Better than Ezra charms Ruston

Better than Ezra puts Ruston in the heart of what it calls their "Louisiana love triangle."

By the feel of the Louisiana-rooted band's show last night, the feeling is mutual. The band played old favorites like "Good" and "Desperately Wanting" as well as new hits including "Juicy."

Although the concert was held in the Thomas Assembly Center in Ruston, home of the Lady Techsters, the romance between the stage and the audience was hot. Fans hung on to lead singer Kevin Griffin's every word and smart aleck comments. He was amusing, dry, charming -- everything you want a frontman to be.

Between songs and off the cuff, Griffin began singing Justin Timberlake's "SexyBack," admitting to fans that's all he'd been listening to lately. Of course, I couldn't tell how serious Griffin was -- his humor makes him mysterious. Once again, it was charming.

Ask anyone and they'll tell you, long-distance relationships are tough. But this is one love affair I think will last.