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Aug. 12th... Where does the time go?....San Juan Co. Fair is next week!...Lots of stuff to go see, hear, eat and do...check it all out here Doe Bay Fest this weekend...Be Careful @ the Rumor Mill Friday...music, music, music...did I mention music. Really, this town is so fortunate to have a very good, cast of players...from bluegrass, to blues, classical to balkan, rock to roll, theres a band, performer in the San Juan Islands that can cover it...so get out and support live music, as Live Music is Best... Be sure to catch the Floating Glass Balls when the return (*during the fair) to Friday Harbor....peaceout..m July 8th Wow...David Lindley comes back to Friday Harbor!...Always a treat, this visit was no different...Mr. Dave, busted out the polyester and played a very nice set at SJCT to a well wishing and much appreciative crowd...Playing a bevy of stringed instruments, Lindley showed why he's so talked about in back rooms and dark alleys....dazzling wizardry of all things strings...and a storytelling sense of humorous shock and awe. Dave has been recently touring Europe with Jackson Browne in support of thier new CD "Love is Strange", and seemed happy to have a bit of a break (one or two days) to visit the San Juans. A show is also scheduled for Orcas Thurs... Annie and I were fortunate to host David and his longtime tour manager/friend Tom Fitzgerald at Nichols St. Suites, and I got to spend some quality time with them talking guitars, music, the islands etc. There was even some time for some casual touristing and checked out south beach, and lime kiln, & morning coffee @ Pear Pt... One very exciting thing for me personally was that I got David to gave me some feedback on my newest Wheelhouse Guitars "True Hawiian". Im very happy to say that it got a good dusting off by Mr. Dave and his words were, "Step away from the guitar"....not much else to say!...as a fairly new "luthier", having Lindley critique my instrument is very cool for one, but important too because he plays them all and just knows what good tone is and should be...so..., Im humbled and excited that my instruments are getting better all the time, and the feedback from such a great player is paramount for my ego ( yessir) , and for my momentum in going forward...thanks DL and Tom for coming to the islands and bringing your special talents..It was the best. Second image is Dave checking out a very early Martin parlor guitar my bud Steve Keys owns...so so sweet...from around the 1860' 70's and an awsome guitar...musicians and guitars...its all good, yes indeed...
June 22nd... Solstice Party was way fun...Spoonshine, Low Hums, Julia & the Dream, Be Careful, and Kels Boreen, played sets for around 300 (or more) on the Solstice Sat pm. All your friends, great food, and great music out on False Bay to celebrate...really nice partay...We're so lucky to have such a bounty of local talent here...always a treat]. Look for new Spoonshine album to be released shortly, produced by Adam Kasper who's worked with Pearl Jam, Cat Power, Foo Fighters, Tragically Hip and more...sweet!... Lots of things going on....Rumor is that the "Rumor Mill " might be open for July 4th....keep after it guys...we're excited about your new digs and know you've been bustin hump to git er dun...can't wait....Tix for David Lindley are on Sale now as are Asleep at the Wheel and John Hammond!....wow...thanks to SJCT for bring such good music to our little berg...amazing...
. June 9th Lots of good things of late to take your mind off the BP carnage...New shows posted on home page...SJCT, Blues nite, Not So Secret Show and a successful event for Lori at Roche. (thanks very much to all who pulled this toghether!) Our island and its musicians, artists, creative personna are all special. Well for that matter humans are special with all thier unique abilities to pull together for a myriad of events, occassions and special needs. Its hard to think of a better place to be, at least for me...Recently I got to see a new band called "Sliders" out at Roche a couple weeks ago, led by Rob Simpson and Jonathan Piff. It included Lora Chorba, Steve Cutting, Rob, Jonathan and the drummer whose name I missed. Nice set, great tunes...be sure to catch them when they appear locally which Ill dutifully try and post here. Seems to be numerous new configurations locally in the band scene. I'll post more on that as well when I find out everyones name who was involved...stay tuned...Summer is on us Im hoping...School out this week and voila!...here we go...I appreciate everyones input for this site and someday Ill get some xtra $$ together and put a link on www.sanjuanislander for better access. I I posted a link to FH's TinyRadio on the home page, check this out. Ken has worked really hard to get this up and running and I for one commend him for his dogged tenacity. Thanks Ken!... Also on the horizon is another local radio station set up by Michael and Jody Calhoun...Im working on a site for them and hope to have it further along in the upcoming weeks...ok gotta go...Live Music is Best! May, 19th... Ok, more music is more better...caught the Tease at Herbs on Sat nite...my old buddy joe (and i mean old ha ha) on drums...had the crowd all wound up and dancing up a storm. It was a good first outing for this newly formed band and every one had a good time...that and a bachelorette party complete with some inflated giant penises...