Day 49 - April 29th 2009
After a few days of breathing in today would be the beginning of me piecing my life back together. There were some things that I hadn’t sewn up tightly in my absence and today was going to be the beginning of making that happen. I had a few meetings set up and I needed to see about the check for my vacation time at Drexel (I have almost three weeks worth of pay coming). I also had laundry to do. I’m a little slower about it at home, you think you have all day and it slips away from you. Today is also the day that the Bang Camaro performance airs on Jimmy Kimmel Live, like I forgot about that. I was also intrigued by Arlen Specter’s switch back to the democratic party.
It was official, I was cancelled for the show in Redando Beach on May 9th. I’m sure members of my family are happy that I’ll be home but now if I am rescheduled I’ll probably be stuck opening up the show playing to no one. This has to be the last time I allow people to talk me out of playing no matter where it is. I’m gonna have to remain at the wheel of my life if this is going to work and do what I have to do in order to make it in this business.
My day would really start around 5:30 when I left the house to go to O.N.E. to meet with the owner. Not good news. We didn’t do well enough while I was away, so the brass wants to move us to Monday Nights. I’m not sure if I can do that with Philly Rising being every Monday. I would have to find someone to run the event in my place, not sure if that’s possible or not.
I met up with Chris at El Fuego and we ventured over to Zot to see if Gina was around, no dice. On the way to Downey’s we saw an old restaurant that’s being converted to an arts center. It reminded me a lot of Rhino’s, I’m seeing all ages shows at a Dry Venue depending on cost this could be a worthwhile enterprise.
We walked over to Lickety Split and I was greeted by the beautiful Dani Mari. We’re pretty good friends and have always had a good business relationship. I missed her particular charm. We talked about happenings and she mentions that they might need someone to take over Wed Nights and an occasional Friday. Of course I’m interested. We’ll see what happens. Things change at Lickety more often than not, so we’ll see.
We left and headed over to Teremeh’s house, she was hosting a viewing party. Miguel, Dave, and and a few others show up. It was good to see people I hadn’t seen in two months, especially Miguel who had been reading my blog the whole tour. Jake showed up as well, with a beard he hadn’t shaved since I left for tour. We turned on Kimmel and watched. I’d never really watched his show, the guys pretty funny. We’d all go crazy every time they would show Bang Camaro and see me in my Boy Wonder T-shirt. Dude from Lost was on the JJ Abrams was on and my friends wanted him to shut up. Though the hour would never end.
Jimmy Kimmel introduces us and there we are. The brood known as Bang Camaro. As I watch it memories fill my mind of that day, of the whole experience. This time the people on the TV are strangers, they’re people I know. I was so excited for me and more so Bryn and Alex, they’ve worked really hard to make Bang Camaro successful and it seems like it’s turning the corner and to boot there were a lot of close-up shots of me..kinda felt like a star for a minute. We went for it and we ruled…hard! There are few thrills that will ever match that one and if I’m never successful again beyond this no one can take this moment away from me. It felt incredible, everyone around me was so proud. I was proud.
I called Bryn to tell him how much he ruled. Jaso Fox called me to tell me how hard we won. It was pretty sweet
I don’t know what the hell is going to happen next but right now I’m floating on air. Nice thought to go to sleep by.
Rise up Revolution
Thursday, April 30, 2009
Wednesday, April 29, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 49
Day 48 - April 28th 2009
Home
After two months I woke up in my own bed this morning. Fitting back in will be strange. Doz told me everything would be different. I didn’t know how right he’d be. It’s kind of like the Twilight Zone. Everything’s the same except for me, well at least it feels that way. My room’s exactly the way I left it the house smells the same but I’m seeing it all through a new pair of eyes. As I wake up it’s confirmed that I’m not the same as when I left.
The Phone rings. It’s the brass from O.N.E. the club I book on Wed Nights. I have a meeting tomorrow…this is good, well hopefully it’s good. I can book some shows and get some more money comin in. The Broke part certainly isn’t fun but getting the HYPE! back on track is part of the long term plan. I need the flexibility that a full time job (or even a freelance job in my previous field) just doesn’t provide. Currently the plan is to get something or several things that I can leave if/when I need to travel again. Plans may change they always do.
As the day rolls by I see emails and texts from friends welcoming me home. It seems as if I was missed, which is kinda cool. I also get to catch up on some things that I missed like television and housework. There are three piles of clothes in the middle of the floor. Mostly my dirty laundry left over from tour along with some other clothes. Sitting on my butt watching TV in my underwear, strangely nice. I feel like a kid on Summer vacation, especially considering the weather. Mom calls, she wants me to pick up her dry cleaning around the corner from her house. I look up and realized that it closes in about 90 mins. I come back inside and hop on Facebook to talk to some friends.
I fear that I was away long enough to change but not long enough to make it stick. Everyone wants to advise me on what to do and I’m allowing them to get into my head. Out there I had really taken control. Making my own decisions, choosing what I wanted to do and doing it. I wasn’t out there on vacation for two months. I learned how to survive out there on my own and I don’t want that guy to be buried. I matured while I was away and I was so excited to bring that guy back. It’s easy to stand on your own when you have the support of others around you who share your dreams and goals. it’s harder to do it when the people around you shake their finger no at you because they don’t understand. It will be something I wrestle with as the weeks and months progress.
Turns out the people in Minneapolis were serious about me coming out there and playing. Just need to find the cash. Putting together this touring thing is going to be a hand full. I have to stand myself up again. I don’t know how I meet this challenge yet but I’m looking forward to it.
I’m spending the rest of the evening vegging out. This is my first night at home so I’m gonna stay in and watch Reaper. My meeting is tomorrow at 4 so I’ll be out then. Kimmel’s also tomorrow and I think my buddies and I are all getting together to watch. It’ll be good to see everyone and share in this experience. With my luck Doz’ll be standing right in front of me.
Home
After two months I woke up in my own bed this morning. Fitting back in will be strange. Doz told me everything would be different. I didn’t know how right he’d be. It’s kind of like the Twilight Zone. Everything’s the same except for me, well at least it feels that way. My room’s exactly the way I left it the house smells the same but I’m seeing it all through a new pair of eyes. As I wake up it’s confirmed that I’m not the same as when I left.
The Phone rings. It’s the brass from O.N.E. the club I book on Wed Nights. I have a meeting tomorrow…this is good, well hopefully it’s good. I can book some shows and get some more money comin in. The Broke part certainly isn’t fun but getting the HYPE! back on track is part of the long term plan. I need the flexibility that a full time job (or even a freelance job in my previous field) just doesn’t provide. Currently the plan is to get something or several things that I can leave if/when I need to travel again. Plans may change they always do.
As the day rolls by I see emails and texts from friends welcoming me home. It seems as if I was missed, which is kinda cool. I also get to catch up on some things that I missed like television and housework. There are three piles of clothes in the middle of the floor. Mostly my dirty laundry left over from tour along with some other clothes. Sitting on my butt watching TV in my underwear, strangely nice. I feel like a kid on Summer vacation, especially considering the weather. Mom calls, she wants me to pick up her dry cleaning around the corner from her house. I look up and realized that it closes in about 90 mins. I come back inside and hop on Facebook to talk to some friends.
I fear that I was away long enough to change but not long enough to make it stick. Everyone wants to advise me on what to do and I’m allowing them to get into my head. Out there I had really taken control. Making my own decisions, choosing what I wanted to do and doing it. I wasn’t out there on vacation for two months. I learned how to survive out there on my own and I don’t want that guy to be buried. I matured while I was away and I was so excited to bring that guy back. It’s easy to stand on your own when you have the support of others around you who share your dreams and goals. it’s harder to do it when the people around you shake their finger no at you because they don’t understand. It will be something I wrestle with as the weeks and months progress.
Turns out the people in Minneapolis were serious about me coming out there and playing. Just need to find the cash. Putting together this touring thing is going to be a hand full. I have to stand myself up again. I don’t know how I meet this challenge yet but I’m looking forward to it.
I’m spending the rest of the evening vegging out. This is my first night at home so I’m gonna stay in and watch Reaper. My meeting is tomorrow at 4 so I’ll be out then. Kimmel’s also tomorrow and I think my buddies and I are all getting together to watch. It’ll be good to see everyone and share in this experience. With my luck Doz’ll be standing right in front of me.
Tuesday, April 28, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 48
Day 47 - April 27th 2009
It’s definitely 5:30 and I wake up to a familiar sight. Sadler and Carmen are asleep on the floor and Fox’s in the bed next to me. Today I leave and head back to reality. I said good bye to the Leslie boys as we left them to get ready to take their flight.
Everything was smooth as mom dad and I headed to the airport and got on a plane. Best not to think about everything right now. I’m headed home, I can’t wait to see everyone. It was gonna be a long flight and unfortunately this laptop isn’t built for that…I’d love to watch Nick and Norah on the plane. We’d fly a couple of hours and end up in Arizona. I spoke with a musician who just played a festival she had a ukulele and a banjo we discussed some music, the tour, everything. She was cool peoples.
We hopped on the plane that would take me back to Philadelphia. I couldn’t help but listen to Bang Camaro II on the way back. I found this like hidden song at the end of the last track, something about Stiletto heels. I should ask Bryn where the rest of that tune is it was like a minute long. My mind was focused on the task at hand. I had to make sure I got to Philly Rising, the Open Mic that I host on time. I’d been gone long enough so if I could get there on-time I would love to.
I thought I’d be happy to be home but I almost choked up when I saw the skyline. It was good to be home. It couldn’t have went smoother. We got off the plane took a cart to baggage and our bags were right there. The shuttle to take us to the parking lot pulled right up and by 7:05 I was back on stage at World Café Live. Deep sigh of relief.
Open Mic was amazing. I was very excited to see so many new faces. There were a buttload of talented people including Jason Min from Miss Vintage who won tonight. My best friends Casey, Zach and Julie showed up and hung out with me. It was so great to see them after being away. We wrapped up around 11 and I got in the car and went home. It was 2 and I was still up still on West Coast Time. Had a quick Facebook convo with Jason Fox and decided I should try to catch up on some sleep
I got a whole lot of thinking to do tomorrow
It’s definitely 5:30 and I wake up to a familiar sight. Sadler and Carmen are asleep on the floor and Fox’s in the bed next to me. Today I leave and head back to reality. I said good bye to the Leslie boys as we left them to get ready to take their flight.
Everything was smooth as mom dad and I headed to the airport and got on a plane. Best not to think about everything right now. I’m headed home, I can’t wait to see everyone. It was gonna be a long flight and unfortunately this laptop isn’t built for that…I’d love to watch Nick and Norah on the plane. We’d fly a couple of hours and end up in Arizona. I spoke with a musician who just played a festival she had a ukulele and a banjo we discussed some music, the tour, everything. She was cool peoples.
We hopped on the plane that would take me back to Philadelphia. I couldn’t help but listen to Bang Camaro II on the way back. I found this like hidden song at the end of the last track, something about Stiletto heels. I should ask Bryn where the rest of that tune is it was like a minute long. My mind was focused on the task at hand. I had to make sure I got to Philly Rising, the Open Mic that I host on time. I’d been gone long enough so if I could get there on-time I would love to.
I thought I’d be happy to be home but I almost choked up when I saw the skyline. It was good to be home. It couldn’t have went smoother. We got off the plane took a cart to baggage and our bags were right there. The shuttle to take us to the parking lot pulled right up and by 7:05 I was back on stage at World Café Live. Deep sigh of relief.
Open Mic was amazing. I was very excited to see so many new faces. There were a buttload of talented people including Jason Min from Miss Vintage who won tonight. My best friends Casey, Zach and Julie showed up and hung out with me. It was so great to see them after being away. We wrapped up around 11 and I got in the car and went home. It was 2 and I was still up still on West Coast Time. Had a quick Facebook convo with Jason Fox and decided I should try to catch up on some sleep
I got a whole lot of thinking to do tomorrow
Monday, April 27, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professionla Musician 47
Day 46 - April 26th - 2009
It was more like an Epilogue than an actual tour date today. Woke up in the AM to my phone being deader the Bea Arthur (Too soon?). I’d lost my charger backstage at Jimmy Kimmel and needed to get another one because today was a day I needed my phone. Leslie was playing a Barbeque and invited everyone to it. I was able to get my parents in. I was told most of the guys were going to make the BBQ so I was excited to see everyone and say my last goodbyes. I also had my first ever show in Los Angeles. I’d never done any Boy Wonder stuff so far away from Philly so we had to get directions from the hotel to the Barbeque, then from the barbeque to Molly Malone’s.
I charged my phones and as we were on our way to the barbeque the texts and phone calls were flying in from LA friends that were coming to the show. I was excited that everyone was so motivated to see me. A truly amazing thing. I even got a call from a friend from elementary school that lives out here. She said she was coming.
I pulled up to the BBQ and the level of California there was awe inspiring. Hot girls dressed like hippies in short skirts. Laid back people basking in the cool weather, little kids running around, and people getting ready to play music. I saw the guys and I hugged them, it was great to see everyone in a more relaxed setting. Admittedly it was a pressure cooker sometimes with so many of us on top of each other. A dude named Caesar played. His tunes reminded me a little bit of Radiohead or something like that. His voice was a lot less agonizing than Tom Yhorke’s making the music easier to listen to. Then all of a sudden Bryn asked me to play a song. He had cleared it with the Leslie guys so I went and grabbed my six string.
Jason Fox said they wanted to wait a little while to play so I could play several songs. I tuned up and inhaled. I could literally smell my allergies kicking in…this was going to suck balls. I toughed it out and did the best I could and either people were really polite or they liked what they heard.
I was able to stick around and listen to the Leslie guys. It was awesome to hear them with the volume turned down. There are a lot of subtleties in their music that I was able to pick up better with the amps turned down. They really are the real deal. Unfortunately I had to say my final final goodbyes and head over to the gig. I had gotten a text message from one Laura Wilson she wanted to meet me at the place I was playing Molly Malone’s for a drink. The club reminded me of a nicer version of The Fire back home.
Laura Wilson was the talent buyer at World Café Live when I was really getting my project going. I had played their open mic and done some shows for them for about six months and was granted direct access to her, after some begging (a lot of begging) she was the first person to ever let me book a show anywhere. She was the person that hired me to host Philly Rising and whenever I did stuff at World Café Live she was always the one that took care of me. So I owe a great deal to her for helping me to become the man I am today. I hadn’t seen her since she left for Los Angeles so I was happy to see her. We traded stories and laughed and talked. It was always nice to see a friendly face especially when it’s attached to a sane person that has their stuff together. She had to leave before the show but it was great to see her.
It was nearing the time and people started rolling in. The Midnight Miles Crew (Laila, Serina, and Sara) Christina From High School and her crew, Latifah from Elementary School, My cousin Mickey plus the small crowd that was there. But the highlight for me was when Rod and Rich (with their lovely ladies in toe) from Bang Camaro showed up followed by Leslie a few moments later. Musicians of this caliber that have toured the country countless times aren’t obligated to see little old me play by myself in some club somewhere. I was really touched that they came out to support me.
The time was upon me. It was time to see if I could be good in LA….I opened with my Ain’t No Sunshine/Woman medley and when it was over I said Hello LA to a round of applause. I picked up right away on how much my time with Bang Camaro has allowed me to grow as a performer. I wasn’t a slouch before I left but a wall that I usually had set up between me and an audience was completely gone. I was interacting with the crowd making them laugh. I definitely sounded better than I did earlier in the day. I finally played my new song Get me to California, a tune written that fateful night in Denton after the long walk. It was well received especially by my tour mates. I was pretty happy about that. After a few more tunes I ended my set with 3000 Miles Away, I figured since I was about that far away from home it would be fitting.
I got to say goodbye to Rich and Rod one more time, the Leslie boys were gonna stay with me tonight but we split off to get grub.
My cousin Mickey took us to the World Famous Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles. I didn’t even get to my chicken before the itis gripped me up and wouldn’t let go. I fell asleep in the back of the van and woke up in front of the hotel where Leslie was waiting. We went up to the room where Sadler was asleep outside with his sunglasses on (he’s even cool in his sleep…lol) Sadler hit his air mattress, Carman made a bed out of the couch cushions, and Jason Fox bunked with me…Back to back one last time, mainly cause we rule, even in our slumber.
I fly home tomorrow to questions of what’s next. I’m scheduled to go straight to Philly Rising because only a fool would get off a plane and head straight to host an open mic.
It was more like an Epilogue than an actual tour date today. Woke up in the AM to my phone being deader the Bea Arthur (Too soon?). I’d lost my charger backstage at Jimmy Kimmel and needed to get another one because today was a day I needed my phone. Leslie was playing a Barbeque and invited everyone to it. I was able to get my parents in. I was told most of the guys were going to make the BBQ so I was excited to see everyone and say my last goodbyes. I also had my first ever show in Los Angeles. I’d never done any Boy Wonder stuff so far away from Philly so we had to get directions from the hotel to the Barbeque, then from the barbeque to Molly Malone’s.
I charged my phones and as we were on our way to the barbeque the texts and phone calls were flying in from LA friends that were coming to the show. I was excited that everyone was so motivated to see me. A truly amazing thing. I even got a call from a friend from elementary school that lives out here. She said she was coming.
I pulled up to the BBQ and the level of California there was awe inspiring. Hot girls dressed like hippies in short skirts. Laid back people basking in the cool weather, little kids running around, and people getting ready to play music. I saw the guys and I hugged them, it was great to see everyone in a more relaxed setting. Admittedly it was a pressure cooker sometimes with so many of us on top of each other. A dude named Caesar played. His tunes reminded me a little bit of Radiohead or something like that. His voice was a lot less agonizing than Tom Yhorke’s making the music easier to listen to. Then all of a sudden Bryn asked me to play a song. He had cleared it with the Leslie guys so I went and grabbed my six string.
Jason Fox said they wanted to wait a little while to play so I could play several songs. I tuned up and inhaled. I could literally smell my allergies kicking in…this was going to suck balls. I toughed it out and did the best I could and either people were really polite or they liked what they heard.
I was able to stick around and listen to the Leslie guys. It was awesome to hear them with the volume turned down. There are a lot of subtleties in their music that I was able to pick up better with the amps turned down. They really are the real deal. Unfortunately I had to say my final final goodbyes and head over to the gig. I had gotten a text message from one Laura Wilson she wanted to meet me at the place I was playing Molly Malone’s for a drink. The club reminded me of a nicer version of The Fire back home.
Laura Wilson was the talent buyer at World Café Live when I was really getting my project going. I had played their open mic and done some shows for them for about six months and was granted direct access to her, after some begging (a lot of begging) she was the first person to ever let me book a show anywhere. She was the person that hired me to host Philly Rising and whenever I did stuff at World Café Live she was always the one that took care of me. So I owe a great deal to her for helping me to become the man I am today. I hadn’t seen her since she left for Los Angeles so I was happy to see her. We traded stories and laughed and talked. It was always nice to see a friendly face especially when it’s attached to a sane person that has their stuff together. She had to leave before the show but it was great to see her.
