Chicago, IL, Metro 11/23/05

[penny74]

Posted by: celticgirl

I was there. I can't remember being so excited about anything previously. First of all, I have also been a Blackmaker fan for years and they were awesome. Now to Marty...phenomenal. All the things we saw from far away are even more mesmerizing up close. He hung upside down from a tall light tower and sang. He also walked through the audience on the floor (I was out about 4 rows of people from the stage). I was trying to see him and couldn't and all the sudden he was in front of me singing and locked eyes with me! I touched him as he walked away and tried to recover so I could watch the rest of the show. All the Lovehammers were great. I felt that I was in on something very special, because they won't be playing tiny clubs for long.

[penny74]

Posted by: albrmo

The show was great!! He did hang on the tower and come out to the crowd. I was able to touch is arm!! I was standing about second row and what a difference seeing it soooooo close. We had a blast. Everyone around us was so nice and such great fans. There was one girl there from California and she was such a sweetie. I think she and Marty would make a great couple!!

We were kind of sad that we didn't have a pass to the after party. So we went and bought some shirts and stuff and when I turned around--Guess who was there? MARTY!! He was so nice and not a lot of people realized he was in there. He gave me a hug and signed a CD and shirt (pink tree shirt--sooooo cute)!! We took a picture w/him and my hubby. We were also able to get 3 guitar picks for our 3 girls they--were sooooo excited this morning!! He signed the CD to my 3 girls and wrote "you are the cooliest rockers ever". They think he really knows them--he is such a down to earth nice guy!! He and the band deserve everything that is coming!!

[penny74]

Posted by: sunnyt

I went last night and it was the time of my life!

Marty is incredible live and so is the rest of the band! I can kick myself because I didn't hang around long enough to meet him or get an autograph ( I think being intoxicated had something to do with that). I did hug Bobby, the sexy ass drummer! I started for the stairs and the bassist from Blackmaker was right in front of me and he grabbed my hand and we started walking through this huge crowd of people. Xcessivleyhammered you know the one I'm talking abut. He was very cute too and his name is Tony.

Anyway back to LH, I did get to hold Marty's hand for about 20 seconds while he was singing and it was incredible. He is such an awesome performer and yes humble too as he loves his band. He hung upside down on a triangular steel thingy that was about 20 feet in the air(?) and sang and being in the second row from the stage I was mesmerized the whole time.

Here's to Beantown, Xcessivelyhammered, chitownrock or chic(I can't remember) and your very sweet husband, ?mona: You guys rock hard and I had a blast! Oh yea and Jodie too! And for Palari I did drink a shot of Tequila in your honor! Awesome show!

[penny74]

Posted by: penny74

I was there. It was mindblowing. The show totally rocked. I have no voice today from all the screaming. But here is what happened before the show:

I was running late and swearing at the bad traffic, thinking about abandoning my car in the street and running the rest of the way to the Metro. I finally get there, meet my friend Mike, and park. It was about 6:00 and we decided to check out the Metro, then grab something to eat and go back. So I am standing in front of the Metro when Mike nudges me and says, "There's your guy." I look up and see....oh my god, DINO!...oh, my god, BOBBY!...HOLY SHIT IT'S MARTY! (Billy may have been there too, but after I saw Marty, I couldn't look anywhere else. Sorry, Billy!) So I say all cool (yeah, right) Hi guys! And they all smiled and said Hi and my buddy Mike (who I will owe forever for this) says to Marty, "Hey, she's your biggest fan!" And Marty comes over and takes my arm and says hi, it's nice to meet you. And I said "uhgheuiflleeruicid!" And Marty says, "hey, I'll be right back" and ducked into a doorway next door. I suddenly remember that I have a camera! A camera! yay! So I pull it out, take a picture of the sidewalk to be sure it was working, look up, and there is Dino all by himself So I go over and say "Dino, right?" and he gives me this huge grin (sidebar here: Spocky! I get it now. He is adorable!) and shakes my hand and I introduce myself.

Then Marty is there. Putting his arm around me. THUD. I think I then asked him to take a picture with me because the next thing I know some guy (their manager?) has the camera and takes a pic. NO Flash, though! So Marty says "Hey, that didn't flash. Take another." And I look at him and say "Oh, Marty, you think of everything." And he laughed. AT MY JOKE. I am a queen of comedy. Anyway, my buddy Mike rips the camera out of this guy's hand --determined to get a good pic (god, I owe him). While they are fiddling with the camera, I grin at Marty and say, "I am shaking like a leaf." So he starts squeezing my shoulder. THUD. I think then that I told him how much I love his music and that I listened to them the whole way down to the show and I was ready to rock, but I am afraid that it came out more like this: "um...kewlearcs nkajhjlleww whiuirewl; Marty..jkwuirueiwm hee." So Mike finally takes the pic, Marty says thanks, nice to meet you. Again, I think I said something intelligent here like thanks, but I'm not betting the farm on it.

I'm back to tell more stories! Pesky relatives demanding turkey. Sheesh.

First of all, I met so many cool mc.org girls! Jodie, of course, the goddess who sold me the tickets! How cute were you in your Marty shirt?? And Cindy! And Lisa from Connecticut! My buddy in the balcony! How much fun was that?? And everyone else that I am an ass for not remembering right now.

When we got in to the show (after much hyperventilating and my first cigarette in seven years - due to the Marty encounter) we scoped the place out and Mike (is he the hero of this story or what???) started talking to bartenders and security guards about the afterparty - where it would be, the best entrances, etc. He finds out that instead of the Smart Bar, the afterparty would actually be in the balcony! So we decide to watch the show from there. I got right up against the railing (next to someone with an mc.org wristband! Yay Lisa!) just off the center, so it was an awesome view. I really can't believe what an incredible venue the Metro is. So intimate.

The show itself was incredible. Marty was mesmerizing. Billy rocked on guitar (and I am so getting the Billy love now too. They are just all the shit apparently.) Dino and Bobby were on fire. I was screaming the lyrics right back at Marty and there were a couple of times I thought I was going to go headfirst off the balcony. I just loved how Marty connected with everyone in the audience. Shit, Lisa, how many times did we look at each other and say, "He was just singing/pointing/looking at US!!!" He is such an incredible performer. Cameras were everywhere so I am really really hoping that a DVD of the show is imminent.

Oh, you can see in the pic I posted that he wore his striped pants, but he had a jacket on there that he took off before the show. Yum.

Oh, so cute: at the end of the show, Billy brought his sons onto the stage and got everyone to cheer for them. The older son looked a little embarrassed (like "Daaaaadddd, come on, cut it oooooout!!!") but the younger son was eating it up. Billy picked him up and swung him around. I got a couple of good pics of that. (Most of my pics suck--dark and blurry, but I know what they are!) I just thought daddy Billy was adorable.

Oh, oh, oh! The afterparty!

So the show ends and there is an announcement that the afterparty will be in the balcony for those with VIP stickers. Which we don't have. But we ain't leaving that balcony! We see a girl going through the crowd up there checking for VIP stickers and we manage to avoid her. We ARE stealth. After a while, (he must have been down in the lobby like others have said) Marty finally shows up in the balcony. He starts in the area that is roped off - I think it was his family and friends. He is so swarmed with people that he barely moves for a long time. Meanwhile, I was meeting the members of the other bands! They were really SO nice and seemed so appreciative of the LHs for getting them some extra exposure. The lead singer of Blackout? Yeah, I wouldn't kick him out of...well, you know how it goes. Anyway, so much fun.

