I discovered hair bands as their heyday was drawing to a close. The new music that replaced it on the radio featured mumbled lyrics and, when I could understand a phrase or two, the songs either made no sense or made me want to slit my wrists. Geesh, life can be cruel enough, I didn’t need a funereal soundtrack. It was then that I switched to talk radio.

Whether you like my taste in music or not, I’m a loyal fan–so much so that I have a “hair bands” playlist on my iPod and it’s my go to when mowing the grass. The neighbors should be grateful the mower drowns out my singing…or at least I hope it does. And when I listen to those songs at work I have to remind myself that my cube mates probably don’t want to hear me.

My high school friends introduced me to Child’s Play as we spent our Saturday nights waiting to see their “Rat Race” video on MTV’s Headbangers’ Ball and I tagged along to see them play at Network. Since we were all under 21, an all ages show was a rare treat.

I saw them a few more times at Hammerjacks and at the Bayou in DC but then I lost track.

Fast Forward–2011

I heard about a Child’s Play reunion at Rams Head Live and decided I had to be there. I brought along a girlfriend who had no idea who Child’s Play was but she was up for the adventure.

As show time approached and I pushed closer to the stage, she hung back on the edges of the crowd. Before we got separated, I turned around to warn her that I may burst into tears but not to worry.

The show was better than I imagined. They sounded like they’d never stopped playing together and I was so tickled to have been there. I held at hope that this wouldn’t be the last time I’d see them.

Unfortunately, Brian Jack, their lead singer, passed away that April.

 

Fast Forward–2013

John Allen posts an announcement on Facebook about an upcoming Charm City Devils’ show featuring a tribute to Brian Jack. But it was scheduled for the night before Thanksgiving and we always host family dinner.

Hmm–decisions, decisions–on the Thursday before the show I decide that I have to go. Sleep be damned. Luckily our family is pretty laid back about holiday meals and would understand if Thanksgiving was less than perfect.

I’m so glad I went. During the Charm City Devils set I sent my friend a text that said “Wish I could bottle this feeling!”

Honestly, my expectations for the Brian Jack set were out of whack because I didn’t do my homework before the show. Since my connection with Child’s Play happened with their Rat Race album, I suppose I was just expecting to hear those songs and Brian Jack’s Hard Goodbye. I wasn’t prepared for the the AC/DC covers and older Child’s Play songs but the band sounded great and everyone on stage and off enjoyed it.

We also had the opportunity to hear Mitch Allan make up his own lyrics on the fly for “Day After Night.” The crowd happily helped him out.

Rather than a tear filled evening, the event was a celebration of Brian Jack and Child’s Play. Truly Good Ol’ Boys playing Good Ol’ Rock n Roll.

So glad I took the time to see @CharmCityDevils @baltimoresoundstage #killingit
— Frances Bowman (@fbowman) November 28, 2013