*Animation by Manami, travel fan team animation #Japan
(From moderator) For the first time ever I was at a real crossroads regarding what on earth to get the Good Sir for his birthday. I asked around, “What are you all getting Roland? Can you give me any ideas, anything unique and different from the norm? More skulls maybe? A real bidet perhaps? Wait, that requires assembly… ::thinks back to the thigh master::” Collectively fans have given him a ton of things over the years including some of us delivering gifts individually. I remember 2012, handing over something he could wear, something I hoped he’d love. I even consulted with one of his relatives before buying it. Once I put the gift bag in his hand (he had a wine glass in the other…ah the wine 😉 If only we could host a wine tasting in his honour and learn everything he knows about vineyards and more…but I digress)… I felt like a weight had been lifted off my shoulders. “I’ve given the best I have right now,” I said to myself. Much like he treats secrets I don’t keep past birthday gifts “alive.” I’m not looking for them in his pictures or asking where they are. If someone loves what they receive then they’ll let you know just as he did on the 16th of September 2011 after the additional quilt we all worked on (led by long time fan Lady Kim) was delivered.
Whether he tires of the annual slew of “stuff” or not, he has shown a surprising amount of LOVE & KINDNESS to many post reception. What several of us have found in person from the Good Sir is that he is a VERY warm and loving-spirit despite knowing all too well he doesn’t “have” to be. Virtually he has really opened up to a crew on Twitter. It’s giving those of us watching the verbal fun unfold something to “gasp” and “hard chuckle” about almost every day. Though he is elevated in many of our eyes to something supernatural, he is also very human. I’m glad that he has gifted us the opportunity to see that side of him as well.
We thankfully, again, get to wish Sir Roland one of the BEST OF BIRTHDAYS yet to come. I pray this day is filled with genuine love from those who truly care about his well-being beyond music and tours. I hope all of his mornings, noons and nights fill him with an overload of gratitude and appreciation for the joys in his life equal to the amount of true love we have for him…far beyond his stunning tresses or other superficial admiration. I know there are many of us that truly LOVE & APPRECIATE Sir Orzabal more than he’ll ever know. We adore him for his gift of music but that’s only scratching the surface, it’s so much more than that. To all of those who literally prayed for him, his family and his friends and band mates throughout the years, this is about you as much as it is about him. There is a love for this man that surpasses anything we tweet or post on social media. Roland means a lot to us and I wish all were permitted the opportunity to show it collectively and in unison with fellow fans who feel the same way.
Here’s to another great year with Sir Orzabal and his fellow music making family. Wishing he and GoodMan Curt an incredible year ahead. I pray we ALL get to be in it with them.
This is where the magic starts to happen, the lights lower and your soul soars…Tears for Fears are approaching the stage!Annnnd here we go!! One more for today! Feels good to get this info out into the public. It’s tough as nails to get a little birdie in your ear and have to hold still until the band or venue releases it! LOL! So, there will be two shows in New Jersey and this is the second one. Tears for Fears will perform at Count Basie Theatre on Wednesday the 30th of September. Tickets start at $45 and go up to about $139 (not including fees, etc.) Tickets will go on sale at noon this Friday for the general public. If you’re a theatre member you may get a presale code of some sort via email. Call the theatre to check the exact member privilege offered. Now, tickets will also go on sale for the other two shows this Friday. So stay organised and make sure you’re not double buying from the same venue. Buy in order of show if you plan to go to all of them.
Venue Address: 99 Monmouth St, Red Bank, NJ 07701 Accmmodations: The theatre’s preferred list includes two of our favourite hotels. So click here and take your pick of places nearby.
Meet & Greets – this is not a third party sponsored show. Contact the venue directly to see what opportunities they offer theatre members. There are many different member tiers.
Fan Fun – There will most likely be drinks pre-show. There may be a roll call via Twitter and we’ll round up the crews and hang out a while. These meetups are usually quite fun. Just come with love and kindness for your fellow fans. Group pictures abound…arrive gussied! 🙂
We’ll update this post as show time approaches…
Cheers!
AA
Tickets actually go on sale Wednesday for Starlight Members
Following the concert in Port Chester, NY, Tears for Fears will head on to Morristown New Jersey to perform at the Mayo Performing Arts Centre. Tickets for this show go on sale the 29th of July – This Wednesday! – for Starlight Members of the Theatre. Tickets range from $79 to $150… This is a show with seats, not general admission. If you’re looking to get up close you’ll want a Golden Circle seat which are the first 4 rows in front of the stage.
Venue Address: 100 South St, Morristown, NJ 07960
*There is onsite parking. You can pre-pay for your parking and skip the line if you wish. Read more by clicking here.
Accommodations: We suggest using the hotels that the venue suggests such as The Hyatt Morristown as these are on our Travel Fan preferred list as well.
Fan Fun: This show is right on the heels of another so right now the only thing planned prior the show is sleeping off the drive and early morning flights before the show. We will most likely go out to dinner and drinks afterwards but remember we have to be up in the morning for the next destination… Though none of us really sleep during these tours. The excitement is insane.