It was nearing the time and people started rolling in. The Midnight Miles Crew (Laila, Serina, and Sara) Christina From High School and her crew, Latifah from Elementary School, My cousin Mickey plus the small crowd that was there. But the highlight for me was when Rod and Rich (with their lovely ladies in toe) from Bang Camaro showed up followed by Leslie a few moments later. Musicians of this caliber that have toured the country countless times aren’t obligated to see little old me play by myself in some club somewhere. I was really touched that they came out to support me.
The time was upon me. It was time to see if I could be good in LA….I opened with my Ain’t No Sunshine/Woman medley and when it was over I said Hello LA to a round of applause. I picked up right away on how much my time with Bang Camaro has allowed me to grow as a performer. I wasn’t a slouch before I left but a wall that I usually had set up between me and an audience was completely gone. I was interacting with the crowd making them laugh. I definitely sounded better than I did earlier in the day. I finally played my new song Get me to California, a tune written that fateful night in Denton after the long walk. It was well received especially by my tour mates. I was pretty happy about that. After a few more tunes I ended my set with 3000 Miles Away, I figured since I was about that far away from home it would be fitting.
I got to say goodbye to Rich and Rod one more time, the Leslie boys were gonna stay with me tonight but we split off to get grub.
My cousin Mickey took us to the World Famous Roscoe’s Chicken and Waffles. I didn’t even get to my chicken before the itis gripped me up and wouldn’t let go. I fell asleep in the back of the van and woke up in front of the hotel where Leslie was waiting. We went up to the room where Sadler was asleep outside with his sunglasses on (he’s even cool in his sleep…lol) Sadler hit his air mattress, Carman made a bed out of the couch cushions, and Jason Fox bunked with me…Back to back one last time, mainly cause we rule, even in our slumber.
I fly home tomorrow to questions of what’s next. I’m scheduled to go straight to Philly Rising because only a fool would get off a plane and head straight to host an open mic.
Sunday, April 26, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 46
Day 45 - April 25th 2009
This had to be the weirdest wake-up in two months. One, I’m in a bed, Two, I’m at a nice hotel, Three, My parents are in the next room. No guys on the floor, no tip toeing so I don’t wake anyone, no 7 Am shower, the routine I had grown used to had all but been blown up. Weird, different. I’m not with the boys, that’s even weirder.
Dad and I went down to get the free in the lobby. Embassy Suites Free is on a whole other level. Pancakes that I don’t have to make myself, hot syrup fresh fruits, all manner of juices, Starbucks Coffee, and teas…Yeah hotel stays with mom and dad are sweet. We discussed what my plans for the future might be. He’s suggesting employment, I don’t disagree with him, but I know I need something that I can leave for long periods of time and tour if need be, be it with Boy Wonder or Bang Camaro or whatever else might come my way. The two weeks leading up to my departure for this tour were hella stressful, I don’t wanna have to quit another full time job. My dad asked me what it all meant. What was the sum of this experience? What did I learn? I told him I’d have to get back to him on that.
We went up and got mom and then I hopped on the net for a while in the business center and then came upstairs. I watched Transformers for 20 minutes then it watched me for the rest of it. I woke up around 4 for the free cocktail party at 5. Then the folks and I had dinner at 6 and went back upstairs to get ready. Picked up a change of clothes and in a few moments we were headed toward the car to the World Famous Viper Room. It would take us forever to get there, Dad can‘t see the streets signs, no one can, it’s impossible. While in the car I got a txt from my buddy Kevin’s girlfriend Jes. Apparently they had gotten married while I was on the road. They wanted me to be in the wedding but I didn’t pick up my phone that much out here. My nephew/Godson is also crawling now, something else I missed.
We finally arrived and the routine begins. Dan gives me a wrist band and I find the guys, Leslie was wrapping up their set and Parlor Mob from Jersey came on. Once they were done it was time to warm up and rock it one last time.
The stage was small…smaller than usual. The crowd was hot though. They ate up every second of it. As the show was going I looked around and realized that this may be the last time we’re all together. Sure there’ll be more shows, more tours, I’m sure I’ll run to Boston or Charleston and hang out with people but it won’t really be like this ever again. I’ll have to admit I got a little emotional as I shook my hips and gyrated for the hot girl in the front row. I was so busy taking everything in, trying to get through the days and nights, and going bonkers, I hadn’t realized that I had formed a bond with these guys that’ll never be broken, there isn’t a drug, a cocktail, that can match that. Luckily I was done with the introspection in time to do back to backs with Jason Fox. Bang Camaro stage left pretty much rules.
We stuck around and watched the last band. I said some goodbyes, which were very hard to do. I am going to miss their stankin asses. I have like 16 brothers now. There were some mentions of some plans afterwards but nothing materialized so I headed back to the hotel.
My show is tomorrow night. I go back to being Boy Wonder again not that I ever stopped. I love singing and playing and making music. I pick up my football and run with it again. I wonder how strange it will be to perform by myself. I haven’t played a straight up solo acoustic show in…almost two years. Great now I’m nervous…lol a lot of my LA friends say they’re coming so it’ll be good to see them if they show. One more day in LA…gotta love it.
This had to be the weirdest wake-up in two months. One, I’m in a bed, Two, I’m at a nice hotel, Three, My parents are in the next room. No guys on the floor, no tip toeing so I don’t wake anyone, no 7 Am shower, the routine I had grown used to had all but been blown up. Weird, different. I’m not with the boys, that’s even weirder.
Dad and I went down to get the free in the lobby. Embassy Suites Free is on a whole other level. Pancakes that I don’t have to make myself, hot syrup fresh fruits, all manner of juices, Starbucks Coffee, and teas…Yeah hotel stays with mom and dad are sweet. We discussed what my plans for the future might be. He’s suggesting employment, I don’t disagree with him, but I know I need something that I can leave for long periods of time and tour if need be, be it with Boy Wonder or Bang Camaro or whatever else might come my way. The two weeks leading up to my departure for this tour were hella stressful, I don’t wanna have to quit another full time job. My dad asked me what it all meant. What was the sum of this experience? What did I learn? I told him I’d have to get back to him on that.
We went up and got mom and then I hopped on the net for a while in the business center and then came upstairs. I watched Transformers for 20 minutes then it watched me for the rest of it. I woke up around 4 for the free cocktail party at 5. Then the folks and I had dinner at 6 and went back upstairs to get ready. Picked up a change of clothes and in a few moments we were headed toward the car to the World Famous Viper Room. It would take us forever to get there, Dad can‘t see the streets signs, no one can, it’s impossible. While in the car I got a txt from my buddy Kevin’s girlfriend Jes. Apparently they had gotten married while I was on the road. They wanted me to be in the wedding but I didn’t pick up my phone that much out here. My nephew/Godson is also crawling now, something else I missed.
We finally arrived and the routine begins. Dan gives me a wrist band and I find the guys, Leslie was wrapping up their set and Parlor Mob from Jersey came on. Once they were done it was time to warm up and rock it one last time.
The stage was small…smaller than usual. The crowd was hot though. They ate up every second of it. As the show was going I looked around and realized that this may be the last time we’re all together. Sure there’ll be more shows, more tours, I’m sure I’ll run to Boston or Charleston and hang out with people but it won’t really be like this ever again. I’ll have to admit I got a little emotional as I shook my hips and gyrated for the hot girl in the front row. I was so busy taking everything in, trying to get through the days and nights, and going bonkers, I hadn’t realized that I had formed a bond with these guys that’ll never be broken, there isn’t a drug, a cocktail, that can match that. Luckily I was done with the introspection in time to do back to backs with Jason Fox. Bang Camaro stage left pretty much rules.
We stuck around and watched the last band. I said some goodbyes, which were very hard to do. I am going to miss their stankin asses. I have like 16 brothers now. There were some mentions of some plans afterwards but nothing materialized so I headed back to the hotel.
My show is tomorrow night. I go back to being Boy Wonder again not that I ever stopped. I love singing and playing and making music. I pick up my football and run with it again. I wonder how strange it will be to perform by myself. I haven’t played a straight up solo acoustic show in…almost two years. Great now I’m nervous…lol a lot of my LA friends say they’re coming so it’ll be good to see them if they show. One more day in LA…gotta love it.
Saturday, April 25, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 45
Day 44 - April 24th 2009
Today is the big day. I had the feeling rush through my body just before I opened my eyes. I understood the gravity of it and the crazy part was I wasn’t nervous at all. When I got up Ramsey (who was nice enough o let me have the extra bed) was taking the boys to a meeting leaving the room to myself. I ironed my pants and shirt, not wanting to look like a dirt bag on national TV. I checked out of Ramsey’s room and went into the room with the rest of the guys. I found my comb, the braids are coming out today.
I had promised the guys I would do it before the tour was over and tonight seemed like the perfect time to do it. I like the way my hair looks like that. But after a few days it falls straight and I look like Lil Bow Wow so I kept the braids in the whole tour. Nick wanted to leave sooner rather than later to drop Mayte off and pick up Dan. Once we did that we were on our way.
It took us about 45 minutes to drive ten miles but we finally arrived for load in, and I saw the first sign.
We were here, finally after two months on the road. When they talked to me about joining them for this tour this was one of the things they mentioned that perked my interest, they had played Conan in January where I’d seen them for the first time and now they’re getting another shot to be on national television, and I get to be included in that. Truly amazing.
This wouldn't be my first rodeo, I've appeared on some local TV I was even on an episode of VH1 Fanclub about four years ago. So I sort of knew the game already. But this would be my first time ever doing something on broadcast television, meaning anyone with a TV can watch it.
When we arrived we loaded in our gear and then we were shown our dressing room by the security guard. The sign was a trip.
We're rockstars and we get our own dressing room complete with Fruit Trays and waters and sodas in the fridge. California Pizza kitchen would be catering later. So much free.
We put some stuff on the stage and bagged out for lunch. We went to an In and Out Burger and as I was standing in line I saw someone I recognized, his name escaped me but I called it out anyway. I tapped him on his shoulder and there he was, Sean Purtill my first college buddy. I hadn’t really seen him since the first semester of my freshman year of college, all these years and he was still in the biz that I had climbed out of. Many of the old Temple crew are outside as well. We talked and exchanged info. I have more friends in LA than I realized.
I went outside to join the rest of the gang and Carlos Mencia is sitting at the table behind me. Looked like he was taking a meeting or something I guess the burgers here really are good.
We walked back to the studio and hung in the dressing room for a while until Bryn, Alex, and Doz got there to wire up their stuff and we did a very extensive sound check. These guys leave nothing to chance. We did a camera rehearsal of both songs, followed by an instrumental recording of Revolution. Then it was time to relax and get ready.
The world famous Kimmel Green Room opened up around six. Open bar, free food, beautiful people, the feeling that a guy could live like this…lol. I had a white wine and some shrimp on a stick. I went up the stairs and peaked into the studio audience. There they were Mom and Dad, I waved. I’ve lived with them all my life and this is the most time I’ve spent away so it was good to see them We saw some of the guest stuff and we got the call from a stage manager that it was time to go on. So we took to the stage.
What happened? What usually happens with this band. We ruled…hard! It’s hard not rule standing in between Morgan Brown and Jason Fox. We were like the Patriots before the Superbowl…winning. The crowd was into it, the studio audience was into it, and for the first time my parents saw me shake things that I never shook at home. We did our thing. As we were coming off Jimmy Kimmel told me I was the best one…just like he did to Morgan before me and Jason Fox after me. It was the only time we would physically meet Mr. Kimmel. It happened so fast I didn’t get any impressions on him.
We partied for a little bit in the green room. I grabbed mom and dad and brought them down and introduced them to everyone. I had a few Coronas before they kicked us out. We unloaded and a guy was outside talking to my mom. Apparently his son is a musician and cousins with Taboo from the Black Eyed Peas, he was playing at the knitting room later. He bought a CD from me and I took his card. Probably make contact with him sometime tomorrow.
The boys went to the Rainbow Room to party. I went to the Embassy Suites with my parents. I wanted to rest. I wonder what kind of shenanigans they got into. I’m sure I’ll hear all about it at The Viper Room tomorrow night.
Off to bed now…Big day tomorrow as the week of ruling continues
A TV interview I did like two years ago for Wild about Philly...notice as I struggle not to look at her boobs durign the interview, also notice how I fail miserably
Today is the big day. I had the feeling rush through my body just before I opened my eyes. I understood the gravity of it and the crazy part was I wasn’t nervous at all. When I got up Ramsey (who was nice enough o let me have the extra bed) was taking the boys to a meeting leaving the room to myself. I ironed my pants and shirt, not wanting to look like a dirt bag on national TV. I checked out of Ramsey’s room and went into the room with the rest of the guys. I found my comb, the braids are coming out today.
I had promised the guys I would do it before the tour was over and tonight seemed like the perfect time to do it. I like the way my hair looks like that. But after a few days it falls straight and I look like Lil Bow Wow so I kept the braids in the whole tour. Nick wanted to leave sooner rather than later to drop Mayte off and pick up Dan. Once we did that we were on our way.
It took us about 45 minutes to drive ten miles but we finally arrived for load in, and I saw the first sign.
We were here, finally after two months on the road. When they talked to me about joining them for this tour this was one of the things they mentioned that perked my interest, they had played Conan in January where I’d seen them for the first time and now they’re getting another shot to be on national television, and I get to be included in that. Truly amazing.
This wouldn't be my first rodeo, I've appeared on some local TV I was even on an episode of VH1 Fanclub about four years ago. So I sort of knew the game already. But this would be my first time ever doing something on broadcast television, meaning anyone with a TV can watch it.
When we arrived we loaded in our gear and then we were shown our dressing room by the security guard. The sign was a trip.
We're rockstars and we get our own dressing room complete with Fruit Trays and waters and sodas in the fridge. California Pizza kitchen would be catering later. So much free.
We put some stuff on the stage and bagged out for lunch. We went to an In and Out Burger and as I was standing in line I saw someone I recognized, his name escaped me but I called it out anyway. I tapped him on his shoulder and there he was, Sean Purtill my first college buddy. I hadn’t really seen him since the first semester of my freshman year of college, all these years and he was still in the biz that I had climbed out of. Many of the old Temple crew are outside as well. We talked and exchanged info. I have more friends in LA than I realized.
I went outside to join the rest of the gang and Carlos Mencia is sitting at the table behind me. Looked like he was taking a meeting or something I guess the burgers here really are good.
We walked back to the studio and hung in the dressing room for a while until Bryn, Alex, and Doz got there to wire up their stuff and we did a very extensive sound check. These guys leave nothing to chance. We did a camera rehearsal of both songs, followed by an instrumental recording of Revolution. Then it was time to relax and get ready.
The world famous Kimmel Green Room opened up around six. Open bar, free food, beautiful people, the feeling that a guy could live like this…lol. I had a white wine and some shrimp on a stick. I went up the stairs and peaked into the studio audience. There they were Mom and Dad, I waved. I’ve lived with them all my life and this is the most time I’ve spent away so it was good to see them We saw some of the guest stuff and we got the call from a stage manager that it was time to go on. So we took to the stage.
What happened? What usually happens with this band. We ruled…hard! It’s hard not rule standing in between Morgan Brown and Jason Fox. We were like the Patriots before the Superbowl…winning. The crowd was into it, the studio audience was into it, and for the first time my parents saw me shake things that I never shook at home. We did our thing. As we were coming off Jimmy Kimmel told me I was the best one…just like he did to Morgan before me and Jason Fox after me. It was the only time we would physically meet Mr. Kimmel. It happened so fast I didn’t get any impressions on him.
We partied for a little bit in the green room. I grabbed mom and dad and brought them down and introduced them to everyone. I had a few Coronas before they kicked us out. We unloaded and a guy was outside talking to my mom. Apparently his son is a musician and cousins with Taboo from the Black Eyed Peas, he was playing at the knitting room later. He bought a CD from me and I took his card. Probably make contact with him sometime tomorrow.
The boys went to the Rainbow Room to party. I went to the Embassy Suites with my parents. I wanted to rest. I wonder what kind of shenanigans they got into. I’m sure I’ll hear all about it at The Viper Room tomorrow night.
Off to bed now…Big day tomorrow as the week of ruling continues
A TV interview I did like two years ago for Wild about Philly...notice as I struggle not to look at her boobs durign the interview, also notice how I fail miserably
Friday, April 24, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 44
Day 43 - April 23rd 2009
We had to be up particularly early today, I had showered the night before because I figured there wouldn’t be time for everyone to do so this morning. I woke up around 7which was still earlier than everyone else. But then again I had gotten plenty of rest the night before. I had a grasp on how important the day was for the band so I felt like I needed to be at my best physically. My air mattress is dead so I slept in a sleeping bag in a nook between the bed and the air conditioner.
I went downstairs to enjoy the San Diego Free one last time. I made myself a waffle and saw Paris again who said he was praying for me. It blows me away how just sharing similar beliefs can bond strangers together. I was encouraged by his words.
Had to help get everyone up, Dan wasn’t here so it kinda fell to Sean, Jason, and I to wake up our respective rooms. I don’t like fighting with people so I tapped Bryn and he got up and everyone else got up and got ready. We packed the trailer and piled in the van 13 strong.
Today we go to LA, finally. It had been five years since I’d been on the West Coast. Almost ten since I’d been to LA itself checking out schools and the like. We were here to do a showcase for Fontana, a division of Universal that distributes music for independent record labels like Bang Camaro’s label Black Sword. They get it in all of the stores so that you can go to FYE and buy a copy. I was surprised at how chilly it was today in a city famous for it’s perfect weather.
We walked inside and they had a soul food place cater the event; fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese. I was truly at home, come to find out that this was the urban music portion of Fontana Fest. We were treated to performances from artists on Master P’s new label Hollywood Dreams, he walked in (tall guy) and introduced himself and his label. He said that this venture was about making these kids dreams come true. First out of the gate was Little King an 8 year old rapper complete with hip hop swagger and 7 year old dancing “video girls” it was a bit disturbing especially since the girls had a ton of make up on their face. Then there was The Fabulous Girls and another R&B artist it was a little off putting. I’m sort of against having kids in the entertainment industry hardcore. I didn’t really dive into show business till my mid teens with acting and what not, going to CAPA (The Creative and Performing Arts High School in Philly) every once in a while we would get the kid that did a couple of movies or did some commercials before they got there, they would have plenty of cash to throw around from residuals and would often have their own apartments, and all I ever met except one was a complete mess. Whether this is my moment in the sun or the beginning of my success I’m thankful it’s happening at 26 and not 13.
We were then treated to a set by DJ Quick and Kurrupt. That was pretty cool. I grew up listening to a lot of the West Coast Hip Hop (My brother was really into NWA and Death Row) so to see Dj Quick up there was an amazing thing.
There was another rock band and then we played. Pleasure Pleasure, Revolution, and Lady Lightning was all we needed to rock the crowd. That day off made us all well rested and we were all in excellent shape. There was talk of an after party, open bar, free food so we stuck around. I changed my shirt to a longsleeve and a few hours later we went inside.
