When I entered Suffolk Downs on June 27, which had its final day of live racing on June 30, 2019, I thought I could still hear the running of thoroughbreds. After listening more carefully, it was just the MBTA Blue Line. But I didn’t let that deter me from letting my imagination run wild. There’s still life at Suffolk Downs, even without the racing.
And then the subtle energy became more obvious when John Carroll Kirby opened at around 7 p.m. Even the crowd felt it. They were there for a show, and they knew they wouldn’t be disappointed. You had to be there to feel that buzzing energy, because the pictures and words can only say so much.
Between sets, the crowd was very engaged with me, which I frankly love cause it calms my nerves. They asked me to take pictures of them, we exchanged Instagram information, and even laughed and talked in passing. It was a great time, but the real work started at around 9 p.m.
Khruangbin was the absolute pinnacle of the mysterious magic in the air; it was unlike anything I could imagine.
Known for their laid-back, almost whispered sound, fans have been captured by their diverse and incredible musical performances. The band is made of Laura Lee Ochoa (Bass and vocals), Mark Speer (Guitar and vocals), and Donald “DJ” Johnson (drums, keyboards, and vocals). Their key tracks include “Texas Sun” (2020) in collaboration with Leon Bridges.
The pictures came out amazing, with a lot of smoke and intriguing perspectives. It was a great time, and I didn’t want to leave just yet. I stuck around, listening to the amazing aroma of sound that Khruangbin brought to Suffolk Downs. I probably had too many slices of pizza that my budget allowed, but that’s OK.
By the end of the night, which felt like a full day of magic and enticing aroma, I suddenly realized just how tired I was… But that’s OK as well. Thank you, John Carroll Kirby and Khruangbin, for allowing space for my imagination to run wild at the Stage at Suffolk Downs.
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