Finally I see...JODIE! I KNEW that girl would make it up to the afterparty. No stopping her. (Wait til you hear HER stories, by the way. She's my new hero.) She grabs me and we run over to Marty and she gets another picture of us. He is really swarmed at this point and tons of people were trying to get close to him so I didn't want to be greedy. (Okay, I really really really wanted to be greedy, but I resisted.) I didn't see any of the other LHs up there. Maybe they were in the Smart Bar? We left shortly afterward. I screamed LH songs the whole way home. Seriously, one of the greatest nights of my life.

Thanks for listening guys! I really wanted to get all that out. Not that I would ever forget it.

[penny74]

Posted by: reddgt

penny..that was awesome....
i was thrilled also....we had a spot right in front of the stage
a little off to the right.....Marty did make stops in front of us and my
friend was rubbing his leg....she said it was very muscular...i grabbed his like rope belt...
then i saw it...his shirt up and there was his stomach....couldn't help myself....
I RUBBED HIS TUMMY!!!!!!! almost passed OUT....couldn't believe he was right there in front
of ME!!!!! then a little later...he was back in front ...had my hand out...to took him.....
i squeezed real hard...again...couldn't believe it was happening....
they were soooo great....all the other bands were great also.....things went so smoothly....
then when he took the flowers from the girl in front and started shaking them and the
roses went flyin'...i reached out and took one right out of the air...
such a night...no voice this morning soooo much screaming...
can't wait for the Aragon and go down to St. Charles....
such a fun night!!!!!!

btw,,,,Marty was wearing his martycasey.org wristband!!!!!!

[penny74]

Posted by: ChiTownChick

I have been dying to post but Thanksgiving dinner called - my guests have finally left! What a freaking amazing experience at the Metro last night. The place was so full of energy - I know I was in a 90 minute frenzy. The set list also included Call of Distress and Throw My Head which happens to be my favorite song from L'Strange. Hearing This Town live was just incredible - the place was rockin! Marty looked fabulous, did all his famous "Marty moves", and the band totally rocked. They all took the time to interact with the fans - signing autographs for those in line before the show, Marty extending his hand into the crowd, walking into the crowd, giving the mic to the audience to sing along, taking the time to talk to the fans after the show and pose for pictures- no wonder we all love LH - not only do they know how to rock, they appear to be so down to earth and truly appreciate and care for their fans.

Although I live in Chicago, I was not able to meet Marty (though I was up near the front of the stage for the concert which was awesome). We had to leave immediately due to babysitter issues. While I was getting our coats, my husband found out Marty was doing a meet and greet in a small area off to the side. My hubby, who is a big fan, went and met Marty - chatted with him and then told Marty, "my wife is gonna kick my ass when she finds out I met you." Marty asked for my name, which he then signed on my hubby's White Sox World Series t-shirt followed by "is Hot!" and then signed his name underneath. I just about passed out when I saw the shirt (which has now become my shirt!). This totally made up for me forgetting the camera, CD's to be signed, etc.

The other thing that was so amazing about this show was meeting up with all the fans from this board and the LH board - it was such a positive vibe - everyone was so cool and I had a great time meeting people from all over the country. Jodie in CA and Michelle in Ontario, you chicks are awesome! It was also great to meet Sunnyt, Jomarti, the Florida fans, Xcessively hammered (LOVED your shirt), Penny, Mary, Sue and the snarkgasm chicks from the LH board -what a wild and fun bunch you are! I can not wait for the Chicago performance in February and am anxiously awaiting the new CD in January. Nothing compares to seeing LH live!

[penny74]

Posted by: dreaming1


Okay......I have been reading on Martycasey.org for awhile. I signed up for an account today so I could post. I love this site!!!
I went to the Metro show last night. I am 37, married with two kids. I had such a blast last night! It has been a long time since I've seen a concert that great!
I felt like a teenager. It was fun to meet all the Marty/Lovehammer fans. I got to meet Karen from New York. She is great! I took a pic last night of her and Dino and I will send it soon Karen! I sure hope you got home okay
They sang Trees once, then replayed once later on to get better (wilder) shots of the audience. I had visions of being trampled...quite scary for awhile. Several people got slammed, pushed, knocked over. The Lovehammers played great live! It was so awesome to see Marty climb the tower and hang upside down. When he climbed up to the top, he first waved to the balcony. It looked as if his family was up there, many young kids to older adults.
A couple of times he stated that his band is Lovehammers, not Marty and the Lovehammers. Cool.
He was so intense, coming in the audience, etc. His voice was great and of course oh so sexy. They all looked really good.
When the show was over, my cousin and I milled around for a bit with Karen. We were people watching and trying to find out if we could get special passes to the after-party. No luck. We went downstairs by the coat check and lobby area. That is where Dino was and when I took the pic of him and Karen. I saw Bobby and had my pic with him. There were several band members out there meeting/greeting from the 3 earlier bands in the show. Fun fun. Meanwhile, no Marty. This is when Karen found some in her group and I didn't see her again. My cousin and I waited around in the hall for a bit longer and decided to head home. If Marty's family was there, I figured he would be upstairs with them. My cousin wanted to go into the gift shop. We went in, looked around for 15 seconds and I realized I was looking at the back of Marty's head! OMG! There were about 15 girls in line to get pics and autographs. I thought how strange. Entire gobs of people were wondering where he was and he was RIGHT THERE! We got in line and I prayed he wouldn't have to go before we got to him. When I got to him I gave him something to sign and I said something like "I loved watching you on that show, you were so gracious." I meant the INXS show, but wondered if he knew what I was talking about (after the fact). I then told him that he made me love music again. He asked what I am listening to. I told him "LOVEHAMMERS!"...He then said "cool" with a chuckle. I then told him that he made my knees weak! He smiled and then I got to stand next to this gorgeous man for a pic. I will try and post that tomorrow. I have a camera phone that I have to hook up to a USB port, etc. ?? I will post pics of the show too. Anyhow, my cousin had her turn and then the next group of girls had their turn. Just awesome. What a great moment that I will never forget. What a wonderful man to give his time like that. He was so kind and patient. Sigh......Oh yah, whoever took the closeup pics of Marty (page 5?), you are awesome! What beautiful pics of Marty! They captured such details. I had noticed that he not only had eyeliner on, but also eyeshadow. The pic was able to show that. You were able to see that while he was on stage. Very dramatic. Anyhow, thanks for letting me rant. Yahhhooo! Yippie!!!! Anyone with tickets to future shows is in for such a wonderful time!

[penny74]

Posted by: ufcfreak27


Okay, now that I can actually hear I had to find someone to listen.
I did go to that show last night and let me tell you, IT WAS AWESOME!!!! Got to give a holla to the 'pre' bands, BlackMaker (awesome tunes!!), Blackout (cute ass guitarist!) and RedShirt. When the LoveHammers finally took the stage the energy in the place was overwhelming! I've never been to a small venue event but I was lucky enough to nab a spot upfront! Before the show I caught up with Marty and Bobby but only managed to get Marty's attention for an autograph. During the show he was electric! They all were! I couldn't take my eyes off of Billy when he was ripping away!! (Husband knows him well but we couldn't get his attention ) I have never felt so free! YOu see I'm a mom of 6yr old twins and in the last 7-8 years I haven't really 'ventured' out! Not like me at all! I love music and everything it has to offer. I have so many cd cases in the truck I lost count and sometimes need to do 'inventory'! I've just about worn out my LoveHammers Murder on the Mind cd!
After the show we hung around to wait for the crowd to head off, I just wanted cool air by then! When we managed to get downstairs we met up with the guys from Blackout, they are cool. Decided to stop in to buy a shirt and the BlackMaker cd. Turned around and there he was (just like someone else said) Got him to sign my newly purchased shirt, he even showed a little concern that maybe I wouldn't wear it. Yeah right! I just about slept in it! Talked for a minute about the old neighborhood (grew up around Dino and Bobby's 'hood'), got a decent cell phone picture then hugged him and wished him the best of luck this coming year. Told him not to forget the place that founded him, Chicago. A strange look on his came over, he swore that it would never happen. He thanked me and gave another hug. His voice was the most sincere and sweet sounded voice a hard rocker could have. With his new manager (manager for bands like......KISS! AND MOTLEY CRUE!!!) and the extreme headliner I know that the world will soon know damn well who the LoveHammers are! Glad to have gotten the chance to meet them before it becomes a mob scene!!
It almost breaks my heart that I didn't act sooner on getting to know them all. I feel guilty saying I don't want to share them with the world afraid that they will get lost in the whirlwind of fame and forget Chicago, but I seriously don't see that happening.
ROCK ON MARTY! ROCK ON DINO! ROCK ON BOBBY! ROCK ON BILLY! ROCK HARD! BUT DON'T EVER ROCK WITH A HARD ON!

[penny74]

Posted by: andrea

Hi all who want to hear about the metro! My neice and I flew from CA to see marty at the metro because we also have family around there, so why not, it was awsome, he looked
awsome grey and white pin striped pants, black shirt, lots of eye makeup, great energy all
through the night, he even walked through the crowd right where we were and my neice
got to press up against his hard body, and then my turn, I gave him a half hug and ran my]
hand across his chest and grabbed the back of his hair as he walked through singing the song
I was never more excited in my whole life, I thought I would die! I also had marty I love you
written on my hands in black marker and I hope when they filmed the video it shows my hands I think he saw it, and looked right at me at one point. they played all the good songs
from there two cds, we all really rocked out, the only thing that was a bummer was there were some chicago women around us who thought they owned the floor and were really mean to us, and yelled at us everytime we got pushed into them, which was not are doing,
I mean come on you are on the floor at a concert you will be knocked into right! man CA people know these things and are nice about it, I was shocked at there witchy ways. anyway
I can't stop thinking about how hot and entertaining marty is on stage, can't wait to see him
again, and I will over and over again!

[penny74]

Posted by: taxegirl

That was the best concert I ever been to in my life. So much energy. I loved Blackmaker, I bought their CD a few weeks before the concert, I really love them. They had a lot of nice things to say about Lovehammers. I really liked Blackout too, I had ordered their CD, but it never came in time.

I didn't stop singing or moving for the entire show. They were so amazing. Marty is something beyond words. I loved him on Rockstar, I fell in love with the Lovehammers music, but what he did at that concert was ?? what can I say.

Ultrasound started the show. I was really surprised they didn't play Bulletholes, Real Man and Low-life Insurance. I wanted to hear Summertime in the City and Sleeper (maybe at the Aragon.) The set was great. New album in Jan.

Marty came into the crowd where I was standing, I ran my hand down his back. One of the guys from Blackout jumped into the crowd. Things started getting crazy. For the Trees video, a few guys started really jumpin and pushing to the front, I had to push back. Marty bashed his guitar and tossed it into the crowd, people were fighting over it. Dino tossed picks into the crowd. I got one.

When it was over I was looking on the ground, just to see what I could find. One guy grabbed me and pulled me to the stage and told security I needed a pick, I was happy to take it and asked them if I could have a piece of the guitar too, he gave it me.

My son decided he didn't want to go, so he stayed in the hotel room. (crazy kid) I didn't want to be gone too long after the concert or start drinking so I started to leave when I saw Dino. I just stood there and watched him for a short time, then he was gone. Then I saw Bobby, so I thought I can't let him go I asked him to sign my Ultrasound CD. I went into the Metro store, wanted to see if I could find Blackmaker (they said they would be there.) No Blackmaker, but Marty is standing there. Only a couple of people talking to him, so I go over. I have him sign my Ultrasound CD. I also have him sign my piece of guitar (little piece) he laughs and starts to use it as a tooth pick. He was so great and humble to everyone. I go back to the lobby and Dino is back. Now I have to get him to sign Ultrasound. He does, in his own way, I'll leave it at that. But no Billy, where was Billy?

For anyone who missed the concert, you need to try to make it to the Aragon. I think it will be the last time you will get to see the Lovehammers like this. I just don't see the INXS shows having the same intimacy and energy. And after INXS, It'll be the big time. Enjoy it while you can.

[penny74]

Posted by: poet

I was at the Lovehammer show Wendesday night and I have to say it was the the most incredible musical experience of my life. As we were walking toward the door of the Metro Bobby, Dino and Marty walked right by us. All I could do at that point was whisper hi as he walked by. Inside, I was lucky to be just left of center stage with just one row of people in front of me.

First, I want to say the other bands rocked, especially Blackmaker. They were f**king awesome. All the opening bands did an awesome job of getting the crowd pumped.

Marty and all the guys were absolutely amazing. I was blown away when he corrected the radio DJ who introduced them as Marty Casey and the Lovehammers. He said, "This band always has been and always will be Lovehammers".

The performance was unbelievable. The man has no fears. He did jump into the audience right next to me and I reached out and touched him. Then, later he did the stage dive and as he was being moved back toward the stage I reached up and he grabbed my hand and held it really tight for what seemed like a moment stopped in time. He has such incredibly strong hands. His voice was just incredible. He performance was incredible. He really gets lost in the music and if you let go he takes you with him. I swear there were several moments when I just got lost and forgot there were 1500 other people around me screaming. The show was really just the single most amazing concert I've ever seen.

Afterward, my friends and I headed downstairs as we didn't have passes to the afterparty. Standing on the landing we spotted Dino. Sadly, he was on his way out and we didn't meet him. Then we spotted Bobby. I have to say that man's pictures do not do him justice. He's abasolutely gorgeous. He's also amazingly sweet. I caught one of his drumsticks when he threw them out into the crowd. Se took pictures with my friends and I, gave us hugs and stood around and talked for a really long time. Then we went and talked to some guys from another band. I decide to go into the merchancdise room to see if they had any LH merchandise. There was a small cluster of people on the left side of the room and I tried to move around them to see what was available to purchase. I look into the center of the cluster to see Marty. I'm not sure how I managed to remain composed enough to go quietly get my friends and bring them in, but I did. We waited a few minutes while he signed a few autographs and then we got our turn. One of my friends who went to the show with us had never seen Marty perform. She also has this wierd way of giving people shit. She started teasing Marty about being so thin. He was very quick whitted and funny about it and gave her shit right back. He signed some stuff for us and then we asked if we could get a picture. He said of course. Then, as the other girls were getting the camera ready he said but you know I'm so thin I might not even appear on film. Somehow at that moment I had him all to myself. So I siezed the moment and said the one thing the first thing that came to me. I said, "that's okay because as long as I can hear your voice I'm happy." He turned to me and looked right at me, into my eyes and said (yes there words are forever burned in my memory) "Come here and give me some love". He pulled me in and gave me a hug and a kiss. I'm not sure how I managed to stay on my feet. He kept his arm around me as the girls explained the camera to whoever was taking the picture. Then he pullled me in closer. My other friend was on his other side and my crazy friend who gave him shit squatted down in front of him. I guess she almost lost her balance and wrapped her arms around him and he said "It's okay you can grab my ass." He was so funny. The girl took one picture and started to hand the camera back and he said no take several. He really could not have been more perfect. After the picture we talked for a couple more minutes. He was just amazing. Two days later and my heart still pounds when I write about the experience, adrenaline flows thru my body and has kept me awake for 48 hours. I honestly believe that the man exudes energy. I've never in my life felt a high like I have felt since seeing the band perform and meeting Marty.