The party was amazing excellent spread and the server girls were friendly and gorgeous. I even ended up in a full blown 20 minute conversation with a Marilyn Monroe impersonator. She literally followed me around the party arm in arm. It was truly bizarre, she was very good at her job though. I managed to pass her off on Bryn and Morgan and I slipped off into the sunset. I was talking to industry people and making some contacts and what not for the day that I’d be ready to shop my own stuff. Everybody was really nice and laid back and as I was walking to find the brothers a voice hits my ear drum
Max: Would you like a reading?
I turned around and thought about it
Me: Sure
It was a woman with Tarot Cards. I’m not a believer in any of this stuff, but I’ve never had one done and I was curious about it. I imagine that it’s all about reading people and telling them what they wanted to hear,, especially in this environment. Besides I like a good hustle so why not?
She said my past was about me having an abundance of skills and someone wanting to help me. My present was about me gaining fortitude and trying to be stronger. She says my future is about me taking all these skills and running with them that great abundance and smooth sailing was in my future. Not likely, but the reading was strangely accurate a little spooky. I know my help comes from God not cards on a table.
So the party was in full swing and then someone says “Ladies and Gentlemen welcome our entertainment for the evening, The Crystal Method.” Yes they Crystal Method DJed the party, it was amazing. Couldn’t dance to the music but it was still hittin pretty hard. I walked around ate and drank a little more and talked to some more people before we left for the hotel.
I slept in the back of the van and when we got there I had traveled up to the room and prepared to sleep on the floor when our manager Ramsey came in and said he had an open bed. My last night sleeping in a hotel room with the Camaro Crew and I get my own bed….sweet.
We got Kimmel tomorrow so I need to get some rest. This is Probably the biggest of all big days.
We had to be up particularly early today, I had showered the night before because I figured there wouldn’t be time for everyone to do so this morning. I woke up around 7which was still earlier than everyone else. But then again I had gotten plenty of rest the night before. I had a grasp on how important the day was for the band so I felt like I needed to be at my best physically. My air mattress is dead so I slept in a sleeping bag in a nook between the bed and the air conditioner.
I went downstairs to enjoy the San Diego Free one last time. I made myself a waffle and saw Paris again who said he was praying for me. It blows me away how just sharing similar beliefs can bond strangers together. I was encouraged by his words.
Had to help get everyone up, Dan wasn’t here so it kinda fell to Sean, Jason, and I to wake up our respective rooms. I don’t like fighting with people so I tapped Bryn and he got up and everyone else got up and got ready. We packed the trailer and piled in the van 13 strong.
Today we go to LA, finally. It had been five years since I’d been on the West Coast. Almost ten since I’d been to LA itself checking out schools and the like. We were here to do a showcase for Fontana, a division of Universal that distributes music for independent record labels like Bang Camaro’s label Black Sword. They get it in all of the stores so that you can go to FYE and buy a copy. I was surprised at how chilly it was today in a city famous for it’s perfect weather.
We walked inside and they had a soul food place cater the event; fried chicken, collard greens, macaroni and cheese. I was truly at home, come to find out that this was the urban music portion of Fontana Fest. We were treated to performances from artists on Master P’s new label Hollywood Dreams, he walked in (tall guy) and introduced himself and his label. He said that this venture was about making these kids dreams come true. First out of the gate was Little King an 8 year old rapper complete with hip hop swagger and 7 year old dancing “video girls” it was a bit disturbing especially since the girls had a ton of make up on their face. Then there was The Fabulous Girls and another R&B artist it was a little off putting. I’m sort of against having kids in the entertainment industry hardcore. I didn’t really dive into show business till my mid teens with acting and what not, going to CAPA (The Creative and Performing Arts High School in Philly) every once in a while we would get the kid that did a couple of movies or did some commercials before they got there, they would have plenty of cash to throw around from residuals and would often have their own apartments, and all I ever met except one was a complete mess. Whether this is my moment in the sun or the beginning of my success I’m thankful it’s happening at 26 and not 13.
We were then treated to a set by DJ Quick and Kurrupt. That was pretty cool. I grew up listening to a lot of the West Coast Hip Hop (My brother was really into NWA and Death Row) so to see Dj Quick up there was an amazing thing.
There was another rock band and then we played. Pleasure Pleasure, Revolution, and Lady Lightning was all we needed to rock the crowd. That day off made us all well rested and we were all in excellent shape. There was talk of an after party, open bar, free food so we stuck around. I changed my shirt to a longsleeve and a few hours later we went inside.
The party was amazing excellent spread and the server girls were friendly and gorgeous. I even ended up in a full blown 20 minute conversation with a Marilyn Monroe impersonator. She literally followed me around the party arm in arm. It was truly bizarre, she was very good at her job though. I managed to pass her off on Bryn and Morgan and I slipped off into the sunset. I was talking to industry people and making some contacts and what not for the day that I’d be ready to shop my own stuff. Everybody was really nice and laid back and as I was walking to find the brothers a voice hits my ear drum
Max: Would you like a reading?
I turned around and thought about it
Me: Sure
It was a woman with Tarot Cards. I’m not a believer in any of this stuff, but I’ve never had one done and I was curious about it. I imagine that it’s all about reading people and telling them what they wanted to hear,, especially in this environment. Besides I like a good hustle so why not?
She said my past was about me having an abundance of skills and someone wanting to help me. My present was about me gaining fortitude and trying to be stronger. She says my future is about me taking all these skills and running with them that great abundance and smooth sailing was in my future. Not likely, but the reading was strangely accurate a little spooky. I know my help comes from God not cards on a table.
So the party was in full swing and then someone says “Ladies and Gentlemen welcome our entertainment for the evening, The Crystal Method.” Yes they Crystal Method DJed the party, it was amazing. Couldn’t dance to the music but it was still hittin pretty hard. I walked around ate and drank a little more and talked to some more people before we left for the hotel.
I slept in the back of the van and when we got there I had traveled up to the room and prepared to sleep on the floor when our manager Ramsey came in and said he had an open bed. My last night sleeping in a hotel room with the Camaro Crew and I get my own bed….sweet.
We got Kimmel tomorrow so I need to get some rest. This is Probably the biggest of all big days.
Thursday, April 23, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 43
Day 42 - April 22nd 2009
Sweet dreams turned into nightmares as a I felt a foot on my torso. I opened my eyes to see the giqant from Jack and the Beanstalk stepping on me. Turns out it was Nick Given the most gentle giant I knew who was extremely apologetic for not seeing me there. I was so exhausted from last night’s show that I slept on the floor with a sleeping bag instead of breaking out my air mattress. Funny because this was the only morning I planned on sleeping in.
I ventured to find the free in the sunshine breakfast room. Waffle, Danish, Orange Juice and water. As I was sitting here a gentlemen in a baseball cap sits down by me.
Paris: You seem to be yawning a lot are you awake yet?
Me: Not yet.
Paris: So what brings you here?
Okay here I’m thinking he’s hitting on me.
Me: I’m out here on tour with my band.
Paris: What kind of band.
Me: Hard rock band. Def Leppard, Skid Row.
Paris: Yeah I grew up on that stuff.
Me: Cool
Paris: Mid if I sit down.
Me: Sure
Paris: Yeah I’m from Northern California , I’m here with my family we’re goin to the zoo and…
Okay here I think he’s about to ask me for money
Paris: I’m here because I love to talk to people about the most important thing in the world the gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Whew, it’s just a Jesus pitch. I’m already a Christian so these are particularly easily to handle, unless you get one of these Kirk Cameron people who want to debate Salvation with you. This guy was a nice enough dude. We shot it for a while, he prayed for me and then he left to move on to someone else. This guy is very good at what he does. He could have used his gifts to sell used cars or bad stocks but he’s using it for Jesus which is cool. Most Christians are terrible salesman, so set in their beliefs they can’t fathom someone believing differently making the whole “converting lost souls” thing difficult for most.
I went back to the room and finished catching up on my Heroes and moved onto Smallville as the guys were waking up. There were plans to go to the beach. I hate the beach but I like these guys so I agreed to go. I spoke with Bryn bout future plans and he showed me some mailing list stuff he was doing, takes a long time. I was also able to sew up the Live and Local gig at Six Flags Great Adventure. Some other stuff is coming that should be pretty amazing.
We all piled in the car and headed over to the beach I had to buy shorts when I arrived. I put my feet in the ocean and all that. Sean had pulled a mighty sea beast from the ocean and took a picture of it. It was pretty cold unfortunately so we didn’t stay long.
Someone had an idea to BBQ so we hit up a grocery store and got some food, as we walked the sun came back out a bit and I marveled at the people walking around sitting in outdoor cafes. I thought out loud that people live like this everyday out here. Alex suggested that we could move out here and turn it into a sitcom.
We brought the food back to the hotel and tore it up. Brugers, Dogs, Chickens, Steaks, Corn, etc. we had a mighty feast, shared mom stories, then what could very well be our last campfire jam. Although I generally don’t know or like the music that’s selected I’ll miss the camaraderie of singing in a circle with my new brothers. I did my laundry during all these happenings as well.
They went to see a show and I hung back and did some practicing/writing/arranging I took a shower and went to bed early. We invade LA tomorrow and have lots to do. I need to be on my game.
Sweet dreams turned into nightmares as a I felt a foot on my torso. I opened my eyes to see the giqant from Jack and the Beanstalk stepping on me. Turns out it was Nick Given the most gentle giant I knew who was extremely apologetic for not seeing me there. I was so exhausted from last night’s show that I slept on the floor with a sleeping bag instead of breaking out my air mattress. Funny because this was the only morning I planned on sleeping in.
I ventured to find the free in the sunshine breakfast room. Waffle, Danish, Orange Juice and water. As I was sitting here a gentlemen in a baseball cap sits down by me.
Paris: You seem to be yawning a lot are you awake yet?
Me: Not yet.
Paris: So what brings you here?
Okay here I’m thinking he’s hitting on me.
Me: I’m out here on tour with my band.
Paris: What kind of band.
Me: Hard rock band. Def Leppard, Skid Row.
Paris: Yeah I grew up on that stuff.
Me: Cool
Paris: Mid if I sit down.
Me: Sure
Paris: Yeah I’m from Northern California , I’m here with my family we’re goin to the zoo and…
Okay here I think he’s about to ask me for money
Paris: I’m here because I love to talk to people about the most important thing in the world the gospel of our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ.
Whew, it’s just a Jesus pitch. I’m already a Christian so these are particularly easily to handle, unless you get one of these Kirk Cameron people who want to debate Salvation with you. This guy was a nice enough dude. We shot it for a while, he prayed for me and then he left to move on to someone else. This guy is very good at what he does. He could have used his gifts to sell used cars or bad stocks but he’s using it for Jesus which is cool. Most Christians are terrible salesman, so set in their beliefs they can’t fathom someone believing differently making the whole “converting lost souls” thing difficult for most.
I went back to the room and finished catching up on my Heroes and moved onto Smallville as the guys were waking up. There were plans to go to the beach. I hate the beach but I like these guys so I agreed to go. I spoke with Bryn bout future plans and he showed me some mailing list stuff he was doing, takes a long time. I was also able to sew up the Live and Local gig at Six Flags Great Adventure. Some other stuff is coming that should be pretty amazing.
We all piled in the car and headed over to the beach I had to buy shorts when I arrived. I put my feet in the ocean and all that. Sean had pulled a mighty sea beast from the ocean and took a picture of it. It was pretty cold unfortunately so we didn’t stay long.
Someone had an idea to BBQ so we hit up a grocery store and got some food, as we walked the sun came back out a bit and I marveled at the people walking around sitting in outdoor cafes. I thought out loud that people live like this everyday out here. Alex suggested that we could move out here and turn it into a sitcom.
We brought the food back to the hotel and tore it up. Brugers, Dogs, Chickens, Steaks, Corn, etc. we had a mighty feast, shared mom stories, then what could very well be our last campfire jam. Although I generally don’t know or like the music that’s selected I’ll miss the camaraderie of singing in a circle with my new brothers. I did my laundry during all these happenings as well.
They went to see a show and I hung back and did some practicing/writing/arranging I took a shower and went to bed early. We invade LA tomorrow and have lots to do. I need to be on my game.
Wednesday, April 22, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 42
Day 41 - April 21st 2009
California, it’s been more than four years since the last time I was on the west coast. The last time I was here was for a funeral, so you may have to go even further back than that to find the last time I was here under happy circumstances. It’s one of the few places on tour I’ve been quite often.
Growing up California to me was the place I was supposed to make my dreams come true. Light years ago when I was in High School and wanted to be a filmmaker/screenwriter. I dreamed of studying film at USC. I was unable to go because of financial reasons, even my freshmen year at Temple I dreamed of the day when I might be able to transfer. With the exception of being the fifth Ghostbuster, all the things I’ve ever wanted to be; a musician, a football player, a writer, a Radio DJ, an actor, filmmaker, screenwriter you had to go to Cali (LA in particular) if you really wanted to make it happen for yourself. A lot of my friends moved out here a few years ago and they never let an opportunity to tell me how much they love it to pass by. I also wondered about movin out here, still do.
I woke up in my own hotel room. It was the first time I had booked my own room on this tour, matter of fact it’s the first time I’ve booked my own hotel room ever. The guys were talking something on the lines of sleeping 7 to a room so I figured getting my own room was best. Having a bed to myself was awesome. I woke up grabbed some free and got in the shower. When I got out and Sean got out I ran to the van to get the Leslie boys so they could use it. Not before stretching and soaking in that California Sun (it was hot already) Good bunch of guys.
We hopped in the van and all I could think of was the heat and being crammed in a van with 15 guys. Jonathan from Leslie was the right guy to sit next to me. His particular brand of humor always puts me at ease. I’m to busy laughing at that boy to worry about whatever’s worrying me. I got a call from Laila an on-line friend and supporter of my music. She’s from San Diego and I forgot to tell her and the crew I was gonna be in town. She found out and told me she was gonna show up and bring Heather and her husband with her. The funny thing about e-friends is that you’ve been corresponding with them one way or another for so long you know them (I’ve known Laila for two years and Heather longer than that) but you’ve never physically met.
We got to the hotel about four hours later and checked into the hotel. Once we got settled Nick, Steve, and I went to a restaurant on the hotel grounds and had some beers and shot the shit. I wish these two guys would have been along for more of the ride they’ve got good spirits. We all piled in the van and got to the venue. After sound check I was wondering where my posse was. I decided to eat at this really cool Chinese place Sean had gotten food from. I got Chicken Lo Mien and soon after I was done the crew showed up. I realized how much I missed having friends at shows. With the exception of Minneapolis it’s been hard to get people to come out and see the band.
Leslie rocked it as always. Real deal right there.
I had so much energy when I hit the stage. But tonight was strange. As we got further into the set I was sweating like nobody’s business, way more than usual, I was winded and light headed, and the flashing lights made me feel like I was on some kind of psychedelic drug. The room blurred and moved back and forth. It was the first time I thought I was in some kind of danger. I fed off of the energy of my band mates and got through the set. I recovered our picture of Beavis (I’ll explain at some point) got in the van and went back to the hotel. Played guitar for a while and went to bed.
We’ve got a day off tomorrow and I hope to get some rest for this final push.
California, it’s been more than four years since the last time I was on the west coast. The last time I was here was for a funeral, so you may have to go even further back than that to find the last time I was here under happy circumstances. It’s one of the few places on tour I’ve been quite often.
Growing up California to me was the place I was supposed to make my dreams come true. Light years ago when I was in High School and wanted to be a filmmaker/screenwriter. I dreamed of studying film at USC. I was unable to go because of financial reasons, even my freshmen year at Temple I dreamed of the day when I might be able to transfer. With the exception of being the fifth Ghostbuster, all the things I’ve ever wanted to be; a musician, a football player, a writer, a Radio DJ, an actor, filmmaker, screenwriter you had to go to Cali (LA in particular) if you really wanted to make it happen for yourself. A lot of my friends moved out here a few years ago and they never let an opportunity to tell me how much they love it to pass by. I also wondered about movin out here, still do.
I woke up in my own hotel room. It was the first time I had booked my own room on this tour, matter of fact it’s the first time I’ve booked my own hotel room ever. The guys were talking something on the lines of sleeping 7 to a room so I figured getting my own room was best. Having a bed to myself was awesome. I woke up grabbed some free and got in the shower. When I got out and Sean got out I ran to the van to get the Leslie boys so they could use it. Not before stretching and soaking in that California Sun (it was hot already) Good bunch of guys.
We hopped in the van and all I could think of was the heat and being crammed in a van with 15 guys. Jonathan from Leslie was the right guy to sit next to me. His particular brand of humor always puts me at ease. I’m to busy laughing at that boy to worry about whatever’s worrying me. I got a call from Laila an on-line friend and supporter of my music. She’s from San Diego and I forgot to tell her and the crew I was gonna be in town. She found out and told me she was gonna show up and bring Heather and her husband with her. The funny thing about e-friends is that you’ve been corresponding with them one way or another for so long you know them (I’ve known Laila for two years and Heather longer than that) but you’ve never physically met.
We got to the hotel about four hours later and checked into the hotel. Once we got settled Nick, Steve, and I went to a restaurant on the hotel grounds and had some beers and shot the shit. I wish these two guys would have been along for more of the ride they’ve got good spirits. We all piled in the van and got to the venue. After sound check I was wondering where my posse was. I decided to eat at this really cool Chinese place Sean had gotten food from. I got Chicken Lo Mien and soon after I was done the crew showed up. I realized how much I missed having friends at shows. With the exception of Minneapolis it’s been hard to get people to come out and see the band.
Leslie rocked it as always. Real deal right there.
I had so much energy when I hit the stage. But tonight was strange. As we got further into the set I was sweating like nobody’s business, way more than usual, I was winded and light headed, and the flashing lights made me feel like I was on some kind of psychedelic drug. The room blurred and moved back and forth. It was the first time I thought I was in some kind of danger. I fed off of the energy of my band mates and got through the set. I recovered our picture of Beavis (I’ll explain at some point) got in the van and went back to the hotel. Played guitar for a while and went to bed.
We’ve got a day off tomorrow and I hope to get some rest for this final push.
Tuesday, April 21, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 41
Day 40 - April 20th 2009
My shoulder aches. Probably because I slept on it, probably because I played wiffle ball in the desert yesterday and like an asshole swung to hard. Head hurts a little. Probably because I slammed those two vodka cranberries in the span of five minutes like an asshole. Bad day, time to get back to track. According to the window I just opened we’re still in Albuquerque. We have to figure out the trailer situation so we can try to get to Sand Diego by tomorrow, everyone is still asleep as usual must find free.
They have a waffle maker. Free’s always better when they have a waffle maker. All the hotels seem to prefer Good morning America to the Today show, I don’t know why that is. Alex comes downstairs with Sean right behind him. We chat for a while about some general stuff about the plans for the day he goes to check on the trailer situation. When he comes back he says that the Goodyear guy said that he can actually fix the trailer so we should get enough guys to go over and pull the trailer over to the garage. Everyone else is sleep so Alex Sean and I are it. We hoist it over to the parking lot and wait.
