Weird Al

Good morning, peoples and spambots, it’s Monday morning. It’s time to look the upcoming week square in the eye, take charge, and rush headlong into the fray. Or, if you prefer, you can look the upcoming week square in the eye, whimper, and crawl back under the covers.

Hey, I don’t judge.

Last night, I had a chance to head over to the Murat Theater downtown to see Weird Al Yankovic in concert with my little brother. I saw him there a few years ago when he was touring for Straight Outta Lynwood, also with my brother, so when he had a chance to score “Royalty” tickets, he snagged a couple for us.

Now, I guess Royalty tickets mean you get valet parking, a private waiting area with snacks and over-priced beer, and guaranteed balcony seating. We were two rows back on the left side of the balcony, as you were facing the stage. Really good seats, especially for the price, but there was a cymbal blocking Bermuda, so I could only see his arms as proof there was a real person on the drum set.

I love how the show starts out with “Fun Zone” from UHF. Just music, no lyrics, good way to get you going. The band then came on stage, and opened with one of their polka medleys, in this case “Polka Face” from Alpocalypse.

I wrote down the set list, but I really don’t want to go through every song. Besides, the concert isn’t just about what songs are played, although there was a excellent mix of his material from his earlier records (remember, he’s been doing this since vinyl was a thing) to his newest album. No, another major part is the visual aspect. After he did the first few songs, they start playing video clips on a screen over the stage. These clips are from his media appearances, references to him on shows like The Simpsons or King of the Hill, and bits from his Nerdist TV show, “Face to Face with Weird Al Yankovic.” These help cover the time for the costume changes. Grunge with cheerleaders for “Smells Like Nirvana.” Beards and hats for “Amish Paradise.” A fat suit for “Fat.” Oh, and a Jungle Cruise Skipper costume for “Skipper Dan!”

Yep, he played it.

The finale is always excellent, where they all dress like Jedi and perform “The Saga Begins” and “Yoda.” This also gives the opportunity for the local 501^st Garrison to come on stage as part of the backdrop. Way to go, Bloodfin Garrison! That looked like a lot of fun!

If you ever have a chance to see him, it is an excellent show and an excellent experience. It is amazing seeing this man, and the energy he puts forward on his shows. Plus, for him to remain relevant while many people he’s parodied have faded into the shadows, you have to respect that.

Thank you to my little brother for bringing me to this. Again. It’s not always the event, but also the company that makes this enjoyable.

I’ll see you all tomorrow,
Tony