Ryan Star & David Cook , Take 2!

Last night was our second Ryan Star/David Cook concert. And it was far superior to the first.This show was at Cat's Cradle in Carrboro, about 40 minutes from home. The club has a capacity of about 600 general admission entries and was sold out. (The previous show was at a family friendly festival in an auditorium of about 3500+. The acoustics were horrible there but not so at this more intimate venue.

Ryan Star came on stage first. Due to scheduling with a show the night before, it wasn't possible for his entire band to join him. Instead, Ryan performed an acoustic guitar set that was amazing. He's very intense and puts a lot of passion into his performance. He also had great banter with the crowd. The audience was really into it - more than I can remember seeing for any opening act before. I honestly could've left after Ryan's set and been content.

David Cook and his band came out next. They performed a few old songs, a cover of Fleetwood Mac's "Tell Me Lies", and several songs from his current album. David was also more laid back at this show in terms of banter. Also adding to the fun was the fact that this is their last show before a two-week vacation. All bets were off and the guys were all letting loose.

For the encore, Ryan joined David and the band for his song "Last Train Home". The performance was a blast to watch. The David and the guys finished up with "Light On".

It was a late night, especially for a Sunday but completely worth it to me. I can't remember the last time I enjoyed a show that much. It probably ranks in my top five ever. And even though I was there mostly for David, I have to admit that after that performance, I think Ryan may have overtaken him.

Brilliant night and well-worth the heavy eyelids today.

Ryan taking the stage:



Ryan performing:



David and his band starting their set:



David performing:



David and the band:



Ryan during the encore (David in background):



Ryan, David and the entire band performing Last Train Home: