Show Memories

So here’s a fun story. I’ve seen the bats live 4 times (Once 2014, Once 2017, Twice 2019). This was at the first show I saw in 2019, which was the 25th Vans Warped Tour Anniversary/Farewell… thing. It was in Atlantic City (Actually on the beach!) and I was super stoked. It had been a hot minute since I’ve seen the bats live and I was ready. So day 1 was ALMOST over and the bats were one of the last bands to play. Then out of nowhere BOOM! A massive storm hit the beach. Everyone was trying to get back on the boardwalk to find somewhere dry. It was pure chaos. So about 40 minutes passed and the rain cleared up and everyone went back out. Unfortunately, this meant the bats had to shorten their set. I was kinda bummed, but was more worried if I was gonna get to see them at all. Then finally, after ALL THAT, the bats played. And they KILLED it. A bunch of Nirvana jokes and an impromptu cover of “I Can See Clearly Now”. It was amazing. The bats finished up their set with the always closer “Pool Party”. Right near the end of the song, MCBC told the crowd to clear space through the crowd so the bats could run out to the water and have the “biggest pool party ever” and sure enough… they did. The band and a mob of fans not too far behind them rushed to the ocean at 9:PM and it was just amazing. Even more amazing, watching all the lifeguards get super mad at everyone and make them walk out to shore. What’s their deal?!

I got to meet 4 of the guys in the band (Ricky didn’t come out, I mean he DOES hate getting dirty) and they were all SUPER awesome and nice to everyone. Plus Eaglebones gave me his pick! I was so stoked.

I of course hope to see the bats many many more times, but this gig will always hold a special place in my heart.

…Oh and also I saw Blink 182 the next day. They weren’t nearly as good but their drummer kinda looked familiar. I dont know though, he had a lot of tattoos.