If you have a chance to go see the band play, do not let it pass you by. It is an experience unlike any other.

Okay, I can't type anymore. My hands are shaking and my heart is racing again.

[penny74]

Posted by: historylight

The concert was everything that all of you have said & then some.

I am so happy and envious of you that got to meet the guys. My friend and I watched the show from the balcony but because we did not have any passes for the after party we were asked to leave.

Now after hearing everyone's stories I think we just missed him outside before the show and I think while we were waiting on the balcony before we got kicked out Marty was downstairs in the gift shop. The sad thing is we did meet Blackout and get pics and autographs with them in the hallway outside the gift shop. For all I know Mary may have been in there while I was just outside the door and I did not notice him.

Oh well I guess it was not meant to be. I do have a ticket to the Aragon show so I hope I will get to meet the guys there!!! So send good thoughts my way & for others who did not get to meet them either.

My best,
Holly

[penny74]

Posted by: Amy

I've seen some of the details already posted and won't repeat them. But excellent commentary so far!

We were invited to the Full Shilling party. I met many of Marty's family - and all were (are) very, very friendly, dear, down-to-earth folks. They were appreciative of the web site we've done for Marty and extremely complimentary. Katie is an adorable bundle of energy - she exudes sunshine. Marty's Uncle Mike is a phenomenal man and loves his nephew dearly. Uncle Mike is cool! Also meet Liz, Marty's sister, who is as sweet as can be.....also met her husband and their two sons. We met other family members, but right now my mind's a blur. Anyway, one of Marty's family (don't remember who ATM) told me Marty would be there. Oh wait......wait, wait. Lemme back up a minute.

We (Cindy & I) went over to the Full Shilling about 4:30 because we didn't want to stand in line. (Big props, thanks, and kudos go to SLURREDVISION for holding a table in the balcony for us!) The video film crew (as well as one of the opening bands) were hanging out there. This grey headed man came up to me and introduced himself (again, mind is a blur and I can't remember his name)....he asked for me specifically. Anyway, someone from the band had suggested I be interviewed for the video! (I'm pretty certain it's for the DVD if it comes out and not the Trees video). Okay, that back history is now told.....will start where I left off on the paragraph above.

We were sitting at the table drinking Margaritas when the film crew came over to me. They interviewed Cindy & I. Asked tons of questions - stuff like how the web site came to be, the wristbands, had I ever seen Lh in concert, had I ever met Marty, etc.

I knew exactly when Marty came into the Full Shilling because the room went INSANE! Everyone started cheering and clapping. Marty came with Dino, Bob, and Billy. I waited patiently because everyone wanted to speak with Marty. The Full Shilling section we were in was fairly small so it seemed packed full of people. But I waited until he was in front of me and I showed him my nametag we'd made (it said "MartyCasey.org - Amy"). He read it and immediately grinned from ear to ear and grabbed me up for a monster hug. I couldn't have been more thrilled - he already knew who I was. It was a bit loud and he had things he wanted to say to me that he wanted to make sure I heard, so he just kept hugging me and whispering loudly in my ear. He had many words of thanks and appreciation. We did the chit-thing for a short while, he said he loved my southern accent, thanked me for coming all the way from South Carolina, told me that his friends had nice things to say about me, he gave me a little peck kiss on the lips, and Uncle Mike took our photo. I let Marty continue on down to other folks because lots of family wanted to hug him.

I made my way over to Dino and did the same thing to him - flashed my name tag and smiled. He had the same reaction as Marty - he grabbed me, hugged me, and said how great it was for us to finally meet. More chit-chat. I didn't get to catch Bob or Billy at that point....in fact I never met Billy. But we made our way into the Metro around 7:30'ish. My eyes were so fixed on Marty that I didn't realize Jessica (from RS:INXS) was there!

We had a balcony table and though couldn't see very well, all was good - we could hear great and still see Marty and Dino. The concert was AMAZING. The others have done a great job of describing that scene. LOVED IT when Marty turned into a monkey, climbed the light thingy, and sang hanging upside down. We stayed in the balcony for a while to greet him again, but dudes....it was a massive mob scene. Everybody wanted a piece of Marty and a few folks (women in particular) were a bit too aggressive and what I consider rude. Marty was being pulled and tugged from every direction. We'd already said our "hello's" so we left him alone. Bob did come over to talk to us for a bit - he's a nice guy and extremely handsome!

I forgot to mention:

Marty's eyes are amazing. And I'm not saying that in a "fangirly" way. When he speaks with you, you get his 100% undivided attention. He stares and concentrates and listens intently to every word said. His eyes were beautifully done with lots of guyliner and purple shadow.

His hands are very soft. His lips are very soft! (yes, I got kissed but not in *that* kind of way.....it was a kiss like you'd kiss your parent, sibling, or friend).

He's also what I call a "close talker." He gets in very close to your face while speaking.

[penny74]

Posted by: barbara

Dropping off my Pre-Show Metro experience:

After pounding down two Stella’s back to back at Uncommon Ground, it was time to go stand in line. It was getting dark outside and a cold wind had set in. So we put on our jackets and scarves to brave the elements.

Only a small line had formed outside the Metro when we arrived, where was everyone? While waiting in line I started looking at the front of the building and I remembered the footage that Stock Yard Films shot of the Lovehammers in the very same spot I was standing. Now I could see with my own eyes, the doorwell Bobby stood in as he was mobbed by half a dozen women and also the curbside that Marty was chauffeured up to in a petty cab.

Then out of the corner of my eye, I saw a familiar face and then another! Dino and Bobby where standing only a few feet away. At first I was a little surprised they were just hanging out there in the street, like all of us, and then I thought, “If I want them to sign my CD covers this is the ideal time.”

So, I approached Dino, who had started to walk away. He towered over my 5’ frame as I walked backwards next to him, and I quietly asked, “Dino? Could I have your autograph?” He looked directly at me, his wavy dark hair framed his face and his black eyes were friendly. He said “Sure, what’s your name?” I told him, and he repeated it back to me nice and slow “Bar-ba-ra”.

I handed him my L’Strange & MoMM CD covers and then two sharpies red and black. “What color do you want me to write in?” he asked. I realized I had given him too much stuff, so I said, “Black!” and took the red marker away. Then he said, “Can I use your back to write on?” So I turned around and tried to act like a desk. I was so happy to see him, and I wanted to look and talk to him while he was signing my CD’s for me but I couldn’t!

