So, I went to see Geoff Farina play live the other night.  I’ve always had a lot of respect for him and have been listening to his work since the mid 90′s with Karate’s self-titled album.  Geoff’s musicianship has always blown me away and I admit at times turned me off because it was too complex.  However, after leaving the show, I had a new appreciation for his lyrics.  He played a stripped down set with a classical accoustic guitar and I was able to key in on his lyrics and put away all the amazing guitar work he was doing at times.  It seems his older lyrics from Secret Star are more focused on human relationships and are easier to relate to, but then his solo and newer Karate material tends to be more loose and abstract.  Nonetheless, both his old and new material was cleaver and evoked vivid imagery.  After the show I purchased one of his overpriced cds ($14), shook his hand, and thanked him for his efforts.  Not a bad night all and all.  I ended up checking out his credentials on his home page (www.geofffarina.com) and he’s done some pretty amazing stuff.  I recommend jumping the next trip to your local record shop and buying up some Farina.  That way you don’t end up like the opening act that ripped the very work of the man who was headlining all while his friends and parents cheer on his “originality.”