Time and Space: Dramarama at the Surf Club Last Friday

The first time I saw Dramarama was about twenty one years ago, during their smooth gentle ascent to semi-stardom. It might have been at the Green Parrot, but since I don't have my concert list handy, I can't be too sure. None the less, they were a truly one of a kind band, with a talented, charismatic song writing front man in John Easdale.

Over the next few years they produced several critically acclaimed albums with several major hits on each. Big time fame and fortune seemed within reach. Last Cigarette, Anything Anything and others ruled the Melody dancefloor when Pinfield played them. The band had all the right elements necessary, but as happens more often than not, they never reached critical mass. Those few who had a disproportionate say in whether bands made it or not didn't make the effort, or see the true poetic genius that Dramarama held up to be adored.

Almost twenty years later, three of the original five carry on the Dramarama legacy. This last week witnessed the annual Dramarama pilgrimage to New Jersey, their home state. I caught them at the Surf Club in Ortley Beach last Friday.

As I spoke with John before the show, it became clear to me how relaxed and happy the man is after all of the ups and downs and chaos of twenty six years in the band. He told me how happy he is everytime he gets to come back to Jersey and play a few clubs in front of homestate crowds. When he asked, he quickly responded how he'd move back in a heartbeat if it were possible. We'd be very happy to have you back too, John.

The crowd at the Surf Club was moderate in size, and lean on years, but very enthusiastic for the show. They were enough oldtimers present though, and that had to make the band feel pretty good. As I stood near the front of the crowd, I was amazed to look up and see Dramarama after all these years. There was John, and all the songs from long ago. And the songs are great. They make you think, touch your soul, and connect you with your helpless human frailty. Anyone can right songs about girls and getting laid. Very few can write album after album of songs that pour out heartfelt feelings and emotions. John has done it with ease for almost thirty years.

I've said it before, but John Easdale is a master poet. It is a crime that this man and that band were not one of the biggest bands in the world, on par with U2, or the Smiths or someone of that magnitude.

I look forward to seeing John and Dramarama for many years to come. They will always have a warm welcoming crowd in Jersey for as long as they live. And seeing how much fun they had on Friday, I suspect they will be coming around for a long time to come. And Stiffy will be there, front and center.