As mentioned previously on our Twitter account and the band’s, Tears for Fears will perform at Bunbury Festival this year. This takes place 3-5 June 2016, This festival is cashless. Your money is stored on a wallet wristband in order to enhance your concert experience. Pretty straight forward festival. The band will be in good company with a stellar lineup of modern musicians. They play on the Sunday the 5th of June according to the updated schedule.
Right now, single day tickets are not available. You have to buy the whole 3-day experience. VIP has not sold out. It’s $1200 and it’s worth it. Given the needs of travel fans who want to have an uber awesome time on tour this is the package you’ll want. It includes:
-Separate Entrance
-Best View of the Stage
-Private Bathrooms
-Parking for all 3 days of Festival
-Complimentary Drinks and Food (and much more)
*If you can spare it, get it.
Flight: Delta has great deals going to Ohio quite a bit. So register for their mileage program and you’ll receive weekly notices about flights. We are suggesting Delta because they are the one airline with which we’ve had the least amount of trouble. They can also help you the day of your flight via @deltaassist on Twitter. It’s a big help.
Accommodations:
They’ve got it all taken care of…from glamping to camping. Here’s the link.
Venue Address: 705 East Pete Rose Way, Cincinnati, OH 45202
Meet & Greets and MeetUps
Fans have hinted that they want to meetup and do some fun things, gather and see other bands while there. Other fans have mentioned the festival circuit is not their thing so we “travel fans” don’t have anything planned per se. Let us know if you want to get together and do something fun during the three days. Our activities are about you and maximizing your level of fun.
Remember that the band will be back in Ohio a month later at the PromoWest Festival.
*Dedicated to Travel Fans Bob Ramos (Maestro), Silver Kitty, Lady Carolyn and Lax M. ~ thank you for making the journey!
*pardon my mixed English…I don’t use this language much except online and in professional settings.
THIS TFF SHOW WAS EPIC!
So… as we head eastward toward Red Bank we get a text from Deb, “Hold that ticket! Don’t give it away just yet.” After checking into the hotel, Deb sends another text stating that she’s turned that car around and is going to be able to make it to the show! Her third one of this leg of the TFF Tour. Haha! Now that’s a travel fan! We cheered as she came upstairs. The gang was all there. Time for more Tears for Fears Travel Fan fun (or pure majestic music madness)!
By 6:30pm we were driving around looking for parking and were fortunate to find a spot outside some really cool shoppes two blocks from the Count Basie Theater. The night prior I remember being rather calm (which is not my norm). Tonight I was back to my usual Tears for Fears pre-show jitters and they were in full force. Again, I couldn’t walk, I was pausing a lot on the side walk and could barely stand up straight. The butterflies were hardcore having it out inside my soul. I managed to crawl to the venue where we were met by a slew of fellow travel fans who were detailing all of the things that had happened to us, they had been following along via social media (Twitter, FB, Periscope).
Listening to Stand or Fall in the Hall…
We wasted no time and went right into hugs and photos. Then we all floated into that majestic venue as Stand or Fall began to play. We were decked out in our concert clothes, dancing around; me in a tiara to represent the fact this band is Rock Royalty and Carolyn in her Roland T-shirt and tattoo. I sat in the center, four rows from the stage and much closer to it. Lax from San Fran was right beside me. I have to tell you, Lax is an uber-dedicated fan who cares not just about other travellers but about the comfort of the band. Just listening to him speak gave me chills as his care and concern for their well-being took precedence over asking for a meet and greet and other things that I’ve come to learn are the first things people ask about during meetups. He’s met them before and will see them again. Lax’ first priority was hoping that TFF were well rested and feeling good for the show. Kudos to you Lax! You are too cool!
Kris and AA heading inside for the show
Peace all around…
Just like the night prior, Carina comes out and does her cool song set. This time she added a different tune that was a bit edgier. I think it was a suggestion by Bill of the TFF crew. Then the band came out and did what they do best, this time to a very eager and excited crowd. When Falling Down began to play, my hands shook a little because I was afraid people would sit down as they had the night before in Morristown…but they didn’t. The majority stayed on their feet, swayed and sang along.
