Over the weekend of April 8th, I crammed myself into Olathia's overhead storage department as the band were scheduled to play a couple of shows throughout PA and NY with the road ending at Lucky 13 Saloon in Brooklyn. The restricted space was little concern for me along with the other 9 passengers. We've all had the same goals in mind; have a kick ass time and make new friends/fans through music.

This was my very first visit to the Big Apple, so with early April weather among us, I pretty much anticipated the outcome on the outside. Rain, wind and a brisk 40 degree spring outing. Damn, we for sure didn't let that bother us. Got to walk the Brooklyn Bridge, slammed authentic New York style pizza, and witnessed the confusing underworld of subway transportation. With all that done in one afternoon before our departure the following morning, it's a must I spend more time there at a future date.

So I tell you New York, the shirt saying was true by trip's end. "I 'HEART' NYC"! Be back soon.

Jabber Jaws (Allentown, PA)

This small bar and grille had the perfect atmosphere and recipe for a good time. The outer appearance had a killer wrap-around porch with a Bourbon Street Louisiana feel that instantly felt different from anything back home. Traveling 6 hours non-stop through Pennsylvania listening to awful radio selections of mostly country, glancing at nothing but fields and farms on miles end (yawn), I was ready to bust out of the vehicle give my eyes and hears something more stimulating to enjoy.

Lucky 13 Saloon (Brooklyn, NY)

If there is any bar that speaks to any metal head, it's gotta be Lucky 13 Saloon in Brooklyn. Memorabilia was spread out every inch of the place. 1st edition movie posters stretched behind the bar, music banners plastered as if it came in rolls straight from the factory, beautiful women dancing up-n-down the poles, and ingenious props that fit perfectly to set the tone that you knew actually where you were. The room beyond the bar area also had a stage, where Olathia, Social Station, Secret Army, and Black Wail performed that evening. Great turnout with each area packed throughout the venue.

Thank you to all the bands, promoters, the Lucky 13 Saloon, fans, and all the awesome new people I got to finally meet that night. It truly was a successful weekend I will remember for awhile.

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