Check out isn’t till 1 so I walk down the street to the coffee house to grab some lunch. Johnathan from Leslie is there with Rod and Sadler. We kick it for a while and go into this Native American spot where they shop for jewelry and what not, I thought of getting something for my nieces but they wouldn’t wear this kind of stuff. We got the trailer sorted shortly afterwards and started out on our way. Cluck Master lives again.
The plan is to actually drive to San Diego tonight. 12 hours, 1 van, 14 dudes. Lord I pray I don’t kill everyone before we make it to San Diego. We’re drivin and I throw my ipod on. After a rest stop the lEslie guys and Sean suggest I listen to Thin Lizzy for the next 50 miles so they throw some on, they think I’ll like this. It was a good call on their part. Great grooves, guitar solos, and an awesome voice.
After a deep conversation about the deliciousness of Fried Chicken we stopped at a KFC. I wonder how fat I’ve gotten since the tour started.
As we drove…and drove….and drove….and drove some more I peeped the scenery. I love the Southwest landscape. It’s so flat you can see ahead for miles and miles. It’s the way one wishes his life was. My anxiety switches from the tour to going home. I wonder how different I’ve become. I feel different, but is that normal? Has the crassness of being on the road with 14 other guys rubbed off on me. Do I want to lead a more normal life again. I’m not who I was when I left. I don’t even know what that means.
I’ve always been anxious about the future, not as much as I was ten years ago. I like not knowing what’s around the corner. A year ago I was walking around Center City with Claire and we were talking about making our dreams come true. Fast forward and I’m in a van, in a band that’s taping for Jimmy Kimmel on Friday, who knows where I‘ll be a year from now.
As we drove…and drove…and drove…and drove…and drove. We finally crossed the state line and I played California by Phantom Planet as we crossed into Cali. I finally got here but that’s a story for another blog.
My shoulder aches. Probably because I slept on it, probably because I played wiffle ball in the desert yesterday and like an asshole swung to hard. Head hurts a little. Probably because I slammed those two vodka cranberries in the span of five minutes like an asshole. Bad day, time to get back to track. According to the window I just opened we’re still in Albuquerque. We have to figure out the trailer situation so we can try to get to Sand Diego by tomorrow, everyone is still asleep as usual must find free.
They have a waffle maker. Free’s always better when they have a waffle maker. All the hotels seem to prefer Good morning America to the Today show, I don’t know why that is. Alex comes downstairs with Sean right behind him. We chat for a while about some general stuff about the plans for the day he goes to check on the trailer situation. When he comes back he says that the Goodyear guy said that he can actually fix the trailer so we should get enough guys to go over and pull the trailer over to the garage. Everyone else is sleep so Alex Sean and I are it. We hoist it over to the parking lot and wait.
Check out isn’t till 1 so I walk down the street to the coffee house to grab some lunch. Johnathan from Leslie is there with Rod and Sadler. We kick it for a while and go into this Native American spot where they shop for jewelry and what not, I thought of getting something for my nieces but they wouldn’t wear this kind of stuff. We got the trailer sorted shortly afterwards and started out on our way. Cluck Master lives again.
The plan is to actually drive to San Diego tonight. 12 hours, 1 van, 14 dudes. Lord I pray I don’t kill everyone before we make it to San Diego. We’re drivin and I throw my ipod on. After a rest stop the lEslie guys and Sean suggest I listen to Thin Lizzy for the next 50 miles so they throw some on, they think I’ll like this. It was a good call on their part. Great grooves, guitar solos, and an awesome voice.
After a deep conversation about the deliciousness of Fried Chicken we stopped at a KFC. I wonder how fat I’ve gotten since the tour started.
As we drove…and drove….and drove….and drove some more I peeped the scenery. I love the Southwest landscape. It’s so flat you can see ahead for miles and miles. It’s the way one wishes his life was. My anxiety switches from the tour to going home. I wonder how different I’ve become. I feel different, but is that normal? Has the crassness of being on the road with 14 other guys rubbed off on me. Do I want to lead a more normal life again. I’m not who I was when I left. I don’t even know what that means.
I’ve always been anxious about the future, not as much as I was ten years ago. I like not knowing what’s around the corner. A year ago I was walking around Center City with Claire and we were talking about making our dreams come true. Fast forward and I’m in a van, in a band that’s taping for Jimmy Kimmel on Friday, who knows where I‘ll be a year from now.
As we drove…and drove…and drove…and drove…and drove. We finally crossed the state line and I played California by Phantom Planet as we crossed into Cali. I finally got here but that’s a story for another blog.
Monday, April 20, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 40
Day 39 - April 19th 2009
We woke up in a hotel that was not unlike Dimension X. In the front the amazing looking renovated area where I’m guessing suites were built. You turn a quick corner and you are in the Richard Allen Projects which is where we were staying. The rooms were nice, but the hallways looked like someone would be sellin crack a few weeks down. I got word that our Jimmy Kimmel appearance will be taped on Friday and air Wednesday April 29th as opposed to being aired live. Good news is we can all watch it together.
I journeyed into the lobby in search of free and I have to say that the free was pretty underwhelming compared to the other spots we’ve hit. Not saying I didn’t eat it but I’m gonna need hem to step up their free game in case I ever come back through.
We start driving headed towards Albuquerque and we stopped at a rest stop. I saw a sweet cowboy hat but it wasn’t quite sweet enough to buy so I left it there. Pete did pick up a box of meal worms, I ate one. Kinda tasted like pork rinds. I throw my Ipod on (which I often do in the car to keep me from talking save my voice) and I look out and gaze at the landscape, something I often find myself doing these days. It’s like being on another planet. I mean I’ve seen things other than Philadelphia but not like this.
Thirty minutes later we pull over. Getting out to inquire about what’s wrong I see that the axel had come off one o the wheels on the trailer. Apparently a woman driving next to us gave us the heads up. Another example of the Lord looking after babies and fools. That tire could have come off and something bad could have happened.
So we spent the next two hours in the New Mexico desert hanging out. I worked on that song, came up with an idea for something I could write for the Camaro, and then we all played wiffle ball for the next hour or so. We’ve established the fact that I can’t hit worth a damn. I think I even popped my shoulder. The tow truck came and got the trailer after about two and a half hours. They came in a flat bed truck and hoisted the trailer onto it.
We continued on our journey to Albuquerque and as we arrived I noticed some rough looking customers in some really hot cars. As we exit the car we see a guy with a gun on him. We were more comfortable thinking he was an undercover cop so we went inside and loaded the gear.
We went to a restaurant for some more free this time provided by the venue who paid for us to eat at a restaurant down the street. We watched Zombie Strippers and I ate a grilled chicken sandwich. We got out just before the really horrible DJ’s got goin.
We played to a thin crowd for the second time in a row. We still rocked their faces off. The crowd was enthusiastic. One guy even jumped on stage and sang, his death metal scream was ridiculous. Then another guy picked up a monitor and threw it towards Bryn. It was obvious that this small crowd was getting out fo hand. Security dealt with it and it was decided that a safety word was needed in case something happens. I suggested deploy the negro and then I would dive off the stage and tackle whoever it was a la Rey Mysterio. We decided Soundwave would be decidedly less racist.
The bar was closing so I pounded two vodka and cranberries in 5 minutes….Big Mistake. I was pretty buzzed most of the night sharing my love with my brethren as we checked into the hotel. I grabbed my bag went into a room and hit the bed.
We gotta figure out what the deal is with the trailer so that we can make the trip to San Diego tomorrow seven days from now I’ll be playing my first Boy Wonder show in almost two months. It would help if I knew what my set list was.
R.I.P. Cluckmaster
I hardly Knew Ye
We woke up in a hotel that was not unlike Dimension X. In the front the amazing looking renovated area where I’m guessing suites were built. You turn a quick corner and you are in the Richard Allen Projects which is where we were staying. The rooms were nice, but the hallways looked like someone would be sellin crack a few weeks down. I got word that our Jimmy Kimmel appearance will be taped on Friday and air Wednesday April 29th as opposed to being aired live. Good news is we can all watch it together.
I journeyed into the lobby in search of free and I have to say that the free was pretty underwhelming compared to the other spots we’ve hit. Not saying I didn’t eat it but I’m gonna need hem to step up their free game in case I ever come back through.
We start driving headed towards Albuquerque and we stopped at a rest stop. I saw a sweet cowboy hat but it wasn’t quite sweet enough to buy so I left it there. Pete did pick up a box of meal worms, I ate one. Kinda tasted like pork rinds. I throw my Ipod on (which I often do in the car to keep me from talking save my voice) and I look out and gaze at the landscape, something I often find myself doing these days. It’s like being on another planet. I mean I’ve seen things other than Philadelphia but not like this.
Thirty minutes later we pull over. Getting out to inquire about what’s wrong I see that the axel had come off one o the wheels on the trailer. Apparently a woman driving next to us gave us the heads up. Another example of the Lord looking after babies and fools. That tire could have come off and something bad could have happened.
So we spent the next two hours in the New Mexico desert hanging out. I worked on that song, came up with an idea for something I could write for the Camaro, and then we all played wiffle ball for the next hour or so. We’ve established the fact that I can’t hit worth a damn. I think I even popped my shoulder. The tow truck came and got the trailer after about two and a half hours. They came in a flat bed truck and hoisted the trailer onto it.
We continued on our journey to Albuquerque and as we arrived I noticed some rough looking customers in some really hot cars. As we exit the car we see a guy with a gun on him. We were more comfortable thinking he was an undercover cop so we went inside and loaded the gear.
We went to a restaurant for some more free this time provided by the venue who paid for us to eat at a restaurant down the street. We watched Zombie Strippers and I ate a grilled chicken sandwich. We got out just before the really horrible DJ’s got goin.
We played to a thin crowd for the second time in a row. We still rocked their faces off. The crowd was enthusiastic. One guy even jumped on stage and sang, his death metal scream was ridiculous. Then another guy picked up a monitor and threw it towards Bryn. It was obvious that this small crowd was getting out fo hand. Security dealt with it and it was decided that a safety word was needed in case something happens. I suggested deploy the negro and then I would dive off the stage and tackle whoever it was a la Rey Mysterio. We decided Soundwave would be decidedly less racist.
The bar was closing so I pounded two vodka and cranberries in 5 minutes….Big Mistake. I was pretty buzzed most of the night sharing my love with my brethren as we checked into the hotel. I grabbed my bag went into a room and hit the bed.
We gotta figure out what the deal is with the trailer so that we can make the trip to San Diego tomorrow seven days from now I’ll be playing my first Boy Wonder show in almost two months. It would help if I knew what my set list was.
R.I.P. Cluckmaster
I hardly Knew Ye
Sunday, April 19, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 39
Day 38 - April 18th 2009
I woke up in the new Comfort Inn near Denton TX. We had the day off yesterday and stayed here. I feel like I’ve been here for a week, and I mean that in the best possible way. A day off not in the van is pretty sweet. As I went downstairs to find some free I ran into one of the people at the front desk who was especially nice to me. It may have something to do with and exchange we had last night when I went to buy some laundry detergent.
Last Night - Front Desk
Me: Hey I’d like to buy some detergent.
Front Desk Clerk: Sure what room are you in?
Me: 212
Front Desk Clerk: I already have someone in the room that bought detergent.
Me: Ok.
Front Desk Clerk: That’s where that band is staying,
She gives me the once over
Front Desk Clerk: You’re not with them.
Me: Yeah I am actually.
I was a tad testy as she finds a way to get her foot out of her mouth.
Front Desk Clerk: Oh I’m so sorry, I just, I just, didn’t see you with them.
Me; How much for the detergent
Front Desk Clerk: $1.50
Me: Thank you
In this situation I’ll admit I’m a little more sensitive about all this racial stuff than perhaps I would be normally. She was pretty embarrassed, and went out of her way to be nice to me this morning.
The free included make your own waffles, biscuits and gravy, sausage and all manner of muffins and juices. I watched a news story about a couple that just had a baby. Apparently the wife went into labor and neither of them knew she was pregnant in the first place. I watched an episode of heroes on my laptop and went back upstairs, we went to karaoke so I didn’t get a chance to take my clean clothes out of my laundry bag and put them in my suitcase. I generally have to re-pack/re-organize my suitcase after I wash clothes, so it’s cool to make the suitcase kinda look like it did before you left.
We rolled out and hit the road. 15 dudes in a 15 passenger van. Luckily the allergy meds I’m on keep me pretty sedated and I slept for quite some time, as I was drifting in and out I heard they guys in the back talk about inventing a cheeseburger paste to go on sandwiches. Gross and by gross I mean they would make mint off of fat people. I woke up when we reached a KFC. They had grilled chicken, so I go a meal that included vegetables. You end up eating so much crap out here you try to get a vegetable in your body whenever possible. I came out and Steve was eating a chicken sandwich with a cheeseburger on top. Nice.
I attempt to go back to sleep and when I wake up I hear we got turned around and somehow ended up in Oklahoma. We got back on track though and got to Amarillo in time for load in. We had a bit of difficulty finding the place but once we hit the street I looked and said I think this is it.
If you’ve ever met me look at that picture and then imagine the fear in my eyes. We’re in the south and This place don’t exactly look black friendly, matter of fact it don’t look too friendly at all. Amarillo wouldn’t be a town that I was going to explore. I told my band not to let me out of their sight, if they don’t see me come look for me. They all laughed, I wasn’t really kidding. I was also surprised at how cold it was. Desert weather I guess.
But as often happens when you judge a book by it’s cover I was wrong. This was a cool little spot with nice people. One of the ladies on the staff happens to be a big fan of that Philadelphia Parking Wars TV show so she talked to me at great length about it. My phone rings, it’s Jake (My bass player) we talk for about 10 minutes or so. I can’t wait to get with the guys again, we have lots of stuff comin up.
The band went to grab some grub and the Leslie guys went some place else leaving Sadler (Leslie, Guitar/Vocals) and I at the venue to heat up soup. Sadler’s an interesting cat. We showed each other some tunes, and he talked to me about Memphis, walking around soaking up the vibe. No matter where I am if I’m talkin about music I feel at home. We peeped the opening act, a local female singer/songwriter the crowd was a bit thin but I figured it would pick up. The band came back pleased to see me still in one piece. Leslie came on and tore it up. The crowd was still a little thin but I figured it would pick up. Byt the time we were ready there was still about 13-15 people at the show. So Bryn, Alex, Pete, and Doz came up with the idea that they would perform on the floor facing the stage while we stayed on the stage and we would put the audience in between us. We had a blast. Rocking it like there were 1500 people in the room. I’m a big believer in doin a good show no matter how many people are there.
The coolest moments for me came after the show. I was in the bathroom changing (I often wear a separate outfit on- stage because I sweat like a slave) I heard a guy who got to sing into one of the mics on the phone with his wife. He knew every word to every song during the set and was so happy on the phone telling his wife how it was the best thing ever that he got to sing with the band. He was so excited. Then Bryn talked to a kid who was just beginning to play guitar. He put his guitar on the kid and talked to him as he sat on one of the cases. He also got some autographed picks and a drumstick. It was really awesome to see the positive effect this band can have on people. A lesser band would have either left the venue or phoned it in and went back to their hotel. But we have too many people to ever be called a lesser band.
Great night right? Wasn’t over yet. We ended the night by going to a lesbian bar. Jason Fox kicked my ass in darts and I spent the rest of the even trying to keep all the cigarette smoke out of my lungs. But not before I almost peed my pants watching Sadler and Bryn slow dance on the dance floor. I do have to say that that bar had the worst DJ ever.
We pull into the hotel and get some shut eye. Zach is flying out in the AM. It’ll suck to see him go, but at least the van’ll be down to 14 in the 15 passenger van. Albuquerque is tomorrow, my first trip to New Mexico. Tour’s winding down, gotsta keep on rocking.
I woke up in the new Comfort Inn near Denton TX. We had the day off yesterday and stayed here. I feel like I’ve been here for a week, and I mean that in the best possible way. A day off not in the van is pretty sweet. As I went downstairs to find some free I ran into one of the people at the front desk who was especially nice to me. It may have something to do with and exchange we had last night when I went to buy some laundry detergent.
Last Night - Front Desk
Me: Hey I’d like to buy some detergent.
Front Desk Clerk: Sure what room are you in?
Me: 212
Front Desk Clerk: I already have someone in the room that bought detergent.
Me: Ok.
Front Desk Clerk: That’s where that band is staying,
She gives me the once over
Front Desk Clerk: You’re not with them.
Me: Yeah I am actually.
I was a tad testy as she finds a way to get her foot out of her mouth.
Front Desk Clerk: Oh I’m so sorry, I just, I just, didn’t see you with them.
Me; How much for the detergent
Front Desk Clerk: $1.50
Me: Thank you
In this situation I’ll admit I’m a little more sensitive about all this racial stuff than perhaps I would be normally. She was pretty embarrassed, and went out of her way to be nice to me this morning.
The free included make your own waffles, biscuits and gravy, sausage and all manner of muffins and juices. I watched a news story about a couple that just had a baby. Apparently the wife went into labor and neither of them knew she was pregnant in the first place. I watched an episode of heroes on my laptop and went back upstairs, we went to karaoke so I didn’t get a chance to take my clean clothes out of my laundry bag and put them in my suitcase. I generally have to re-pack/re-organize my suitcase after I wash clothes, so it’s cool to make the suitcase kinda look like it did before you left.
We rolled out and hit the road. 15 dudes in a 15 passenger van. Luckily the allergy meds I’m on keep me pretty sedated and I slept for quite some time, as I was drifting in and out I heard they guys in the back talk about inventing a cheeseburger paste to go on sandwiches. Gross and by gross I mean they would make mint off of fat people. I woke up when we reached a KFC. They had grilled chicken, so I go a meal that included vegetables. You end up eating so much crap out here you try to get a vegetable in your body whenever possible. I came out and Steve was eating a chicken sandwich with a cheeseburger on top. Nice.
I attempt to go back to sleep and when I wake up I hear we got turned around and somehow ended up in Oklahoma. We got back on track though and got to Amarillo in time for load in. We had a bit of difficulty finding the place but once we hit the street I looked and said I think this is it.
If you’ve ever met me look at that picture and then imagine the fear in my eyes. We’re in the south and This place don’t exactly look black friendly, matter of fact it don’t look too friendly at all. Amarillo wouldn’t be a town that I was going to explore. I told my band not to let me out of their sight, if they don’t see me come look for me. They all laughed, I wasn’t really kidding. I was also surprised at how cold it was. Desert weather I guess.
But as often happens when you judge a book by it’s cover I was wrong. This was a cool little spot with nice people. One of the ladies on the staff happens to be a big fan of that Philadelphia Parking Wars TV show so she talked to me at great length about it. My phone rings, it’s Jake (My bass player) we talk for about 10 minutes or so. I can’t wait to get with the guys again, we have lots of stuff comin up.
