I saw Beulah at the Bowery last Friday, and they solidified themselves as one of my favorite bands. They didn't blow me away or anything, but I just happen to like most of their songs. There isn't one song that I can say that I really don't like. They played for an hour and a half, and though my shoulders and knees ached, i probably would've stayed for an hour more. I knew I'd regret not going to the North Six show the previous day. This is supposedly their last tour. Then again, last fall's tour was supposedly their last east coast tour. They be coming back to NYC in August, for a free show at Castle Clinton, and then, (again) supposedly, that's it. Anyway, the show was enjoyable for the most part, save for the lead singers long rant against George Bush. This led to a brief verbal confrontation with someone toward the rear, and kind of brought down the whole mood of the show. I go to these things to escape from the world outside, not be reminded of it. I didn't need the cold splash of water poured on me. Coincidentally, though, not much later the bassist pour some cold water on one of the fans in front. The band passed out some random items they had picked up on the road, and gave this dude-who had been part of a group of audience members dancing on stage- a scuba mask. So the bass player grabbed the water, said "Let's see if they work," and soaked the guy. But the super-fan was nothing less than thrilled. He was sort of a Rivers Cuomo looking guy. He rocked and head-banged so hard, Geoff pointed out, that he was wearing Croakies to keep his glasses on his face. Now that's rock and roll.
With the spring in full swing, there's been a surge in barbecues and parties. Saturday, Miss Charming Melodee and I trekked up to Queens for a barbecue/engagement party for Jen K and her newly-minted fiance Scott. They live in a very swanky-type apartment building on the river in Long Island City, but it's a real bitch to get to. I can't understand living there without a car. Last time Miss CM and I went up there, we nearly froze to death. Miss CM was nearly carried away by a strong frigid breeze. The place is like some upscale outpost on the edge of humanity. Ok, maybe I'm exageratting a little. But I just wish they'd move. They actually had some trouble with a pending rent increase, but somehow got around it. Which is good for them. But I wouldn't mind seeing them more often, but that just ain't happening while they live in Queens. They both work on the Upper East, so I guess it makes sense for them, but it's terribly inconvenient for everyone else. And by that, I mean inconvenient for me.
Anyway, scheduling a barbecue for June 5th probably seems like a fairly safe bet. The only worry is rain. Well, it didn't rain, but it was fucking freezing. With the wind swirling off the East River, and being on a garden huge terrace four flights up, the wind chill probably brought it down to the low-40's. I can't believe it's June and I'm writing about wind chill. So after a few burgers were grilled, we went inside to the rec room. I was expecting a basement with a few tables next to the laundry machines. But this looked more like a hotel lobby, grand piano and all, right next to the modern and big gym. There were several desserts to be had, and I chowed down on the Tastycakes. I didn't realize they were a regional Southest PA food. There are few things I enjoy in this world more than Jelly Krimpets and milk. If I ever had to make a request for a last meal, two jelly krimpets and a glass of whole milk would certainly be on there.
We didn't get to talk to Jen and Scott all that much, and mostly chatted with strangers and distant acquaintences, all of whom seemed very nice. I also met the gayest man I've met in a long time. He was super-skinny, but still wore a hooded sweatshirt that was about five sizes too small. Still, it sort of suited him. He was certainly a handsome man.
As we were leaving, Jen K and Scott surprised us by asking me if I would be in their wedding. This was quite a shock, and I immediately said yes. I've always felt like something of a peripheral friend, someone who kind of drops in from time to time. I never really participate in any of their little outings and gatherings. They're always going to Staten Island or some odd neighborhood of the city or something, or having Mystery Movie nights. Still, I guess, thinking about the other people at these things, I've known her longer than a lot of the people there. For a short time, we used to hang out quite a bit. And we've been friends longer than she's known Scott I think. So why the hell not. She's joked about it being a "costumes optional" wedding. I think's she might be serious though. One can only hope. That, of course, provides a whole 'nother dilemma: Star Trek dress uniform, or skin-tight Spider-Man suit?
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