Atlantic City - House Of Blues - May 10 2008

I’ve always appreciated the House Of Blues as a venue.  Being the compulsive gambler and reckless drunk that I am, being located right above a casino means it couldn’t get much better.  That evening, as I meandered through the casino floor towards the two story escalator that leads up to the venue, I thought to myself that this show was my salvation, at least for a few hours, from the timeless vault of lust that is known as The Showboat.
Wandering into the venue, I saw a familiar sight.  I’d seen many shows here before, and yet I’m never hesitant to see another.  There’s a small stage for the size of the room, slightly off center to the left.  This gives room for a massive bar on the right.  The designers of this room had their priorities straight, it would seem.  I had a drink and made my way to the stage.
A smaller crowd than I’ve seen in the past was present for this show.  I was happy about that; it meant a more personal experience for each person involved.  Finally, Regina Spektor stepped out onto the stage.  Wearing a dress that was comparable to a disco ball, she sat down at her piano, slammed her hands down onto the keys, and the show had begun. 
Her song selection was nothing short of brilliant, everything from the smash-hit Fidelity down to little known gems like Baby Jesus.  The pace was frantic, and she really only slowed herself to flirt with the crowd.  For several songs, including my personal favorite That Time, she rose from her stool and rocked a sea green guitar in the spirit for which it was built.  Her talent was flowing from the stage into the crowd in a tidal wave or dance-inspiring flavor.
Her set, it seemed, was over far too quickly.
As I descended that endless escalator back into the depths of my own weaknesses, I had planted in my skull that temporal high of enlightenment that I only experience after a show of that magnitude.  I made the decision to remain with the thoughts and not squander them over video poker or a roulette table. 
I walked to my car, sat with the windows open and the radio on for a while, and thought to myself about how Regina Spektor saved me from losing all of my money and possibly getting arrested.