Here’s what was on the list…
Mega Marvelous Moments Admist Amazing Music
Again, the entire show was much more energetic audience-wise than that of Morristown NJ. And of course, the band is ALWAYS animated and fun. They are great showmen and women. They’ve got this! But the energy was powered by a much more diverse group of people…slews of fans from New York. The crowd included notable folks like one of the leaders of Brown Girls Burlesque, an entertainment producer from the D.C. area and financial grinders from Wall Street. All were totally ELECTRIC! The people in the three rows ahead of me/on the front row were jumping around, women on the second row were dancing like crazy (as seen in many videos) and people were genuinely courteous to each other…even those who asked if I would give them my seat. They didn’t get upset with me when I refused…they later understood.
Video Moment – Change
There was a very tiny blooper where Roland seemed to forget a verse of ELAHE. And it was actually quite awesome. Here’s why…that’s one of many songs with complicated lines I’ve memorised to the very end. So… myself and others who knew it kept right on singing …LOUD. I could hear myself over the few seconds of silence. I quickly piped down but it was too late. Some people turned around and looked at me as if they were trying to figure out the rest of the song. Some people were sitting at this point so I was this lone person in the center of this venue (here we go again). I could feel Roland’s spotlight hitting my back making a shadow on the seats in front of me because I was directly in front of him four rows back. “It’s okay!” I yelled and started hand gesturing the rest of the lyrics. Roland hopped right back into the verse like a pro and we all sang along. It was so much fun. I almost wish he’d pause on purpose and let the audience fill in just for kicks…but anyway…
Bobby cut the song off just before the blooper happened…and that’s perhaps for the best…
It’ll be a moment only G-d and I will remember. I’m sure the Good Sir has washed it from his memory and rightly so, it wasn’t that big of a deal but darn that was fun for those of us who love that song. I enjoyed acting out the words as ridiculous as I may have looked in that Alice in Wonderland Mad Hatter coordinate and tiara. That spotlight was so bright it was impossible to avoid being a spectacle standing there animated, wiggling around to the beat but hey…You only live once… YO-EFFIN-LO.
Another outstanding moment was Curt wearing a very special Ben Sherman shirt and walking over to Silver Kitty so she could see he was wearing her gift. I about died…I was so happy. I’ve yet to have seen that on any of the videos, so again, that’s between us and G-d Almighty.
But two things did get on camera thanks to Mr. Ramos and SK, The Good Man came over just after Head Over Heels and gave Travel Fan, Queen of Kooks, Silver K the coolest of hugs! If any other hugs occurred on the planet that night, they didn’t compare to the one she got. It was so sweet and so caring. Boy did that soothe my soul. We as fans love Curt and his family. G-d bless them. Very sweet Smith Family Rockers…a gentle family with big hearts.
Blessed be the name…
Amen!
In case that’s not clear, we’ll play it for you…
Let me not forget another moment of joy and glory when The Good Sir let me sing again with Lady Cams on Shout… 😉 that’s like the second time (first time was 2011) and I swear when I die I will have that put on my tombstone, “Sir Roland Orzabal let me sing…twice.”
*Thanks SK for prompting me to come stand with you. Thanks to the people next to you who ushered me right on in.
Lax got to sing too!
Sowing the Seeds …For Real
So…the show ends, the lights go up and suddenly all these shiny (drenched) happy people turn around and look at their fellow concert goers that they’ve been dancing and singing next to all evening. “I’ve got pictures of you, let me send them to you,” one began. Then others chimed in showing each other their pictures and immediately texting these perfect strangers all of their photos.
Our new pal Mr. Ramos hanging out with Carina
One person in particular was Bob Ramos, a music guru with a long history in music education…yeah, he was there too! Isn’t that the coolest?! “I’ve got pictures of you, and you…and you, too!” he said as he pointed to each person near the stage. We exchanged email addresses and chatted for a few minutes (very briefly because security was trying to clear that place out). But then something odd happened…people started hugging…and kissing…and smooching each other goodbye. People that had never even met before…even I was gently kissed by strangers a few times and not a pop kiss on the cheek either, a full on frontal smack on the lips. In our not so tidy states of joy THAT happened…and you know what ::whispering:: I liked it! #TFFUtopia
I remember turning back around to one of the rather skilled darlings (he clearly had a PhD from the University of Pucker-Up and shall remain nameless) to give him a compliment on his kindness. I dropped a loving line and walked away for fear I might be so bold and ask for another. For shame, indeed. That’s perhaps an overshare. But we’re all friends now. It was all in the name of love. Still rarely a dull moment in this crew, eh? Speaking of moments, did I mention Kris slid Roland some chocolate in the middle of the show! LOL! He leaned right over and loved it! #ChocolateTennisRacket for the win! So cute!!
