theatre for some events. They take place off to the side of the stage toward the back. If you are able to snag VIP tickets then do it! Performers and season pass holders are said to gather in this area together. Again, no confirmation but I will say all VIP events I’ve attended thus far have been worth it. Nothing confirmed for this particular show. Was told all seats are pretty good, even those on the lawn. Original ticket prices are $25 to $85 USD. Third party ticket sellers are pricing rows close to the stage at $584 each. Cheapest we’ve seen by third party is about $198.
Venue Address: Freedom Hill Amphitheater 14900 Metro Parkway Sterling Heights Michigan 48312
Valet parking $5: Reviews say it’s a bit hard to get out of the parking lot so note that when you get there. Be patient…though knowing us travel fans we tend to hang out after shows and this may not even be a problem. We may be the last ones to leave.
TFF Travel Fans spend lots of time together…
Who is going?
Well right now several fans on Twitter want to hold out for shows in their home states. We do not suggest that. If the band is coming one to two states close to you, it’s best to make an effort to see them in whatever state that is. These venues and locations have not been visited by TFF in quite some time. So, this might be it for a while. If you can go to two shows then do it. We, as fellow Travel fans will help you with info and hotels. We do carpool where possible and try to sit together. The shows are worth every penny even if you end up paying double the original ticket price…though we hope you can avoid that by going through the box office.
Accommodations
We suggest the following hotels based on their online reviews. We have not stayed in these brands in Michigan but in other states. Remember if you are a member of AAA or are a Military Vet, Government employee, etc. bring your ID’s. Just recently one of our travel fan team members got a full $100 off their room rate.
Extended Stay America approx $75 a night + tax and other fees. If you’ve never stayed at this ESA brand, note that they come with a full kitchen in the room. You could buy groceries and eat in your room/suite vs. eating out if that is important to you. Most rooms and suites can hold 3 people comfortably.
Flights are usually a bit more expensive in the fall lately. This was not always the case. Not sure why. Delta is quoting approx $150 for one way from southern states (some of you are headed to Canada right after this show so we’re listing the one way price). It’s $500 from New York City. So…try Southwest but direct flights, we’ve found, are rare with that air carrier.
Courtesy TFF
That’s all we’ve got for this show… we’ll keep you posted on any discoveries and finds. Not going to pretend that people are jumping for joy about the location and are hoping like crazy that the band adds more dates. We recently spoke with the band in person and no other dates were mentioned aside from one abroad. We’ll leave it at that. The band can announce that nation, not us…we’ll just do our best to help you get there if it is something that is open to the public.
Thanks for reading!! Next concert info alert will be re: Canada – Rama Casino 25/26 September headed by veteran Travel Fan Team Member, Denise.
Tears for Fears – Beyond “Cool” in Colorado…
Over the last 5 days, the praise for Tears for Fears went beyond the usual… It was more than a virtual pat on the back or sweet, loving journalist turned fan for Tears for Fears, it was more than that. Countless reviews and articles were posted stating how absolutely important, vital and relevant Tears for Fears are some 30 years on. We as the travel fans would normally share our own personal experiences at these shows for each re-cap but, I think it’s crucial to include the words of not just global fans but of those who are detailing these musical extravaganza’s for their network and for the news. As a newsie myself, I feel it detrimental to share these fine writers’ emotions. Please enjoy this particular articles brought to our attention by Travel Fan Carolyn. His words on the Denver show hit home.
Again, as always, thank you for reading, sharing and most important showing up at concerts!
Last night, my wife and I—just about to celebrate our 17th wedding anniversary—treated ourselves to a concert by Tears for Fears.
For those of you who read progarchy.com regularly, you know that not only do we as a website love the work of TFF, but I, Brad, have been rather obsessed with Roland Orzabal and Curt Smith since 1985.
Yes, 30 years—just four more years than I’ve been in love with Rush. And, of course, what a comparison. Can you imagine Peart and Orzabal writing lyrics together? Tom Sawyer meets Admiral Halsey!
A blurry iPhone picture from last night’s concert in Denver: Tears for Fears.
I came to TFF in the same way almost every American my age did, from hearing “Everybody wants to rule the world” on MTV. What a glorious song. Here was New Wave, but New Wave-pop-prog. Here were intelligent lyrics. Here, to my mind, was…
Well, as expected, TFF proved they are a force, a powerhouse of pleasure, serenity for the soul and simultaneously “f*cking” awesome! Reviews from around the music writing world, words from those peeping in via Periscope and tons of praise on Twitter support the posts about this band’s popularity. Roland and Curt are more than well-respected, they are Rock Royalty.
Last night’s show at @Bonnaroo was streamed live thanks to @RedBullTV. Not only did fans attend in person, but also on their way to upcoming shows, crouched in airports or riding to the next destination in their cars. Hundreds tuned-in to hear a fantastic set that included many of the band’s greatest hits. The show was beyond exceptional and the crowd and fan reaction online stood out among the Bonnaroo praise. Roland was even pleased with the crowd. He shared a tweet from his personal account about their enthusiasm. That kind of crowd spirit is what we as travel fans hope for (and try to bring) at every show.
