I've always loved Brand New, so I feel privileged that I was able to photograph the band twice. The first time was Chicago Riot Fest in 2013, which was rife with issues. I've shot outdoor shows in the rain a few times, but as an Arizona native, I expect the rain to disappear in less than an hour. Chicago rain is a whole new animal. I sifted around in the mud struggling to shoot bands like Suicidal Tendencies and The Broadways.

Brand New at Chicago Riot Fest: photo by Melissa Fossum

The second time I photographed Brand New was at last year's Summer Ends Music Festival. I was thrilled to be there and shoot great bands like Jimmy Eat World and Spoon, but this was the last night that my 70-200 lens worked. It malfunctioned in the middle of Brand New's set. I was not happy, but I did what I could given the circumstances.

Perhaps the third time will be a charm, as Brand New and Modest Mouse are coming to Phoenix later this month. In the meantime, I'll do what I can to avoid bad luck.

See you in the photo pit.