Pyrotechnics and Humor Offer Escape for Blinkheads

With some parents in tow, freshly pubed masses rushed the Long Beach Arena for what turned to be an evening of obscene pyrotechnics and screeching yelps of fan appreciation.

Although Blink 182 came into town on the heels of the East Coast terrorist attacks (which delayed their performance by a week), they still presented a humorous and often aloof performance in support for their latest and hugely successful album, Take Off Your Pants And Jacket. Even with a nation still chilled to it’s core, lead singer/bassist Mark Hoppus and singer/guitarist Tom Delonge alternated with gestures that certainly iced the blood of the supportive if not overprotective parents in an adjacent lounge.

"My dad still holds my weenie when I pee," proclaimed Delonge as he introduced one of their many radio-hit singles including "Stay Together for the Children." Even current events were not spared for Delonge as he yelled, "BinLaden sucks horse cock. What is up with those mutherfuckers," with an approving, thunderous applause coming from the bulk of the crowd. This, in spite of the pockets of fans on the perimeter chatting as if it were recess and not a major concert.

The patriotically laced and well-intended remarks certainly encouraged an escape from reality. Blinkheads were treated to a dramatic introduction, which included the Space Odyssey theme followed by an explosive and literal flaming fuck. The backdrop of the stage was adorned with towering flaming letters forming the word "f-u-c-k."