Again, review these ticket tiers…
Starlight can buy on 29 July (Wednesday)
Members and Subscribers 30 July (Thursday)
Update: *Tears for Fears Travel fans, contact us on FB re: tickets to sit together.
General Public 31 July (Friday) *The box office opens at 10am ET in the summer…so call at that time perhaps if you have any questions.
Meet and Greets – This is not a third party show. Contact the venue directly for any offers they may be making to special members.
We’ll update this post as information becomes available!
Venue Address: 149 Westchester Ave, Port Chester, NY 10573 Suggested Hotels:Doral Arrowood Hotels closer to the area such as the Hilton were sold out due to other events happening at that time.
Meet & Greets: This is not a third party show where meet & greets are handled by a sponsor. That’s all we’ve got. Most likely we’ll arrive a day in advance, have dinner and hang out like we usually do. Some will be driving in from the Canada show so we’ll be waiting on them to get in and keep this fan train rolling.
As information comes in we’ll update this post so be sure to subscribe and follow us on Twitter (@papasfans) for “fan travel” info and shenanigans.
As we get ready to move into another set of Tears for Fears shows in the coming cooler months, we’re reflecting on the excitement that took place a little more than a month ago. Big thanks to our dear pal Pennie for sharing her experience!
Living in a destination city, I have been fortunate to have seen Tears for Fears locally. In the last year I’ve had the opportunity to travel to a couple of shows out of state. I decided on Albuquerque/Sandia Resort because the show was at an amphitheater which had wonderful reviews, and this would be my first show experience at an amphitheater.
I arrived mid-morning. The grounds of this resort are quite remarkable, with a beautiful golf course that seemed to be more enhanced by the stunning Sandia Mountains in the distance. In the lobby of the hotel I was greeted by a large TV screen displaying the announcement of the TFF show! I was obviously in the right place!
Show Time!
We arrived at our seats just as Tears for Fears was taking the stage. We found that people were sitting in our seats. An honest mistake, I’m sure. Luckily, an usher helped get them to their correct seat. It was near dusk with a slight breeze, and slowly the stage lighting became more colorful. The set list was very similar to previous shows on the tour. Some of my high points:
-The wonderful guitar rift on EWTRW makes me feel like I’m floating.
-I LOVE the new techno intro for Pale Shelter.
-Break it Down Again (video below)- Roland was doing his best to keep the crowd involved, encouraging everyone to get their arm up and swing it side to side. We had a pretty responsive audience.
-Memories Fade- This song is quite emotional for me. I never get tired hearing TFF play this song.
-Creep… we all know how we feel about Creep!!
I took an audio recording of Head Over Heels. I always do when my daughter isn’t with me. It’s one of her favorite TFF songs and I love to share the moment with her.
Later in the show, the wind picked up quite a bit and was blowing from all different directions. The band had a heck of a time keeping their hair from blowing across their faces… some more so than others. Roland stated joking with Curt about his hair which made the crowd laugh.
Technical difficulties always seem to turn into an amazing, impromptu masterpiece of winging it. At the beginning of Woman in Chains, I think the wind knocked one of Jamie’s drum sticks from his hand because everything stopped while someone brought him another drum stick. The wind continued to blow and I was becoming a bit nervous about the overhead speakers and lighting which were swinging back and forth over the stage. I had to tell myself to “Focus on the music Pennie.”
During the show I noticed a guy running up and down the steps several times who would turn his ear to the stage and listen as he reached a seat below us. I ran into him after the show and asked if he was working the boards because I kept seeing him running up and back? He said “Yes, how did it sound?” You could tell he was genuinely interested in my opinion. I told him it was absolutely wonderful.
I come away from this show knowing that Tears for Fears genuinely cares about their fans. We are truly fortunate to have Tears for Fears touring again!
Looking forward to the next adventure!
TFF Travel Fan Pennie K.
Fan Videos from Albuquerque:
Very energetic version of BIDA from Karla Kristina on YouTube
Johan Malone shared a great video of Shout on YouTube
Lael has travelled and met up with the Travel Fan Team for several shows. This year she headed off to the Wild Horse Pass Resort and Casino with SnapHappy Pam, another long time travel fan, for the Arizona stop on the tour. Here’s her experience…
Lael and Pam… long time travel fans… 🙂
I connected up with SnapHappy Pam, who takes great pictures and videos of bands, for the TFF show in Chandler, Arizona. She was gracious enough to pick me up at Sky Harbor International Airport. I was highly concerned about the heat that day, as it was expected to get up to 115 degrees Fahrenheit!!
Pam and I also had our work cut out for us, as we needed to find a birthday card for Curt Smith, and gifts for both Curt and Roland Orzabal. We found some nice gifts at the Arizona Mills Shopping Center, but we were still on the search for an appropriate card for Curt. Pam decided to stay in the car as I went to find a card, stating that she “trusted my judgment”. No pressure, right?!! Well, I finally found a card, and after a little issue with gift bags, we were on the way to the hotel.
