There's nothing like a good classic rock song on a sunny summer afternoon.
Spending the day in the sun with friends or family with cold drinks and cooler music can't be beaten in my opinion.
Like a lot of rockers, I prefer live over recorded music. I probably got that from my parents.
Article Photos
They've taken me to see local cover bands and nationally touring acts over the years, and I've dumped hundreds - if not thousands - of dollars on concert tickets, merchandise and CDs myself.
They might not get out as much as they used to, but my folks still like to check out a local rock band every now and then.
My dad thinks he's seeing one tonight as a matter of fact.
You see, my cousin graduated high school last month.
One of the best parts of that experience for him and our family and friends is his graduation party, of course, which is tonight.
On the invitation, dad saw everything he was looking for: good food, good people and good music, which pretty much equals a good time in my estimation.
How could he not be excited? After all, the invitation has the words "Rock" and "Band" printed next to each other.
It doesn't say who will be playing, but why should he care?
Joe Guitar Player pretty much sounds like Joe Walsh after you've had a few drinks anyway.
Unfortunately, dad didn't realize he won't be seeing a rock band tonight. The assumption he made when he read the invitation was that "Rock Band" meant a rock band would be playing.
Instead, recent high-school graduates will gather together around the TV with guitars and a drum kit made of plastic. They'll be playing the video game, "Rock Band."
The sounds of crunchy electric guitar chords and a powerful bass drum will be replaced by the rhythmic clicking of fingers and drum sticks striking plastic surfaces.
Silly dad.
At least the lawn games and celebratory fire won't disappoint him.
They'll look exactly as he expects.