I had a certain expectation for Blue October. I mean, I have their Cd, I have "Hate Me" in permanent rotation on my iPod, etc. Usually when I enter shows with an expectation I am sadly let down. This, however, was not one of those times. I found myself glued to the stage, to the horribly dim lighting that caused the photographer in me much agony, to the musicians who seemed to speaking solely to me. I was stunned, that is the best way I can put it. Blue October has an in your face intensity, the kind of musical presentation that commands you attention, instrumental madness that quiets the room and vocals that scream "listen to me."

Front man Justin Furstenfeld delivers his keenly written lyrics with conviction and energy like none other. He has a vocal range that at times is as light and catchy as say, the Barenakedladies, and other times is this electric screaming similar to Disturbed. [Note: neither band is listed as their influence]. They site influences such as Nine Inch Nails, Coldplay, Pink Floyd and the Flaming Lips which I can hear on their record, but live they take it to a whole different level worthy of commending. Justin's vocal spectrum ranges from screaming to melodic delivery of clear, soft words that give you goose bumps.

The arrangement of each song allows the band to explore all facets of music, from the catchy pop, to the heavy alternative without losing the listener somewhere in the shuffle. They do an impeccable job of writing music. Then, they place them all into a set list which exemplifies their capabilities as well rounded musicians with a breadth of work. Ryan Delahoussaye adds a spooky violin that magnifies the intense sound of Blue October with a little mystery and darkness. All five members contribute to the energy that connects them so tightly with their audience, clearly enjoying what they do.

The highlight of the night, not just for me, but for the entire room was when that familiar, voyeuristic voicemail from Justin's mom played over the sound system. The crowd went nuts, throwing their arms in the air and screaming in excitement for the next song, "Hate Me." With well-written, depictive lyrics such as, "While I was busy waging war on myself, you were trying to stop the fight" [in reference to his drug addiction] the crowd fell at the mercy of this singer, even I got chills.

The house lights came up near the end and the entire room sang Justin's words back to him, "Hate me today/Hate me tomorrow/Hate me for all the things/I didn't do for you" and the night ended on that note - the unity of band and audience, joining forces in a cathartic sing-a-long about moving forward.