Kris slid Roland his chocolate tennis racket!! #TwitterWinGenerous Drummer Genius Jamie Wollam
Drummer Genius Jamie Wollam was very generous with drum sticks this tour. He not only gave out the pair he played with that night but also brand new ones to various people. He threw a drum stick toward Bobby (who already had a pair from the Tulsa Oklahoma show) and Bobby caught it…and gave it to a sweet man who happened to be in a wheelchair in front of him. Made that man’s night! Huge thanks to Jamie for being so accommodating to many of the dears and giving encouraging and kind words throughout their time with the band.
Catching the Good and Cool, Uber Cute man Curt before he catches a flight home xoxooxoxox
We finally left the concert area, well some of us anyway… Bobby went backstage and had a long chat with Roland about music, song meanings and other stuff. Several Travel Fans hung out near Carina, our man Mr. Ramos got some drum sticks and a set list signed…and as he put it, had his “expectations met like a MOFO.”
We had entirely too much fun not only with the band but with fellow fans. We played and chatted like kids and teens with new and old fan family as they came out from backstage. Curt had to jet but when I checked my phone I found he had left me a really nice note. I cherish things like that. He didn’t have to say anything at all but he did…he did a lot of things. Gestures are everything. To finish up our outstanding evening we went over to the best, authentic Mexican Restaurant on the planet before heading back to the hotel. It’s called North of the Border and it’s not far from the train. Go eat there! It’s incredible!
!!!IT WAS SUCH AN AWESOME NIGHT!!! Sadly words and these descriptions can’t really sum up the event. It was one of those, “you had to be there” occasions. There are so many people to thank including the Angels of Mercy that got us there. What more can we say? Muchisimas Gracias, Dalu, Salamat, Merci and THANK YOU!
Loving Lax and his signed set list 🙂Our new friend from DC – hard core fan from 1979! Got his Graduate cover signed! “Hey hey hey heyyyy…”
More pictures from the show… Thanks Mr. Ramos! 😉
Hanging out in the hallway at Count Basie TheatreLegendary Count Basie!
Drum sticks of Drummer Genius Jamie Wollam
Love this silhouette… rock on Good Sir… heck yes! #RolandAndCurtForever #TearsForFearsForLife
*These photos are the property of Bob (we’re nicknaming “Maestro” …everybody on the travel fan team gets a nickaname). Please respect that he was the photographer. We appreciate his gifts and they should be credited as such.
Thanks for reading!
Cheers
AA
Please follow Steve VitalIdol and Donna NJ on YouTube (great videos)… *Leave them a thank you note.
*Dedicated to Bobby – King of the Road* and Daniel G. & our Lady Cindy of New York, the Duchess of Fandom done right! 5am we straggle (yes, straggle – stagger & drag our sleepy selves) into Morristown New Jersey after one wild ride up the east coast through mountains and past some very interesting people, historic monuments and locations, eating interesting road food not to mention coincidental signage and vehicles…and the New Jersey Turnpike. Need we say more?
Little Logistics for the Win
Waking up at 9am, I spent most of my morning checking email, interacting with fellow TFF fans on social and trying to convince myself I should be sleeping because it would certainly be a very long day. Fans were trickling in from the TFF Capitol Theater concert in Port Chester, New York. Heaven knows if they got any sleep either. By 1pm Silver Kitty is up freakin’ out cause I let her lie-in/sleep in. I figured, heck…she deserves a few more winks after that 18 hour ride up but I forgot we had our normal ritual stuff to do like eating so we don’t pass out. We need time before/between shows to say the least.
Eventually Lady Mel and the Gormont Family arrive down the hall in their suite, Deb gets in from the prior show and is laying on the bed, I’m sitting on the bed and Bobby is on the phone while I continue to wipe Noxema cold cream on my face in my odd pajamas. Bobby was patient and took good care of us, he and Carolyn. They took food orders and went out and got a ridiculous amount of stuff from Panera, Starbucks double shots, orange juice and more. Big thanks to the Hyatt for making sure we were well accommodated given our very large party. It pays to be a member of that hotel chain.
