This past week I went to see Spanish Love Songs in Philly as part of their Cost of Living Tour. They've become one of my favorite bands and I was lucky enough to grab tickets to their Thursday night show. I was excited as I've been wanting to see them and the show had originally sold out prior to them upgrading to a larger venue. The show was awesome and I'm glad I went. But the thing that absolutely shocked me was that the cost to go to the show was under $24 all-in.

In today's day and age, especially with the Ticketmaster/LiveNation monopoly, that feels almost unheard of. To be able to see a band of their size or reputation, or however you want to put it, for that cheap feels crazy and it feels like I'm pulling one over on the band...or someone. But it's not. It's what they're doing for this tour. They're apparently shying away from the big corporate venues to keep costs down for the fans. Tickets for their shows this tour all clock in around $20.

I appreciate this so much. I'm fortunate enough that I can afford to go to concerts and see bands even with more "normal" prices. Even still, I'm glad for both myself and for other music fans, that bands are willing to do and try stuff like this. It's easy to say you're for the regular joe, but it's nice to see bands put their money where their mouth is and play shows where the ticket prices are amazingly reasonable, especially in this economy. My only hope is that it is sustainable for them (Spanish Love Songs) as well. You don't need to be an economics expert to know the music industry is in a weird place right now.

What was even cooler in my opinion was where the show was held. Their two shows in Philly were both held at the Ukie Club. The venue is run by the Ukrainian American Citizens Association and it reminded me of a church parish center or basement. And this is not meant as a knock on the Ukie Club, Spanish Love Songs, or anyone. The venue was perfect for a concert. Small stage, intimate venue, great music blaring...it was amazing (I'm still glad I brought earplugs). Anyone can put on a show at an actual concert venue or arena, something special like this is remembered. I still think one of the coolest music experiences I've ever had was when I saw Dave Hause play in a church chapel without the use of any microphones or speakers (I still remember how awesome the 12-string guitar sounded). The venue and experience matters, and often, its the little things that leave an impression.

You can read an interview with Dylan Slocum about their new album and tour here.