Last week, I entered an alternate dimension.
It was a complete accident. I hadn’t planned to step into a different plane of existence. I was just trying to get to Regina.
Last Friday, I decided to celebrate my birthday with a few friends in the Windy Apple (that’s Regina’s nickname, right?). My birthdays are usually low-key affairs, but I mixed it up this year. It’s not every day someone turns 24. I mean, statistically speaking, at least one person turns 24 every day, but you see my point. I hope. I don’t know, maybe most of writings are pure gibberish.
Anyway, I hit the road with my friend Laurel as we set out to meet Hardy in Regina (Note: Names have been changed to famous 1930s comedians because I feel like it). We set out as the sun was going down, which looks great for an Instagram photo, but it’s slightly annoying when it’s constantly in your eye as you drive.
Now, one of the true joys of a road trip is discovering new radio stations. As much as I enjoy Fox FM and it’s pop-music offerings, I’ll admit it can be a tad repetitive. So scrolling through dozens of different stations as we drove to Regina was a real delight. To quote Homer Simpson, I felt like a kid in some kind of a store.
As we approached Regina, Laurel got excited about entering the zone of a local station. He couldn’t wait to turn the dial once we were in range.
As a connoisseur of local access shows, I was intrigued. I love the niche, unique, and downright bizarre programs that fill up local radio and television stations across our fair nation.Laurel ran through the stations, stopping at the local one. It was everything I wanted it to be.
The hosts discussed local events and fundraisers in the area. As they spoke, a funky beat played in the background. It would fade away and roar back to life at random times. We could hear the hosts turning their pages as they spoke. Songs would come on, then abruptly be cut off by other songs. It was a mismash.
It was a singular experience, as if we’d stepped into a different realm. It seemed to operate on its own rules and regulations. It was surreal.
But it felt authentic. It was clearly made with a DIY sensibility; raw and full of passion. Despite its technical hiccups, it was an enjoyable show.
And just as soon as it had come on air, it vanished. We were out of range. We continued flicking through the stations, but none of them had the same pull of the local access show. It was a highlight of the trip.
Unfortunately, on the way back, we were too busy listnening to Smash Mouth’s “All Star” to tune into the station. But that’s another story.