The band went to grab some grub and the Leslie guys went some place else leaving Sadler (Leslie, Guitar/Vocals) and I at the venue to heat up soup. Sadler’s an interesting cat. We showed each other some tunes, and he talked to me about Memphis, walking around soaking up the vibe. No matter where I am if I’m talkin about music I feel at home. We peeped the opening act, a local female singer/songwriter the crowd was a bit thin but I figured it would pick up. The band came back pleased to see me still in one piece. Leslie came on and tore it up. The crowd was still a little thin but I figured it would pick up. Byt the time we were ready there was still about 13-15 people at the show. So Bryn, Alex, Pete, and Doz came up with the idea that they would perform on the floor facing the stage while we stayed on the stage and we would put the audience in between us. We had a blast. Rocking it like there were 1500 people in the room. I’m a big believer in doin a good show no matter how many people are there.
The coolest moments for me came after the show. I was in the bathroom changing (I often wear a separate outfit on- stage because I sweat like a slave) I heard a guy who got to sing into one of the mics on the phone with his wife. He knew every word to every song during the set and was so happy on the phone telling his wife how it was the best thing ever that he got to sing with the band. He was so excited. Then Bryn talked to a kid who was just beginning to play guitar. He put his guitar on the kid and talked to him as he sat on one of the cases. He also got some autographed picks and a drumstick. It was really awesome to see the positive effect this band can have on people. A lesser band would have either left the venue or phoned it in and went back to their hotel. But we have too many people to ever be called a lesser band.
Great night right? Wasn’t over yet. We ended the night by going to a lesbian bar. Jason Fox kicked my ass in darts and I spent the rest of the even trying to keep all the cigarette smoke out of my lungs. But not before I almost peed my pants watching Sadler and Bryn slow dance on the dance floor. I do have to say that that bar had the worst DJ ever.
We pull into the hotel and get some shut eye. Zach is flying out in the AM. It’ll suck to see him go, but at least the van’ll be down to 14 in the 15 passenger van. Albuquerque is tomorrow, my first trip to New Mexico. Tour’s winding down, gotsta keep on rocking.
Saturday, April 18, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 38
Day 37 - April 17th 2009
Morning
It seems different today. In Texas, nice hotel, day off, I can think of a billion reasons but I’m pretty sure I know why. I felt so much better after my mini meltdown last night after the Denton show. It’s nice to have one’s brain functioning properly, and to finally have a grip/perspective on things. It’s also nice to have a day off in a nice hotel. I was determined to do absolutely nothing all day but I quickly realized I had some TV to catch up on and that I had some laundry to do, my clothes were drenched in my man juices and needed to be cleaned.
I started the day off with a shower and breakfast, then I opened up my book of nonsense and tried to see fi I could pull a song out of the babble that I had written down the night before. Success on that front. I’m a firm believer in writing and re-writing to get the song right. Of course you don’t wanna second and third draft the song’s raw power away but there are always things you may miss or things that could be said better if you take a second look. I think the tune might be ready by the time we hit LA next week.
I spoke at great length with Mom and Dad. The talks get longer the closer I get to returning home. I often wonder how difficult it’ll be to readjust to my old life. I spoke with Rob as well, I hadn’t spoken with him since before I left, it was good to hear his voice. It’ll be good to get back to business with the boys.
I noticed my cough/hoarsness in my chest had returned. We were in the south when I had it before so I’m hoping that it has something to do with the Texas air and not that I’ve done damage to my voice.
I laid around for a while picked my dirty clothes bag up out of my suitcase and took it down to the washer/dryer to make sure my clothes would no longer smell like balls. Then as I was hanging in the laundry room Sean mentioned a Karaoke place around the corner from he hotel. I had so much fun when we did it in Michigan I was there with bells on. The Bang Camaro singers as well as Sadler Vaden woke up the dead, empty bar and got em movin. It’s always fun to roll into a place like that 8 deep and have more than half of them be really good singers. I had a blast with the guys, singing and dancing and while nine.
When we go back I blew up m mattress and immediately went to bed. The last stretch of the tour begins tomorrow in Amarillo and I’ve got a 6 hour van ride with 15 people
Morning
It seems different today. In Texas, nice hotel, day off, I can think of a billion reasons but I’m pretty sure I know why. I felt so much better after my mini meltdown last night after the Denton show. It’s nice to have one’s brain functioning properly, and to finally have a grip/perspective on things. It’s also nice to have a day off in a nice hotel. I was determined to do absolutely nothing all day but I quickly realized I had some TV to catch up on and that I had some laundry to do, my clothes were drenched in my man juices and needed to be cleaned.
I started the day off with a shower and breakfast, then I opened up my book of nonsense and tried to see fi I could pull a song out of the babble that I had written down the night before. Success on that front. I’m a firm believer in writing and re-writing to get the song right. Of course you don’t wanna second and third draft the song’s raw power away but there are always things you may miss or things that could be said better if you take a second look. I think the tune might be ready by the time we hit LA next week.
I spoke at great length with Mom and Dad. The talks get longer the closer I get to returning home. I often wonder how difficult it’ll be to readjust to my old life. I spoke with Rob as well, I hadn’t spoken with him since before I left, it was good to hear his voice. It’ll be good to get back to business with the boys.
I noticed my cough/hoarsness in my chest had returned. We were in the south when I had it before so I’m hoping that it has something to do with the Texas air and not that I’ve done damage to my voice.
I laid around for a while picked my dirty clothes bag up out of my suitcase and took it down to the washer/dryer to make sure my clothes would no longer smell like balls. Then as I was hanging in the laundry room Sean mentioned a Karaoke place around the corner from he hotel. I had so much fun when we did it in Michigan I was there with bells on. The Bang Camaro singers as well as Sadler Vaden woke up the dead, empty bar and got em movin. It’s always fun to roll into a place like that 8 deep and have more than half of them be really good singers. I had a blast with the guys, singing and dancing and while nine.
When we go back I blew up m mattress and immediately went to bed. The last stretch of the tour begins tomorrow in Amarillo and I’ve got a 6 hour van ride with 15 people
Friday, April 17, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 37
Day 36 - April 16th 2009
http://myspace.com/boywonderrocks
Mark it on your calendar, April 16th (technically the 17th)2009, Denton, Texas 12:05 AM 36 days (and some change) into my tour with Bang Camaro I officially snap for the first time. I’m surprised that it hadn’t happened earlier all things considered. But we’ll rewind to the beginning of the day.
I woke up in Austin pretty early, my air mattress semi-deflated (I don’t think it’ll survive another tour) I was pretty hungry so I moved into the lobby in search of free. The woman at the front desk was amazing. Apparently she had a daughter that came to the show last night so I got the true rock star treatment. I was handed a plate of various danishes and when she asked if I wanted coffee she handed me a fresh pot over the front desk. I flip on MSNBC to catch the final hour of Morning Joe. When I finished breakfast I caught a shave and came back to catch up on some internet stuff, then once 11 AM rolled around and I went to get Roxanne to put her into the trailer. I overheard that the one of the wheels on the trailer is all messed up, hopefully it’ll survive the rest of the trip.
With not long to go to Denton we took our time getting there. We had some pickups to get to. Nick Given was flyin in to do the rest of the tour and we were re-uniting with the Leslie boys. Once everyone was picked up and in the van we were at 15 people in a 15 passenger van. The ride to Denton gave me this feeling of being cooped up, the thing that really pushes my buttons the moment is the feeling of being trapped. I managed to calm myself down through texting friends and listening to music. My cough is filled with phlegm, the Texas air is just awesome for my allergies…lol
We arrived at the venue and loaded in. We met up with the Electric Six guys as the long goodbyes began. This would be our last night with Electric Six and we’ve all had such an amazing time. I’ve learned a lot about being in a band and entertaining a crowd from those guys. They do it every night.
We did sound check and as we were about to come off the stage Doz starts playing the bass line for walking on the moon (one of my favorite police songs) Alex didn’t know the chord so I tried to tell him and figured it’d be easier to show him. So I hit the chord that I’ve hit hundreds of times and it felt pretty good. We came off the stage I had a quick pow wow with Nick about a few bad notes in Blood Red Rock. It’s nice to have fresh ears here. I want these shows to be good and it’s good that there are always people here that are focused on music.
I wandered through Denton some. Another great small town that just so happened to be filled with beautiful women. The Jupiter Coffee shop was full of em, but they were all playing second life on their computers. That’s just weird to me. I’m having a hard enough time getting my first life together. I got a green tea and sat on the curb.
The show itself was great. The band is riding a hot streak and Alex was ripping it on guitar. I almost lost it when I saw a mosh pit in the crowd and a guy push a girl to the floor. I’ve never liked mosh pits, even when I sang in punk rock bands when I was a kid. I just don’t get why people have to be so violent to each other especially these days. I was literally about to jump in the crowd but Sadler came up and started singing and someone picked the girl up and she seemed okay so I finished the set.
As I came down the stairs I dried myself off and changed my clothes. I left the room and went to the bathroom, when I came back to the green room it was filled with cigarette smoke and people that weren’t in Bang Camaro or Electric Six. The backstage activity was in full swing, I’ve seen this before, but tonight something’s different. As I stood there, I think of the life that I left, the one that I have now, the pros and cons of both, the sweet gig that I have, the songs I’m not writing, the stories I’m not telling, the amazing experience I’m having, the feeling that the people I meet on the way only know and care about a guy who sings some songs and shakes his hips, the thrill of performing and contributing to a kick ass group effort and the feeling that I have so much to express that I can’t in this environment, the pressure I put on myself to be perfect while I’m here, the van, the road, the life, the feeling that I had lost myself, I feel trapped again. Then it happened…I, very quietly lost my ever-lovin mind. I think I even heard a snapping sound just before it happened. I needed some fresh air. I walked around Denton again. This time without a firm grip on who I was. I probably looked like some meth addict as the Texas breeze blew across my skin. I wandered back into the coffee shop and got a latte and walked around. I was pretty far from the venue when I snapped back to reality. A couple deep breaths, a curb, and a quick prayer later and I felt like myself. As stupid as it sounds something as simple as breathing deeply can help you gain perspective.
I ran into some of the Bang Camaro fans (who are amazing people by the way) they shared their vodka with me and told me that they loved my blog. I still have a hard time adjusting to the fact that people read this stuff or care what I have to say about anything. He encouraged me keep it goin.
I re-joined the brethren (you really couldn’t ask for a better bunch of guys) and enjoyed the rest of Electric Six. We had a blast as I watched the rest of the Camaro guys jump on-stage with them, Electric Six has put us in an extremely good position. I had a convo with Dick Valentine as we wrapped up plans for me to come see them at Johnny Brenda’s in Philly in a couple of weeks, I can’t believe Electric Six has been playing the Khyber when they come to Philly that place is the pits.
We got back to the hotel everyone fell asleep and something extraordinary happened I opened up my book of nonsense and I started writing down everything I’d been feeling in the form of rhyming couplets that could eventually be called verses, choruses, and maybe a bridge. I feel like me again pouring everything into a notebook, wrestling with it till 4:30 in the morning. I can’t wait to finish it.
I think I’m ok now, not knowing who you are however briefly can really throw you for a loop. I felt like that walk I took really got me back on track. Growing (Growing up really) is crazier than I could have ever imagined I’m out of my funk and ready to rock. We have a day off tomorrow hopefully I can bang out this song.
I'm in Repair I'm not together but I'm getting there - John Mayer
http://myspace.com/boywonderrocks
Mark it on your calendar, April 16th (technically the 17th)2009, Denton, Texas 12:05 AM 36 days (and some change) into my tour with Bang Camaro I officially snap for the first time. I’m surprised that it hadn’t happened earlier all things considered. But we’ll rewind to the beginning of the day.
I woke up in Austin pretty early, my air mattress semi-deflated (I don’t think it’ll survive another tour) I was pretty hungry so I moved into the lobby in search of free. The woman at the front desk was amazing. Apparently she had a daughter that came to the show last night so I got the true rock star treatment. I was handed a plate of various danishes and when she asked if I wanted coffee she handed me a fresh pot over the front desk. I flip on MSNBC to catch the final hour of Morning Joe. When I finished breakfast I caught a shave and came back to catch up on some internet stuff, then once 11 AM rolled around and I went to get Roxanne to put her into the trailer. I overheard that the one of the wheels on the trailer is all messed up, hopefully it’ll survive the rest of the trip.
With not long to go to Denton we took our time getting there. We had some pickups to get to. Nick Given was flyin in to do the rest of the tour and we were re-uniting with the Leslie boys. Once everyone was picked up and in the van we were at 15 people in a 15 passenger van. The ride to Denton gave me this feeling of being cooped up, the thing that really pushes my buttons the moment is the feeling of being trapped. I managed to calm myself down through texting friends and listening to music. My cough is filled with phlegm, the Texas air is just awesome for my allergies…lol
We arrived at the venue and loaded in. We met up with the Electric Six guys as the long goodbyes began. This would be our last night with Electric Six and we’ve all had such an amazing time. I’ve learned a lot about being in a band and entertaining a crowd from those guys. They do it every night.
We did sound check and as we were about to come off the stage Doz starts playing the bass line for walking on the moon (one of my favorite police songs) Alex didn’t know the chord so I tried to tell him and figured it’d be easier to show him. So I hit the chord that I’ve hit hundreds of times and it felt pretty good. We came off the stage I had a quick pow wow with Nick about a few bad notes in Blood Red Rock. It’s nice to have fresh ears here. I want these shows to be good and it’s good that there are always people here that are focused on music.
I wandered through Denton some. Another great small town that just so happened to be filled with beautiful women. The Jupiter Coffee shop was full of em, but they were all playing second life on their computers. That’s just weird to me. I’m having a hard enough time getting my first life together. I got a green tea and sat on the curb.
The show itself was great. The band is riding a hot streak and Alex was ripping it on guitar. I almost lost it when I saw a mosh pit in the crowd and a guy push a girl to the floor. I’ve never liked mosh pits, even when I sang in punk rock bands when I was a kid. I just don’t get why people have to be so violent to each other especially these days. I was literally about to jump in the crowd but Sadler came up and started singing and someone picked the girl up and she seemed okay so I finished the set.
As I came down the stairs I dried myself off and changed my clothes. I left the room and went to the bathroom, when I came back to the green room it was filled with cigarette smoke and people that weren’t in Bang Camaro or Electric Six. The backstage activity was in full swing, I’ve seen this before, but tonight something’s different. As I stood there, I think of the life that I left, the one that I have now, the pros and cons of both, the sweet gig that I have, the songs I’m not writing, the stories I’m not telling, the amazing experience I’m having, the feeling that the people I meet on the way only know and care about a guy who sings some songs and shakes his hips, the thrill of performing and contributing to a kick ass group effort and the feeling that I have so much to express that I can’t in this environment, the pressure I put on myself to be perfect while I’m here, the van, the road, the life, the feeling that I had lost myself, I feel trapped again. Then it happened…I, very quietly lost my ever-lovin mind. I think I even heard a snapping sound just before it happened. I needed some fresh air. I walked around Denton again. This time without a firm grip on who I was. I probably looked like some meth addict as the Texas breeze blew across my skin. I wandered back into the coffee shop and got a latte and walked around. I was pretty far from the venue when I snapped back to reality. A couple deep breaths, a curb, and a quick prayer later and I felt like myself. As stupid as it sounds something as simple as breathing deeply can help you gain perspective.
I ran into some of the Bang Camaro fans (who are amazing people by the way) they shared their vodka with me and told me that they loved my blog. I still have a hard time adjusting to the fact that people read this stuff or care what I have to say about anything. He encouraged me keep it goin.
I re-joined the brethren (you really couldn’t ask for a better bunch of guys) and enjoyed the rest of Electric Six. We had a blast as I watched the rest of the Camaro guys jump on-stage with them, Electric Six has put us in an extremely good position. I had a convo with Dick Valentine as we wrapped up plans for me to come see them at Johnny Brenda’s in Philly in a couple of weeks, I can’t believe Electric Six has been playing the Khyber when they come to Philly that place is the pits.
We got back to the hotel everyone fell asleep and something extraordinary happened I opened up my book of nonsense and I started writing down everything I’d been feeling in the form of rhyming couplets that could eventually be called verses, choruses, and maybe a bridge. I feel like me again pouring everything into a notebook, wrestling with it till 4:30 in the morning. I can’t wait to finish it.
I think I’m ok now, not knowing who you are however briefly can really throw you for a loop. I felt like that walk I took really got me back on track. Growing (Growing up really) is crazier than I could have ever imagined I’m out of my funk and ready to rock. We have a day off tomorrow hopefully I can bang out this song.
I'm in Repair I'm not together but I'm getting there - John Mayer
Thursday, April 16, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 36
Day 35 - April 15th 2009
http://myspace.com/boywonderrocks
I woke up at 8 and for the first time on this tour I rolled over and went back to sleep. When I woke up I headed to the lobby in search of free. Free was unfortunately closed, I was upset because free at this hotel involve a waffle iron. I was pretty excited to get back to Austin, it kinda started here for me with Bang Camaro so it was a nice full circle thing.
When we went into the car I remembered I had to call The Six Flags offices after ten that morning. There was some interest from a couple of the theme parks in having me and my crew play this summer. I always feel a little weird doing Boy Wonder stuff in the van. It feels like small potatoes compared to the things that Bang Camaro does, but if I’m ever going to get anywhere near that level business has got to get done.
At the first rest stop in Texas I was pleased to feel the world famous Texas heat. A far cry from the cold weather of Midwest. We pulled into the hotel and went into the rooms. We watched this show called Cash Cab on the Discovery Channel, it’s nice whenever we get to kick back. When we left the room Pete was playing basketball with a little kid outside. I’m always surprised when I see a different side to one of my band mates. I’ve spent so much time with them in the month or two we’ve been out I forget that in a lot of ways I don’t really know these guys at all.
Depending on the day when we leave the van we tend to scatter, a little separation is good for the soul. My need for solitude was particularly strong today. At home I’m pretty much a loner. I spend most of my time doing things by myself we Coles’ aren’t really into people for people’s sake. It takes a long time usually but if we warm up to you you’ve got a friend for life but even then the need to commune by oneself is a strong one. I got some solitude in the form of 6th Street. Austin is an amazing town one of the few places I’ve seen that I can imagine myself living.
I hooked up with the Electric Six crew and we went and got some BBQ at Iron works on third, ribs were the 2nd best I’ve ever eaten. I got the van keys from Pete and explained to him that the itus had set in and I need to go in the van to go to sleep. I walked over to the van and did just that. I awoke to a txt message of another fire at the HYPE! that I’m too far away to put out. I walked up and down 6th street until it was time to play.
I changed into my stage clothes and I was feeling pretty damn good. We started the show and I had more energy than I had since Buffalo. I was shaking it and jumping around and (most importantly) hitting the right notes. My voice blasting through the monitors I a pretty good indication that I’m feeling better. Everything was on point last night, this had to be the best show of the tour to date. Bang Camaro was kicking ass in Austin last night. I spent a few moments chatting with some young kids that were jumping around in front. I’m always a little taken a back when I see young kids at shows digging the music.
