Conference atlana::ccm

We saw Steven in Worcester MA on Friday night. 
It was my first time to see him in person, and I 
enjoyed it very much (although I wish it hadn't 
been so loud). We were in about the 15th row, so 
could see faces clearly.

Carolyn Arends opened with a few songs; I'm not 
acquainted with her work, but these few were 
definitely in the rock category. Then Audio 
Adrenaline did a longer set. (I had been fore-
warned, and brought earplug-things, for which 
I was immensely grateful.) This was *not* my 
kind of music, but I had opportunity to 
consider God's delight in diversity. They were 
clearly reaching many kids in the audience, who 
knew every word of the songs (and the words 
seemed sound). 

I have to say, I *didn't* take the earplugs 
out for Steven, and it was about right! He and 
his amazing band played for 2-1/4 hours solid. 
The songs I enjoyed most were from the "Signs 
of Life" CD, although "King of the Jungle," 
"Great Adventure," and others were well received.
I loved it when the band came down and formed 
a semi-circle near the front of the stage, on 
stools. They really had a lot of fun with 
"The Walk" -- the musicianship was so good 
that I kept forgetting it was live, if you know 
what I mean! 

And the best was "Lord of the Dance," which 
was part of the encore. A very cool, energetic 
dancer was spotlighted up high on the stage 
during the intro.

The only negative, other than volume, was that 
Steven went on a bit too much in his "talks." 
It was the second-to-last stop on the tour, 
and I think they were all probably tired 
(although that was the only sign!)

We had a wonderful time ...