After checking in at the hotel and getting ready for the concert, we made it to the venue about 5:30 p.m. It took us a little time to actually wind our way back to the Ovations Showroom. The actual theater is adorned with beautiful ornate glass door panes. We looked into the doors of the venue, and guess who we saw on stage? Roland Orzabal was working on his pedal settings while tour and venue management looked on from the back of the venue. We peered closer, and Pam pointed out Curt Smith to me; he was also monitoring the sound check at the back of venue. After a couple of minutes of viewing the sound check, and talking to other fans that were now congregating outside the venue, we went on our way to find something to eat before the show, and to try to find the band’s tour bus.
Pam held our place at the lounge, while I ventured out to locate the tour bus in heat that made me feel like I must be searing my eyeballs. I found the bus after a several minute walk, and it didn’t appear there was anyone on it at the time, or maybe the crew were all sleeping? Being as discrete and respectful as possible, I quietly made my way back to the lounge.
As I still was on the search for some decent food, I was starting to feel faint at this point. I discovered that the lounge located in front of the theater didn’t serve any food, so I needed to find the take-out line for the restaurant. At this point, I was in a maze of a daze; it was very easy to get lost in this casino, because there are many interweaving lounges and restaurants, even though it’s actually a rather small complex. After finding where the casino had take-out food, and then after a decent time in line, I was finally able to place my order for a spinach salad, but was told it would take twenty minutes for my order to be ready.
Wild Horse…
Now I realized we needed to get the gifts back to the boys, as time was running short!! I was finally able to get in touch with the venue’s entertainment manager, Jason, on a tip from Andye, and he was gracious enough to run our gifts back to Curt and Roland. Meanwhile, Pam was having fun taking pictures of the beautiful artwork and ornate lighting fixtures all around the interior of the casino.
The doors opened promptly at 7:00 pm, and we were told by the ushers that we could go back and forth to get food and drinks, which I thought was so GREAT, as I still hadn’t picked up my food order.
It was now only half an hour before show time, and I was HUNGRY. Pam was smart and had grabbed something more substantial to eat while at Arizona Mills, while I was sustaining myself on the banana I’d had for a snack hours ago. I finally retrieved my salad and then preceded upstairs, as my seat was in the balcony, while Pam’s seat was downstairs. This turned out to be a pretty ideal situation, as I loved the view up top, while Pam liked the feeling of solid ground underneath her, and it gave her a great vantage point to take her wonderful pictures and videos.
The Show
When I got upstairs, I was pleasantly surprised that there was a lounge up there with a beautiful view of the surrounding desert. I delved into my salad and discovered it had an eye-popping freshness with its delicate greens, sweet strawberries, and juicy pieces of chicken. While I savored the fresh cracked pepper that lingered on my tongue, I marveled at this amazing venue, the circumstances of how I got here, and the show I was about to see. I got to my seat in the very last row of the balcony and took in the view—it reminded me of the Dorothy Chandler Pavilion in the L.A. Music Center—and I felt as if I were floating over the stage.
Carina Round took the stage to a house that was still only over half full. Her beautiful, soulful, and rustic-tinged voice filled up the hall while people were still talking over her—argh, grumble, grumble! I was singing along with her when I realized most of the people around me didn’t know the lyrics to her songs, which made me kind of feel out of place. I went to the restroom and her voice and guitar filled up the ladies room as well. Carina’s set included a newly added song called “Backseat”. Curt Smith’s ethereal voice could be heard offstage, and then he came on stage to sing the last stanza of the song with her.
During the fifteen minute break, I went downstairs via the elevator to see if I could chat with Pam for a moment. (I think it’s marvelous that security let us go up and downstairs, allowed me to bring my almost empty gift bag with me into the theater, and surprisingly didn’t check our bags either.) I wasn’t able to locate Pam, so the security guard started to give me a hard time about being down there; he gently reminded me how much time I had left before I headed back upstairs.
Tears For Fears opened the show with Lorde’s version of EWTRTW before coming on stage, which created a heightened space for the show. It’s beyond comprehension that while this was the fifth time I’ve seen TFF perform, I felt as if I were hearing them for the first time. They sounded so tight, the separation between the parts was incredible, and it never ceases to amaze me how they stay true to the original recordings of their songs, while imparting a new energy each time they tour.
Since I was ‘hovering’ over the stage, I had a great vantage point where I could see all of the fingerings and chords for both Curt and Roland. I also saw exactly what Jamie Wollam was doing, except for his pedals, which I could hear quite well. I was standing up, singing, and dancing to all their songs. I couldn’t help thinking: unless one is not physically able, how can one NOT dance to Tears For Fear’s music? It is dance music, correct? I was trying very hard not to annoy my fellow concert goers, while cheering, screaming operatically, and waving to both Curt and Roland. It was pretty hilarious, if you ask me!
There were only a few downsides of this show from my seat in the house: the mix was heavy on the bass and drums, people talked during the entire show, and the bar ought to have cut people off earlier, as there were some pretty drunk fans by the end of the concert.