I went up to the green room and wiped myself off from head to toe with a towel, (getting sick again isn’t an option) changed back into my street clothes, and headed back down to the venue for Electric Six’s set. Dick Valentine (Lead Singer) describes it as make everybody happy day. As they were getting ready in the green room a girl who had snuck in told Dick that she had a tap routine to Gay Bar and he said “Do it!” Rich Hoss was also joining them on stage for Danger High Voltage.
The tap routine didn’t work out, the floor was carpeted. I don’t know why she didn’t bring a Tap Board with her. But Rich Hoss brought it. They guy walked on stage prepared to do the song the way it’s supposed to be done. I was lovin it. Electric Six is an awesome band, to the point where I will be seeing them in Philly when they pull into town on April 30th. I had so much fun hanging out and having a good time. When the show was over I noticed (finally) that Pete had changed his drum head and everyone had signed the old one but me. I signed it, then they sold it to a fan. That was pretty bad ass. The kid looked so happy.
We piled in the van and Rich was preparing to roll to his hotel because he’s leaving in the morning. I like that dude, there‘s no bullshit with Rich Hoss, the guy tells you exactly what he thinks. I thought he was leaving for good but he told me he'd be back in time for the LA stuff. As he left I noticed there were non Camaro types in there going back to the hotel….awesome. Wanting no parts of any partying this evening I blew up my mattress and went straight to bed.
We’re in Denton tomorrow. We actually drove through it on the way to Austin, maybe we’re getting hot down the home stretch and this show will be better than the one last night. It’ll also be our last show with Electric Six who’ve been awesome and
http://myspace.com/boywonderrocks
I woke up at 8 and for the first time on this tour I rolled over and went back to sleep. When I woke up I headed to the lobby in search of free. Free was unfortunately closed, I was upset because free at this hotel involve a waffle iron. I was pretty excited to get back to Austin, it kinda started here for me with Bang Camaro so it was a nice full circle thing.
When we went into the car I remembered I had to call The Six Flags offices after ten that morning. There was some interest from a couple of the theme parks in having me and my crew play this summer. I always feel a little weird doing Boy Wonder stuff in the van. It feels like small potatoes compared to the things that Bang Camaro does, but if I’m ever going to get anywhere near that level business has got to get done.
At the first rest stop in Texas I was pleased to feel the world famous Texas heat. A far cry from the cold weather of Midwest. We pulled into the hotel and went into the rooms. We watched this show called Cash Cab on the Discovery Channel, it’s nice whenever we get to kick back. When we left the room Pete was playing basketball with a little kid outside. I’m always surprised when I see a different side to one of my band mates. I’ve spent so much time with them in the month or two we’ve been out I forget that in a lot of ways I don’t really know these guys at all.
Depending on the day when we leave the van we tend to scatter, a little separation is good for the soul. My need for solitude was particularly strong today. At home I’m pretty much a loner. I spend most of my time doing things by myself we Coles’ aren’t really into people for people’s sake. It takes a long time usually but if we warm up to you you’ve got a friend for life but even then the need to commune by oneself is a strong one. I got some solitude in the form of 6th Street. Austin is an amazing town one of the few places I’ve seen that I can imagine myself living.
I hooked up with the Electric Six crew and we went and got some BBQ at Iron works on third, ribs were the 2nd best I’ve ever eaten. I got the van keys from Pete and explained to him that the itus had set in and I need to go in the van to go to sleep. I walked over to the van and did just that. I awoke to a txt message of another fire at the HYPE! that I’m too far away to put out. I walked up and down 6th street until it was time to play.
I changed into my stage clothes and I was feeling pretty damn good. We started the show and I had more energy than I had since Buffalo. I was shaking it and jumping around and (most importantly) hitting the right notes. My voice blasting through the monitors I a pretty good indication that I’m feeling better. Everything was on point last night, this had to be the best show of the tour to date. Bang Camaro was kicking ass in Austin last night. I spent a few moments chatting with some young kids that were jumping around in front. I’m always a little taken a back when I see young kids at shows digging the music.
I went up to the green room and wiped myself off from head to toe with a towel, (getting sick again isn’t an option) changed back into my street clothes, and headed back down to the venue for Electric Six’s set. Dick Valentine (Lead Singer) describes it as make everybody happy day. As they were getting ready in the green room a girl who had snuck in told Dick that she had a tap routine to Gay Bar and he said “Do it!” Rich Hoss was also joining them on stage for Danger High Voltage.
The tap routine didn’t work out, the floor was carpeted. I don’t know why she didn’t bring a Tap Board with her. But Rich Hoss brought it. They guy walked on stage prepared to do the song the way it’s supposed to be done. I was lovin it. Electric Six is an awesome band, to the point where I will be seeing them in Philly when they pull into town on April 30th. I had so much fun hanging out and having a good time. When the show was over I noticed (finally) that Pete had changed his drum head and everyone had signed the old one but me. I signed it, then they sold it to a fan. That was pretty bad ass. The kid looked so happy.
We piled in the van and Rich was preparing to roll to his hotel because he’s leaving in the morning. I like that dude, there‘s no bullshit with Rich Hoss, the guy tells you exactly what he thinks. I thought he was leaving for good but he told me he'd be back in time for the LA stuff. As he left I noticed there were non Camaro types in there going back to the hotel….awesome. Wanting no parts of any partying this evening I blew up my mattress and went straight to bed.
We’re in Denton tomorrow. We actually drove through it on the way to Austin, maybe we’re getting hot down the home stretch and this show will be better than the one last night. It’ll also be our last show with Electric Six who’ve been awesome and
Wednesday, April 15, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 35
Day 34 - April 14th 2009
This has got to be the worst hotel we’ve stayed in so far. As I moved downstairs to partake in the free I saw the owner kick like six crack heads out of the hotel. All I kept hearing in a thick (what I think was a) Pakistani accent “This food is for registered gueeeessssts” It was weird. As I was done eating I had a familiar feeling albeit rare in the morning in the hotels we stay in. I had to shit like nobody’s business. Guys were in the shower and the hotel had no public bathroom. When he came out I burst through the door and copped a squat.
Fifteen minutes passed by and I flush, I knew then we had a slight problem. The toilet wouldn’t flush. I tried again and nothing doing. I had to go to the front desk to get a plunger. My band mates were embarrassed for me but I didn’t really care. When you live in the inner city sometimes piping and water in toilets are the greatest and you have to plunge a toilet. Besides when you eat lightning you crap thunder and sometimes thunder gets stuck.
I got the plunger which was inside a plastic bag. When I took it out water kinda went everywhere it was pretty gross but I got the job done and we headed out. Truth be told I was kinda happy to get out of Kansas City. Not a whole lot goin on here from where I was standing.
We headed towards Norman, Oklahoma and we played TV Theme Song trivia on the way. Dan had a bunch of them on his Ipod. Morgan owned the game for the most part but I did guess the theme from Small Wonder (I was hot for Vicki the robot) and Denver the Last Dinosaur…my childhood ruled supreme. As we exited to go to a rest stop I was pleased to feel warm weather against my skin. Now we can start behaving like civilized people again. When I turned my ipod on a big red X came on the screen which made me unhappy. So I ended up watching the original Transformers movie on my laptop. Even after the 513th time that movie kicks ass and is far superior to the Live Action Franchise.
I hit the internet and saw a few offers for shows as well as emails from friends. I’m excited to be going home and resuming my own life and career. But first I must rock Norman with the Camaro.
We pile out of the van and go inside of the Oopolis I noticed a lot of cats on the wall, I guessed Oopolis was some sort of euphemism for pussy. Someone at the club confirmed it for me but I had the sneaky suspicion she was screwing with me. I used the free time I had to walk around and play my favorite tour game, find a black person. Whenever we pull into a small town I like to wander around until I see a black person then I go back to the venue. Norman now holds the record. I walked around for 53 minutes before I saw one of my own people. We’re officially everywhere.
I have to say that I really liked this little town. It was quiet, clean, and the people seemed real laid back and friendly. A place I could retire to once my rock and roll days are behind me. Very artsy town, lots of theatres and performing arts spots. I figured I’d be able to find some throat coat tea here, surely a town like this would have a store pansy enough to carry it….denied. Although they did have slippery elm lozenges which I bought quite a few cases of.
When I got back we sound checked. The monitor situation was dicked. But the place was small so I figured it’s gonna be packed and the show would be awesome. Boy were we in for a treat.
The audience spent most of the show with their arms folded clapping in between songs. This was an East Coast crowd. They were listening and watching, deciding whether or not they dug it, they weren‘t going to just give it to us, we were going to have to earn it. There were a few exceptions, there was an older blonde woman who seemed especially excited about Alex’s guitar playing. I got a lot of compliments as I moved through the crowd, we also singed a few autographs, so it looks like people had a good time, I also got a lot of dirty looks from people. It’d be easy to blame the crowd but they paid good money to see us, so I wonder what I could have done differently to make the performance better.
It became apparent the crowd was there to see Electric Six and they brought it hard. The people loved it. When it was over I went to sleep in the van, something that I will begin doing when I tour in the future. Resting your body is really important. Especially if you don’t wanna get sick.
Dan beasted it on the road and drove two hours so that we would be four hours away from Austin for the show tomorrow. We pulled up at a hotel and there was plenty of room for my air mattress. I stole a pillow and went to bed….yeah.
This has got to be the worst hotel we’ve stayed in so far. As I moved downstairs to partake in the free I saw the owner kick like six crack heads out of the hotel. All I kept hearing in a thick (what I think was a) Pakistani accent “This food is for registered gueeeessssts” It was weird. As I was done eating I had a familiar feeling albeit rare in the morning in the hotels we stay in. I had to shit like nobody’s business. Guys were in the shower and the hotel had no public bathroom. When he came out I burst through the door and copped a squat.
Fifteen minutes passed by and I flush, I knew then we had a slight problem. The toilet wouldn’t flush. I tried again and nothing doing. I had to go to the front desk to get a plunger. My band mates were embarrassed for me but I didn’t really care. When you live in the inner city sometimes piping and water in toilets are the greatest and you have to plunge a toilet. Besides when you eat lightning you crap thunder and sometimes thunder gets stuck.
I got the plunger which was inside a plastic bag. When I took it out water kinda went everywhere it was pretty gross but I got the job done and we headed out. Truth be told I was kinda happy to get out of Kansas City. Not a whole lot goin on here from where I was standing.
We headed towards Norman, Oklahoma and we played TV Theme Song trivia on the way. Dan had a bunch of them on his Ipod. Morgan owned the game for the most part but I did guess the theme from Small Wonder (I was hot for Vicki the robot) and Denver the Last Dinosaur…my childhood ruled supreme. As we exited to go to a rest stop I was pleased to feel warm weather against my skin. Now we can start behaving like civilized people again. When I turned my ipod on a big red X came on the screen which made me unhappy. So I ended up watching the original Transformers movie on my laptop. Even after the 513th time that movie kicks ass and is far superior to the Live Action Franchise.
I hit the internet and saw a few offers for shows as well as emails from friends. I’m excited to be going home and resuming my own life and career. But first I must rock Norman with the Camaro.
We pile out of the van and go inside of the Oopolis I noticed a lot of cats on the wall, I guessed Oopolis was some sort of euphemism for pussy. Someone at the club confirmed it for me but I had the sneaky suspicion she was screwing with me. I used the free time I had to walk around and play my favorite tour game, find a black person. Whenever we pull into a small town I like to wander around until I see a black person then I go back to the venue. Norman now holds the record. I walked around for 53 minutes before I saw one of my own people. We’re officially everywhere.
I have to say that I really liked this little town. It was quiet, clean, and the people seemed real laid back and friendly. A place I could retire to once my rock and roll days are behind me. Very artsy town, lots of theatres and performing arts spots. I figured I’d be able to find some throat coat tea here, surely a town like this would have a store pansy enough to carry it….denied. Although they did have slippery elm lozenges which I bought quite a few cases of.
When I got back we sound checked. The monitor situation was dicked. But the place was small so I figured it’s gonna be packed and the show would be awesome. Boy were we in for a treat.
The audience spent most of the show with their arms folded clapping in between songs. This was an East Coast crowd. They were listening and watching, deciding whether or not they dug it, they weren‘t going to just give it to us, we were going to have to earn it. There were a few exceptions, there was an older blonde woman who seemed especially excited about Alex’s guitar playing. I got a lot of compliments as I moved through the crowd, we also singed a few autographs, so it looks like people had a good time, I also got a lot of dirty looks from people. It’d be easy to blame the crowd but they paid good money to see us, so I wonder what I could have done differently to make the performance better.
It became apparent the crowd was there to see Electric Six and they brought it hard. The people loved it. When it was over I went to sleep in the van, something that I will begin doing when I tour in the future. Resting your body is really important. Especially if you don’t wanna get sick.
Dan beasted it on the road and drove two hours so that we would be four hours away from Austin for the show tomorrow. We pulled up at a hotel and there was plenty of room for my air mattress. I stole a pillow and went to bed….yeah.
Tuesday, April 14, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 34
Day 33 - April 13th 2009
So much about life on the road is being a slave to routine. You roll out of bed at the same time every morning more or less, you shower (sometimes shave), get dressed, try to eat something, go back to your room, pack your stuff, hop in the van and head to the next gig. Roll in, load the gear, sound check if it’s possible, move the drums when your done and wait. Change clothes, play the gig, soak in the adulation of your adoring public, hang out for a while, maybe find a party, go back to the hotel, sleep, and do it all over again the next day. Sometimes you even forget what city you’re in. Luckily I have Dan (who’s probably sick of my black ass by now) to tap on the shoulder and ask dumb questions like that.
Yesterday he told me we were goin to Kansas City as we continue our trek through the alternate universe that is Middle America. The scenery is flat for the most part and the people are a tad more friendly here than they are on either of the coast. Things don’t seem to move as fast here. You’re more likely to find people coming out to see bands play. They seem to dig the whole rock and roll thing more out here. Or maybe it’s cause there’s nothing better to do. When we got to Kansas City, I was blown away by Kauffman Stadium where the Royals play and Arrowhead Stadium where the Chiefs play. They were my favorite team for the couple of years Joe Montana went there to finish his career.
We pulled into The Record bar at around 4:30 I was surprised at how small it was. The varying size of the rooms has probably been one of the things that throw me a little on a daily basis. As I look around though I see names on posters for upcoming shows I recognize; Howie Day, The Ting Tings, Eagles of Death Metal, and I’m thinking that not only is this place legit, Kansas City gets all these great shows in such an intimate setting. That’s pretty cool.
I found out that we didn’t go on till ten and there’d be no sound check I decided to walk around in search of a pansy organic store that might sell my throat coat tea. As I walked down Westport Road to Main Street I saw something I hadn’t seen since I left home…A Comic Book store. I was in heaven. Two guys playing D&D (which I’m against playing on principle) as I walked inside I looked at all the titles rushing to the B section to see if the 1st issue of Battle for The Cowl had come out. It had and it was sold out. I leave and directly across the street ANOTHER Comic Book Store. They didn’t have it either. I was sad. Neither staff was very social or friendly either. I’ll have to make a trip to Showcase when I come back.
I walked back towards the venue and saw a store called sun grocery. Unfortunately it wasn’t quite pansy enough to have my throat coat tea. When I got back to the record bar I got a bowl of vegan minestrone, which I found odd cause I didn’t know minestrone had animal products in it. It was pretty tasty so I got another one and some fries. I ate half and gave the rest to my man Doz who finished them off. I waited in the dressing room and was told we were going back to the hotel for a while so I hopped in the van.
The hotel brought new meaning to the word seedy. It looked like one of these hotels where drug related things happen or where men bring their mistresses or hookers for extramarital activity. We rolled in, watched some Family Guy and bolted.
When we got back I changed and it was go time. I could see The Electric Six guys in crowd watching as the show began. We’ve all gotten along really well I imagine that that is a rare thing when you tour with people. Then I noticed something that I really hadn’t banked on happening today. I swallowed and it didn’t hurt, I had a spring in my step. Which means I’m running somewhere between 75 and 80% which means I can give a decent performance. My allergies (which have seemingly taken the place of my strep throat) are effecting my voice a bit so there were some notes and vocal character things that aren’t quite there yet but it’s getting better. Electric Six got their groove on as usual. I’m gonna try some of that banter when I get home. See how long I can call Rob Cindy Crawford’s little brother before he clotheslines me.
We went to an after party at the Riot Room where we were treated like rock royalty. A fight broke out in the bar and there was another shoving match. It left me wondering why people in Kansas City are so aggressive. They had one of these 80’s Djs and Bryn showed that he had the moves. Game recognize Game, Dude knows how to work it.
Afterwards the band got some burritos and we went back to the hotel. A couple of the guys wanted to do an after party but most of us were having no parts of that. I blew up my air mattress and went to sleep. We play Norman Oklahoma tomorrow…yikes
Some shots of our South by Southwest Performance
What's My Name
So much about life on the road is being a slave to routine. You roll out of bed at the same time every morning more or less, you shower (sometimes shave), get dressed, try to eat something, go back to your room, pack your stuff, hop in the van and head to the next gig. Roll in, load the gear, sound check if it’s possible, move the drums when your done and wait. Change clothes, play the gig, soak in the adulation of your adoring public, hang out for a while, maybe find a party, go back to the hotel, sleep, and do it all over again the next day. Sometimes you even forget what city you’re in. Luckily I have Dan (who’s probably sick of my black ass by now) to tap on the shoulder and ask dumb questions like that.
Yesterday he told me we were goin to Kansas City as we continue our trek through the alternate universe that is Middle America. The scenery is flat for the most part and the people are a tad more friendly here than they are on either of the coast. Things don’t seem to move as fast here. You’re more likely to find people coming out to see bands play. They seem to dig the whole rock and roll thing more out here. Or maybe it’s cause there’s nothing better to do. When we got to Kansas City, I was blown away by Kauffman Stadium where the Royals play and Arrowhead Stadium where the Chiefs play. They were my favorite team for the couple of years Joe Montana went there to finish his career.
We pulled into The Record bar at around 4:30 I was surprised at how small it was. The varying size of the rooms has probably been one of the things that throw me a little on a daily basis. As I look around though I see names on posters for upcoming shows I recognize; Howie Day, The Ting Tings, Eagles of Death Metal, and I’m thinking that not only is this place legit, Kansas City gets all these great shows in such an intimate setting. That’s pretty cool.
I found out that we didn’t go on till ten and there’d be no sound check I decided to walk around in search of a pansy organic store that might sell my throat coat tea. As I walked down Westport Road to Main Street I saw something I hadn’t seen since I left home…A Comic Book store. I was in heaven. Two guys playing D&D (which I’m against playing on principle) as I walked inside I looked at all the titles rushing to the B section to see if the 1st issue of Battle for The Cowl had come out. It had and it was sold out. I leave and directly across the street ANOTHER Comic Book Store. They didn’t have it either. I was sad. Neither staff was very social or friendly either. I’ll have to make a trip to Showcase when I come back.
