Unexpectedly, under Ronan's gaze, Ollie nodded in agreement, although his worries and confusion lingered. "But Cliff and Maxim..."
A band is a complex blend of various instruments like drums, keyboards, guitars, bass, and more. Each instrument contributes its unique character, creating a symphony of sound that forms the essence of a band. The magic of a band's performance lies in its live nature, where every show is unique due to the musicians' energy, audience interaction, and the unpredictability of live events. Changing band members, instruments, or venues can significantly alter the performance's quality. Now, with two out of four band members missing, two instruments short, can the show go on?
Facing Ollie's concerns, Ronan appeared calm and collected, his smile and gaze unwavering:
"I'll play the keyboard, and you'll handle the drums. Remember that song we used to perform together?"
If they were to perform one of the Band One Day's compositions, Ronan might have exposed his shortcomings. He wasn't very familiar with those songs anymore, and there was a high probability he'd lose his way while singing, not to mention the likelihood of forgetting lyrics. It would be counterproductive.
So, the absence of Cliff and Maxim presented an opportunity for Ronan.
Ronan delved into his memories, particularly memories related to music—familiar territory. He and Ollie had partnered together before, rearranging classic tracks in their own style with just the keyboard and drums. It seemed like a perfect choice for the current situation.
Ollie was momentarily stunned but quickly responded, "'Don't Stop Believin'?"
Ronan raised an eyebrow and winked at Ollie, a subtle smile playing on his lips, as if to say, "See, it's a brilliant idea, isn't it?"
Ollie couldn't help but chuckle, conceding that it was indeed a clever plan.
" 'Don't Stop Believin' " was a legendary track by the American pop-rock band Journey, released in 1981. It was arguably one of the most popular songs of the 1980s. Decades later, the hit TV series "Glee" used it as the theme song for its first season, reigniting its popularity.
The song's theme was about inspiring young people who loved music to hold onto their faith and never give up.
At this moment, for the members of One Day, who were struggling at the bottom of the barrel, this message was much needed. Their dream, fueled by passion and blood, was slowly being eroded by the harsh realities of life. The initial enthusiasm was waning, worn down by the grind of the real world.
For Ronan, however, the song held a different meaning, one that Ollie was unaware of.
But despite the misunderstanding, it didn't affect the mutual agreement between Ollie and Ronan.
Ollie didn't voice further objections. He turned to walk toward his drum kit, retrieved his drumsticks, and then focused his gaze on Ronan. He felt that his friend seemed a bit different, but he couldn't quite figure out why. Was Ronan pushing himself too hard?
Ronan, with his back turned, suddenly looked back. His bright eyes shimmered in the caramel-colored light. Ollie quickly quelled his swirling emotions, signaling to Ronan that he was ready. No matter what, they needed to finish the stage smoothly first.
As his fingertips touched the cool black and white keys, Ronan was keenly aware of the silky sensation beneath his fingers.
He slowly closed his eyes, plunging into darkness once again.
From fear and rejection to calm acceptance, he had gradually adapted to the darkness. He wasn't just unafraid; he had grown to appreciate it. In the darkness, there was silence—profound silence. This silence allowed him to hear the melodies hidden in the corners.
Thump, thump, thump, thump.
As his fingertips brushed against the keys, clear musical notes collided, producing a melodious sound akin to the tinkling of clear springwater. Moonlight, silky and gentle, flowed alongside this clear spring, spreading its clean and refreshing coolness. Simple, yet profoundly pure.
The stage was bathed in a solitary light, casting a forlorn and desolate glow on Ronan. A timid shadow curled up at his feet. In the darkness, Ollie, hidden from view, was a mere silhouette, almost on the verge of vanishing.
Sam Penn noticed the stage's activity immediately. The argument between the band members in front of him had been irritating, and he was eager to dismiss their bickering from his mind. He was focused on finding a way to resolve their issues. His preoccupation led to a lack of concentration, and he barely registered the stage activity before him.
"What's he doing?"
Sam's expression soured, and he let out a string of expletives in frustration.
"Who gave him permission for this? The show's either over or it's not. I'd rather leave the stage empty than have them mucking about like this! Does he even know who he is? Bob Dylan? Maroon 5? Queen?"
"Jesus Christ!"
Cliff and Maxim, who had been in the middle of their negotiations, caught on quickly. Though they didn't understand what was happening, they sensed that their bandmates were attempting to salvage the performance in another way. As long as they could finish the performance, they would be able to silence the bar owner's complaints.
Cliff and Maxim exchanged a knowing glance and moved to block Sam's path, creating a visual barrier.
They were helping their teammates complete the stage.
Sam was fuming, with his cheeks flushed and veins pulsing in his temples. He was shouting in anger, "Stop them! Get them off the stage! Everyone out!"
But who was Sam calling out to?
Due to their earlier argument, Sam and the others were standing near the bar entrance, shrouded in shadows, a short distance from the bar counter and the customer seats. Sam's hurried words lacked a clear direction and were drowned out by the live piano music.
The bar's patrons remained oblivious to the unusual situation and continued to enjoy their time. They hadn't even noticed the piano's melody. They remained absorbed in their own world.
"What in the world!"
Sam's frustration reached its peak. He was blocked by both Cliff and Maxim and left feeling helpless.
Ronan on the stage remained unaffected, singing softly with a clear and smooth voice:
"Just a small-town girl, living in a lonely world, she took the midnight train going anywhere."
===========
Don't Stop Believin'
by Journey