Some other people started asking for autographs and Dino borrowed my pen for a while. Then a woman said to him “I have two extra tickets tonight, because my husband doesn’t want them. He doesn’t want to come.” The way she said, what she said, kind of bummed me out, because I didn’t think he should hear something like that before the show. So, I heard myself saying out loud, in a laidback stoner tone “That’s too bad.” Dino locked eyes with me for quite a while, maybe 5 seconds, but I couldn’t tell what he was thinking because he never responded to her. He just looked at me and then went back to signing a few more autographs.

Then I started looking for Bobby and saw him standing down the block with a few hot looking women around him. I wasn’t sure if I should approach him, because I wasn’t planning to drool over him or dote on him, but instead just say “Hi.” The cool thing was, when I walked up to him, and called his name, he walked away from the gaggle of women and towards me – I thought, “How f**king cool is this!” Of course my mind went blank – I had planned to ask him all kinds of questions, but all I could force out was “I’m looking forward to the show tonight” and he said “ I appreciate your support.” He seemed pretty calm, although there was a lot of activity going on around him, roadies running up and down the block suggesting places for him to have dinner. Other people started showing up and wanting his attention. As soon as he signed my CD’s I ran back up to my spot in line at the Metro, running right past the Full Shilling.

At that time, I didn’t know who was inside the bar.

[penny74]

Posted by: msd2k

Wow was Metro awesome! The band was just incredible start to finish. I don't think I blinked the whole time. It was over too fast! Marty is mezmerizing to watch, you just cannot take your eyes off of him. I had the incredible good fortune to meet him backstage before the show and the rest of the band. All I can say is this...Marty Casey gives the best hugs on the planet!He has the softest, sexiest lips I have ever had. They were so good, I kept going back for more. His kisses are like a drug. He is the epitome of ROCK GOD when you meet him but without the attitude. He is sweet, attentive, generous, funny and when he locks your eyes, your mind goes blank. He signed my "red envelope" from the HMBOMT sheet music I won on Ebay and then let me take several pics. At one point my friend was taking a pic of the two of us and she couldn't work the camera for like 3 minutes..so I took advantage, kept my arms around him..and my head buried in his chest. Pure Heaven. Then I just had to have those lips again...and again...and again. Then I met him again at after party...got more pics and more kisses. Ok Marty...I need my drug again...Im in withdrawal! BTW Marty has the most gorgeous eyes I've ever seen. He is absolutely beautiful. But more beautiful on the inside (as if that's possible). I gave him an 18k gold bangle. He let me pull back his jacket to see his wrist..and I was glued to his beautiful arm and hand..and just stood there rubbing it (like a dork) till I put my bracelet on him. It was too small but can be made to fit with a larger clasp and more gold. My other friend also gave him a bracelet that you'll see in the Trees video...silver stretchy bracelet that I believe he put on his right wrist. I thought that was so cool! He is just awesome. This was a dream come true. The rest of the LH are also sweet, great guys! I am still in the "clouds"! If you ever get a chance to see the Lovehammers perform anywhere near you, you must go! MUST! This is THE band..the ONLY band. Sorry INXS but these guys are going to blow you right off the stage!!

[penny74]

Posted by: shugar

Not sure if anyone is still up for more Metro stories/encounters, but here's mine:

We arrived at the Metro to stand in line at about 5:45, just as they were opening the doors to let people in. Good thing, as it was soooo bitterly cold! I guess people who had gotten there earlier and waited in line were treated to the sight of Marty and the rest of the guys arriving, but we missed that part. We go in, scope the place out top to bottom and found out there really is not a bad spot in the place. Told my husband I wanted to be on the floor instead of balcony, juuuust in case Marty came in to the audience while singing. We were probably 10-15 feet away from the stage, and right about the middle. First band, Redshirt, hits the stage right on time at 6:15-6:45, Blackmaker 7:00-7:30 (oh, and Dino sighting stage left, digging the band and having a beer!), and Blackout 7:45-8:15... all right on schedule, all excellent bands as well. I just wish I had listened to some of their stuff online before I went so I would be more familiar with their music and maybe know some of their songs so I could sing along.

Much excitement building at this point, as stage is being made ready for our guys. A couple of young boys (ages maybe 7 and 10?) were on stage helping to put out water bottles, etc. Found out later they were Billy's sons..... so cute! Finally, about 8:40, lights go down, fog machine goes on, place is electric! People screaming and jumping and pushing their way to the front, but in a nice way (no knockdowns or fighting, etc). We see the band members making their way to their spots on stage, and all of a sudden, Marty slinks on to stage singing what I found out later to be Ultrasound. Never heard it, but loved it immediately! Damn that fog! Clear out dammit!

(I must pause here to say that I had read other's accounts of how much better looking he is in person, and I thought 'no way'. I must go all Wayne's World here and say 'YES WAY!'. Good thing I was refraining from beverages so I wouldn't need to use the bathroom, or I would have definitely pissed myself!)

Marty made a point of saying that this is NOT Marty Casey and the Lovehammers, it is strictly the Lovehammers... always was and always will be. The man HAS NO FLAWS! I wish I could remember what he sang and in what order, but I know it is posted elsewhere on this site if you want to see it. I know that everything he sang was all Lovehammers all the time... no covers or new music... which is fine because I like singing along. I remember, in no particular order: The Tunnel, Eyes Can't See, Clouds, Hold On, Trees, and This Town. I know that the time absolutely FLEW by, and was over way too soon. At one point he did come in to the audience and I was just able to touch his arm right below the elbow of the hand that was holding the mike. I could feel the skin and bone beneath the silky material of his black, almost see through, shirt. As he was getting back on stage, someone had a hold of his waistband, and he almost didn't make it. I thought I saw one of those lower back tatoos and I thought 'Please God no! Don't ruin that beautiful skin!' then later I found out it was only his butt crack! Priceless! He did all the famous 'Marty Moves' on stage - crouching, stalking, mad conductor, controlled hand and finger motions - I swear the man must be a robot to be able to move so many body parts independent of one another! SOFREAKINGBEAUTIFUL! Oh, and it is also true that he sounds so much better live. Lord knows what they did with his voice on Rockstar sometimes, but it is PERFECT live.

They left the stage at about 9:40, then came back to do another version of Trees so they could get audience shots for the video. The guys came out to take their bows and throw out guitar picks, drumsticks, Marty broke another guitar and threw out the pieces, then the two little boys from before the show came out, and Billy is picking them up and having them wave at the audience. The older one was kind of 'Oh Dad, quit embarassing me' about it, but the younger one was eating it all up! Dad was so cute, and so proud, and kissing his boys on top of the head. I'm tearing up thinking about it, it was so sweet!

Announcer guy comes out and says the show is over, and there is a party upstairs for those with the 'proper pass'. Since I didn't know what the 'proper pass' was, I was pretty sure I didn't have one. Well, ladies room is upstairs, and even though I didn't need to use it, I started heading that way. Good excuse, right? Husband asks what I'm doing, I'm going the wrong way. Was obvious he was ready to go (we had been on our feet ALL day), so I turned around and came back down. (Note to self and future reference: Next time, take train and leave old man home. check.) If I had been alone or with friends, I would have taken my chances. So, we are heading for the coat check, and members of opening bands are doing the meet and greet thing among the crowd, Blackout is giving away a cd of three of their songs, bass player for Redshirt is handing out stickers, so I touch him on the shoulder and say 'great job' or something idiotic like that, says 'thanks' and hands me a sticker. Husband says 'hey, there's your guy up ahead in the crowd'. SQUEE! and F**KME! so is Bobby! Standing at the door to the merchandise room, signing autographs! Husband says 'you go that way and I'll get the coats' (so, okay, I guess he did come in handy. ha!) By this time Marty has gone in to merchandise room, so I stop and tell Bobby how much fun they are to watch, and would he please sign the liner to my MOMM cd. He must be really shy, because he really didn't have much to say to that, but he did sign the liner for me. Granted, I'm a doofus and couldn't think of anything more original to say, but he is still one damn fine specimen!

