el karaoke jefe

One of the perks about starting a new job is seeing old friends from previous gigs. You find out what life is like in the post-you era; how much better things have been since you dispersed the premise. Work actually is accomplished; less people are offended, stress levels lowered. In return, you find out bits of information regarding certain individuals that seemed only a myth at the time. In short, questions finally get answered. Case in point: Did some of the least-likely to perform karaoke, really get behind the mic?

Legend had it that an old coworker did this on a fairly regular basis. However, this was different. No large crowds, no alcohol in his system, and no bright lights. This was karaoke in its purest form. Previously, I had attended several after hour adult liquid establishments with this person. No indication or signs of a music repertoire, with the exception of an unusually astute awareness and appreciation for the oldies. He didn’t talk a big game, just said he was into it.

I had no expectations. After pulling into Fort Meyer, and having our car cavity searched by Delta Force, we proceeded. I can't ever remember being on a military base; especially not for karaoke. I'm not sure many of the general public does either. There couldn't have been more than six souls there before the post-coworkers entourage walked into the esteemed Patriot Zone (Picture an Elks Lodge in a high school gym on prom night.) The complimentary buffet, made up of left over mess hall delicacies like luke warm meatballs and chicken wings did not disappoint. Well, long story short, we were out before we could finish a basket of Lays and pretzel bites. Not to be disappointed, as it turns out, the myth was a reality. That old coworker did belt out a few oldies from the list he had printed out before leaving work that day. If you want to find out how it sounded, try Thursday’s at 7:00.