Since I don’t foresee any more concerts happening in the US this year, I figured I’d reminisce about the good old times, and talk about some older shows I’ve been to (which would be A LOT since this blog started even). On this first throwback, I’m taking us all back to 2015, where I got the closest to seeing My Chemical Romance I may ever get (but hopefully not, though). That’s right, in a little old venue called the Grog Shop, I got to see frnkiero andthe cellabration!
His first real project after My Chemical Romance’s break-up, this band endeavor was totally self-indulgent. It was loud and rough, and uninhibited, which completely suited my tastes. And I was glad to hear something distinctly different from My Chem. Why bother with a new project if you aren’t going to change your sound. Frank Iero is a guitar player, and he played the shit out of it at this show.
What helped the overall aesthetic of the performance was the fact that it was taking place in a grungy little venue that held no more than 300 people. A dark barcade, this place gave off an ambiance suited to the unpolished sound that frnkiero andthe cellabration produced. The crowd was totally into it, but not violently so, which I appreciate. I enjoy watching (never participating) a good mosh pit, but there’s something about it that would have ruined this show. Frank was nothing but humbled by the crowd’s response, and I was thoroughly impressed.
Afterwards, he was meeting with fans, and I, like the good celebrity stalker that I am obviously stood in line to make it happen. A lot of the others in line seemed sort of rabid, which was somewhat understandable since he was the first member of My Chem to put anything out and tour since the breakup. In all that chaos, my friend and I must have looked normal enough that one of the crew members slipped me one of the guitar pics used that night! And I was respectful enough to not freak out in a shriek when I got it. Once I got my chance to meet Frank we talked about his kids for a short bit (we related on the twin factor), and then I bid my farewell after getting a photo and an autograph on my copy of the album.
For a cold February night, it was a great time, and a memory I will hold with me forever. I’ve got some photos below for proof, but take my word for it and give the band’s album, Stomachaches, a listen.
