This weekend, I had the opportunity to see "Big D and The Kids Table" in concert. When I bought my tickets online, I was impressed that a three-hour long show only cost a mere fifteen dollars. I took some time to reflect on how I found the music I love so dearly.

From the time I was young, I've always loved music from past years and music that was unique. As I grew up, I began to branch out, and I found new genres, like ska.. I became fascinated with the style of the music. However, pop music will continually dominate our culture, so I found that it was hard to find bands that played near me often. One of the most famous ska bands, Reel Big Fish, has toured near me the most frequently, and I have only had the privilege to see then twice. I found it hard to find to see my favorite bands in concert. When I did for the first time, it had a magical sense that inspired my love for music even further.

I was first able to see Reel Big Fish in early 2015. The weather was a bitter cold, but I was filled with warmth and excitement. As I entered the venue, I knew the experience would be one that I would remember. The diversity of the crowd in every aspect and the cool, laidback attitude left me in awe. When the band began to play and the brassy, upbeat music filled the room, I felt invigorated with the energy of those around me. I felt free, dancing to the music and reaching a state of happiness that was euphoric. From there, I was hooked.

From there on, I took every opportunity to see the bands I could, whether it was Less Than Jake, Reel Big Fish (again!), Social Distortion, or, most recently, Big D and The Kids Table. I love the music of these bands because it has a different feel. Whether it falls on the strong brass sound, the unique lyrics, or the sheer individuality of those who perform the music, I have found my niche in the cultural sphere of music in ska.