Silver K and Lady Mel at Strawberry Fields
Travel Fan Meet Up
Once everyone was present and people had checked in, we got ready to head over to the show for the first of two more meetups, the last ones before the band heads off to Hong Kong where other gatherings would take place between our fellow travel fans in that area. We got to the Mayo Performing Arts Center right at 7pm and were fortunate to get a great spot in their designated parking lot, very convenient. I think we paid about $10? Maybe $5? Either way, it was cheap compared to Atlanta and Los Angeles. As we walked, I saw that this part of town had a very “historic” feel to it. Small shoppes, historic homes and well manicured spaces lined the street. It looked like a scene from a painting or a doll house. After picking up our tickets we went to a sweet spot adjacent to MPAC called Strawberry Fields. There we made ice cream sundaes and yogurt/ice cream milkshakes. After an hour, several Travel Fans were comfy inside eating yogurt and candy, getting jolted for the show. Because we don’t get to see each other except on tours, we held conversation right up til time to go inside the venue.
Hugs and Kisses with a Side of Nostalgia
Rushing out of the humid air we find our way inside MPAC but not before snapping group pictures and one of the sign featuring the band’s arrival. The theater is very nice inside and looks just like the pictures online. We had really great seats but because of the way that the Golden Circle is positioned you’re not as close to the stage as many travel fans are accustomed, even on the 5th row. So it was a little odd. But big shout out to the MPAC staff for assisting us with the seats and making sure we got great spots up close and near each other.
Great seats thanks to MPAC staff!
Before show time, I went around smooching on my fellow Travel Fan members like Cindy, a mega fan who follows Duran Duran, The Cure and a ton of other amazing bands. She has a great blog, takes great pictures and is credited for the majority of the video snippets in this post. She looked awesome as always and had friends in tow. We were all on the same row with an aisle between us. While waiting, Stand or Fall by The Fixx comes on and everybody that travels to TFF shows knows that’s a gift from the band…it’s almost like a big hug from Curt as I know I beg for that song to be featured before every show just like the day we rekindled the idea of travelling to every TFF event. That particular mix that they play includes Ashes to Ashes (the original by David Bowie) as well. With all due respect to royal rocker DB, several feel that Roland’s version is just as good as Bowie’s if not better…and I agree.
The Golden Circle seating – photo courtesy the Gormont Family
The Show
Carina Round opened the event and did a great job. She wore her lovely black dress with the scalloped sleeves. Ms. Round sang Backseat and some of her other cool songs from her opening sets of tours past (2012, 2014 and Part I of 2015).
Then…Lorde’s cover of Everybody Want to Rule The World came on. There was a dead silence minus the Travel Fans and other die-hards screaming and squealing. I finally yelled, due to lack of control, “This is it!! They’re Coming Out!!” and people beside me stood up as did a few others looking like newcomers to a cult ceremony. Soon Doug, Carina, Charlton and Jamie began to appear faintly in the blue light and mad applause began. The Rock Royals stood near their microphones and the concert was in full force with the wonderful energy even more prominent than tours past…and that’s saying a lot. They were SPARKLING!
Selections from the Set List
EWTRTW
Sowing the Seeds by John Sheehan
Secret World
BIDA
Change
MAD WORLD
Memories Fade
Creep
ADVICE
HOH
SHOUT
Then suddenly… *I should perhaps leave this out but we did discuss it on Twitter so I’ll detail what occurred…
The weirdest thing happened…something I have not seen at this particular magnitude. Falling Down’s first chords began to play and people start sitting down?! I was later told that people do this out of respect to an artist’s more subdued songs. Well, I’ve rarely seen such behaviour at a Tears for Fears show minus the few that sat down during FDAR in Orange County 2012 because they were unfamiliar with the song. So, needless to say I remained standing. There’s no way in hell I was going to “sit” at a Tears for Fears concert. Whether Roland wants to lead us in prayer or Curt wants to do a 30 min fashion show for Ben Sherman and Doc Martens between songs, I’m going to remain standing as long as they are on that stage. Well, soon I was like…one of 10 people (mostly Travel Fans) standing in my section. Fresh. hell. broke. loose.
Some guy starts yelling at me to sit down. I don’t know if it was fatigue or just sheer dedication to this band (maybe both) but I turned around and gave him the wrath of an exhausted superfan who had ridden over 18 hours to see this band…this was coupled with a “2doigts-salute.” Fans in other rows chimed in with me in support and told me to stand my ground. I remained standing, faced the stage and swayed to Falling Down, ignoring the horrible things the man said…something about the war was over? What does that even mean?
