When I say intimate, I mean that as the audience settled
into their seats, Kelly Ogden and Luis Cabezas were handing their son off to
the babysitter. Once they knew the son was settled and in
good hands, they began the gig. My two younger kids were in the front row, and
my oldest son and I sat behind them as Luis strummed his six string, and a
pregnant Kelly joined him on bass. And yes, you read that correctly. Kelly was
seven months pregnant with Dollyrot #2, rocking out in the record store.
Each song was performed with high energy, great vocals, and the crowd
was easily infected with their optimism. Songs included, "My Best Friend’s Hot", "Weird", covers "Brand New Key", "Da Doo Ron Ron", and "I Wanna Be Sedated". Closing out
the set was "Because I’m Awesome". Why? Because they’re awesome. I’ve included a
photo of the complete set list for your viewing pleasure.
Just as enjoyable as the singing was the banter between
Kelly and Luis. These two have known each other since 8th grade, so
the chemistry was natural, humorous and engaging. (One of my favorite stories
was about their awkward photo-op with Billy Idol.) There was never a lull in
the evening, as the conversation always kept the show moving forward. Even when
items hanging on the wall (such as an Elvis clock) would distract Kelly, the
dialogue never felt forced. It felt like two people chilling in the kitchen,
eating ice cream, discussing what happened earlier in the day.
After the concert, the audience had the privilege to meet The Dollyrots duo. And here’s where the unexpected highlight of the night came. This wasn’t some “set up a table and we’ll sign an autograph on your merchandise” meet and greet. It was like a party at one of your favorite relatives. Kelly and Luis were so gracious, and could not have been nicer.
One audience member had made cupcakes for them. I’m
talking fancy, with The Dollyrots logo on each one. Kelly and Luis were more
than happy to share those cupcakes with us. (Or perhaps they may have felt the
cupcakes were poisoned, and offered me one to see if there was a side-effect. The
only side effect was delicious creaminess.)
For at least 45 minutes, Kelly and Luis had conversations
with each person. My daughter noticed California Beach Boy was on the setlist
(one of our favorite songs), but not played. So we asked what the chord
progression was. Kelly handed me her water bottle, picked up her bass guitar
and showed us the chord progression. My son leaned over to me and said, “Dad,
the person that wrote that song, is showing you how to play it.” I replied, “I
know, and that may never happen again at any concert you ever attend. Enjoy it.”
It’s been months since the concert, and my kids and I are
still glowing about seeing The Dollyrots perform live. We wear their t-shirts
at least once a week, and the autographed posters hang on their walls. We don’t
appreciate just their music, but also how nice they are. They treated everyone
at the performance (before, during and after) with dignity, respect and
graciousness. If you are looking for a new band to check out, I highly
recommend you take a listen to The Dollyrots. And if you get the chance, check
out a live performance.
Visit www.Dollyrots.com for more information,
music and upcoming tours.
“And
remember, absurdity is the most real thing in life.” – Michael Roche
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