Friday, June 22, 2001 -
Lancaster Catholic High School -
Negative Space
Friday, June 22, 2001
Lancaster Catholic High School
Negative Space
We suppose the red and green splotches covering the Lancaster area radar
map moved by six o’clock because we hopped in the car and headed off to
Lancaster Catholic High School. Melanie’s dad said that we would not leave
before six and if the red and green remained over the area, we would not leave.
Luckily the weather did not turn to a tornado as the National Weather Service had warned.
Another stroke of luck favored Shannon. Melanie gave her an umbrella. The weather
was beautiful as we left home and there was no need for an umbrella. Thankfully
we did not have to share Melanie’s child sized (and colorfully designed) umbrella
when we arrived at the Fair.
Todd ran under Melanie’s umbrella and greeted us. Mark and Josh did the same
later. Shannon left her camera case to sit on the wet grass between us and
allowed some drops to fall on it. Mr. Roadie Rob then walked over and,
without saying a word, picked up her bag. Wondering what was going on,
Rob soon read our minds and answered that question. He told us that he
would put Shannon’s bag on the stage. Savior!
FM 97’s mini tent was next to the stage and brought back some memories.
Covering the table were the same frisbees from Long’s Park. Josh was the
only band member who decided to play frisbee at this gig. He also gave some
girls a ride home to one of their houses’ so they would not have to walk home in
the rain and the dark. How nice is that? * Josh, have no worries of us asking for
a ride home - we would not ask you to make and 80 mile round trip out of your way. *
As the gray skies continued to empty onto the fair grounds, Sean, Stu,
Mark, Josh, and Todd began the show. A decent crowd of varied ages
hung out in the uncut field of weeds in front of the stage despite the rain.
Many clutched umbrellas or cuddled in sweatshirts. We were hiding under
our umbrellas. One woman carried a fun sunflower umbrella. Many
teenagers gathered around, dancing in the pouring rain to some of their
favorite covers. Mark made a quick announcement about the Fuel/Aerosmith
concert that was taking place at Hershey, as the band led into Fuel's new song, "Bad Day."
Surprisingly the guys did not perform anthem. Mostly covers tonight.
One quick set and they were finished. We hung about to try to interview
them since our previous one was done before the member change.
Shannon stopped Todd who had said he was up for an interview
beforehand. Todd then said he would eventually gather up everyone.
Mark came over to us and said we could do an interview in a bit. Melanie
pointed out that the camera bag was sitting on the stage where Rob placed it.
Mark casually gave us permission to hop on up there and prepare. Thanks!
After we had everything ready, Melanie began sharing stories from the
day camp she works at with Shannon. From behind Melanie, Josh announced they
were ready when we were. Looking over, we realized that all five of them were
sitting and waiting. (Oops!) Melanie explained the need for microphones
and Mark took one as Josh went for the other. Melanie held onto it though.
She needs one to ask the questions. We did the usual introductions and,
well, we’ll keep you suspensed for the Real Video. Here are few snippets
to look for in the video. Stu is actually famous, we just don’t know it. Mark doesn’t
mind offering up his father’s dentistry skills to random fans and he wants you,
yes you the reader, to shower us with candy and flowers. We think Mark
should set a good example and be the first! Todd showed his emotional
side after making some comment that we did not catch and giving an
enthusiastic high five to Sean. (Should we be scared as to the contents of
that comment?) Josh chatted about all the love from the fans. Sean,
being the only drummer Negative Space has had, is the “grandfather figure”
of the group. Also, beware of random waterfall-esque sprits behind the band.
After finishing, we packed up the camera and microphones. Heading for the stairs,
Todd stopped us and asked us where we were going. He asked if we were leaving.
Melanie said yes, that we were leaving. What else was there to do? We were
not about to get on a ride. We ended up chatting for a bit with Todd and Mark.
We ended up talking about fears (Shannon is scared of winking and clowns),
and Mark informed us that Sean is terrified of spiders, hee hee. We
had a chance to bid farewell to Josh as he allowed the water from the tent
roof to spill down his body. As if the night was not chilly enough with a b
reeze and rain, Josh must not get cold easily.
We bought some hot chocolate before leaving and ended up burning our mouths
and hands from spilling it. Despite the rain, the cut short performance, and the hot,
hot chocolate, it was a delightful and jolly evening.