Nashville 2024 Part 1: Crossing another rock group off my bucket list

Editors note: I will be breaking this trip into three posts: the Saturday trip down to Nashville, the Sunday food experiences, the Sunday concert and the trip home Monday.

Nashville 2024 Part 1 of 3: The weekend was finally here. This would be my chance to see an artist that I had been trying to see for years. Alan Parsons (aka: The Alan Parsons Project).

Editors warning: music nerd alert!

For those who may not be aware (or care for that matter) Alan Parson’s heyday started in the 70’s and extended through the 80’s. He has recorded some 18 albums (not including compilations) that produced eight top 40 singles. Another claim-to-fame is that he was a sound engineer on such famous recordings such as Abbey Road (Beatles), Dark Side of the Moon (Pink Floyd), and Year of the Cat (Al Stewart).

There is one song (“Sirius”) that many might find familiar. It was never a hit. However, the guys using it as their intro song back in the 90′ sure were.

The show was set for the Ryman Auditorium in Nashville. We’ve toured the “Ryman” and it has a really interesting history.

Originally built as a tabernacle by Thomas Ryman, it was host to the Grand Ole Opry from 1943 to 1974. It has survived periods of neglect, threats of demolition and even a car bomb diffused at the last moment. It is now a restored and active part of downtown Nashville hosting numerous events and shows weekly. You can even take guided tour during the week days.

Our first stop of the trip was at Mahomet IL at Lucky Moon Pies and Bakery. We want to start making this a regular stop when heading east or south. The bakery and restaurant is owned by Emily and Fred Kroner.

*Mary had the chocolate croissant and I had the lemon angel food cake. They were both delicious.*

Decadent!

I’ve known Fred since high school. I just bought his newest book-a novel. I haven’t had a chance to read it yet but looking forward to it.

A few hours later, we made a quick stop at Joe Sippers in Effingham IL. We’ve written about Joe’s so many times and while we try to find new places in each town, somehow, this shop always ends up on our schedule.