Open Mic

Last night an abbreviated version of the band Eli is in (99' Corolla) entered the Eddie's Attic Songwriter's Open Mic Competition. If you don't live in Atlanta, Eddie's Attic is a small venue where great talent comes through on a regular basis, whether they are known recording artists or just starting out. (John Mayer was an 'open mic' starving artist here once upon a time.) 

The boys did an acoustic version of two of their songs (each competitor had 10 minutes - there were maybe 20 competitors?). After that, judges chose four finalists to do one more song and then they picked a winner. The boys were one of the top four! 

I can't express enough - the talent present last night blew me away. So many acts from Nashville and Atlanta, and all much older and more experienced than Eli and his friends. The fact that the boys not only held their own, but were recognized as one of the top four is just crazy. I've seen all three of these boys play music in the church since they were in elementary school....also crazy. 

play that funky music, white boy

since you joined a band, last fall, you and the six other gentlemen that make up '99 Corolla have had this event on the calendar. for you, it was the first 'gig' you have had as a musician that wasn't tied to the church. many hours put into friday night rehearsals and saturday rehearsals and recording sessions and self practice has gone into this band (and this performance). and you wouldn't have it any other way. nor would we....even though it's a far drive, i absolutely love when you have the opportunity to hang out with these guys and work on your craft. in this band you play guitar and sometimes drums. they haven't been able to talk you into vocals yet...we'll work on it. you are the youngest, the rest of the band being made up of all high schoolers, including a senior. you guys have a few covers in your tool belt, but original music seems to be what you guys all want to focus on.

this weekend you all performed at the Taste of West Cobb, which was moved indoors at the last minute because of inclement weather. while i was worried that would affect your sound, it did not. you all sounded as solid as you always do in rehearsal. you performed five songs: three covers and two originals. one of your originals was the best, in my opinion.

oh the places this experience will take you! how grateful i am for you to have this time with like-minded musicians, some leading the way for you in your faith and your craft, all walking through this journey simultaneously.