It was late spring or early summer when Greg first heard about a band called The Civil Wars. We immediately became fans and were so disappointed to find that we had just missed them playing in Portland. In August Greg found they were returning and purchased tickets for us to see them. He kept it a secret for a couple weeks, but then had to tell me. Even though it was a Tuesday we decided to make a date of it and go out to eat as well. Thankfully, I didn't have any childcare conflicts and one parent picked up their kids early for us.
I looked around the area online for a place for us to eat and showed Greg the options. They were playing at the Crystal Ballroom. In the end, he decided we should eat at Ringlers which is a McMenamins (as is the Crystal Ballroom). We were a little concerned about getting to the front, imperative if my short stature wanted to see. The tickets there are general admission and there is no seating except some benches along the sides and in the balcony which was way in the back. After dinner (which was amazingly wonderful) we found out that if you eat at Ringlers you get into the concert 15 minutes before the doors open! We were the third people in line and stood against the stage right in the middle. Joy Williams and John Paul White were standing 6 feet in front of us!
I can't convey how much we loved the show. Their voices, harmonies, songwriting are all pleasing and emotionally enjoyable. Even the few covers they do have an originality that is fascinating. Their personalities seem friendly and humble, talking enough to include the audience, but leaving us wanting to hear more. Greg being in the front let his voice be heard a few times and we were close enough to be seen. At the end of the show John Paul walked up to Greg and gave him his guitar pick!! So Awesome! We bought a poster of their fall tour and are going to include the pick in the frame. The only way it could have been better is if we could have met them and gotten a picture. Still, not a complaint. It should have been our anniversary; it was so much fun!
Greg took several pictures, but it made me really self-conscious. They didn't seem to mind. He kept the flash off so as not to be irritating. I am a lucky wife!