(true!, no lie) only in FH I tell ya....so, I have to say I heard something at kereoke 2 weeks ago and that was Julia Maas tearing up Alanis Morsettes "You outta know"...Mike Linehan and I were just awestruck at her singing...wow..look for more from Julia & the Dream as Special Guests of T-Flo @ China Pearl Sat. May 22nd 9:30pm....Go down and check that out! Also a shout out to Ryan Browne and the folks at Comost It...nice party in the back, with some live music, cobb oven pizza and a bohemian rhapsody...it was big fun... Look for some more from "Shavin Hot" band in the future...they got asked to do some gigs but I havent told them yet...we'll see...fun group of players....and also, dont forget the "No Home Blues Band is at the Peppermill every wed. nite 6-9pm till further notice...ok troop, carry on... oh, yeah, one more thing...BP SUCKS! April 22 Earth Day! Thanks to everyone who came down to the Pazzo Vivo and shared a really big good time with us. The place was packed! Over the years we've been graced with so many good nites of music that its kind of a blur, but a happy blur. I always appreciate getting to play with the folks there as theres so many good players here in Friday Harbor and the San Juans its just an honor to get up there on stage with em. The list is long indeed. So hold on to yer hats, Peggy and Oren Combs will remodel, rename and reinvigorate the Pazzo and make a venue that fits for them and rest assured that they will continue on the path of salvation and keep live music alive and well here in the San Juan Islands...ma April 16th Man, time flies...My tan lines are fading into whitedom once again as I know they would...Lets see...Lots of things have happened over the last couple weeks...CD releases (Britt Arnesen) Lou Hinkley at the Pazzo Vivo, last week, Wailin Jennies at the Theatre, Leon Redbone on May 1st, Pazzo Vivo changin hands, and I got a flat on my riding mower (I can hear the grass growing!)....anyway...I guess the most important piece of information is that the Pazzo is being bought by Oren and Peggy Combs. So it comes to an end a long history of music, catering for years to musicians playing gigs, open mics, parties, folks dancing, having cocktails, food, and friendship. Its a bit sad...as personally Ive been playing there since days of Mark Espinoza and Paddy. Lots of really good players have put time in on that stage. It didnt matter what it was called. Electric Co., Bella Luna, Pazzo Vivo, all good.** I hope to post a list and some photos in the coming weeks of some the past players who have done shows down there in the past . Young and old, rock, jazz, folk, blues, bluegrass, dixiland, its all been played in that building...So, come lets leave it in good spirit, and have a big party on the 21st. of April. We'll invite a pile of musicians, and you, those fine folks that luv live music, and have supported it over the years....6pm....yeah baby.... ** Wanted to add that Oren and Peggy have also been champions of live music here in Friday Harbor and you can expect to continue that tradition when they reopen sometime in June...m Mar. 31st... Back from my vacation to Mexico...I'll have to say, I do miss the 88 degree heat and sun, and surf, tacos, scorpions, friends, banda, mi biciclete...and well you get the pic....I managed to play some good music there as well. I have a friend Gils who is a true frenchmen in the sense that he loves Django and that "gypsy" style of guitar...hes only been at it for a while but is getting really good...it was fun...Other highlights include, playing with some young Mexican guys on a bus from Salulita to Puerto Vallarta. Guitar/Pan flute, Djembe and me...it was really interesting as these guys played true folk tunes that rocked....it was fun...sorry no pix...my cam was dead to the world as it so happend...next time... so..here and now...the Duotones played a gig on Sat. pm at the Pazzo Vivo...as Im one of them(monotone) Im biased, but all reviews were positive, and Bob (Leytze) and Mary Beth too were very happy. I can say, we had plenty of fun doing it... Feb. 5th Well, after a long hiatus, I'm back. I've been assailed by computer glitches galore but thanks to Ian Byington, and Mary Kate, all better now. thanks very much for the help. TomHenry as well for good advice. Anyway, back to the music! NAMM...take a look at the pics..only a tip of the iceberg at this show...just an amazing thing to witness in person, and if you like gear its pretty much a wet dream...Nothing but the best ( and some not), in new, innovative, tricky, ergonomic, reliable