Anyone who knows me knows I’m crazy addicted to TV and internet. I have neither in my apartment. It’s driving me crazy. So, since I’m here alone, I have a ton of free time (without that pesky TV or internets), even if I force myself to work super late. Eventually I hit this point where I just have to get out of the office and walk around or do something. Monday night I had the perfect opportunity to do this. I saw Oklahoma’s own Starlight Mints and Austin’s own The Octopus Project in the same night. I think everyone with a tie to Oklahoma was there. All the bands made multiple references to people from the “405″. Oklahoma shout-outs are the best. And some stranger was wearing a Frontier Country t-shirt (maybe you’d have to be me to really enjoy it). Unfortunately, I didn’t run into anyone I knew, with the exception of the merch guy for the Startlight Mints, who was someone I recognized from college, but didn’t really know personally.

The show rocked. Both Starlight Mints and the Octopus Project, neither of which I had seen in the million times they each played while I lived in Austin. Sometimes it takes a big move to force a change of habit. I also learned some lessons:

• The Bowery Ballroom is a pretty cool venue. You’d be hardpressed to find a bad spot to watch a show. The balcony is nice and there are bars on all three floors.
• The Bowery has a $25 minimum for credit cards. Bring cash or prepare to get plowed. I went for the latter.
• If I don’t eat, five beers will get me lit up.
• Walking home is always better with a slice of pizza.

It’s like Austin, but I don’t have to drive home. Ever. My liver won’t stop singing:

The attendent did not strap me in
I’m sure that I am going to die
This is my last rollercoaster ride
This is my last rollercoaster ride
This is my last ride….