I go in to merchandise room, and just to the left of the door, is Mmmmmahty. Dammit man, why do you have to be so perfect? People standing around trying to get a piece of the man, and he is so unaffected by it! Everyone was very respectful of each other, waiting their turn for the most part, not taking up too much of his time. Asking him to sign things, asking for pictures, hugs, etc. About this time, someone is ushering in an older lady to the front of the line, and someone asks if she is momma Casey, and she said she is. She comes to let him know she is leaving, so they talk and hug for a few seconds. Gotta love a man who loves his momma! I keep looking for my husband so I could have him get the camera out of my coat pocket and get a picture (I left it there because I thought we couldn't take it inside. stooopid!) I am shaking like a leaf, and wouldn't have known my own name if someone had asked me at that moment, when it was finally my turn.

I had rehearsed things I wanted to say to him if I ever got to meet him, but my mouth could not form words. I've done public speaking before, made a presentation to a room full of college vice presidents, teach teenagers job search skills in a group and individual setting, but do you think i could come up with something coherent to say, besides shoving my liner for L'Strange in his hands? Finally! I blubber something about how he made my summer so much more bearable, but can't be sure I didn't just invent verbal dyslexia or something, if I even formed a complete sentence. Guess he didn't know what to say to that, so I asked if I could have a picture (husband had seen him posing for pics, so he came in with the camera. Another reason to keep him, I guess. ha!). He says 'of course!', so he puts his arm around my shoulders, and I put my arm around his waist. I AM TOUCHING HIS WAIST!!!!! through that oh so thin silky black shirt. He is thin, but not TOO thin. He looks taller on tv... I'm 5'9" and had on boots with 3" heels, so we were about the same height. Then after picture he says that it was a fun ride in LA, but it was good to be back in Chicago. I finally cleared my head enough to tell him that I love it in Chicago, and I want to move there (which is true). He smiled and laughed at that, kind of threw his head back a little, you know the way he does when he laughs. I thanked him and shook his hand, and said I wished them continued success, and something else that I can't remember cause I'm such a spaz. Then I left so someone else could have their turn, but for those few seconds, there was no one else in the room except the two of us.

Once we got outside, we walked a couple blocks to McDonalds, because my husband hadn't eaten since earlier in the day. While he is at the counter waiting for his order, mom and dad Casey came in TO MC DONALDS! of all places! I recognized them from the Metro, but I don't think anyone else did (there were about 5 other people there who had come from the concert). They got their order to go, and I think I saw them leave in a cab. How cool is that? Just normal everyday people living their normal everyday lives, and so unaffected by it all. They truly are salt of the earth people, and deserve every good thing that comes their way.

Praying to God my picture came out and I can share it with you all. Only other fans I got to meet were 7of7/Melanie, and SHR/Kim (I'm the one waiting my turn, you're telling my husband you're 32 years old acting like a teenager, and he tells you I'm the same way and just turned 47). Even though I didn't meet anyone else, I'm glad we all got to experience this together!

Debra

[penny74]

Posted by: sapman

Hi All,

I wanted to post (I have not posted in forever) with my own Metro summary. I also want to say a special hello to the wonderful Marty/LH fans I met in Chicago!!! Hello Cindy, Penny, and everyone else whose name I can't remember - Lisa from Connecticut here! (Otherwise known by the silly name of sapman.)

Before you get TOO excited, I have to say that I did not have a camera, so I cannot add pictures of the show or any of what follows. However, I did get a few great souvenirs....

I went to the Metro area early to check out the place with my friend Chris and grab some lunch at the Raw Bar with a bunch of Marty fans. It was so nice to meet so many cool people. I wish we had had more time, but my friend and I had left our tickets at her place and needed to go back to get them. We did not realize how long it took with traffic to get from her place to the Metro and had miscalculated, so we thought it would be no big deal to drive back (turned out not to be true - oh well).

We got back to the Metro right about 6 and walked in. I was impressed right away. The Metro is a great venue - you can really see from anywhere you stand. I loved it!! The energy and the atmosphere are great. We walked right in and had the option of standing in a pretty good place on the floor (about 6-8 rows deep) or up on the next floor (the balcony) just about front and center. We choose that, and the view was incredible. We were about 15 feet tops from the stage and were raised up just enough. There were no heads in front, no obstructions, we could see the whole stage 100%. I had a great time with Penny drooling, singing, and exchanging lots of knowing looks, as well as nonsensical comments and sighs.... From where we were, Marty had to have looked at us MANY times.


When we got there, the first opening band was just getting set up and started a few minutes later - Red Shirt, I believe they were called. They were quite good. Next came a band called Blackmaker that I really, really liked. For a moment, they made me forget that I had another band to go before getting to see Marty and the LH, so you know they were talented. The third band was good, too, they were called Blackout. Yes, it was a night of color bands!!! Probably because I knew Marty would soon be on stage, but I could not get as into this group, but they were also good. My mind was wandering and I was getting really excited (if it was possible to be any more excited).

OK, finally, Marty and the Lovehammers came on. They were amazing. They started with "Ultrasound." They sounded and looked incredible. It was surreal, to be honest. Marty looked gorgeous, as always, and I could not believe I was seeing him in person. I felt like it could not be real, in a way - that I was watching him on a really realistic TV. Marty had on gray/dark striped pants, similar to what we've seen him wear, and a black, semi-sheer, clingy shirt that had 3/4 sleeves. He had his trademark arm bands, as well as his special bracelets and his MC wrist bands.


LH played Hold On, Throw My Head Around (sorry, that might not be the title), The Riddle, Clinic, Straight as An Arrow, Call of Distress, The Tunnel, Eyes Can't See, Trees twice, This Town, Clouds, Rain on the Brain, and that's all I can think of right now. They sounded absolutely great - I can't say that enough. They had tremendous energy and Marty was all over the stage. Marty made eye contact with the whole crowd and involved the crowd, handing the mic to people to sign parts of songs. He reached down to touch peoples hands a lot - the front few rows on the floor had it made!!! Marty did lots of moves similar to those in the Levi's ad shoot and he did a great jump and the mad/scary conductor. (I am very proud to have been conducted by Marty)



Marty actually went into the crowd and made his way in a circle back to the stage. I couldn't believe it! He sang through it all, too. People were grabbing at him like crazy. Marty also climbed the rafters and sang hanging upside down! It was great. Later in the show, someone gave Marty a bouquet of white roses, and he shook them so that they scattered all through the audience. Then a bunch of confetti (my friend grabbed me a souvenir piece) came down and roses and confetti flew everywhere. I got hit with one of the roses (just the flower parts went flying - no stems).



When the group did Trees, it was really amazing - the best I have ever heard Trees! The crowd was going wild. Then later, the Mancow guy came out and told us that the band would do Trees again and this time the cameras (there were lots of video cameras!) would be filming the crowd for the video. We were to go absolutely wild. We did not disappoint. I yelled so loud I started losing my voice. It was great fun and very exciting!!



