Up At The Lake - March '98


the trip was arduous, particularly for my roommate, whose bags went to SFO when they were supposed to be going to RNO. one bag showed up an hour before the concert, so at least she had something to wear.

i would describe Friday's show as reflective of the tough travel day we'd all had.

we were weary, but pleased as always, to see the guys come on stage.

as the music gets going, and the 'business' we look forward to seeing is entertaining as we hoped, the smiles come onto our faces. there was a gentle energy flowing between audience and performers that was undemanding and welcome.

a couple of songs into the set Justin conferred at length with Rene, and later a new belt pack appeared. the equipment switch was handily made, after which Justin's vocals became clearer and stronger, i noticed. in fact JH seemed more relaxed than i have ever seen. my ears caught the *loveliest* notes i have ever heard him produce, that night. :)

it was really nice to stay *at* Caesar's for (one time only). funny, though, to see usual suspects patrolling the establishment; continually circling from the spa to the cafe. i suppose if you are glimpsed in those areas at any time, your motives will be questioned. ;)

on the way down to lunch Saturday i stopped to visit with a friend, and Paul Bliss walked by. do you see how unprepared i was to stalk?? none in our party ran up to him. Paul made eye contact with my companion and gave her a nice smile. then he got into the elevator and that was it.

Saturday Early:


the best attended concert of this weekend. except for a nice walk in the afternoon we had rested in our room all day. the band were ready to put on a great show, and we were ready to enjoy it. everybody had a great time, and the music was tops. i have never seen the number of genuine-happy smiles on Jus' face.

the dino shuffle ended near our table; you just open your eyes and your heart and take the aspect of them being so near, inside. (sigh)

Saturday Late:


pretty wrung out, on both sides of the footlights. Jus had been wearing simple white shirts, black jeans before. for the finale his shirt had a tiny detail of ruffle at the throat. he looks *great* and moves well. it's apparent that he is in good condition. my roommate thot he looked like an angel with the spotlight glowing through his shirt.

our table was right between Jus and John for this show (the devil took our souls in exchange). i listened to the music slowly building it's romantic mood, and got lost in the fantasy of emotions.

the two drunks next to me, however, got into it a *bit* too much. i couldn't believe it when during Singer this ?gentleman? leaped towards the J's, jamming in front of us, and waved a piece of paper at them. i thot he wanted to hand it to them, but guess he was fanning off the guitars because they were so hot. Jus didn't flinch, but John was put off a bit.

did anybody else think the pace of LOAM was double-time?

at the end of Question we 'rushed' the stage. the drunks were unable to rise, so i vaulted over them and scooted between vacated chairs to have a clear view of center stage. John was dancing at the head of our table as See Saws last note sounded ... sweeping the bass to his back, John pointed at me with both hands!!!

ohmigosh!! it is so hard to let them go. we applaud and cheer with all our might, but they must leave, anyway. finally they have all departed but Justin, who turns half 'round with one last good-bye. jen

For a more recent concert review check out the road trip Fall of 1999!


"The love you've been giving
has all been meant for you." Justin Hayward