Every once in awhile, something comes down the pike that almost seems too good to be true. Josh Ritter established his original following playing The Saint in Asbury Park, NJ. It's a classic NJ rock and roll bar that when packed to the walls holds 150 people. Just before the release of Josh's new album and ensuing world tour, it was decided that he and his band, newly named the Royal City Band would do a warm up show where it all began. The only announcements made were on Josh's Twitter feed and The Saint's ticketing calendar...a place one only goes if they already know who's playing and want to buy tickets ahead of time. Because of the low-key announcement, tickets didn't sell quickly. So the "Secret Show" became not so secret when it was all said and done. Still, to see Josh in a club with 130 other people when he's selling out when he is consistantly selling out 1500 -2500 seat venues makes for a special show.
While I have always enjoyed shows at The Saint, the lighting is something to be desired. Some spots are hot, some almost dark so each player has completely different lighting on them ranging from passable to so slight that when a patron opens their cell phone the lighting doubles. This night was not any different. Add the fact that management had to have gotten a close out deal on a ten year supply of red gels, one could say photography is a challange. It's been a long time since I shot a whole show at ISO3200 and even then I think the best shutter speed I got that night was 1/30 sec.
Great show that had Josh's wife Dawne Landis provide some vocals. It also had a "secret" guest sitting almost unseen at the back of the bar; Bruce Springsteen. Bruce did not join Josh on stage but took a lot of notes and hung around after the show until Bruce beckoned Josh out the door where they drove off into the Jersey night.
As always, comments and critique are welcome.
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