I went to the Meese, Jack’s Mannequin and The Fray concert at USANA Amphitheatre the other week. I attended with one of my two favorite concert goers, my sister! I’ve decided that I really like shows at USANA. The night time outdoor ambiance always sets the perfect mood for music. Luckily our seats were far enough away that we were able to sit in them without having standers all around blocking our view.

Meese was semi-enjoyable. They have decent music but are extremely lacking in many areas. They sound like just another local band. Meese said that this was their second tour with The Fray. If they haven’t gained in popularity after one national tour, I doubt there is little the second tour will do for them. I enjoyed Owl City far more from the Relient K concert a couple months ago. I highly recommend giving them a listen instead.

Jack’s Mannequin put on an awesome show. Andrew’s piano skills are impressive and his dexterity rivals that of most drummers. Although an odd choice of band to tour with The Fray, their piano inclusion must have been what brought them together. Jack’s Mannequin sounded just as good live as they do on their cd’s. I definitely enjoyed watching them the most. What I’d like to see next time: Andrew should do a flip off of his piano rather than prance off like an injured deer. Honorable mentions: beautiful guitars and the guitarist did a scissor kick. Nice.

The Fray are excellent musicians. I really enjoyed their set and was in awe with the incredible light display. Before the show started, I told my sister that the lighting would be the best part. I think most would agree that it was. I loved everyone holding up their cellphones at the end. There was such a cool vibe seeing the glowing lights wave around. Constructive criticism: stage presence. Do something more than standing in place. Praises: the Kanye West encore was awesome. And I love it when bands have an intro/outro for their tour. It makes it especially special and unique.

I was able to record most of “How to Save a Life”. The crowd singing along at the end will forever be a favorite memory of mine.

[http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BdMmw6TTGCk]

This was another very worthwhile concert. I’m glad I was able to attend and appreciated the accompaniment of my sister. I love watching musicians enjoy what they do. It’s truly inspiring to see the stage come alive and hear the live music that has been ingrained in my head since the first time I heard it.