Unity Tour 2010 Hits Paso Robles

  Unity Tour 2010 played the California Mid State Fair in Paso Robles last night, to an almost completely packed arena. Opening act Pepper, from Kona, Hawaii, opened the show with an inspired 20 minute set, and were even joined by the Offspring’s Noodles on guitar for a song in the spirit of “Unity”.

  Offspring followed with what was one of the best performances ever seen in San Luis Obispo County. Their energy and presence brought the crowd to life, and had every person in the arena on their feet and singing along with them. A definite highlight of their show was a rendition of “Gone Away” by front man Dexter Holland on piano, which was as heartfelt as it was refreshing. Of course, there were many crowd pleaser's during the show, and no lack of audience participation as the crowd was singing along to every song. All in all a four-star performance by the band, and one my son and I will remember forever.

  311 headlined the event, and did not disappoint a bit. Opening with the classic “Down” from their self-titled first album, they had the crowd’s attention from the start. A very energetic band, it quickly became apparent that members of the band had more than their fair share of talent. Drummer Chad Sexton excited the crowd with a great drum solo, only to be joined by the rest of the band who each had a smaller drum kit or percussion instrument. It was quite the drum circle, and guitarist Timothy J. Mahoney was even playing on what looked like brake drums off a car suspended from a stand, that had a quite unique sound. The drum circle was capped off though when each person threw their drumsticks to another member of the band, then continued playing without missing a beat. Bassist P. Nut did not disappoint either with one of the finest bass solos I myself have ever witnessed…and I’ve seen quite a few. The evening ended after one encore by the band, and I was left wanting more…which is how you’re supposed to leave an audience in my book.

  Thanks to Tristan (sorry I couldn’t find you a goat bro!), and the folks at New Rock 107.3 for the complimentary tickets, and as a bonus I even got to sit next to Carl Edge (a real gentleman, and nice guy), the “Fishmaster”! Altogether it was a fantastic evening, and one that I was grateful to be able to share with my son, Tyler. It was his first concert (on my shoulders for Steppenwolf/Savoy Brown at Pozo at age 2 doesn’t count), and I’m sure an evening he’ll remember forever.