When it came to the Across the Narrows Festival, one is more than two. On paper it was an interesting idea to have two festival sites on two days, separated by the waters of the New York harbor. Two sites, twice as many acts and twice as many fans, right? Pick two scenic locations, load up the bill with ostensibly "big name" draws, and watch the tickets sell and the money come in. That was how it was suppose to work.

In reality, two sites most likely split one dedicated, but relatively small fan base, creating half-empty stadiums and drained enthusiasm. At Keyspan Park last night in Brooklyn, the bands gamely tried to establish a vibe, as did most of the audience, but the empty space in the stadium swallowed excitement in large gulps. I can't speak for the three other concerts (day one at Coney Island or either show in Staten Island), but word-of-mouth from them was no more positive.

So to the organizers, this lesson: pick one site, one day and load it up with more bands that haven't already saturated the local market. While I love the Pixies, they've played New York about seven times in the past twelve months. Oasis recently sold out a show at MSG; Doves played Warsaw during the CMJ marathon; Beck is playing two nights at Hammerstein Ballroom this week; and Polyphonic Spree are just played out. But imagine a one day festival with these groups, plus Gang of Four, Interpol, Belle & Sebastian, etc. That is the kind of event that would inspire more people to attend.

Perhaps if there's a next time, that's what we will get.