Reflections on the Show
It seemed to me that Jamie Wollam was putting on a drum clinic, and Roland was giving a master class on opera singing at times. With Curt’s beautiful vocals and precise bass playing, Charlton Petuss’s sweet lead guitar, and Doug Petty’s wizardry on the keys, anyone that sees Tears For Fears perform live is in for a real treat.
Highlights of the show included, “Sowing the Seeds of Love” which sounded very fresh and tight to me, “Change”, showcasing their consummate technique, and when Roland’s voice opened up on that last line of “Creep”. I found myself thinking, ‘Why is this dude NOT singing opera—seriously—as he definitely has the vocal chops for it?!” The definitive highlight of the show was Roland recognizing me, making eye contact, and then flashing me the greatest smile. As Roland sang the line, “I hope we live to tell the tale” in the encore, “Shout”, I realized why I was meant to be there…I also had finally “lived to tell the tale”.
Thank you, Lael! Very sweet of you and Pam to share great photos and highlights from the Arizona show. See you next time! 🙂
Thanks for reading!
-Lael & AA
*videos and pictures by SnapHappy Pam
Follow: @tearsforfears @curtsmith @rolandtff @carinaround @jwdrum @dougpettyla @CharltonPettus (you can follow travel fan fun via @papasfans) Also, be sure to visit our #2015Love focus and consider a donation: http://www.standwithmaceo.com/ #StandWithMaceo
Carolyn describes the fun she had with the travel fans during the Tears for Fears 2015 Summer tour…
Both Curt and Roland signed this cool Tears for Fears coffee mug for Lady Carolyn…
I cannot begin to describe my wonderous vacation this year, seeing 2 Tears For Fears concerts back to back with my fellow Tears For Fears Fan Travel Team members, Andye, Carri, Bobby, Roland (Bobby’s son, not the Good Sir), and Ryan. First things first, the Kansas City show at the Uptown Theatre was sold out and I’m SO proud of my KC peeps for recognizing that ROCS royalty was blessing our fair city. This show was the BEST I have ever seen! The Uptown is a beautiful venue, the acoustics were amazing, the crowd was very appreciative and on their feet for the entire concert, Roland was very animated…smiling a lot and interacting with the crowd, and most important, the band performed perfectly. It all meshed together and emitted an energy that caused me to burst out into tears more times than I can remember.
My TFF Fan Travel Team peeps, I love you all!!!! Andye, our leader….we would all probably look and act like those screaming, crazed Beatles fans from the 60’s if it wasn’t for your calm, cool leadership skills and voice of reason. Andye is an experienced traveler and is a joy to be on the road with. She enhances the TFF experience in a multitude of ways that I can’t even begin to describe. Much respect, Andye. Thank you!!!! Travel Fans at Breakfast/Brunch Post Show
Carri….nobody needs to worry about not knowing about any potential weather issues that may crop up during these concerts with the Silver Kitty around. I felt safe knowing we would be the first to be able to take cover quickly. Her enthusiasm is infectious and her love and respect for CS is so palpable you feel you can touch it. She is so much fun and simply a joy to be around. Carri, Thank you!!!!
Bobby….some people may not know that he is a LEO (Bobby, I’m sorry if you don’t want that out there). He was able to constantly watch our surroundings for hazards and potential problems on this trip, and did it so discreetly….all while having a fun time. Anyone who knows me knows that I don’t like road trips and that I especially HATE highways. But with Bobby behind the wheel, I felt safe, and due to his excellent driving skills, I was able to relax and enjoy the scenery and company. Bobby, Thank you!!!! TFF Travel Fans Listening to
“Listen” and headed to Tulsa
This isn’t her first rodeo, Carolyn has been a long time fan…here’s her Travel fan Tshirt from 2014
Roland….I had never met Bobby’s son before and I’m so glad he went. He is a very attractive man (what is it about that name?), and lot’s of fun to be around. Plus he’s a funny guy. I must admit that whenever anyone said his name, I always had a split second moment of confusion and would glance around, expecting to see The Good Sir Orzabal, even in the car. Roland, Thank you!!!!
Ryan….he had never been to a TFF concert. But I used to work with him and he was the only person at work who never made fun of my love for this band and their music. Ryan would stop by my desk to look at the various TFF items on display and never laughed. It was a real treat to stand beside him at the Uptown at his first TFF concert and see the wonder in his eyes. He seemed to really like my TFF friends and they liked him. Ryan was very helpful showing everyone some of the highlights of Kansas City. Ryan, Thank you!!!!
All in all, this has been the best vacation of my life!!!!
Travel Fans Hanging out at the Tulsa show venue… (perfect symbols in the back – The Good Man would approve)
*Dedicated to Steven Jacobson who made his Twitter debut with a post to Tears for Fears and the Travel Fans. That was pretty darn cool! Thank you!
