Cool Heads
This Ride
My Love
Waiting To Be Offended *
You're The One
Just Let It Go
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The Stars Look Good Tonight *
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Long Gone


*= Steepwater Band Song

Marc Ford - guitar & vocals
The Steepwater Band:
Jeff Massey - guitar & vocals
Todd Bowers - bass & backing vocals
Joe Winters - drums

7.15pm I am back at the venue alone, but with taping gear. The band are indeed loading in, I find Jeff (Massey) who has the time (I am always conscious that they are busy at times like this) to walk me in. The venue staff are incredible, suggesting where I can set up, and even getting me a drink. I also meet the band's tour manager, who again appears pleased I have come along.

I run into Brian (shmc) who like me is taping the band, though he is also looking after their backline. Together we set up in the balcony. My mic stand, which I have gone to the effort of bringing all the way, is useless here, and we decide to set up either side of a metre-wide pillar, on the balcony rail by the lighting board, taping my tiny mics in place with masking tape and gaffa.

While I am doing so I spot Marc Ford, who is waiting patiently for soundcheck with Jeff. I introduce myself, explaining that I have recorded him a couple of times before with Ben Harper, and "that other band who's name we don't mention". Marc laughs and asks why people seem to think that, he said that he had some great memories from those days. We shake hands, with my torso leaning over the balcony, and Marc reaching up. I tell him he's probably met lots of tapers, but probably not from England, and asked him why he hasn't come to the UK. He explained that noone's managed to put a tour together for him (I guess people have tried).

Then it's soundcheck, and I finish setting up the recording gear, and setting levels, and then go back to the hotel.

9.45pm and I am back at the venue, again getting early entry with Steve. Sala El Sol is lit beautifully in red, and quickly fills.

I meet Doug, a friend of the band from Chicago, and the three of us settle into our exclusive club on the balcony, looking down on the happenings below. The Steepwater Band come on at 10:15 and play a 45 minute set. The crowd are appreciative and I can identify the people really into the gig, and those just chatting at the back and bars. The smoke rises up from the audience, and gets in my eyes, something I don't miss at gigs at hime! I enjoy my first gig by the band, and suggest to Steve that it's time to leave once they've finished. He laughs rather than getting his coat.

15 minutes later and the band are back with Marc Ford. The atmosphere is very different, more intense and less rocky. They gell (mostly) very well, and played some lovely jams during the 1 hour 20 minute set. The venue is packed, and noone leaves early.
[Humbug]