Brenda and I saw Marshall Crenshaw last night at what appeared to be a sold-out show at the Birchmere in Alexandria. It was part of the “30th anniversary” tour, that is, the 30th anniversary of the release of “Something’s Gonna Happen” on Shake Records – not the album;  that 30th anniversary will be in 2 years.

The show started out with St. Louis band, the Bottle Rockets playing a semi-acoustic set due to their guitar player being home with his wife who is having a baby.  Then, they plugged in and joined Marshall for an electric set.  I thought the show was terrific.   They started out with “There She Goes Again,” followed by “Cynical Girl,” and bang, bang, bang, one great song after another.   They played a couple songs off of Jaggedland, which I love and think is one of earth’s most under-appreciated records.  They played 3 covers. Richard Thompson’s “Valerie,” “Crying, Waiting, Hoping,” and during the encore, “Rave On” – you just can’t go wrong with Buddy Holly, now can you?  After the show, Brenda and I stopped by the stage door & talked to a very sweaty but friendly Marshall for a few minutes.  It was great to talk to him again, and it was a great evening – thanks for the birthday present Brenda!

Here’s Marshall and the Bottle Rockets playing “Valerie.”