A Sea of Faces and Cellphones

75,000 people peacefully crowded into the main stage arena at the Coachella Music Festival to witness a new ‘good vibration’ called Atoms for Peace. Taking the stage were my son Joey and his mates Thom Yorke, Nigel Godrich, Flea (Red Hot Chili Peppers) and Brazilian percussionist, Mauro Refosco. Our spirits were elevated to new heights when the music began. Thom announced, “we’ll be performing the entire Eraser album” to screams of loyal Radiohead fans. Thom’s melodies are exquisite with his juxtaposition lyrics that speak to us in a common language we can all understand. I am still humming “No more talking bout the old days; it’s time to be great” from the song Atoms for Peace.

I was escorted to the sound booth; ‘the island’ as Hal put it, was the best seat in the house. Jered, by my side, was rocking out to this new super group. The company we kept in this sanctuary was Beyonce, Jay-Z, Kate Hudson and a ton of technicians.

Thousands of cell phones illuminated the arena reminding me of a Bangles concert I saw when they sang their #1 hit Eternal Flame. Only then, it was cigarette lighters and about 20 times less people. Nigel’s music is symphonic in an electrical way. Joey’s phenomenal rhythms of double bass electrified us even more. Currents of colors flashed across the stage verifying a brand new experience. So dignified and reserved were my son and his mates at the after-party, now showered and coated in elegant evening attire. A massive array of guests quietly embraced their future with Thom and the band leading the way. My manager, Hal, put it perfectly: “Like Dylan they will have a galvanizing affect on our children and grandchildren.” Hold on, we’re going for a Great ride!