The Duke Spirit Opened the night and got the crowd warmed up. The band, which consists of four guys and a girl, played their unique blend of British garage rock with a bluesy swagger. The female fronted band knew how to work the stage. The singer in particular knew how to please the crowd. Using all the classic rock and roll moves and a few new ones, she had the crowd worshiping the stage she danced on.

Screams of “You’re sexy,” and such could easily be heard between songs. Not content to just be a good singer, she also shook a tamborine and even played harmonica during one song. The last song of their half hour set was reminiscent of jams heard in garages around the world. Each member doing their own thing. It was noisy at times, but a little bit of noise can be a good thing.

During the break between bands I walked around the venue. Having never really taken the time to see what the Verizon has to offer, I was impressed.

All shows are non smoking but a smoking patio is offered outside the theatre. I have to say that this really is the best of both worlds. Being able to breath at a concert but still being able to have a smoke is a good way of accomading everyone.

Shortly after the streets of downtown Houston became dark and all the street lights were on Snow Patrol took the stage. Instead of walking on stage with guitars strapped on, the band walked to the front of the stage to wave and get close to the fans in the audience, which by this point had turned into a massive sea of people stretching to the back of the theatre.

After playing a couple of songs, lead vocalist Gary Lightbody asked the audiance to sing the high notes of the song Spitting Games for him. He had been stricken with laryngitis prior to the start of their American tour and was told by his doctor to not sing or perform. Against doctors orders he played his show and sounded great. The show went off without any flaws or imperfections