Over the years I have gathered that people flock to live performances for more than just the toe-tapping good time or the opportunity to support their local music scene. I have concluded that one of the largest factors involved in pursuing live music is the feeling of community.

People want to belong somewhere. People want to support something that they feel as if they have created.

In a society that is fueled by advertising and mainstream media, our current generation is searching for something that they can call their own. Something that is private but innovative, tangible but elusive. One way folks are “coming to their own” is through supporting performances that are based on experience and community rather than just the music and instruments.

Last nights show at The Spanish Moon was a shining example.

The venue itself simply cries out “community” and with the eclectic performances that are showcased you can’t help but feel a “homegrown” vibe, even with its status as a top Baton Rouge venue.

Though the venue wasn’t the last of it. As the “electronic” band NANCY took the stage you could certainly see that the group was all about putting on a show and an experience for their faithful followers. The singer was decked out in a Dorothy get-up from The Wizard of Oz, however this time with a notable nosebleed and a 5’o clock shadow. Take his outfit and combine it with the DJ’s Richard Simmons inspired costume and you’ll realize that we aren’t in Kansas anymore.

And don’t try clicking your heels in hopes that it will teleport you back home—it will only take you to boogie town.

The group commanded the audience through a few songs filled with crashing cymbals, electronic backbeats and a steady bass guitar. The audience (some dressed equally as outlandish) moshed and danced the night away.

Bass Drum of Death was the next group to come and finish out the night. The regionally known act has been the talk of the local music community in past months as they recently embarked on a southern tour. BDoD is one of those groups that seems to transcend many genre labels. They wax and wane between punk, blues and indie rock. Nonetheless, the group is passionate and has a very impressive following all over the United States—a well deserved one at that.

Despite both acts putting on great shows musically, the highlight of the night was how much of it was centered on experience. Both groups genuinely did their best to put on more than just a concert—they wanted to put on something unique and something that the audience could claim as their own.

And what a great job they did.

Check out Bass Drum of Death via their Facebook for more info on their Southern tour!