I walked back towards the venue and saw a store called sun grocery. Unfortunately it wasn’t quite pansy enough to have my throat coat tea. When I got back to the record bar I got a bowl of vegan minestrone, which I found odd cause I didn’t know minestrone had animal products in it. It was pretty tasty so I got another one and some fries. I ate half and gave the rest to my man Doz who finished them off. I waited in the dressing room and was told we were going back to the hotel for a while so I hopped in the van.
The hotel brought new meaning to the word seedy. It looked like one of these hotels where drug related things happen or where men bring their mistresses or hookers for extramarital activity. We rolled in, watched some Family Guy and bolted.
When we got back I changed and it was go time. I could see The Electric Six guys in crowd watching as the show began. We’ve all gotten along really well I imagine that that is a rare thing when you tour with people. Then I noticed something that I really hadn’t banked on happening today. I swallowed and it didn’t hurt, I had a spring in my step. Which means I’m running somewhere between 75 and 80% which means I can give a decent performance. My allergies (which have seemingly taken the place of my strep throat) are effecting my voice a bit so there were some notes and vocal character things that aren’t quite there yet but it’s getting better. Electric Six got their groove on as usual. I’m gonna try some of that banter when I get home. See how long I can call Rob Cindy Crawford’s little brother before he clotheslines me.
We went to an after party at the Riot Room where we were treated like rock royalty. A fight broke out in the bar and there was another shoving match. It left me wondering why people in Kansas City are so aggressive. They had one of these 80’s Djs and Bryn showed that he had the moves. Game recognize Game, Dude knows how to work it.
Afterwards the band got some burritos and we went back to the hotel. A couple of the guys wanted to do an after party but most of us were having no parts of that. I blew up my air mattress and went to sleep. We play Norman Oklahoma tomorrow…yikes
Some shots of our South by Southwest Performance
What's My Name
Monday, April 13, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 33
Day 32 - April 12th 2009
He is Risen…He is Risen indeed
Easter Sunday is like the Superbowl for us Christian type folks. It is the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. Without the resurrection, what we know today is Christianity would not exist.
Jesus woke up early Sunday Morning. Still recovering from strep, Boy Wonder didn’t get up till noon. My band mates were still sleeping so I showered and hung out in the lobby for a while. The internet wasn’t working but they fixed that. Today was a much needed day off for the band. As much as one wouldn’t admit it this life can really wear on you after a while. I did get to catch up with some Philly friends briefly through Facebook chat. They encourage me and keep me upright.
I wanted to find a church to celebrate Easter but to no avail, we ended up going to the Laundromat instead which was good in and of itself. I had many clothes to wash.
I got a call from my entire family while there wishing me a happy Easter. It was weird us not being together for any kind of holiday. We roll deep like that. The large family mentality is what allowed me to adjust to the size of Bang Camaro. More often than not my family has rolled ten deep into a restaurant. When my clothes were done Dan let us know that we’d be meeting members of Electric Six for dinner at Ruby Tuesdays around 7 that evening.
When we got home I wanted to play guitar. I had finally tied some lyrics to a chord progression and was excited about getting to work. I have a show in Less than two weeks in one of the biggest markets in the country, I need to get back into some kind of playing shape. Being able to play a new song in LA would be awesome as well. As I was jamming I saw the van light up and Zach run towards it. I wanted to put my guitar back in the room but the door was locked. Fearing being left I just ran with guitar in hand to the van.
We arrived at Ruby Tuesdays and the rhythm section of Electric Six were waiting there for us along with their merch girl Emilie. It was fun hanging with them. The two guitarists came in as we were leaving. There were talks of us hitting a gentlemen’s club before the tour was over but after the Claremont I’m a little gun shy.
After dinner the band went somewhere to have a good time. I’m totally getting my Grandpa on and heading for bed at 9. Kansas City is tomorrow. Hopefully my voice’ll be strong enough by then.
He is Risen…He is Risen indeed
Easter Sunday is like the Superbowl for us Christian type folks. It is the celebration of Christ’s resurrection. Without the resurrection, what we know today is Christianity would not exist.
Jesus woke up early Sunday Morning. Still recovering from strep, Boy Wonder didn’t get up till noon. My band mates were still sleeping so I showered and hung out in the lobby for a while. The internet wasn’t working but they fixed that. Today was a much needed day off for the band. As much as one wouldn’t admit it this life can really wear on you after a while. I did get to catch up with some Philly friends briefly through Facebook chat. They encourage me and keep me upright.
I wanted to find a church to celebrate Easter but to no avail, we ended up going to the Laundromat instead which was good in and of itself. I had many clothes to wash.
I got a call from my entire family while there wishing me a happy Easter. It was weird us not being together for any kind of holiday. We roll deep like that. The large family mentality is what allowed me to adjust to the size of Bang Camaro. More often than not my family has rolled ten deep into a restaurant. When my clothes were done Dan let us know that we’d be meeting members of Electric Six for dinner at Ruby Tuesdays around 7 that evening.
When we got home I wanted to play guitar. I had finally tied some lyrics to a chord progression and was excited about getting to work. I have a show in Less than two weeks in one of the biggest markets in the country, I need to get back into some kind of playing shape. Being able to play a new song in LA would be awesome as well. As I was jamming I saw the van light up and Zach run towards it. I wanted to put my guitar back in the room but the door was locked. Fearing being left I just ran with guitar in hand to the van.
We arrived at Ruby Tuesdays and the rhythm section of Electric Six were waiting there for us along with their merch girl Emilie. It was fun hanging with them. The two guitarists came in as we were leaving. There were talks of us hitting a gentlemen’s club before the tour was over but after the Claremont I’m a little gun shy.
After dinner the band went somewhere to have a good time. I’m totally getting my Grandpa on and heading for bed at 9. Kansas City is tomorrow. Hopefully my voice’ll be strong enough by then.
Sunday, April 12, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 32
Day 31 - April 11th 2009
This is what my throat looks like…
It’s hard to see the white spots but the swellings pretty apparent.
I woke up this morning to a throbbing pain in my throat. The kid of pain that feels like someone kicked you in the throat for and hour. The kind of pain that makes one consider vicodin, perkisets, or heroin. I could barely get up off of my air mattress the first time. The phone rings. It’s mom. I talk because I don’t really want to worry her. But it hurts too bad to tell her everything is fine. I have to take care of myself now.
I managed to stumble to the free in the lobby. I can only manage to get one doughnut down before eating just becomes unbearable. No tea bags so I’m forced to sip hot water which actually worked wonders for getting everything lubricated. I take a shower and head back to the lobby to see if Dad’s sermon was up. I run into Pete who tells me he got his own room last night and it turned out to be the honeymoon suite. Mirrors on the ceiling and what not…funny
I listened to Dad’s sermon and boy was it powerful. It was on the 6th of the 7 last words of Jesus Christ “It is Finished.” From the sound of the church’s reaction it seems the blew the roof off of the church. His last words we’re “The savior died on Friday but the finisher comes on Sunday Morning.” Pretty powerful stuff.
I have a confession to make. A couple of days ago I started playing Hackey Sack with some of the members of the band. I’m not proud of it. I once made my days at Rittenhouse Square making fun of the hippies hacking in the middle of the park. Now I’ve become one of them. I refuse to stop showering though. We played for a bit. I’m not very good at it. But I find it’s a great way to work on non verbal communication. After everyone is out we pile in the van and begin the drive to Columbia Missouri. I sat next to Pete, drummer extraordinaire. He asked to borrow my ipod, so I said sure. I like sharing things with people, especially music. I went to sleep woke up and pet was shirtless. He turns to me and says “Your ipod is amazing I spent the past hour listening to Prince.” It’s funny how you take the music you have in your ipod for granted sometimes. We stopped at a rest stop and I took and Aleve for the first time which really helped with the inflammation in my throat. I was able to go back to sleep. I woke up again and Pete was in pigtails.
We pulled up to the venue and I got a chance to talk with my buddy Claire. She’s doing well and learning guitar now. I had to cut our convo shorter than I would like in order to save my voice. I started playing jewel Quest as the Monte Carlos (the local openers) played. They were actually pretty good. Some of their stuff was really swinging. It was time for us to play and as we approached the stage I noticed that I was burning up. I’ve been sick enough times to know what my body’s telling me and I was sweating like a pig and hadn’t moved all day. My body was achy and I wanted nothing more than my mom to wrap me in a blanket. For the first time in my music career I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it through the whole show. I cam close to passing out a few times. I felt bad because I couldn’t push the pedal to the floor like I normally would. To reach for it and to have it not be there sucks.
I immediately went to the van after the set was over and slept in the van. I missed Electric Six which sucked. I remember them coming into the van and being really angry because I couldn’t go back to sleep. I was shivering pretty bad and fortunately we went straight to the hotel. I hit the bed and prayed for relief. They were all out so I got a chance to rest. By the time they came back I was covered in sweat but I felt so much better. My guess is that the fever broke. Thank God. I was pretty messed up. I’m on my way back to sleep now.
Tommorrow is Easter. Resurrection Sunday, I may just stay in bed the whole night. I’m gonna miss my family but hopefully I’ll feel up to dinner with Bang Camaro and Electric Six.
This is what my throat looks like…
It’s hard to see the white spots but the swellings pretty apparent.
I woke up this morning to a throbbing pain in my throat. The kid of pain that feels like someone kicked you in the throat for and hour. The kind of pain that makes one consider vicodin, perkisets, or heroin. I could barely get up off of my air mattress the first time. The phone rings. It’s mom. I talk because I don’t really want to worry her. But it hurts too bad to tell her everything is fine. I have to take care of myself now.
I managed to stumble to the free in the lobby. I can only manage to get one doughnut down before eating just becomes unbearable. No tea bags so I’m forced to sip hot water which actually worked wonders for getting everything lubricated. I take a shower and head back to the lobby to see if Dad’s sermon was up. I run into Pete who tells me he got his own room last night and it turned out to be the honeymoon suite. Mirrors on the ceiling and what not…funny
I listened to Dad’s sermon and boy was it powerful. It was on the 6th of the 7 last words of Jesus Christ “It is Finished.” From the sound of the church’s reaction it seems the blew the roof off of the church. His last words we’re “The savior died on Friday but the finisher comes on Sunday Morning.” Pretty powerful stuff.
I have a confession to make. A couple of days ago I started playing Hackey Sack with some of the members of the band. I’m not proud of it. I once made my days at Rittenhouse Square making fun of the hippies hacking in the middle of the park. Now I’ve become one of them. I refuse to stop showering though. We played for a bit. I’m not very good at it. But I find it’s a great way to work on non verbal communication. After everyone is out we pile in the van and begin the drive to Columbia Missouri. I sat next to Pete, drummer extraordinaire. He asked to borrow my ipod, so I said sure. I like sharing things with people, especially music. I went to sleep woke up and pet was shirtless. He turns to me and says “Your ipod is amazing I spent the past hour listening to Prince.” It’s funny how you take the music you have in your ipod for granted sometimes. We stopped at a rest stop and I took and Aleve for the first time which really helped with the inflammation in my throat. I was able to go back to sleep. I woke up again and Pete was in pigtails.
We pulled up to the venue and I got a chance to talk with my buddy Claire. She’s doing well and learning guitar now. I had to cut our convo shorter than I would like in order to save my voice. I started playing jewel Quest as the Monte Carlos (the local openers) played. They were actually pretty good. Some of their stuff was really swinging. It was time for us to play and as we approached the stage I noticed that I was burning up. I’ve been sick enough times to know what my body’s telling me and I was sweating like a pig and hadn’t moved all day. My body was achy and I wanted nothing more than my mom to wrap me in a blanket. For the first time in my music career I wasn’t sure if I was going to make it through the whole show. I cam close to passing out a few times. I felt bad because I couldn’t push the pedal to the floor like I normally would. To reach for it and to have it not be there sucks.
I immediately went to the van after the set was over and slept in the van. I missed Electric Six which sucked. I remember them coming into the van and being really angry because I couldn’t go back to sleep. I was shivering pretty bad and fortunately we went straight to the hotel. I hit the bed and prayed for relief. They were all out so I got a chance to rest. By the time they came back I was covered in sweat but I felt so much better. My guess is that the fever broke. Thank God. I was pretty messed up. I’m on my way back to sleep now.
Tommorrow is Easter. Resurrection Sunday, I may just stay in bed the whole night. I’m gonna miss my family but hopefully I’ll feel up to dinner with Bang Camaro and Electric Six.
Saturday, April 11, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 31
Day 30 - April 10th 2009
I woke up in a window seal at 5am, my throat killing me. I remember immediately it was Good Friday, Dad’s preaching. I’m usually there to watch him. First Good Friday Service I’ve missed in quite sometime. Seven ministers preach sermons based on the seven last words of Christ. It’s long but it’s pretty cool. I got to talk to him, wish him luck. I knew he’d do well, he always does. Hopefully I’ll get to listen to his sermon on-line.
Another day in Clear Lake Iowa where the music died. It’s also where our van died and we were waiting to see if we were gonna be able to get it fixed in time to make the gig in Omaha tonight. We had all day literally so I called my mom to see if I could get my prescription for penicillin filled at a Walgreens nearby. My throat was swollen and there were white spots all over it. I needed the meds before it got worse. I was given a number for a cab company but it didn’t go through. I was given a number for another cab company and make a call.
I waited for about a half hour and I called back.
Me: Hi this is Andre Coles I called about half an hour ago
Cabbie: Yes
Me: I was wondering where the cab was.
Cabbie: Well you didn’t say that you wanted it. When you just give me a pick up point and a destination and ask how much it costs that doesn’t tell me anything.
Me: Um What?
Cabbie: I’m not even in the area. Did you want me to come now
Me: Yes please come now.
I forgot that I was in Iowa. At home when you call a cab that means you want it now.
Half hour later she pulls up and takes me to the Walgreens in the next town over. I run in and get my penicillin and run out and go back into the cab. On the ride back we talk about driving and Iowa and Minnesota. It hurt to talk, so she did the talking for the both of us. I got back to the hotel and swallowed a pill. I wished to feel better instantly but I knew that wasn’t going to be the case. I ran into Pete and I asked him if he minded taking a look at the input jack on my acoustic guitar. Pete said sure.
He had a thought that if we used some string we could pull the jack out and fix it that way. When we pulled one end we saw that it was made to be fixed just that way, there were two holes to pull strings through. We couldn’t find thread and I said, “If only I had old school dental floss” Pete responded with “I think I have some in my bag” and with a few threads the input jack which has been loose for months was finally fixed. This is going to make doing open mics and playing at Molly Malone’s in LA easier.
If that wasn’t enough the car was fixed an hour and a half early. We picked the car up, got the trailer and hit the road. I slept most of the way there. I feared that I wouldn’t be able to get through the gig. I figured not talking and getting some rest might help. A little prayer wouldn’t hurt either.
We entered Omaha and I was surprised at how much it looked like Reno or Vegas. Lot’s of Neon Signs and Hotel-Casinos. Hell even the local cleaners had a neon sign. We pulled up to the club and loaded the gear inside. I must have looked bad cause the Electric Six guys asked how I was doin. I explained my strep throat condition and they agreed it was pretty gruesome. I decided to get it out. If I can do a 90 minute play with pneumonia, if my mom can do everything she does with two plastic knees, I can sing a 45 minute set with strep throat.
It was touch and got here at first. My throat was on fire the whole show. There were a couple of times where I thought I might pass out but once we got going my energy level came up. I was not gonna pass out in Omaha Nebraska The show was good considering I was running at about 10-15%. I’m committed to giving Bang Camaro everything I have every night for as long as I’m here. I wish I could take it easy but I don’t know nay other way to perform. When I got backstage the Electric Six guys asked if I was ok. I told them that I was livin but I was focused on drying myself off and changing as soon as possible. I wanted to go out and dance during their set but I found myself on the couch.
I fell asleep in the van and we ended up at some pizza shop. I couldn’t swallow at that point so I went back to the van and woke up a the hotel. I ran in the room and got under the covers. I realized that I probably shouldn’t sleep in the bed cause I’m still contagious so I blew up my air mattress and went to sleep.
I really hope I feel better sooner rather than later
I woke up in a window seal at 5am, my throat killing me. I remember immediately it was Good Friday, Dad’s preaching. I’m usually there to watch him. First Good Friday Service I’ve missed in quite sometime. Seven ministers preach sermons based on the seven last words of Christ. It’s long but it’s pretty cool. I got to talk to him, wish him luck. I knew he’d do well, he always does. Hopefully I’ll get to listen to his sermon on-line.
Another day in Clear Lake Iowa where the music died. It’s also where our van died and we were waiting to see if we were gonna be able to get it fixed in time to make the gig in Omaha tonight. We had all day literally so I called my mom to see if I could get my prescription for penicillin filled at a Walgreens nearby. My throat was swollen and there were white spots all over it. I needed the meds before it got worse. I was given a number for a cab company but it didn’t go through. I was given a number for another cab company and make a call.
I waited for about a half hour and I called back.
Me: Hi this is Andre Coles I called about half an hour ago
Cabbie: Yes
Me: I was wondering where the cab was.
Cabbie: Well you didn’t say that you wanted it. When you just give me a pick up point and a destination and ask how much it costs that doesn’t tell me anything.
Me: Um What?
Cabbie: I’m not even in the area. Did you want me to come now
Me: Yes please come now.
I forgot that I was in Iowa. At home when you call a cab that means you want it now.
Half hour later she pulls up and takes me to the Walgreens in the next town over. I run in and get my penicillin and run out and go back into the cab. On the ride back we talk about driving and Iowa and Minnesota. It hurt to talk, so she did the talking for the both of us. I got back to the hotel and swallowed a pill. I wished to feel better instantly but I knew that wasn’t going to be the case. I ran into Pete and I asked him if he minded taking a look at the input jack on my acoustic guitar. Pete said sure.
He had a thought that if we used some string we could pull the jack out and fix it that way. When we pulled one end we saw that it was made to be fixed just that way, there were two holes to pull strings through. We couldn’t find thread and I said, “If only I had old school dental floss” Pete responded with “I think I have some in my bag” and with a few threads the input jack which has been loose for months was finally fixed. This is going to make doing open mics and playing at Molly Malone’s in LA easier.
If that wasn’t enough the car was fixed an hour and a half early. We picked the car up, got the trailer and hit the road. I slept most of the way there. I feared that I wouldn’t be able to get through the gig. I figured not talking and getting some rest might help. A little prayer wouldn’t hurt either.
We entered Omaha and I was surprised at how much it looked like Reno or Vegas. Lot’s of Neon Signs and Hotel-Casinos. Hell even the local cleaners had a neon sign. We pulled up to the club and loaded the gear inside. I must have looked bad cause the Electric Six guys asked how I was doin. I explained my strep throat condition and they agreed it was pretty gruesome. I decided to get it out. If I can do a 90 minute play with pneumonia, if my mom can do everything she does with two plastic knees, I can sing a 45 minute set with strep throat.