Our emotional & exciting journey to Tulsa for Tears for Fears began at 12:47am on Tuesday morning, the day of show. I rested just enough to be coherent and not miss our 10am lobby roll call. At 10:25am we rush off with our amazing pal Bobby, a long time TFF Travel Fan that we met through Captain Julian Orzabal. He lead the way. G-d bless Bobby, he gave us the VIP treatment in his incredible vehicle. His son Roland was by our side and kept us laughing and upbeat as we did one last check to make sure we had our tickets, etc. before heading to this next city (Tulsa) on the tour… it was broadcast on Persicope. (pardon this one-off device to device recording).
Living the Dream As we drove, I thought about the unexpected band chat we learned we were to attend that same day. The excitement of that plus feelings from the Kansas City, MO show just began to pour. We became overwhelmed by our experiences with the band over the past 3 decades (which is 95% of my life – #ProudTFFToddlerFan – I still visit the place where I first heard them on the way to school). And then Bobby says, “This reminds me of the winter of ’85…”
On the way
Upclose is an understatement…this felt amazing to all my 5 senses. Healing indeed.
Road Warrior Realities
We finally arrived at the hotel after barely getting through some time consuming traffic. Making the transformation from road warrier to concert attendee is not something that can be done in an hour’s time. You want to bring your best self in the presence of the band…whether you’re seeing them up close for a chat or within arm’s length at the stage. I wasn’t able to accomplish that this time around. The weather was humid, it’s raining and we have a band chat to attend… and I’m just not ready. Not to mention I had been trying all morning to get a last headcount on which fans were coming so we could share this opportunity in an organised fashion. We’re reaching out to see who was on the way so we could, calmly and appropriately give some hugs and appreciation to this extraordinary team of musicians that we have adored forever and a day… and it’s like crickets. Everyone was in transit or busy getting ready vs. answering the phone, replying to tweets or even picking up these extra 2nd and 6th row tickets before the show. It was strange to say the least. So, it would just be us…Silver Kitty, Bobby, Roland the Sequel, Lady C and myself… and at 6:30pm we rushed off to get an extra bag of Curt’s sweets for the show with a few things for Roland in tow.
Long story short, I ran back inside for a bar of Cadbury chocolate for Curt…and got all damp from the rain. “Maybe I should just go to my seat and let the others say hi for me…” I thought as I try to fan myself dry. I decided I’d better show up and just stand back, taking a rain check on the hugs.
A Nice Chat
*Not going to elaborate on this part because I respect everyone’s privacy (and the law of the land) to not record every word said or detail every movement made. But as always, these chats are very sacred and I’m grateful that we were able to share it with those who came along. Somewhat drier, we get inside the venue and see members of the beautiful TFF official team, people we are always overjoyed to see. As we are hugging I realise I still don’t have one of their items. I’ll have to send it later. Long time fan, former TFF member and all around awesome person, Afton is there looking like a million dollars and I’m just thrilled to see her again. Learn more about Afton (Sangster) here.
They led us down the trail to the chat which was a scene from Alice in Wonderland. There I was in my damp royal blue Japanese Kawaii coordinate entering the twists and turns like one trailing down the rabbit hole leading to this extravagant moment. It was so cool yet serene as the room in which we eventually entered looked like a grand mini ballroom with its cool furniture, deep colours and gorgeous band members relaxing like they’d just finished the most sumptuous of tea parties ever…in big chairs mind you.
Still, I wasn’t ready… After all the years of seeing them, delivering this or that…this wasn’t new for me, yet I still couldn’t believe it. Damp and dizzy with a racing heart that sent me into a cold sweat, I walk in the door ushered by the very subdued Silver Kitty. I’m greeted by the majestic presence of this band. The Good Sir in all his glory greets me with incredible and beautiful warmth. His precious hands meet mine in a respectful way. The Good Sir gives me a gentle hug depsite my forelorn and bedraggled condition and he went down the line greeting us as did others of this sacred set of musicial geniuses …The Good Man came in as well and lovingly signed merch and allowed us some nice snapshots while chatting with us about his life. It felt like family, like I was where I was supposed to be…The rest of their generous time in their presence was equal to a very spiritual encounter and will be kept in our vault. Nothing off colour or seedy occured, it was just a warm discussion and chat that for us is the closest thing to heaven. It’s a Zen gathering, it is the ultimate peace and joy. One’s soul calms when standing near them and, as usual for me, it takes about 6 months to realise that we did actually see them. Several times I find myself waking up at night thinking…was that real? It’s just such a miraculous moment.
So much fun, such a euphoric experience, all TFF concert are…
To think we were little kids watching them on TV, holding their music close like security blankets and now they stand before us providing comfort that words can’t describe. I have not found that type of peace anywhere else. There is nothing I can even compare it to because it’s like a dream. It’s a very uplifing and a soul gripping experience, it redefines Cloud 9’s eurphoria. Any odd things that happen in our daily lives are completely washed away as their energy and kindness makes a therapy session look like a cheap bandaid. Tears for Fears, whether they accept it/know it or not, are a healing experience. One look, one nod, one smile by members of this band… and one is forever changed. It’s a phenomenon.
