This year was my first time at Middle of the Map, and I've decided I'm going to go every single year until the day I die. It's not a secret that I love Kansas City, so to put a festival right in the middle of where I spend most of my time is a dream come true. I was never able to go until this year, but I'm certain this one was the best to kick off my predicted lifelong relationship with MOTM.
I have to admit my main reason for going was to see S. Carey, if you don't know who he is or haven't listened to him before, stop reading this and go do it now. Seriously. I didn't get a lot of pictures of him because I was too busy being in awe, but I was lucky enough to be able to stand within 5 feet away from him. I could have basically been considered one of the band members, that's how close I was. It was really hard not to fangirl in front of him but I'm happy to say that I kept it together. Until he signed his setlist for my friend and I, then I did the complete opposite of keeping it together, (after he walked away of course).
The other two bands I loved besides S. Carey were Cowboy Indian Bear and J. Roddy Walston & The Business. I've seen CIB twice before, so I decided to not take any pictures this time. As for J. Roddy Walton, I wasn't planning on photographing any of the show, but once they came on I knew I had to document it. I had only heard "Heavy Bells" by them so I wasn't too familiar with their music, but by the second song I was hooked. They're explosive, intense, fun, and energetic. Their music has a bluesy rock and roll sound to it that makes you want to dance and sing along with. I can now say I've been listening to their two albums on repeat for weeks and have become a huge fan.
Thank you Middle of the Map, for bringing such wonderful music and people to Kansas City for a couple of days. I will see you next year!
Thank you Middle of the Map, for bringing such wonderful music and people to Kansas City for a couple of days. I will see you next year!