After the show, the afterparty was announced for those who had the proper passes. My feet were killing me and my friends, too - she had actually had minor surgery on her foot a few days earlier. Thus, we did not feel up to trying to get into a party for which we did not have the passes. We went downstairs to go to the Metro shop and get our checked coats. On the way on the stairs, I ran into one of the guitarists from the opening group I liked, Blackmaker, and told him that I had loved their music. He was very nice and friendly and grabbed my hand, trying to lead me down to where he and the band members were - at the merchandise booth, I think. I don't know what happened next, but I got disentangled from him and he stopped to talk to some other fans. My friend and I just decided to continue on down the stairs, and that's what we did.


We went into the Metro store, and I bought another copy of L'Strange (I gave the one I took with me to my friend) and looked at the other merchandise. I also got a CD from Blackmaker and one from Blackout, as these were given away free. I have 2 Lovehammers shirts, so I didn't buy any more of these, but I got a post card (for free) of Lovehammers that is the same photo as the one on the LH website.



As I am looking around, my friend says to me - "Lisa, Marty's over there." I turned around, and Marty was literally RIGHT THERE. Like 3 feet away. People had not clued in to the fact that he was there, so there were not too many people talking to him. One fan was just finishing talking to Marty, so I went right up to him and told him I loved his music. He looked right at me and TALKED TO ME!!!!! He said thank you, thank you so much. I think we shook hands, but I was in shock, so I can't swear to it. I feel like an idiot, but I was just in shock. My friend - GOD bless her - called out - "She came all the way from Connecticut..." And I said something like "Yeah, I came from CT." Marty said something like "Oh... well then, and gave me a HUG!!!!!!!!!!!!!! He was very gracious and thankful and nice. I wish I remembered more details, but I was in shock as I said.



In the meantime, some guy handed Marty his cell phone and said - Marty say hello to my girlfriend. He asked what her name was and it was Jillian, I think. He said something like "Hi, Jillian (or whatever), this is Marty." It was great.



Anyway, then I pulled from my pocket (all folded up, unfortunately!) my MOMM CD cover and a pen and asked for his autograph. He gave it to me, but my pen (I was moving around a lot) broke on him and it flew everywhere!!! Someone else gave me a pen, and I handed it to Marty. He said "Where was I?" and I said "I think you left off at the M." He signed the CD cover and gave it to me.

Similar to Penny, I wish I could have said more to him, but trust me, it was amazing that I had the ability to say what I did.

Still, I was in the clouds. To make it even better, I saw Bobby when I walked out of the store and got his autograph, too! I told him I came from CT (I had realized this was a good thing to say by this point) and he said wow - thanks and was also very nice. I had to wait for one fan to finish before talking to Bobby - she had him sign her belt! But, again, people had not caught on that the group was downstairs - they were trying to leave or trying to wait upstairs in the hopes of getting to the after party.

That is a summary of the most amazing time ever.

Hope you enjoyed!
Lisa

[penny74]

Posted by: kbrown

I love reading through all the Metro stories. Sounds like everyone had a phenomenal time. I also got to go to the show. I dragged my husband along with me. He really did not want to go, but by the end he was really having fun and happy that he went.

First off, I have to say that I had a great time. LH know how to put on an amazing show - the best I've seen in a while. My only regret is that I had to leave right after the show to drive to Ohio for my family's Thanksgiving the next day and, therefore, did not get to stick around and meet Marty or the other guys. It sounds like I just missed him in the merchandise shop. I actually stopped in there right after the show while my husband got our coats. From the other stories, it sounds like he could have been standing in that room while I was looking at t-shirts and I might not have noticed. I don't know if that makes me feel better or worse. Worse, I think.

Anyway, even though I didn't get to meet Marty, the night was pretty cool. Marty really gets the crowd going, and it was great just being a part of everything. We actually stood downstairs but in the back. We were so tired by the time we actually made it to the show - sat in traffic for about 4 hours trying to make our way into Chicago - so I was happy to stand at the back and have something to lean on. I was a little sad that I wasn't able to be closer, but still not a bad spot given how small the Metro is. I think I was about 50-70 feet from the stage. Plus it was fun to stand back and watch everyone having such a great time. I got a huge kick out of watching all the little teenagers dancing and thinking they were so cool. Reminded me of my teenage years.

Oh, just thought of another regret. When they turned the cameras back on the crowd and shot the audience during Trees, my husband kept telling me to get on his shoulders. I knew if I didn't there was no way I would be seen, but I'm a little scared of heights - sounds stupid, I know - so I didn't do it. Now I wish I had - how cool would it have been to be watching the video and see myself. Anyway, not the point I guess. I had a great time, and I may have converted the husband, at least a little.

I'll be going to the Aragon in December, so I am going to make a better effort to meet Marty at that show. I will take what I've learned on this board and bring extra pens and lip balm, and I will start thinking now of something really great to say when I meet Marty so I can report back to y'all how calm and collected I was (yeah, right).

Oh, and by the way, thanks to everyone for posting pictures. I didn't bring a camera with me (will next time) so I don't have anything to contribute except to say that he was absolutely beautiful, as you can see. I had to try so hard not to let my husband see the HUGE smile on my face when I was watching Marty. I will need to stand closer to the stage at the next show on the off chance that he decides to walk through the crowd again (please do). I think I would die on the spot - maybe Marty would do mouth-to-mouth on me?

[penny74]

Posted by: BBE

OK, here we go—The Metro!!!

Had a good and silly time at the pre-show! It was great meeting all of you, and seeing Claudia again, my partner in cross-country Marty trekking! ;-)

When we got there, some of my group went to the balcony, some were by the bar, and I went toward the stage with hubby and my friend from MC.org. (She is “Waiting4MC”, the girl who met Marty in NYC at the Franz Ferdinand concert, and her cell phone didn’t save the pic.)

I went up to balcony after a while to check it out and talk with the others, but I knew I couldn’t get good pics from my cell phone up there, so I decided to risk bodily harm and go back to the floor area. We were about 3 people back from the stage, right in front of center stage. After the 1st band, I went for a restroom break, then got back to my spot that the others held. That was the last time I left there until the concert ended. After the second band, hubby had enough of the floor, and went to the balcony. My friend and I stayed down there.

Dino watched the second band, Blackmaker, from the side/back of the stage for a while. He was wearing eyeliner, too, and looked hot! His hair was pulled back, so you could see his eyes. I liked that 2nd band best of the opening bands.

After last opening act, T-Bone and the rest were setting up the LH stuff, and Dino came out to help. Very cute! He probably won’t have to do that much longer!

They opened with “Ultrasound”. Smoke machines on, lights go down, and the crowd starts going wild. Bobby comes out, gets behind drums and starts pounding out that jungle rhythm. Then Dino appears, and starts the hypnotic bass groove. Then Billy, with the slippery, snake-like guitar intro.