Tears for Fears Bonnaroo show
This is just the beginning. We’re only on show #2. Show #3 is tomorrow night in Denver Colorado. It’s another festival and an opportunity to go mad during Mad World, scream and sing for Shout and let the world know who really rules the throne of Rock and Roll. As one young fan said, “It’s Tears for f*cking Fears baby! They rule this world. F*ck yeah!”
@nerdist (TFF plane pal)’s followers joined in the Periscope love
Congrats to the band on their success. Wishing all fans very safe travels. We still have a few tickets left for the Tulsa show. Contact us on Facebook, follow on twitter (@papasfans) and be sure to follow @curtsmith @rolandtff & @tearsforfears.
Well Houston was a winner and fans all over (new and veteran) swarmed the festival enjoying Tears For Fears and the fun things #FPSF15 had to offer. The online shares via the major social media platforms (i.e. Twitter, Instagram) were plentiful and we made new friends in our online and in person interactions as fans.
Below are some of the shares and a bit of video. Enjoy the few days off and rejoice for the coming shows! If you need tickets to Denver and Tulsa let us know.
Fan share – Instagram
Head Over Heels
Shout
This is a common scene in the heavens when the band is around…
And…one more goodie courtesy Silver Kitty: click here
***This post has been updated, please scroll to the end for the line up info in the graphic. Thanks! Single day tickets are also available.
Sacramento get ready! Tears for Fears are at the city’s doors as are a slew of other bands scheduled to appear at the TBD Festival. The line-up isn’t final so even more bands are going to be announced. (please see update below, the line up is now ready). This, like several other shows this summer at iconic venues, is a big deal. It’s more than a 3-day music festival, it’s an artists’ hangout that welcomes foodies, shopaholics and wine lovers from far and wide.
This festival has a VIP option that will most likely sell out. It’s currently $275 (after fees, etc) and includes air conditioned WC/Loo (No clue if they have a bidet), preferred viewing and drinks…and a few other things if we’re not mistaken. The price goes up after the 31st. Regular ticket price is a cool $159 right now …so again, if you’re going you need to buy fast. There are no refunds…once you buy you do not have 3 days to return your tickets the way you can w/other box offices.
This festival has been in the news for its amazing and diverse opportunities that it provides attendees. Reviews note it as really exciting with an upscale village appeal that attracts a number of festival attendees in a way that other festivals do not. It’s also undergoing the mindful eye of those concerned with money and the financial side of hosting such big events as these.
Fork to Table – TBD Fest
It’s still rather early to know how many travel fans plan to attend and we only know a few people committed to attending this particular show. There’s no word or hint yet whether or not the band will do additional dates in the area. Many are hoping for San Francisco, Fresno and L.A. featuring Mr. Moyer. If you’re in the area we suggest going to this and one more additional show if announced.
Festival Dates – 18, 19 & 20 September 2015
Buy Tickets – click here –
Hotels -click here-
Flights – right now it’s about $400 round trip from the East Coast on the major carriers. Of course SouthWest has some awesome deals as well at a much lower price.
Subscribe and return for updates. We’ll be tweeting about it as the date approaches.
Cheers!
AA
Update:
Tears for Fears play on Sunday, single day tickets are available.
Lael of ArizonaLael has been so loving and kind over the years in her fan following of Tears for Fears. This year she is contributing to the Arizona fan fun by assisting fans with any questions about their travel plans. Read more about Lael and be sure to look her up before the upcoming TFF Arizona show to participate in the fan fun!
A Soft Place to Land
Tears For Fears has always been a soft place to land for me. I first heard of them in October of 1983 when their hit “Change” became a college radio hit here in the U.S. I was very drawn to them, as they appealed to my quirky, nerdy side. I was blown away by their ability to express childhood trauma in such an universal manner, at such a young age. It was intriguing that their harmony followed a classical idiom, which was not common for popular music at the time. I was raised on classical music, especially opera, so I loved Roland Orzabal’s operatic voice. Combined with Curt’s quintessential pop voice, they created a sound that was inviting, soothing, and timeless.
Their music has always been there for me during the worst of times: The passing of my mother, my highly dysfunctional upbringing, and my divorce. Due to the amazing strangeness that is Social Media, I was able to sing a duet with Michael Wainwright when he was the opening act / backup singer for Tears For Fears. This experience was life changing, as I discovered that there were people truly like me in this world. I finally learned that it was okay to express my creative side, and with insight from the band regarding songwriting, I am now able to write poems and sing much more freely.
I have met many other intelligent, talented, and compassionate people through my involvement with Tears For Fears; fans that understand the legacy of this band, and the overall importance of art and its relationship to our humanity. I look forward to this continued journey of self-discovery, self – actualization, and cultivation of enduring friendships.
