Super Diamond

It's Spring Jam in Aspen.

Aspen SkiCo goes all out for the spring break crowds and packs in the events.

Last night was the Aspen Core Party, for which a stage is set up a block or so from the base of Aspen Mountain, a beer garden is set up (Bud Light being the name sponsor) and hot jams ensue in the cold spring night air.

For the past few years, likely in an attempt to attract the young ripper crowd, the musical acts have tended towards rap and hip-hop. They've even hired scantily clad hip hop dancers and graffiti artists to tag blank "walls" as the warm-up DJ is spinning.

This year, Skico went in a slightly different direction.

They brought in Super Diamond, a Neil Diamond tribute band. Aspen locals are no strangers to Super Diamond as they have played Belly Up Aspen annually for several years. In fact, not knowing that they were performing for free last night, Steve and I bought tickets for their concert tonight at Belly Up. (but you already know that because you're an avid reader, right?)

The 6 member band has been touring as Super Diamond for 15 years, come March 31st and it's clear why they've had such longevity. They're high energy, inspire fun and are obviously enjoying themselves.

As Surreal Neil puts it, don't let anyone ever tell you that Neil Diamond doesn't rock.

Super Diamond brings an edge to Diamond's music, liberally interspersing rock riffs throughout their show. Steve said that it sort of sounded like Billy Idol does Neil Diamond.

Will we go tonight? Right now I'd like to but 10 pm is a long way away.