After the unexpected and generous chat we wandered back through the cool, twisting trail and past the stage curtains which were open. I couldn’t help but take a peek at all the cool instruments. Seeing the audience from their perspective was pretty damn cool. Seeing all the eager people and happy faces just waiting for them to come out and dazzle the world as they do was exhilarating. SK was kind of enough to get us really great seats. I was happy that the stage wasn’t so high that I couldn’t see over it. I had just enough room to dance around without it pressing into my hips. Those on the first row center were literally knees-to-stage. We were first row right (Curt’s side), Lady C on first row left (Roland side) and quite comfy. We met some really lovely fans before the show and during that time I exchanged email addresses with as many of them as possible so we can stay in touch. Before long Carina Round came out and played her fantastic set. She gave a shout out to Pucifer who had played at this location some time ago and she was there with them. Curt accompanied her on the final song of her set as he’s done on so many other occasions (notably, Sunset Station Hendersonville Nevada 2012).
Annnnd of course Tears for Fears appeared not long after…and it’s all recorded. Here are some videos from the show by various fans. Big thanks to Charlton for the generosity. Huge thanks to Jamie for the drumsticks given to Bobby!! Gargantuan thanks to Roland and Curt for their TIME. Sweet gentle kisses for Carina and her beautiful voice (love her wardrobe). And special thanks to Lady T and Afton for that generous pre and post-show hug. I’m so inspired to work hard to bring forth my best self because of this band. They make me want to be a better person. It’s just something about them that makes me want to do better in every possible way. I pray, by G-d’s grace I can do it. I pray we can always enjoy their majestic presence as tour attendees and dedicated travel fans. G-d bless everyone’s contributions and efforts and the positive energy of others alongside us in sister fan groups in Manila, France and Brazil/Brasil. TFF puts the “FF’s” in “Fan Family.”
Videos and Show Highlights
*SK says to watch these in HD or the sound is completely inaudible.
We screamed a lot. Looking back through the videos, we were just in plum TFF Manic mode… I’m so glad we remain calm during M&Gs with Curt in California and impromptu gatherings during tours because if I heard or saw people like myself in “show mode” I’d probably be afraid. One beautiful part of the madness is that the entire crowd was “roaring” with joy. It was awesome, overwhelming and everything in between. The energy in those shows is electric. We get so excited and though it’s over an hour (2+ I think) it’s never long enough, you want it to go on and on. We don’t get tired of this because every concert FEELS new, one is not like the other. Atlanta isn’t LA an LA isn’t Vegas, etc. Each concert has unique pieces and occurances that make you eager to go to another so you can enjoy the new things they say and do in each city.
Another set of treats and gifts are the conversations between songs and souvenirs tossed into the audience. We were on Curt’s side for this show and Charlton was standing over us. I loved watching him play guitar and he was all smiles, even obliged and gave me a guitar pick. I was collecting Curt’s for some time and giving them to fellow fans back in Atlanta and for those who had only gotten to see Roland or stand on his side. I find that no matter what side you’re on, it’s just fun to be near them. Roland and Curt do a lot of great shoutouts during shows as well. Here’s one for a set of twins who share The Good Sir’s birthday/bidet/bday.
Birthday Shout Outs
During Charlton’s solo intro of Closest Thing to Heaven, Curt slips some Skittles. Then he comes over to us and literally throws a handful over our head to make it rain!!
OHHH MY GAHHH, you’d have thought he was throwing money. We were so excited, catching a few in our hands and swallowing them down (or at least I did. I have a collection of his autographed Skittles so any new ones are fair game to be eaten). We couldn’t get “the rain” on video because it was unexpected but we’re hoping someone else did. Good Man you are so freakin’ cool!
courtesy of Bobby
Set List
Being so close to the stage distorts the sound sometimes so here are some clips by a fan named Aaron for a few of the songs. Carri also took some cool video close up.
Everybody Wants to Rule the World (Lorde & TFF riginal Opening)
SW, SOL, AFTYAH,
Pale Shelter & cool chat from Good Man Curt *they sound crystal clear in person, again being so close to the stage our recordings sound a bit distorted.
BIDA, ELAHE & Creep
Change, MW, MF, CTTH (Billie Jean was on the list but was not played) Badman’s Song
Head Over Heels
Head Over Heels – upclose
Woman In Chains
Shout
Shout (upclose)
After the show, like immediately after, this young lady comes out of nowhere and jumps up on the stage. She’s trying to get a set list. When a staff member gives it to someone else we start yelling, “But she jumped up on the stage! C’mon, let her have one please!!” The guy did hand one over. Roland the Sequel got one as well…which was pretty darn cool and well deserved for his amazing contributions this season.
Back at the hotel, security is walking around …we don’t know why. Maybe the band was going to their rooms or something. We stayed off to the side in the lobby and people came over to us to say hi and hang out. During that time we met these cool peeps from one of the conferences that the hotel was hosting.