Then…………………MARTY!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! THE CROWD GOES COMPLETELY BERSERK—LEAPING AND ARM PUMPING!!!!!
He appears through the smoke, and starts doing some sexy conductor moves. As soon as the light hits him, I see he’s wearing the most perfect eye make-up! OMG----SO F**KING HOT!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! His eyes are intense and burning.
He starts singing “WE CONTROL THE AUDIO---WE CONTROL THE VIDEO---WE CONTROL THE RADIO---WE CONTROL YOUR STEREO-----WHHHHHYYYYYY ARE WE ALIVE??” He sounds fantastic!!! Everyone is singing along at the top of their lungs. He’s wearing a grey corduroy jacket at first, along with a black shirt and his dark grey pinstriped pants. (He must loooove those pants!) Also a black belt with a silver cross-shaped buckle, and dog tags on a chain. He has bracelets and wristbands on both wrists, including an MC.org wristband. I think he was wearing his black Converse sneakers, but my eyes weren’t on his feet very much. ;-) After the first song, he took off the jacket, and I saw he had on his red armband. Shirt was long-sleeved, but the left sleeve was pushed up at first.

His voice sounded SO GOOD—no rough vocal-cord-shredding screaming. When he did scream, it was a non-damaging-sounding scream, or other times very loud singing. I think he’s brought what he learned from vocal training to his singing with Lovehammers.

My brain was turning to mush, so I can’t remember the song order, just that I was singing along with everything, and rocking out hard. He said several times that there are 4 people in the band, and that it’s not “Marty Casey and the Lovehammers”, it’s just the Lovehammers. They were all sooooo happy to be there and get that crowd reaction. Dino was smiling the whole time, Billy was very happy and delighted, Bobby was totally getting into it, and Marty was letting loose as his own unrestrained self. He was eating it up!

There was so much energy flying around the room while Marty was performing—it just blows the mind! During the show, he jumped down and came through the crowd in a half-circle out from the stage. He came right past me, and I got to rub his hair (felt smooth and soft), and pat his back. His shirt was hanging down away from his neck in back, and with the spotlight on him right there, I could see that there is a dusting of tiny freckles along his upper back and shoulders. That’s common for someone with fair skin like he has. Sexy and adorable!

He climbed the light tower and hung upside down from his knees and feet while singing. That’s amazing! Lots of belly exposure. As the show went on, his pants got lower and lower, so that when he raised his arms, the ‘love trail’ was plainly visible! OH YEAH!!!!! His skin is so beautiful, both on his body and on his face. He doesn’t need all that goop they put on him for the TV show to have gorgeous skin. Just that hot eye make-up, and he’s good to go!

Ladies, he does the eye-f*** to audience members!!!!! I got a good looooonnnng one during one song. He was in sort of a crouching position right in front of me, and saw me singing along with him and rocking out. (I’m just under 6’ tall, so I’m very noticeable in a crowd.) His eyes locked into mine with the full-on intense eye-f**k, and they just stayed, and stayed, and stayed……Must have been 5-10 seconds at least, but it felt like an eternity. I kept my eyes locked into his, and gave it right back to him. WHOA BABY!!!!! It makes you feel like your skin is on fire! SOOOOO HOT!!!!!!!!!!

I was trying to send pics to a friend on my cell phone, but it was very difficult to get good ones, because the crowd was moving so much that I couldn’t hold the phone still. Many were blurry—sorry about that! Finally I realized that between taking and sending cell phone pics, and taking film camera pics, that I was missing too much of the show, and it was going by too fast. That was when I stopped and just focused on the show.

Great performance of “Trees”, Lovehammers version!!! It should make a fantastic video. I hope they put the whole show out on DVD. My hubby said that from the balcony, the crowd on the floor looked incredible—just a sea of moving, jumping, arm-pumping mass of humanity!

They took a little break before coming out to tape another take of “Trees”, and that was when the mayhem started. When they announced that they would be filming the crowd, a pack of about 5 or 6 LARGE drunk college-age guys came shoving their way through the crowd and ended up smashing into me and my friend. They were rude and pushy, and kept shoving everyone around them to try to get their stupid faces in the video. They lifted one guy up and passed him over their heads, then they dropped him and he landed on my friend! She got a cut on her head, and a blow to the head, and almost had her earring ripped out through her flesh.

After they did “Trees” again, the last song was “This Town”. About half way through, some jerk who had gotten back stage came out from the behind the band, so neither they nor security saw him coming, and he took a stage dive into the crowd. The STUPID S.O.B. landed right on top of ME!!!!! I was knocked to the floor and my glasses went flying! He got up and left me lying there. I couldn’t get up because the crowd was closing in around me, and I was about to get trampled!!! I was screaming for help and pulling on the legs of people around me. They finally helped me up, and someone helped find my glasses. It was a miracle that they were in one piece, and only scratched. I would have been so scr*wed if they had been destroyed, because I can’t see a thing without them. It’s also a miracle that I was only bruised up, and nothing seems to be broken.
That was definitely the low-light of the night. I cursed out that stupid a-hole.

Thank goodness that I was back together in time to see Marty smash another guitar! He threw the pieces into the crowd, and my friend got a hold of a piece of the back. Some other girl grabbed the other end, so my friend broke it in half and gave her a piece. Then one of the rude jerks tried to take my friend’s piece from her, and the security guy told him to let it go, or he would be ejected. Ha ha!!!

The show ended with a thunderous ovation from the crowd, and the guys loved it!
I really hated to see it end—it went by WAY too fast!

[penny74]

Posted by: jomarti

BBE, I had no idea that stage dive happened. I was on the other right side of the stage. I was second row from the front. My hubby and another woman's hb were keeping the people behind us from squeezing in. Until the second performance of Tree's it was working, but it did get crazy and we were smashed into the front row. Our hubby's couldn't hold the crowd back.

The show was incredible. Marty's voice was dead on and the band was just so into it. I was in front of Billy. He was a little more held back than Dino. Dino played to the crowd a lot and moved around the stage. Marty was all over the place. He did all his moves, like everyone else said. I don't know how he can sing upside down hanging from the light stand, but he did and it was great.

When the show was over I went downstairs to find the merchandise because I wanted to buy a t-shirt. I wasn't sure where it was and I went down this hallway that wasn't very busy and was blocked off before the show. Holy S$%t, here comes Dino and Marty coming at me. I had already met Dino and got his autograph prior to the doors opening. I wasn't going to mess around, I went right up to Marty and I really don't know what I said. Something like you guys were awesome and thanked him (I think). Then I asked him if I could give him a hug and he threw out his arms like, H$%l Ya, and I got a really nice hug - not a quickie, but a really nice sincere hug, then I had to let him go.

After he left my hubby said you didn't get an autograph, so I went searching for him, by now he's in the crowd in the main hallway, signing a few autographs. So, I go up to him again and said I forget to get an autograph. He gave me a smile and signed a stupid e-mail piece of paper I got from ticketmaster that Dino also signed earlier.

After soaking in the glory, I decided to look for the t-shirts. When I finally do, there is Marty again signing autographs and getting pics done. I thought do I dare go up to him again and have him sign my tee. The song Life Don't Wait for No One came in my head and I said WTF and went up to him again. I said " this is something a little more offical to sign". He just laughed and said he was really glad I came. When people say he looks right at you and talks to you - it's so true. He looks you right in the eye and you are the only one around to him. I sat and watched him with the fans for a long time and he was just that way with everybody. If camera's were a problem, he just waited as long as it took for the picture to be taken (of course, I forgot mine).

His skin was just flawless, his eyes so intoxicating. Okay, I'm getting a little dreamy here. I couldn't really sleep for days after. I've been really sick, probably from being so wiped out from lack of sleep and so pumped up before and after the concert.

I'm driving to Chicago again for the Aragon concert. I hope, so much, that there won't be bad weather. We've had so much snow here (Mpls) lately, that I'm thinking I should have booked airline tickets.