That's how it all started. A few days before every show, the band sends an e-mail to their massive mailing list. The first couple of kids to respond get a ride to the show, free admittance, a Super Magnificent Action Trio prize (like a shirt or a CD), and a ride back home afterward.
The band has been doing this outreach program for almost a year, and I figured it was about time I hopped in the van and went on a journey with them myself. So on August 28, I tagged along as SMAT headed out to Green Lake to pick up 22-year-old Amanda.
"I had met Franki and he'd said I should come check out his band sometime, so when I got the e-mail about the show tonight I thought, 'Why not? It's a Wednesday night, I don't have to work,'" Amanda explained when I asked how she wound up being the "outreach" fan.
"It's a great idea," she continued. "Some kids can't find rides to shows, or their parents don't want to take them, so I think it's awesome. It totally makes the kids feel good, too."
The program also helps SMAT build their fan base. On one outreach, the fan had such a good time and enjoyed the show so much, she founded SMAT's fan club.
Wednesday night's show kicked off the band's two-week tour with the Gravity Index, so they don't have any upcoming local shows planned--but when they come back to town, drop them a line if you need a ride. There's plenty of room in the van, and they love to rock out to Jawbreaker and Andrew W. K. And there ain't nothing wrong with that. MEGAN SELING
