James at House of Blues (San Diego)

Support band Unkle Bob were pleasant enough, their light songwriting somewhere between Trashcan Sinatras and Snore (Snow) Patrol. Unfortunately, they were lacking charisma but what do I know? Expect to hear them soon on Grey's Anatomy or in some indie flick about a quirky love affair...

My enjoyment of James was partially spoiled by perforated eardrums courtesy of Kevin Shields and company Thursday night. However, despite having to wear earplugs I enjoyed the show and James put in a predictably flawless performance. My only criticism was they played a lot of slower songs in the middle of the set and even Sit Down was lacking in energy... Hopefully the day off today means their batteries will be fully recharged for the Anaheim show Sunday...

Got to meet Tim briefly at the after-show and was chatting to Saul and Dave for a while... Nice guys...