Mumford and Sons playing a private show that my friend went to the night before the big show at the Garden. These are her photos.
By Ramona Flightner/ @ramonaflightner
If I am given the choice, I will always choose music over television. I love music. I love that it is so varied, that there is music that makes me want to dance, sing along, cry, become contemplative or write. It is marvelous that there is music to match almost any mood.
A few years ago, I heard Mumford and Sons on the radio. I instantly loved their sound, especially their use of the banjo. Also, their lyrics resonated with me. What I identified with the most was when they sang about darkness and holding onto the light or finding the light. Often, by the end of the song, it had an optimistic feel, and I appreciated their singing about struggles that many have in finding purpose, happiness or joy in life.
At any rate, I eagerly awaited their second CD, Babel, and fell in love with it, too. One of the songs on it, “I Will Wait,” became as a mantra for one of my characters in my second book. As I wrote his story, I would think of that song, find inspiration and continue writing. Now, every time I hear that song, I think of my character. Though it has been on the radio a lot, and many of my friends are tired of that song, it will always remain a special song to me as I associate it with a rich writing period.
A few months ago, a friend of mine at work, who is very savvy with concerts and life in general, told me they were to be in Boston in February. I leaped at the chance to see them perform. I was only able to obtain one ticket, but I knew it would be well worth it even though I had to go to the concert alone. As the night of the show approached, I began to worry that my expectations were too high and that I would be disappointed.
I arrived to hear the opening acts. I loved Ben Howard. His lyrics were soul stirring and I am now telling everyone who lives near where he is going to tour to get tickets. I had a fantastic seat, off to one side, only 12 rows from the stage. I could see the band well, and it didn’t feel like a huge stadium show until the crowds roared.
After another opening act, Mumford and Sons came on and they surpassed all of my expectations. I sang along with every song and almost had to pinch myself a few times to be sure that I was actually at their show, watching them live. They brought a tremendous energy and passion to their performance. I watched as they glanced up toward the balcony area with a sense of wonder as they looked around The Garden bursting with fans, all singing their songs. I was struck by the thought that I was watching four men on stage, doing what they loved, and doing what they were meant to do. It was incredibly inspiring.
I hope that I am fortunate enough to be able to enjoy them in concert once again. If not, I will have this memory to cherish and their songs to play when I need inspiration.
