On A Cloud

Friday night, Cloud Cult played their first show together in almost a year at a benefit show for Electric Fetus at First Avenue. They opened the show, going on at 8pm, which is odd, considering they were the biggest band on the bill. And let me just say, if I was in any of the bands that came on after them, I wouldn't have known what to do. Cloud Cult was unbelievable. Amazing. Outstanding. There was so much energy. So much audience interaction in their songs. They seem like they were written to be played live. For people to sing along to and pump their fists in the air.

If you've never seen or heard Cloud Cult, you must check them out. They are in my top 5 favorite bands, for sure. They almost sound like modern day Classical music, with the violin and cello and occasional trombone (not to mention the painters that create during the entire set). They are a sonic wave of ear-pleasing beauty.

When they took to the stage, Craig Minowa - the lead singer/guitarist/songwriter - said that to squeeze as many songs into their 45 minute set, they would not stop playing until it was time to say good night. One song bled into the next. It was magical. The opened with a new song (it was great) and followed with the overwhelmingly beautiful "Chemicals Collide". It was awesome how you could slowly hear everyone begin to sing along. That by the time that gorgeous chorus kicked in ("Oh, god, it's Beautiful!"), it was, in fact, beautiful. If you haven't heard this song, check it out below:

They really seemed to be enjoying themselves and Craig, in particular seemed to love the audience participation. It must be a wonderful thing to have your lyrics sung back at you.

I, on the other hand, will be performing at another open mic night tomorrow. And though none of my songs will be sung along to, I'm super excited to get back on stage.