Van Halen 2012

On Friday night, Bryan and I took Josh and Jenni to see Van Halen at Bridgestone Arena. We haven't seen this band complete with original singer David Lee Roth since the 80s. So we jumped at the chance when we heard they were coming to Nashville. We felt like we needed to take the kids because they were raised hearing this music as small children. I know what some of you are thinking - this isn't typical kids music, but you have to remember that we married young and Bryan is a musician so they cut their teeth on rock bands.


Here's what Van Halen looked/sounded like the last time I saw them in the 80s:

We've all aged a bit since then, and they still sound amazing. Eddie's guitar antics are still in top form and he's now sharing a stage with his 21 year old son on bass. There were lots of smiles shared between father and son and that was great to see. Alex on drums was energetic, loud and fabulous as always.

David Lee is in his late 50s now, so he no longer does his signature double toe touch move. No worries though, there was still some of the old David Lee there. He pranced around, told stories and did a several high kicks. At one point he admonished the crowd for throwing beach balls around which made us laugh. The younger Diamond Dave would have never done this, but alas we have all grown up - plus he was an EMT several years ago and I guess this makes him more cautious and aware of hidden dangers.

All in all it was a wonderful show and I am glad we took Josh and Jenni to experience it with us.