As he yelled and I didn’t understand much of what he was saying to even detail it further. Instead I thought how horrible and distracting this was for Roland to watch…and you know he saw it because I’m the only one in the center fifth row from the stage, in clear view of the Rock Royals, still standing. Then I had to remember who I represented. I am a fan of an amazing band that deserves our respect and a trouble free concert. I also represent my parents’ nation, my culture and so much more. Above all, I have a responsibility to behave appropriately on behalf of this band because we don’t want to be “bad fans.” I sat down briefly for the sake of that. But thank goodness Curt eventually asked that everyone stand up. It was perfect timing as others in the crowd hassled Cindy to sit down too though she refused. Curt delivered the Karma so to speak. Because of Curt’s prompt, the venue got up from their seats and remained standing for the show. I wanted to turn around and thumb my nose at that miserable drunk jerk who yelled at us but I was too busy dancing and having a good time to bother.
San Francisco & Oklahoma -Travel Fans from around the nation
After the show a few folks went backstage, while some went outside to do Periscopes and photos. Then we rode around in circles in a super sober mad stupor rehashing every inch of the show, encountered a family of deer which calmed our post-concert nerves and is now our new symbol. Our official animal is now the white spotted deer. Whenever we get too excited, we’re just going to hold up the sign of the white deer and refocus. Yeah, a little strange but It was a long day and we were tired.
Deb in the bed
We couldn’t stay out late because we had to be up and ready to head out for the next show (something you get used to when following the band). A short post-show travel fan chat took place back at the hotel and Melissa joined, bringing snacks and other offerings. She even had gifts! We stayed up til perhaps 3am and then went to bed. On Wednesday we checked out by 1pm and wished Deb goodbye as she had to go back to being an adult (though we joked with her to ask her boss if she could stay away a little longer).
Huge thanks to the Good Sir for making the Gormont family’s show so memorable!
The Good Sir & the Gormonts
The band was attentive to fans and people left the venue in good spirits. Very grateful to Cindy for coming down from New York to be there with us all. Huge thanks to Melissa and Deb for coming and staying with us in the designated suites. Awesome to see our Lady Colleen and meet all of the fans that flew in from abroad. We thankfully had extra tickets for the next day’s show and were able to hand those out to those who wanted to move up and be close to the stage. It’s all about teamwork!
*more to come from the craaazzyyy fun TFF Show at Count Basie Theatre where love literally reigned among Rock Royalty fans
The Tears for Fears Travel Fan team members made an epic journey and effort to have representation at each of the shows on both coasts for Part II. Lax made it to the Vina Robles Show, another went to TBD Fest as shown in the previous “Tour Recaps” and then several including Lax headed east for the Sterling Michigan, Canada and New York Show at the Capitol Theater (plus both New Jersey concerts).
The Midwest Travel Fans, led this time by Bobby, got the mini-tour bus treatment and went through Oklahoma, Atlanta and several other states to get to New Jersey for the Morristown and Red Bank concerts…Bobby clocked approx. 4,500 miles taking fans from their homes to the shows and back again. He is definitely TFF Travel Fan MVP.
While some were making their way up the historic highways, taking quick snaps at the nation’s capital and learning about New Jersey tolls, many others were lining up at the Capitol Theater. Lax, a dedicated Travel Fan from the San Francisco area was one of those people. He and others in our loving circle piled into that venue tightly among a very animated crowd that, according to reports, included two drunk women who wickedly made their way through the crowd sloshing their drinks. They ended up spilling them on several. They were thankfully removed from the venue. Still the fans remained focus and were able to enjoy a good show. Kudos to those who flew in long distances (from the West Coast, South & Central America) to be at shows.
Set List
Courtesy Travel Fan
Here are videos from fans who attended the show:
EWTRTW – courtesy Cyberace27
Change by R Palomba
Mad World
Memories Fade
Advice for the Young at Heart
Badman’s Song by Kurt B.
Head Over Heels by xxsusannycxx
WIC by Ronald R
Shout by R. Palomba
Big Thanks to Lax, Lady CM and Cams NYC for the pictures as well as Deb, our fellow Travel Fans (i.e. Lady JP & more) for their wonderful shares, reports and contributions. Be sure to leave a kind word on their videos and a “like.”
