Is This Why I Stay in Kalamazoo?

While I’m still tired of doing stuff alone, there is no shortage of stuff to do in Kalamazoo — and for little or no money. I spent only $9 this weekend, but saw world famous art and photography up close, enjoyed a jazz concert and watched a really moving documentary about the Toronto Metal band, Anvil.

Concerts in the Park this week showcased the Blue Lake International Jazz Band. I wasn’t sure what to expect as the concert description was “striking, world-traveled jazz.” But I was thrilled when I saw all the saxophones, trumpets and trombones come out in the hands of really young people. It was a great mix with everything from Count Basie to Chic Corea.

But, the highlight of the weekend had to be Anvil! The Story of Anvil. It played at The Little Theatre all weekend. And, what a story it is! Sad, yet inspiring. It made me want to purchase their latest release. I’m not really a Metal fan these days — but these guys deserve a break!

Anvil! is a band (Robb Reiner and Steve “Lips” Ludlow) that didn’t make it on the Metal scene, yet is still together making music. They’ve produced 16 CD’s since 1981! Their influence seemed to be great in the beginning (though they reminded me of Judas Priest). They were supposedly groundbreaking with their fast paced heaviness and stage presence when they came on the scene in North America. I think it was Scott Ian of Anthrax that said they set the standard for Metal in the 80s and everyone just ripped them off and left ‘em to die.

But it was really a story about the love, dreams, and experiences that our lives are made from. These guys have been playing together since they were 14 years old, just hit their 50s, and are still trying to “make it.” It was a great reminder to live with a full heart even if your dreams never come true, because life goes by fast and can change forever in a split second. In pursuing your dreams, you create a life. Their story reminded you to not be left looking back to discover that you just sat there waiting for it all to happen. Now is all we have, so if not now, when?