It was touch and got here at first. My throat was on fire the whole show. There were a couple of times where I thought I might pass out but once we got going my energy level came up. I was not gonna pass out in Omaha Nebraska The show was good considering I was running at about 10-15%. I’m committed to giving Bang Camaro everything I have every night for as long as I’m here. I wish I could take it easy but I don’t know nay other way to perform. When I got backstage the Electric Six guys asked if I was ok. I told them that I was livin but I was focused on drying myself off and changing as soon as possible. I wanted to go out and dance during their set but I found myself on the couch.
I fell asleep in the van and we ended up at some pizza shop. I couldn’t swallow at that point so I went back to the van and woke up a the hotel. I ran in the room and got under the covers. I realized that I probably shouldn’t sleep in the bed cause I’m still contagious so I blew up my air mattress and went to sleep.
I really hope I feel better sooner rather than later
Friday, April 10, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 30
Day 29 - April 9th 2009
http://myspace.com/boywonderrocks
Ugggghhhhhh
That was my first thought as I woke up with the sorest throat I’d had in a while. I check the back and I see a white spot. Sometimes I’ll get food stuck back there and it’ll turn into this weird stinky mucus thing. I usually use a qtip to get it out. When I attempted I realized it wasn’t moving. Then I saw more of them…Geeze they’re everywhere. I noticed the general crappy feeling. It can’t be a hangover because I only had two beers and a shot last night. I’m warm, I’m achy, damnit, I’m sick and the white spots can only mean one thing. Strep throat.
My parents worst fears came to life. Their son who quit his job with health insurance gets sick on the road. So I do what any son with good sense does, I called home. Mom was able to get a hold of my doctor and the prescription was gonna be filled in Des Moines Iowa a few blocks from the club we were supposed to play at.
We leave Fargo around noon still sharing all the strange and wonderful stories from the night before. Fargo truly is a helluva town. I’m praying for them because they’ve got a flood coming and I hope they pull through. As a musician one wonders what he can do when bad things like this happen. I must say that I have a slight affection for the coldest place I’ve ever been in my life.
We’re driving, and all of a sudden I feel a rumbling in my stomach, the bad kind. It’s quite apparent in about 5 seconds that I have to shit like nobody’s business. I motion to Pete that we need to make a stop. He passes by the exit and apologizes immediately. Sometimes I feel like I’ve been with these guys forever, you bond with people when you are on top of them for so long, to the point where sometimes I forget that I didn’t even know these guys a month ago. It’s a testament to their inclusiveness. Through it all I’ve grown to love them like family.
We go off the road into this town that resembled something out of the old west. “This looks like a place where people get shot in the street, where’s the saloon?” I didn’t care. I had to poop. We find a Gas Station and I very comically run inside (I was hunched over fearing I would shat myself) it was an epic poop.
We get back on the road and hit a bunch of traffic in Minnesota we finally get free and Rodrigo gets off of the road in order to stop for Gas and pee. Then I hear a sound, I don’t know anything about cars but I could kind of tell that it was a bad sound. Then the car stops moving…crap. We cut it off and restart it...nothing. It’s obvious that something has gone horribly wrong. We then thought that if we pushed it maybe it would start like Daniel’s mom’s car in the Karate Kid…nothing doing. We were able to push it off of the ramp and onto the side of the road. Someone called Triple A, Rod and Zach went to get transmission fluid, and I had to pee so I went to the bathroom.
Upon my return I saw a cop with a dog in the back and a cop questioning one of my band mates. All I could think of is I hope we’re not goin to jail, I am to small and pretty and will be passed around like a carton of cigarettes. They seemed to be assisting us. Then the cop drops a bomb
Cop: Everything looks in order
Alex: Thank you for all your help
Cop: No Problem
Alex: So where are we exactly
Cop: Clear Lake, Iowa where the music died.
Alex: Come again?
Cop: Yeah where Buddy holly’s plane crashed.
So um you mean to tell me our van breaks down where the music died? Great! Funny how everything balances itself out. The sheer joy of the past three days damn near negated by the van breaking down.
We looked up and realized that there was food, hotels, and what not where we broke down and when the Triple A guy got there he told us that a Chevy dealership was two blocks down. Thankfully the Lord looks after babies and fools. We were able to find a Microtel Inn who were amazing. Extremely accommodating, They had a mattress in the window seal so that was gonna be my spot. It was surprisingly comfortable. We watched a little TV I was a bit delirious cause of the strep and decided to go to a Perkins.
I was sitting at the table with Alex, Rod, Zach, and Dan and we were discussing the possibility that everyone was being so nice in this little stretch of Iowa because they were gonna kill us and eat us. Rod mentioned that he wanted to be played by Billy Crudup from the Watchmen. As the waitress came up and stood there for a minute I said “Did his cock have to be out the whole movie?!” Everyone around me was shocked. I’m sick, tired and frustrated and felt the need to amuse myself. I thought it was funny as hell. I thought the guys reprimanding me for it was even funnier especially cause they made such a big deal out of it. I know we’re in Iowa but I’m sure she’s heard the word cock.
I went back to the hotel to news of stormy weather with the clubs that I’m booking. Hopefully I can retify everything when I get back but I’m too sick to worry about it now. I’m going to bed. I have to call Dad tomorrow. It’s Good Friday and he’s preaching.
http://myspace.com/boywonderrocks
Ugggghhhhhh
That was my first thought as I woke up with the sorest throat I’d had in a while. I check the back and I see a white spot. Sometimes I’ll get food stuck back there and it’ll turn into this weird stinky mucus thing. I usually use a qtip to get it out. When I attempted I realized it wasn’t moving. Then I saw more of them…Geeze they’re everywhere. I noticed the general crappy feeling. It can’t be a hangover because I only had two beers and a shot last night. I’m warm, I’m achy, damnit, I’m sick and the white spots can only mean one thing. Strep throat.
My parents worst fears came to life. Their son who quit his job with health insurance gets sick on the road. So I do what any son with good sense does, I called home. Mom was able to get a hold of my doctor and the prescription was gonna be filled in Des Moines Iowa a few blocks from the club we were supposed to play at.
We leave Fargo around noon still sharing all the strange and wonderful stories from the night before. Fargo truly is a helluva town. I’m praying for them because they’ve got a flood coming and I hope they pull through. As a musician one wonders what he can do when bad things like this happen. I must say that I have a slight affection for the coldest place I’ve ever been in my life.
We’re driving, and all of a sudden I feel a rumbling in my stomach, the bad kind. It’s quite apparent in about 5 seconds that I have to shit like nobody’s business. I motion to Pete that we need to make a stop. He passes by the exit and apologizes immediately. Sometimes I feel like I’ve been with these guys forever, you bond with people when you are on top of them for so long, to the point where sometimes I forget that I didn’t even know these guys a month ago. It’s a testament to their inclusiveness. Through it all I’ve grown to love them like family.
We go off the road into this town that resembled something out of the old west. “This looks like a place where people get shot in the street, where’s the saloon?” I didn’t care. I had to poop. We find a Gas Station and I very comically run inside (I was hunched over fearing I would shat myself) it was an epic poop.
We get back on the road and hit a bunch of traffic in Minnesota we finally get free and Rodrigo gets off of the road in order to stop for Gas and pee. Then I hear a sound, I don’t know anything about cars but I could kind of tell that it was a bad sound. Then the car stops moving…crap. We cut it off and restart it...nothing. It’s obvious that something has gone horribly wrong. We then thought that if we pushed it maybe it would start like Daniel’s mom’s car in the Karate Kid…nothing doing. We were able to push it off of the ramp and onto the side of the road. Someone called Triple A, Rod and Zach went to get transmission fluid, and I had to pee so I went to the bathroom.
Upon my return I saw a cop with a dog in the back and a cop questioning one of my band mates. All I could think of is I hope we’re not goin to jail, I am to small and pretty and will be passed around like a carton of cigarettes. They seemed to be assisting us. Then the cop drops a bomb
Cop: Everything looks in order
Alex: Thank you for all your help
Cop: No Problem
Alex: So where are we exactly
Cop: Clear Lake, Iowa where the music died.
Alex: Come again?
Cop: Yeah where Buddy holly’s plane crashed.
So um you mean to tell me our van breaks down where the music died? Great! Funny how everything balances itself out. The sheer joy of the past three days damn near negated by the van breaking down.
We looked up and realized that there was food, hotels, and what not where we broke down and when the Triple A guy got there he told us that a Chevy dealership was two blocks down. Thankfully the Lord looks after babies and fools. We were able to find a Microtel Inn who were amazing. Extremely accommodating, They had a mattress in the window seal so that was gonna be my spot. It was surprisingly comfortable. We watched a little TV I was a bit delirious cause of the strep and decided to go to a Perkins.
I was sitting at the table with Alex, Rod, Zach, and Dan and we were discussing the possibility that everyone was being so nice in this little stretch of Iowa because they were gonna kill us and eat us. Rod mentioned that he wanted to be played by Billy Crudup from the Watchmen. As the waitress came up and stood there for a minute I said “Did his cock have to be out the whole movie?!” Everyone around me was shocked. I’m sick, tired and frustrated and felt the need to amuse myself. I thought it was funny as hell. I thought the guys reprimanding me for it was even funnier especially cause they made such a big deal out of it. I know we’re in Iowa but I’m sure she’s heard the word cock.
I went back to the hotel to news of stormy weather with the clubs that I’m booking. Hopefully I can retify everything when I get back but I’m too sick to worry about it now. I’m going to bed. I have to call Dad tomorrow. It’s Good Friday and he’s preaching.
Thursday, April 9, 2009
Boy Wonder: Professional Musician 29
Day 28 - April 8th 2009
http://myspace.com/boywonderrocks
I awoke in Minneapolis basking in the glow of the great time I had. My air mattress was deflated about a quarter but I didn’t care. I had just performed in the room where Prince shot Purple Rain, met some amazing friends it def was the best night of the tour so far. Nothing could stop the two days we spent in Chicago and Minneapolis. By days end I would be proven wrong.
We had quite a bit of time to kill because of the short distance between Minneapolis and Fargo North Dakota so we went o a Denny’s for breakfast. I ordered a grand slam. I was feeling a little quezzy but thought very little of it as we started the drive. The Midwest is beautiful and provided the perfect backdrop for me to look out of the window and gather my thoughts. I have a lot to think about these days. As I enjoy my time here on the road I realize that it’s coming to a close and there are several things I have to decide upon as far as what I do when I get back. the HYPE!, my booking agency is getting to the point where we were going to start booking bands in a room on Friday Nights. A month before we were supposed to open I got the call from Bang Camaro to do this tour. Trying to finalize a business deal on the road is a pain the ass. That will more than likely be my primary source of income
On the way there Bryn did a phone interview with someone in Texas I believe. I’m always happy to see someone take an interest in the band. Bryn and the crew are such great people so it’s awesome to see their hard work pay off.
We pulled into Fargo and were driving around. I’ll be the first one to tell you that it didn’t look like much. We had to cross train tracks to get to the venue. Problem was we had to wait for the longest train in the world. Seriously the train went on for fifteen to twenty minutes. While we waited we saw a couple, girl had a nice pooper. We cheered for the boyfriend to grab her butt. He did and we all cheered. We cheered again as he picked her up while grabbing her butt. We also saw a buffalo sculpture. It was the gayest buffalo we’d ever seen. But the tear tattooed to his eye suggests he killed someone in prison.
We pulled into the venue, and had to walk up three flights of stairs to load the equipment in and I’m thinking this is stupid. The cavalcade of awesome would soon begin.
First thing that happened we put food orders in. After sound check, everyone got while pizzas to themselves. The Pizzas were amazing, I ate almost the whole thing. We walked down to the dressing room in the basement and watched River Monsters with the guys from Electric Six. As I went up the stairs and back into the room Alex asked me if I wanted to accompany him to do a radio interview. It was pretty cool, I always feel a little awkward answering questions about the band because I’m new but I think I did a good job. The DJ seemed to take a shining to me, he was funny. Shortly after the local opener it was time to go up.
I had some concerns about this show. I was experiencing some soreness from First Ave and my throat was pretty raw and red I stretched and had some water and was good to go. We rocked it. I mean we rocked it hard. The guitar playing was especially good tonight with Bryn and Alex being on fire the level of shred in this band is ridiculous. The Fargo crowd was amazing. These guys love their rock and roll.
The show was over and I was drenched in sweat. I brought a change of clothes with me to change into when the shows are over so I don’t get sick. I was toweling off as Electric Six were getting dressed and ready. Dick Valentine was just sharing some stories and advice from his years of experience. Being on this tour and learning from him has simply been amazing, That guy is the real deal and I learn so much watching him perform every night. I went upstairs to watch Electric Six and I realized something. The people in Fargo like to get you DRUUUUNK. I was offered shot after shot of just about anything you could imagine. I’m not a fan of the shit show so I had to turn them down.
I watched Electric Six and decided to danced with a Fargo native…bad idea. Bless her heart she had the coordination of a Linebacker at his first ballet lesson I waited till the end of the song and when Danger High Voltage came on I just found my band mates and jumped around with them, I love that song. They finished the show and we all started talking to the Fargo natives. I think this was the most social I’d been on this tour. I hear news of a party. Truthfully I wanted to go back to the hotel. The Camaro parties way to hard for my taste and had been doing it for three days straight. But I decided to not whine an get in the van. We were supposed to go to this girls house but we got a bogus address and we’re standing outside where I uttered a sentence I never ever thought I would out of sheer frustration with the situation.
“I am a black man in Fargo, North Dakota at 2 in the morning and I am freezing my ass off”
Look I love me some white folks, I admire their adventurous spirit and sometimes their dancing makes me chuckle but I do not share their love of cold weather.
After all the laughter subsided Rich and Doz spoke on the phone and told us where he was at. Sounded like a good time. When we arrived the lights were on and we didn’t see anyone. Dan (who had ninjaed himself in apparently) opens the door and we kicked it with Rich and these two really awesome girls. We spent the evening throwing a couple back and dancing to Michael Jackson’s thriller album. The girls actually had some moves and they almost redeemed Fargo. It was pretty cool. After an unforgettable night we headed back to the hotel to rest our heads
So Fargo is the best town I’ve seen so far. Fargo is insane. Who knew that Fargo, North Dakota would reek of awesomeness the way it did.
Off to Des Moines Iowa tomorrow. Sounds boring but after last night I am no longer judging a book by it’s cover.
http://myspace.com/boywonderrocks
I awoke in Minneapolis basking in the glow of the great time I had. My air mattress was deflated about a quarter but I didn’t care. I had just performed in the room where Prince shot Purple Rain, met some amazing friends it def was the best night of the tour so far. Nothing could stop the two days we spent in Chicago and Minneapolis. By days end I would be proven wrong.
We had quite a bit of time to kill because of the short distance between Minneapolis and Fargo North Dakota so we went o a Denny’s for breakfast. I ordered a grand slam. I was feeling a little quezzy but thought very little of it as we started the drive. The Midwest is beautiful and provided the perfect backdrop for me to look out of the window and gather my thoughts. I have a lot to think about these days. As I enjoy my time here on the road I realize that it’s coming to a close and there are several things I have to decide upon as far as what I do when I get back. the HYPE!, my booking agency is getting to the point where we were going to start booking bands in a room on Friday Nights. A month before we were supposed to open I got the call from Bang Camaro to do this tour. Trying to finalize a business deal on the road is a pain the ass. That will more than likely be my primary source of income
On the way there Bryn did a phone interview with someone in Texas I believe. I’m always happy to see someone take an interest in the band. Bryn and the crew are such great people so it’s awesome to see their hard work pay off.
We pulled into Fargo and were driving around. I’ll be the first one to tell you that it didn’t look like much. We had to cross train tracks to get to the venue. Problem was we had to wait for the longest train in the world. Seriously the train went on for fifteen to twenty minutes. While we waited we saw a couple, girl had a nice pooper. We cheered for the boyfriend to grab her butt. He did and we all cheered. We cheered again as he picked her up while grabbing her butt. We also saw a buffalo sculpture. It was the gayest buffalo we’d ever seen. But the tear tattooed to his eye suggests he killed someone in prison.
We pulled into the venue, and had to walk up three flights of stairs to load the equipment in and I’m thinking this is stupid. The cavalcade of awesome would soon begin.
First thing that happened we put food orders in. After sound check, everyone got while pizzas to themselves. The Pizzas were amazing, I ate almost the whole thing. We walked down to the dressing room in the basement and watched River Monsters with the guys from Electric Six. As I went up the stairs and back into the room Alex asked me if I wanted to accompany him to do a radio interview. It was pretty cool, I always feel a little awkward answering questions about the band because I’m new but I think I did a good job. The DJ seemed to take a shining to me, he was funny. Shortly after the local opener it was time to go up.
I had some concerns about this show. I was experiencing some soreness from First Ave and my throat was pretty raw and red I stretched and had some water and was good to go. We rocked it. I mean we rocked it hard. The guitar playing was especially good tonight with Bryn and Alex being on fire the level of shred in this band is ridiculous. The Fargo crowd was amazing. These guys love their rock and roll.
The show was over and I was drenched in sweat. I brought a change of clothes with me to change into when the shows are over so I don’t get sick. I was toweling off as Electric Six were getting dressed and ready. Dick Valentine was just sharing some stories and advice from his years of experience. Being on this tour and learning from him has simply been amazing, That guy is the real deal and I learn so much watching him perform every night. I went upstairs to watch Electric Six and I realized something. The people in Fargo like to get you DRUUUUNK. I was offered shot after shot of just about anything you could imagine. I’m not a fan of the shit show so I had to turn them down.
I watched Electric Six and decided to danced with a Fargo native…bad idea. Bless her heart she had the coordination of a Linebacker at his first ballet lesson I waited till the end of the song and when Danger High Voltage came on I just found my band mates and jumped around with them, I love that song. They finished the show and we all started talking to the Fargo natives. I think this was the most social I’d been on this tour. I hear news of a party. Truthfully I wanted to go back to the hotel. The Camaro parties way to hard for my taste and had been doing it for three days straight. But I decided to not whine an get in the van. We were supposed to go to this girls house but we got a bogus address and we’re standing outside where I uttered a sentence I never ever thought I would out of sheer frustration with the situation.
“I am a black man in Fargo, North Dakota at 2 in the morning and I am freezing my ass off”
Look I love me some white folks, I admire their adventurous spirit and sometimes their dancing makes me chuckle but I do not share their love of cold weather.
After all the laughter subsided Rich and Doz spoke on the phone and told us where he was at. Sounded like a good time. When we arrived the lights were on and we didn’t see anyone. Dan (who had ninjaed himself in apparently) opens the door and we kicked it with Rich and these two really awesome girls. We spent the evening throwing a couple back and dancing to Michael Jackson’s thriller album. The girls actually had some moves and they almost redeemed Fargo. It was pretty cool. After an unforgettable night we headed back to the hotel to rest our heads
So Fargo is the best town I’ve seen so far. Fargo is insane. Who knew that Fargo, North Dakota would reek of awesomeness the way it did.
Off to Des Moines Iowa tomorrow. Sounds boring but after last night I am no longer judging a book by it’s cover.
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