Omaha, NE - Ranch Bowl Kristen - 07.22.00 After waiting in line for what seemed like forever with tons of other people (yeah it turned out to be doors at 7, show at 8, not doors at 6, show at 7), myself and everyone else in line rushed the stage to get decent spots (which, if you have ever been to the Ranch Bowl, you know is necessary). Rob (FamousRT) did come through and had me on the guest list -- so that was a huge bonus... THANKS ROB. I made front row in front of the makeshift plywood platform... which except for a few bruises and what not was an ideal spot. There were 5 bands on the bill - and it was one of the few times I liked every band who played... they were all really talented (the J's pointed that out as well). To those interested, it was Mandown, the George Zip Experience, Clever, Pomeroy, and the J's. 2SJ finally came on around 11:45 to a crowd who was more than ready to see them. They wore their "flaming" sailor suits and looked amazing (despite the "zipper problems J Guevara and Special J continually had - but hey, it happens). The guys worked their asses off in the heat but sounded wonderful. (Thank God for the man with the super soaker making sure people didnt pass out). I was worried about J Guevara at one point when he went and sat down, but Stevie Spice came to the rescue - dousing him with a bottle of water. Despite the heat, which they mentioned a number of times, they played an amazing set... from the old stuff (Artificial Flavor, BBQ) to many new songs that will be on Volumizer (due out September 12 -- shameless plug -- buy it) and everything in between, including the imfamous "slap that ass stump." The crowd rocked harder at this show than any other J's show I have seen in the area -- and in turn the band and the crowd fed off of each other's energy. The 40+ year old security guard in front of me couldn't even help rocking out. The set, as I said, was amazing -- but could have been a little longer (not that I am complaining). Finishing up with "The Good, The Bad, and The Skinnee" the crowd took off to try to get some oxygen... and many mingled with Stumpy, who was selling the merchandise as usual. I totally enjoyed every minute of the show and I can't wait for them to come back to Omaha (or maybe Ames in the fall?) in support of Volumizer. <====