Big Day Out is a HUGE touring music festival (starts here in New Zealand and then makes a few stops through Australia) that Kyle, a few friends, and I had the pleasure of going to last weekend.
SO much fun. We packed up, grabbed some beers for the road, and took the three hour trip down to Auckland. Here in New Zealand (so I’ve learned) it is very ok for the passengers to take a few cocktails along for the ride. How crazy is that? The driver of course can’t drink, but everyone else gets the luxury to have a few drinkies while taking a long drive.
The journey to Auckland is absolutely beautiful. It’s mainly country roads with perfect scenery and lovely water views. Definitely a nice chance from the New Jersey Turnpike.
Anyway, we popped by our friend Paul’s moms’ (he grew up down there) for a glass of wine and then headed to the hotel to check in and get some food. After dinner & being completely spent, somehow I made my way to bed, hoping to god I wouldn’t be hungover the next day. Turned out, drinking while traveling is not good for me and I found myself pretty typsy when we arrived at the hotel….oops.
The next morning I felt kinda refreshed….BUT the excitement of the day ahead boosted my spirits. We were off to the Big Day Out! Compared to American shows, I can tell you that the one thing that struck me was the vibe; it was wonderful. Everyone was happy. You felt safe and a part of something good. Personally, I found myself smiling for no reason – pretty much amazed that not only was I (a) in New Zealand (b) enjoying summer in January, but (c) going to see some bands that I liked, but never really thought to go see!
The best bands by far were Jet:
Eskimo Joe:
And of course, Muse!
After a full day of good music and tons of sunshine, I left feeling happy, exhausted….and burned!