Hotel Lobby
Hours later in our rooms we’re looking at videos, packing and such. We had to hop off the tour because we couldn’t do that Arizona and ABQ heat. I had a swim meet back in Atlanta, so I couldn’t go to Jack’s 10th Show. This would be it for a few months…and the thought of pausing was hard. We stretched time that morning though…
Travel Fan Brunch – from Periscope TV – replay of broadcast
A Little Pause
On the way to the airport we contemplated if we should just take some extra holiday time and just go to the next show anyway, crazy 100+ degree temps be damned. We couldn’t but thankfully other travel fans were taking good care and headed out to represent the TFF365 spirit. I tried to hold in my tears the whole of the Tulsa show and afterwards but at the airport, right there at the curb I just lost it. I just cried…horribly. The ugly cry…smh.
I said goodbye to all through sobbing tears. Carolyn who was flying in the same terminal as myself walked me in and I sniffled my way through check-in. It was so hard. I walked around the airport. TFF were, to our knowledge not far off, one woman said she saw two guys who looked like The Good Sir and The Good Man walking into a side door. You know they have those now where you don’t have to walk in with the public. I thought they already did but anyway, they were supposedly spotted. Roland had tweeted that they were grounded due to the storms. Carolyn’s flight was delayed for the same reason. Mine was on time but we still had about 3 hours to kill. So…like any dedicated fan we located the Airport Jukebox that plays music over the intercom system throughout the entire airport… and we changed all of the songs to Tears for Fears…like over 2 hours worth. We Periscoped it, making sure to avoid people’s faces because we weren’t sure it was legal to broadcast there. Thanks to all, especially Steven, who logged into the broadcast and showed us how to do it. #TeeHee It was awesome! People all around us were tapping their feet and dancing in their seats. Only one guy approached Carolyn later (she was wearing her TFF shirt) and asked if she was responsible for Tears for Fears being played non stop… We have no shame. She even has a t-shirt her daughter gave her that says, “Danger, Tears for Fears Fan…”
Again, very grateful to Roland and Curt, their entire team, road team, Lady T, fans on tour, Afton and all the support and kindness we got via Periscope and the entire time we were gone. So many people help make these tours possible and we’re just thrilled to be out there on the road with their energy. Really looking forward to the new album and more fun and exciting times in this life with Tears for Fears leading the way. Cheers! Thanks for reading! AA
Memories to last a lifetime!
Follow: @tearsforfears @curtsmith @rolandtff @carinaround @jwdrum @dougpettyla @CharltonPettus (you can follow travel fan fun via @papasfans) Also, be sure to visit our #2015Love focus and consider a donation: http://www.standwithmaceo.com/ #StandWithMaceo
The first time I ever met Roland he was holding a beautiful little glass of wine and I wanted a sip of it so bad. You could just tell it was…gooood. He was savouring the taste of it and I immediately had a flashback to my relatives enjoying lovely dinners with friends while I, an only child, got to watch it all with a glass of sparkling apple juice…those are some of my fond memories of being a little one. Most of the time I sat in my room holding tight to my Tears for Fears music collection imagining and counting down the days til I was old enough to host parties of my own. I was determined to party hard. But I digress…Let’s just cut to the chase. The band has notified everyone in advance (applause) that the show is going to be on the 19th of September 2015 at Vina Robles Amphitheatre. The tickets according to the venue go on sale in July (11 July 2015). However the band’s tweet says it’s this Friday…which has sent people into a little bit of a panic. So, we phoned to find out…crickets.
As far as obtaining tickets, you can actually go in person to the box office and buy these if you’re local. It’s open pretty early…I think they said 10am to 5pm. We will confirm that again most likely on Twitter first. They do not sell tickets over the phone according to their automated message. Please note they do have premium and luxury seating. Die hards, section 102 & 103 are what you want.
What we also know is this is not attached to a hotel in which you can stay, it’s vineyard as implied. There is a guesthouse on site. There are also vacation rentals. Click here for that info. There’s also a wine club you can join. Click here for details.
Event Location: Vina Robles Hospitality Center 3700 Mill Road Paso Robles, CA 93446 – it’s outdoors, and most likely a rain or shine type of show. So prepare accordingly. That area is beautiful in September mind you…stunning! So you’re going to get a great taste of nature – no pun intended…or maybe it is.
courtesy TFF page
As with most wineries and vineyards there is a Wine Tasting opportunity. They are very reasonably priced and you can find out about that here. We suggest the Gourmet Wine Tasting.
Concert Venue
Transportation and Flights
It is a 3 hour drive from LAX/airport…so calculate that. If you need a car service you’re looking at about $200 each way. Most fans will rent a car and drive themselves. Most rental companies require a credit card deposit and they authorize $200 which takes away from your available credit in some cases. The good thing is you’re gonna get it back vs. taking a car service. But you’ll be at a winery…and you won’t be able to drive around legally if you’re drinking…so you decide what you want to do. We suggest the car service…obviously. Average flights around that time of year from East Coast are $350 round trip on a commercial carrier like Delta, etc. There are deals for those who get the email notices. I’ve seen them as low as $109 each way. Our advice is to book now!! If you know you want to go to this show, book now!!
