Who the hell are these people?

Kelly e-mailed me the link to Gogol Bordello's website on Friday. "They're playing on Saturday at the Black Cat," she said. "Let's go."

Kelly and I had never heard of the band but, unluckily for us, a lot of other people have. When we arrived at the Black Cat at 10:30, the line to get into the show was ridiculously long and slow-moving. After freezing for 20 minutes, we weren't even sure if we were going to make it in before the manager called, "Sold out!" Ten minutes later we were inside watching the end of the opening act's set. Shortly after, the fun began.

For those of you who have been to the Black Cat, you know that it is hard to get the venue's clientele moving... unless, of course, you're at one of the god-awful dance nights. Generally at the Black Cat's concerts the most you'll see is some swaying and some foot-tapping. Not last night, though. People were going crazy for Gogol Bordello and it was awesome.

Towards the end of the show, Kelly grabbed my hand and dragged me to the front of the stage where people were moshing and jigging and laughing. I know I grew up during the Seattle grunge scene when everyone was moshing, but I always thought it was lame. For the first time in my life, I looked at the swirling people and bounced right into the masses. It was great! Then came the encore and people started hopping onstage. "Come on!" I yelled to Kelly and hoisted myself up along with the rest of them. A few minutes later, I realized that Kelly had not joined me, but that was no worry. I had plenty of people to dance with.

I guess the moral of this story is: If you are the type of person who likes to get down and you don't mind getting sweaty AND you have a chance to see Gogol Bordello, I suggest you go.

If you're still not convinced, read this: