Review: Alum Brad Yoder performs

Did you miss Brad Yoder playing in the coffeehouse last Thursday? If you did, you "screwed up."

Last week you may have noticed the posters and flyers hanging around campus for a coffeehouse performance from EMU alumnus Brad Yoder. I know how easy it is to see these posters and think to yourself, "I've never heard of him/them and I don't want to go and possibly waste my time." Well, my friends, if this thought crossed your mind and you shrugged off going, I'm here to tell you that you missed a quality performance.

What drew me to seeing Yoder play was the fact I had heard he won Best Pittsburg Acoustic Act back in 2003-2004. On Monday, as I sat and listened to him, I could understand how Yoder earned such a title. Not only was his music catchy and original, but his lyrics were both uniquely humorous and thoughtful. In one song, Yoder sang a cappella and mentioned different places in Pittsburg. I saw how the song could make a Pittsburg native feel nostalgic, because I've never even been to Pittsburg and it touched me. Another song that stood out to me said, "What would Jesus do? He'd screw it up just like you, except he'd do it with a little more love." I couldn't help but be affected by that simple, thought-provoking line. Yoder's general aura was laid back and many of his songs included and encouraged audience participation through singing.

The performance took place in the Common Grounds and was fairly well attended with approximately 40 people in the audience. People of all ages were there, including faculty and their families as well as EMU alumni and students.

The concert was interrupted when a member of the audience suffered a seizure. This was dealt with very well as people helped out by calling for an ambulance and comforting the individual. During all this, Yoder added a nice touch by playing some light guitar in the background. That helped to comfort the audience members and get everyone through the situation.

I encourage each of you to go to a performance in the coffeehouse this year, even if you have never heard of the person or band. More often than not it is a rewarding experience. If you didn't go this time, next time you see that Yoder is performing on campus, you'd better not hesitate to check it out!