After Sound Check

A consuming buzz fills the air

Final tune-rhythmic breath-seeking calm

Hiding behind stacks of sound

Anxiety's grasp all around

So, I avoid the glare



Beads of blackened sweat

Lines the canvas-streaks the image-the manic stare

Of the demon now on-stage

Bleeding nervous energy and rage

Enter the first set



Standing potent and proud

Anxious faces-zealous chants-for glimpses of heroes

The power of one mind

Belies what lies behind

The surface that faces the crowd



The character is what remains

The same place-the same time-living the same dream

We are in this together

Dark birds of a feather

Magic coursing through our veins