I recently blogged about an awesome NYC moment on a late-night train ride, with people singing along to Prince. What I didn’t talk about was where I was coming from. That was the night I discovered The World Inferno/Friendship Society, a cabaret punk band from Brooklyn, NY, that would change my life.

I went to the Knitting Factory, a now-defunct but once-kick-ass live music venue in lower Manhattan, to see two bands I was into. I got to the event early, like I always do, because I enjoy seeing the opening acts. World Inferno opened up, and they were mind-blowing. The energy, talent, musicianship, and the electric vibe from the crowd were truly new to me. After that, I made it my business to attend every show I could. It wasn't just about the band but also about the scene. I made so many amazing, long-lasting connections through that experience, including meeting my wife.

I talk about this as well because it’s the anniversary of the lead singer Jack Terricloths’ passing. I have blogged about it before, but it kind of snuck up on me this time. It’s something I still process. That said, the takeaway? Try to see the opening acts at rock concerts. You never know what you’ll find. Oooh. The two bands I went to see that night totally sucked.

“What better place than this? What better choice than us?” - Jack Terricloth