We want to thank Lael for organising on two occasions fun things for fans to do and riding out through the desert to Curt Smith Solo shows in Santa Monica. Speaks volumes when people go above and beyond in the manner she has. Cheers Lael! Let the good times roll!
Tears for Fears have announced more shows and one will be in Irvine California at the Irvine Meadows Amphitheatre (formerly Verizon Wireless Amphitheatre) alongside several other bands (i.e. Bush, Everclear and Cake). This is all a part of Jack’s 10th Show. It takes place Saturday June 20th at 3pm. This show is not general admission and tickets can be purchased via live nation right now. However, the better seats have been snatched up by third party ticket sellers. Good thing about this is that $1 from official ticket sales goes to TACA (Talk About Curing Autism).
Travel Accommodations
Lodging and hotels for this show are a breeze because it’s California and not a remote spot so you, the fan, decide. There’s so much to do in this area from dining to just hanging out we’re not going to bog you down with a list of “must sees” …it’s California, go see everything!
We do suggest taking Uber to the show just because it’s easier and you can drink w/o designating a DD. If you are not familiar with the area and are just going because of the band vs summer travel we suggest the Irvine Marriott. You can dine on site and focus solely on the concert. We do not have the official list of who goes on first. But that line up is intense, those are some major bands and many of us have seen them all including Andye who, as a teen, was carried out on stretcher during one of the other band’s shows in 1996. Thankfully moshing is not all the rage anymore so we’re expecting good behaviour from most and no emergency response teams needed.
Show Day
Will call is open 2 hours prior to the show. Arrive early, bring valid ID. We have about a handful of travel fans committed to going to this show. These are mostly the local folks from LA who are driving over (please see the link for parking details on the radio station’s event page if you are not taking Uber).
M&G + Other FAQs
Write us directly on FB or in the comments box with any questions. Contact Jack’s 10th show directly for info on meet & greets (none of which have been announced yet…because this show is sponsored, the radio station with which it is associated may be able to confirm whether or not they are giving away backstage passes, etc. If they are you need to ask the radio station if you get to pick which band you want to meet. Rules change for different events so you have to ask the station as we won’t have that info in our info parcel. That’s usually arranged by a third party when it comes to radio hosted events.
Official Venue Address: 8808 Irvine Center Dr. Irvine CA. 92618
Pardon the brevity…got to keep it moving as another show was announced and that info needs to be posted. Scroll up in about 24 hours for that concert note.
Thanks for reading!
Sincerely,
Team ROCS’ Fans/Travel Fan Bloggers
The week of 14 June 2015, Tears for Fears will set out on a few tour dates in addition to Bonnaroo. These may or may not be the only shows of 2015. If last year is an example of what’s to come this year, you’ll know to expect more but, we only have confirmation for this particular week and the 2 previously noted festivals. Just after the Tulsa, Oklahoma show, the band will be in Albuquerque, New Mexico. We’ve had a handful of fans report to us directly saying they definitely want to go. Tickets go on sale tomorrow 4, April 2015 through Ticketmaster. Try the app if you have it on your phone. It seems to work best/pretty fast. Be sure you’re in a place with a good connection. Our experience has been pretty outstanding with the Ticketmaster app. It, in fact, has been better than calling on the phone or trying to buy tickets on a desktop.
Location: This concert will take place at Sandia Resort and Casino’s amphitheatre. It is absolutely breathtaking, gorgeous really. Please note that the band has another show in Arizona the next day so fans who are travelling make sure you don’t party too hard post-show so you can wake up in time to make the drive or catch the plane to Chandler, Arizona. There are thankfully plenty of flights to nearby cities between these shows unlike the Kansas to Tulsa show. The address of this concert is: 30 Rainbow Road, Albuquerque, NM 87122 – seating chart.
Sandia Resort and Casino
Accommodations (lodging, dining & food): We suggest you stay on site. You can Click here to reserve your room but be mindful that there are all sorts of discounts at this hotel for members. So phone them in advance and see if they can sign you up for something. Please call them first before booking so you can get the best rate. We saw some incredibly low prices for such a fantastic resort. There are plenty of places to nosh on site, so no need to run out looking for anything. It’s all there. Another great thing about this is it is not general admission so you’re not waking up at 7am in the morning to go stand in line with other dedicated team members.
Because we do not currently have a large group confirmed for attendance, we’re not hosting a major group activity branded with the Travel Fan Team’s travel kerfuffle-stuff. So be kind to each other, partner together to have a good time. Tweet each other and let us know during the roll calls if you’re around. Email us if you have any questions or need a bit of assistance. We were not/are not aware of any pre-sale ticket options for this show.
Thanks for reading!
AA
Follow: @tearsforfears @curtsmith @rolandtff
Travel Fan Account: @papasfans – we’re also on Facebook
Raoul’s mythic mother. 
Tears for Fears Travel Fans 