It occurred to me in the shower (yes that happens a lot), that there may be something to our overly effusive and near blind devotion to this band.  I realize that the word "fan" is derived from "fanatic," but we seem to move even beyond fandom.  We have been afforded a unique situation through the web, the posse, and the general attitude of the band, to have unprecedented access to these musicians.  It may have left us with a severely muted critical voice.  

Many of us have met, drank, eaten, and had human like conversations with these people.  Hell some of you have been to their homes, hung out with the fam, etc.  They are not some performers on a stage, they are acquaintances, friends and all too human.  We don't want to criticize them anymore than we do our best bud.  We need to accept this situation and not get defensive (like my snarky self did) when someone points out our tinted glasses.  I say we embrace ourselves and when confronted with our sunshine blowing issues say, "Yep I sure do, cause I like what they do and who they are so much, it's hard for me to do anything else."

Let us remember, also, that spirited debate and questioning decisions is not a bad thing.  It is not a far stretch to believe that our opinions make their way back to the ears of a certain band.  However, it is way beyond our purview to believe that we hold any real sway (Ted aside, or course ;)).

As far as keeping it real, I will assure you that KC will bring down the hammer if his fake o' meter goes off.  Of course, I think this band is so far from fake, they must have a serial number imprinted on their butts and a certificate of authenticity. (damn my sunshiney ways).