Wednesday, May 4, 2011

Rocks Off Concert Cruise, New York City, 4/30/11

We couldn’t have asked for a more beautiful day as we set sail aboard the majestic Half Moon for a three-hour tour down the East River and into New York Harbor. With the sun shining brightly, we launched into “10th Avenue Freeze Out” to kick off the show and cruised through the calm waters between Manhattan and Brooklyn. Performing on a boat became challenging at times when we’d get caught up in the waves caused by another boat’s wake, leaving us clinging to our microphone stands. “Mr. Keyboard” lost his footing at one point during the show due to choppy seas, but he made a speedy recovery without missing a note. I collapsed to my knees at the end of “Jungleland” but that was only for dramatic effect. As the first set was wrapping up, the Half Moon dropped anchor directly in front of the Statue of Liberty for one of the most breathtaking views one can hope to witness. The sun had just set behind Lady Liberty and it was one of those magic moments that we’ll never forget. The second set began with “Born in the USA,” which really got the crowd going. As night closed in the dance party began with the band slamming through hits like “Badlands,” “Thunder Road,” “Glory Days,” “Born to Run” and “Rosalita.” The concert cruise came to an end triumphantly with “Quarter to Three.” Many thanks to everyone who helped sell-out our first concert cruise and a very happy birthday to Mike who was celebrating his 50th along with friends and family. We hope to be seeing you again soon either on land or at sea.