Inside the TheaterCarina, Roland Capitol Theatre by Lax
Roland at Capitol Theater courtesy of LaxROCS at Capitol Theater by Lax
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
*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 amazing Terri Nunn of Berlin snags a photo w/the Good Sir Orzabal backstage. We’ve been sharing the thoughts of many different writers and fans of Tears For Fears these past 3 days. Below is a short compilation of thoughts and images on the “Kool Koncert” featuring Berlin plus The B52s and Tears for Fears. The latter being two bands that we have had the pleasure of following closely for many years (especially now). As mentioned, AA now lives not too far from Cindy of the B52s and it’s just exciting to see them and be near. Several fans from the East Coast (NYC, NC, Atlanta, etc) attended this show and boy oh boy were fans overwhelmed at how animated, beautiful and overall outstanding the band performed. Special attention was paid to Curt and Roland’s liveliness on stage as well as Roland’s dancing around. Fans uploaded many videos from various angles to YouTube and the response was electric.
Denver’s Live Music Meetup Made this show one of their featured events. That’s always cool. If you’re looking for Tears for Fears fans in your area that may want to join the travel fan fun, meetup.com is a good place to find them in your city.
We reblogged this one earlier
“…they were meant to walk this earth at the same time…” Progarchy
This is another show that has fans buzzing and more than excited. Tears for Fears will return to Canada (Casino Rama just north of Toronto) this September for 2 days (25th and 26th). This will be immediately following the Michigan show (24th). The venue has a variety of seating options. Most of the front row seats are gone. Reviews on this venue are mixed. Some say it’s just not their favourite place to see a band in Ontario, Canada. However, many are going anyway. Looks fine to us as all the floor seats seem to be in clear view of the stage. See ticket links below for both shows and examine the seating chart carefully. Yes, you have to be at least 19 years old to attend. This is not an all ages show or one where you can bring your teens, tweens and toddlers.
VIP & Meet/Greet Inquiries
We’ve had several slightly aggressive requests for meet & greets plus “demands” for tickets. Please know we don’t have much power in those areas. It’s been a miraculous coincidence that we’ve been able to get the extra seats we had and so we decided to share those tickets. We always share or offer anything we can including any meetup opptys. We just don’t have them this time. Very sorry.
Accommodations
Stay at the casino… period. That’s our suggestion. Click here to reserve. We’ve stayed at a number of casinos during our travel fan years and thankfully all of them have been very nice. We feel this one will live up to our standards as it offers quite a bit just like Sunset Station and Red Rock Casino in Vegas.
Passports
If you are not a Canadian citizen, you need to get a passport. Not having a passport is not an excuse for not attending the show. You can get a rush passport. You can get the snailmail passport. The way we did it years ago was as follows: Download the application/pick one up from the post office. Passport photos were taken at a local Walgreens for a small fee. We filled out the passport info and submitted it. It was returned to us in 2 months. Passport prices vary depending on how fast you need it. A renewal is cheaper than a new one. You can also get a rush passport at most major airports. One girl forgot hers at home and had to get one on the spot in order not to miss the flight. I think she paid about $300 because it cost more to get one post-haste. This is not something you can leave behind. As you can see in the link. Gotta make a checklist before you get to the airport. Do a double check before you get to the airport or begin your drive into Canada. There have been too many issues where someone can’t find their tickets, travel wallet or passports. Put them in your Tears for Fears Travel Bag (made available in 2011 in Los Angeles). Do your best to keep up with your travel documents, pictures, etc.
That heart is for both, it just generated on Mr. Orzabal’s leg.
How many people are going?
A lot! A lot…that’s all we can say… the show has not sold out but tickets have been on sale for quite some time. We tweeted about it prior to the announcement by the venue and we tweeted about it the day the venue put the tickets on sale. We are also talking/blogging about it right now. Few can say they just didn’t know. Anyone that reached out to us at shows or in the hotel was told about the blog. Again, just no excuse here. If you really want to go to this show and have the resources and time to travel then it can be done.
If there’s anything we have forgotten let us know.
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.
As mentioned previously on our Twitter account and the band’s, Tears for Fears will perform at Bunbury Festival this year. This takes place 3-5 June 2016, This festival is cashless. Your money is stored on a wallet wristband in order to enhance your concert experience. Pretty straight forward festival. The band will be in good company with a stellar lineup of modern musicians. They play on the Sunday the 5th of June according to the updated schedule.
Tears for Fears Travel Fans 