The Blind Pilots played One Broadway in Los Gatos last week. It was a great gig, maybe one of their best. But it was bittersweet, since this was my buddy Travis's farewell from the band. Travis plays guitar and also sings lead vocals on a lot of the songs, ranging from 80's dance numbers to blues songs by the Allman Brothers. Travis has a tremendous charisma and fun style that has helped the band develop a following in the bay area.
The band played many classic cover songs from the 70's and 80's including Midnight Hour, Pride & Joy, Stray Cat Strut, White Wedding, Roller Coaster, American Girl, Takin' Care of Business and ohters. Sadly they did not play Louie, Louie and it's rumored that this could be the reason for Travis's departure. (Ok, I made up the rumor, but still, it could be true...)
I managed to get a few decent photos and also some nice video of Travis singing The Cure's song "Just Like Heaven." Click on the links to view more video and photos on YouTube and PicasaWeb. Unfortunately, what you can't see in the video or the photos is the energy that the Pilots bring to the audience. From the first song onwards, the dance floor was packed. The Blind Pilots are an awesome live band and even if they aren't note perfect on every song, the audience is grooving on the music in a way that's completely contagious. No doubt that's why the Pilots are loved by their fans.
The band will continue on no doubt, rocking throughout the bay area. They've had other band members come and go over the years but the foundation is strong. With Gary on lead guitar, Steve on Drums, Rex on bass and Alan on sax, there's a lot of talent and no shortage of energy. Still, I'm sure Travis will be missed.
In the mean time, watch for gigs coming up over the holidays at #1 Broadway in Los Gatos Dec 13 and 27, The King's Head Pub in Campbell Dec 21, and Fibbar McGee's in Sunnyvale Dec 22. And who knows, maybe Travis will come back and sit in on the occasional number.
- Blind Pilots: Official Site, schedule
- Video and Photos: YouTube, PicasaWeb
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