Death Show - First Time, Only Time?

I can't help but wonder whether last night's Death gig at the Joey Ramone tribute show at Irving was the only time I'll have ever had the chance to see them play. It sounds corny, but I feel really privileged to have seen and heard them live and in-person. Honestly, I got a little choked up towards the end of their 3-song set.

They kicked it off with "Keep on Knocking," then went into "Freakin' Out," and lastly, "Politicians in My Eyes." The band -- sans original guitarist David Hackney, who passed away -- slowed down the tempo of all three tunes, but honestly, that didn't matter. Bassist Bobby Hackney still has his vocal chops, and the band was tight for dudes who haven't played their punk stuff in 35 years.

Before Death hit the stage, though, Bobby's sons' band, Rough Francis, played a brief set. And, for "Politicians," Death had the RF kids join in. Before that song, though, Bobby said something that coming from anyone else would have seemed cliche to me; but coming from him, it was so real. He told the audience to always hold onto their dreams, and if they're musicians, never let anyone - even other musicians - shoot them down.

Then he invited his kids and their other band members to play "Politicians." I doubt many in the audience realized the magnitude of what was happening, but it honestly was one of the coolest things I've ever witnessed.

Joey Ramone B'day Party featuring DEATH!

I suppose it's grimly fitting that Death is playing tonight's annual party celebrating Joey Ramone's b'day. I rarely go to the various commemorative Joey R events. (I went to one at Manitoba's a number of years ago during which, after stepping on his foot by mistake, I drunkenly told Ace Frehley he was just pissed off 'cause he's old.) But, I am going to the big bash tonight at Irving Plaza (now named the Filmore East, as if any kids going to shows there know what the hell that scene was all about). Yes, I'm going to see Death!

The place is bound to be filled with old and young poseurs and hangers-on, as well as some folks I haven't seen in forever. Maybe we'll run into our old pal Mickey Lee (Joey's real brother), who we used to talk to all the time when he tended bar at the sadly defunct Coney Island High.

I have no idea what to expect, but I really hope they kick ass. I can't wait to hear "Keep on Knocking" live. Wow.