Hotels… We suggest the Courtyard Marriott in that area. Address: 120 S Vine St, Paso Robles, CA 93446 – however it seems to be booked that weekend so the next best thing seems to be Hampton Inn and Suites by Hilton but that too is booked solid. Check back with those hotels or use your hotel membership card to “get in” by phone if possible. Otherwise, La Quinta Inn and Suites is available at about $270+ per night.
Who is going?
There is excitement on the boards. We’re pretty sure there will be some commitments to this concert by travel fans all over the place. We’ll be in touch via Twitter with any extra tickets or travel fan pairings as soon as they are confirmed.
Don’t forget to follow @tearsforfears, @curtsmith and @rolandtff
What do we say to the man we adore and have appreciated and loved for yearrrrrsss, decades??? My goodness, The Good Man is a year older with a youthful spirit and even decades younger good looks. We adore him. Thank you Curt for enriching our lives the way you have, sharing your music, your talent, your TIME and even your amazing angelic family. You spoil us infinitely! Please enjoy these words from a slew of your kooks! Big kisses from Joyce (Manila Kook) who was also born on the 24th of June (hers is actually the 25th but heyyyy…let’s just do a this together…) 😉
Happy Birthday, Curt!! -Manami (Japan)
“Happy Birthday Curt!!!! Now everyone sing Happy Birthday!! Great memories. Love, Kook Sheila” (SheeShee) -Sherman Oaks 2011 Birthday Song coordinator
Sherman Oaks Residency, Curt bought dinner and offered VIP, he shares so much!! xoxo ~Singing Happy Birthday to Curt led by SheeShee
“A big Happy Birthday Curt. Age is but a number and your music like a fine wine gets better with age.Have a great time with your family on this special day.” Anthony G.
“Happy birthday dear Mr SMITH. Wish you have more (per molts anys in CATALAN)” -Sabine S.
From Sabine
Curt, thank you so much for continuing to do what you do so well. Have a wonderful birthday with that loving family of yours. Many wishes for your continued success! Happy Hatching Day! (My version of Happy Birthday) Love, Carolyn Henneforth” (@Truman555)
Wishing you an amazing birthday and cherished time with friends & family! Here’s to this year being the best yet!! Much love, Becky (@eandbandri) Soboski
From Carri (SK)
Happy B-day, beloved Mr. Curt Smith !!! 30++ yrs, you’ve been my #1 fave singer, hella Coolness (Like a Boss) Superb Kick Ass bassist, and Godsend Idol Extraordinaire talented twilight man. N’joy 2 the fullest. Have a magnificent day with beautiful celebration. Thank you for being You!
P.S. Thank you so much for all the universal soulful care you have given me during my teen years.. You don’t know how much you got me through many hardships because of your courageous inspiration.
Immensely Grateful
CaRRi’
Bonne Anniversaire et S’agapo! We appreciate you and all the detail and attention you pay to us despite your busy life. You really are a shining example of the concept that family doesn’t always mean “blood relatives.” You take your kindness to levels unknown and we’ve been so grateful to experience that on many occasion. Here’s to more good times and Skittles showers. I love it when you make it rain!! Post rain at the Tulsa show I literally said, “Omg, I’m so happy!” Then I ate them. Lol! Hope to see you soon. Have a great time away with your family. Beijinos, Andye P.S. Next time I won’t run for Cadbury before the show, arriving soaked with rain and heat, unable to properly shake hands. #LessonLearned #NoMoreFrazzledKook
Curt makes it rain! xo
A very Happy Birthday to you Curt! I speak for all of us, “We adore you!” Bobby Russell
Good Man Curt Smith in Tulsa Oklahoma 2015
My cat, Missy, and I are wishing you a very Happy Birthday!! I hope you liked the pressie that SnapHappy Pam and I picked out for you. I am very grateful that I was able to see your show again, and that I left with a great inner peace.
Much love, Lael T. Mark
You bring us all together, near and far! xoxoxo
Um bolo de Curt Smith de Arte em Acucar oxox
🎂 FELIZ ANIVERSARIO 🎂🎂🎂🎂🎂🎂🎂🎂 – Marcio Campo (Brasil/Brazil)
Amelie and Yara Nash, who once drove 7 hours to see your solo show, sends virtual Sour Skittles for your birthday. Her daughter has always remembered that he likes those after she met you at a solo show at the Whitefire Theatre in Sherman Oaks :). “I hope Curt has a most fabulous and beautiful birthday with his sweet family!! Wishing him great experiences and the best for the coming year :).” -Yara Nash
Thanks for signing our shirts and being our hero! We appreciate you and your pal Mr. Orzabal. You both keep us going day after day! Life isn’t good unless you two are in it. From the fun during Brit Week to the best tours ever, we cherish every moment near you, Curt. Thank you for making life great!
Tears for Fears Travel Fans 