Long-time fan, first-time begger. I first saw the Eels in Los Angeles, in the apparent basement of Luna Park. The band was unsigned but had their demo tapes played on "Morning Becomes Eclectic," a local hipsters show. I loved E's solo work (bought it at Lovell's in Whittier for $1.99--best bargain ever) so I had really good feeling about his new band. I must thank my friend Rob for co-discovering E on 120 minutes back in early 1992. Anyway, from what I remember of the Eels show, my friend Ami and I were the only "real" fans there--most of the audience was made of music executives. Small and intimate, it was great fun.

The second time I saw the Eels, they were the opening act for Poe in Los Angeles. I caught them, including a great cover of Prince's "If I were Your Girlfriend" then left when Poe started her hard-rocking posing. I snagged a "Beautiful Freak" promotional poster off the wall and I was gone. Soon after that, I moved to Las Vegas.

Since the mid-1990's, Las Vegas has been recognized as the boom town it is. There are over one million people living in the area and more arrive every month (many from the Eels' home turf of Los Angeles). As such, I'm sure there are many former LA residents that would love the chance to see their hometown heros without going back to LA. I know I would. Plus, fans from around the country could go to the show--Las Vegas is a very easy city to travel to from almost anywhere.

Finally, one of the best reasons to play a show here in Las Vegas is that it is really like no other city. I bet while touring, the towns start to blend together. Not Vegas, sir. In addition to having a unique concert experience, the band would have a chance to relax, Vegas-style. Do a little gambling. Enjoy a nice swim. See the strippers. Whatever--this town has it all. Except the Eels.