It’s not the same world. I have photographed each of the Tradesman Labor Day Bash events. Eight out of the last nine years, no 2020 bash due to C*VID. (Fyi, did you know that my posts get flagged if I mention the C word?) Anyway, last fall hurt, but we knew there would be 2021. There had to be. Those familiar with the story of the Tradesman know the story. The Tradesman burnt, gone, now an empty lot. Rob declared the Bash would go on, not only one but for two days! As we get closer to the two-day mega event – that variant thing keeps growing. I would be lying if I did not say there were times when I had decided not to go in the last week. I went, I had to, but I worked differently. Long lenses, only on the outskirts, but there to document. People I have not seen in years, the long-lost family of sorts. They needed this. We all did. And it is only halfway done as I write this. I am getting ready to head to day two. This one feels different, we do not know what the future will bring, but damn they will enjoy it while it is here. This year is not about one year, and it is about the musical legacy of the Tradesman. The people, not the building. It starts with Rob, but so many others made these scenes what it is/was. The staff, the incredible staff, the bands who have come across that stage, filled with some of the best people you could ever meet, Ray – the master of the music scene, Justin, Jay, JP, Tullio, Bill, Jeff, with Rando and Caleb on sound, and so many more over the years, and I include myself in that list. I am proud of my part in the history of the Tradesman. Long live the Tradesman. Stay safe, support local music.
tr/trp
Want to see all the photos – with more to be added after day two: Click here and enjoy.