Third Eye Blind Brings the Summer Crashing Into Sandpoint

Growing up during the nineties was something like a fever dream. But one thing that I sorely miss is the music. That was the best era for all kinds of music, so when I got wind of one of my favorite bands playing so close, I knew I had to capture it.

The Festival at Sandpoint has been a staple of the region for ages and while it was my first time attending, it was well worth the wait -- well, minus the car accident I was in on my way there. The festival is tucked away in the small, beautiful town of Sandpoint, Idaho and it sat right on the banks of Lake Pend Oreille 

It was a warm, warm night but everyone seemed to be in the best spirits as they waited for the music to begin. There was only two bands playing and while that wasn't a lot, it seemed like the best night to be there.

First up was a local band ( to me ) from Spokane Washington. Snacks at Midnight. I had the opportunity to talk to the guys after their set and they were all so amazing and they absolutely love what they do. 

Fronted by Rory Babin as the lead vocalist, they mix different sounds within their rock roots. With Drew Brereton on bass, J.I. Gassen on drums, and special guests Ryan Butera on keyboards, and Justyn Priest on guitar. They kept the energy high and played a lengthy set and played every last minute they could. 

Next up was Third Eye Blind! Formed in 1993 by Stephen Jenkins. Their debut self titled album brought three of their most popular songs to the world. "Semi-Charmed kind of life", "Jumper", and "How's It Going to Be". All three they performed and hearing them live was something of a cathartic experience for me. 

Being the only founding member left, Stephen is joined by Brad Hargreaves on drums, Kryz Reid on guitar, Alex LeCavalier on bass, and Colin Creev on keyboards and guitar. Hailing from San Francisco, California, Stephen noted that their show in Sandpoint was the first time he's been able to feel summer all summer as there was a record cold in California this year. 

With a mix of new and old, they were super excited to play us some of their new music and they played well into the night. Ending with a double encore that had people running back to the venue to catch.