and cool of everything imaginable in the music realm. Rock Stars, Jazz giants, metal gurus, groupies, starlets, and overly cool LA people and a few elmer fud country boys(us of course!) takin it all in. My favorite thing was a new tube (not a tube) invention from Wattgrinder. Its a replacement for a 12ax7 preamp tube that will make your amp sound better. No if's and's or buts. It flat out was undeniable and we went back 3 times to hear it and mess with it!!...Its a bit pricey at 90$ each, but has a 5 year warrenty and fwiw, its well worth it. Im buying one or two absolutely. Other items of great like were Wyn bass guitars...flat out beautiful, killer sounding instruents. Good enuf for Abe Laborial (please google him if you dont know) so good enuf for me!...If you want to hear and see some NAMM stuff, just go to youtube, google NAMM 2010 and check it out... theres clips of all sorts of gear, musicians, nattily attired wannabees, acutal rock stars and luminaries of all varieties!... hDec. 17th Well the crud I had is one nasty critter. Still have some residual lingering effects but did manage to get out to play my slot at the Pazzo Vivo "Blues" nite last eve. As always the band was tight and in the pocket. Always a treat to play with those guys. There is a 2 week hiatus as Stevie is off to enjoy a Todos Santos Christmas with his family. (all of them!) Sounds like big fun. Im sure they will do a show at the origianl Hotel California with Billy Gravan and Company while down there. The stories I hear are always entertaining. "Livin it up at the Hotel California...such a surprise"(G. Frey) Other news...At the Secret Salon (Concepia Gallery) on the 18th is Be Careful with Full Metal Dog opening. Hopefully Jonathan is feeling better for this show. Dec. 8th Still feelin like crap with this bug I got, but I did listen to Bruce Harvies Podcast at Radiofree Olga today of "covers". Great listening as always. Thanks Bruce for putting that up for us to enjoy. If you havent checked it out go here to here podcasts, musings and other tidbits eminating from Orcas Island. Dec. 4th, 2009 Well Ive been busy and havent posted here in a while. I'm right now fending off some kind of crud I think I got from the Evergreener"s we had here over Thanksgiving, (no its not their fault). yuuuccckkkk anyway...Sometimes its good to have a little wake up malady and get some in house things done like updating this site, and so far just feeling punky. I usually don't say much about local events here in islandsmusic.com, but today was saddened to hear of Judge John Lindes passing in Hawaii. Very sad news. My friend Stevie always says "Have a good time while your still in your prime". It really hits home after hearing this news. Our prayers are with his family. Here's link in Ian's site about it. Don't forget tonite at "The Place" Tom, Tami, and Kate will be performing @ 7:30pm. Great tunesmiths indeed. Make reservations cause its usually a full house. I'd like to thank Jonathan Hu and "Be Careful" for having a nice eve of music at the Paavo Vivo last Sat. My most favored son Avery Adams did a nice set as well. Makes me very proud to see his progress. Also if your out on Sat. nite, Danial Finn is at the Naked Bean @ 7:00 pm, Chris Carter and Saucerful is at the Pavvo Vivo I think @ 7pm also and Opa is at the "Secret Salon" in the Concepia Gallery (Churchill Square) also around that time. Wow...we are not musically challenged here are we!...Lots going on all the time, which is good by me. Live Music is Best!. Out..cough,hack, and a sputter, ma ps. I've finally posted up a small page for you to check out some of the guitars I've been building. Its a start and hopefully will motivate me to get out in that shop and create!...I've gotten lots of inspiration over the years from Bobby Warren who is a lots of ways my "luthier mentor" so thanks for hat. So here ya go, check it out....Wheelhouse Guitars Steely Dan at the Paramount! Oct. 14
Well, on Mon. nite, I went with Avery to the Paramount to see Steely Dan!....All I can say is wow...what a show...not without its glitches but a great show nonetheless. As expected the musicianship was stellar and the hits just kept on coming. They played the entire Aja album then broke into such classics as Bohisatva, Josie, Hey 19, My Old School, Dirty Work, Show Biz Kids, Daddy Don't Live in NY City, Reelin in the Years (Encore) on and on. A 2 1/2 hr. set. There was a funny mishap during Dirty Work, when after about 1 minute, Fagen stopped the band and suggested the guitar player tune up!...He made it humerous but it was a bit of a moment for the guitarplayer and his tech who had just handed him the guitar...it happens...made a real musician moment I think... The band was 13 members strong with 3 backup singers, 4 horns, Walter Becker on guitar with John Herington, Keith Carlock on drums, Freddy Washington on Bass and of course Donald Fagen. One of my alltime fav bands who still got, only better...thanks SD! Sept. 14th Fall is here and things are changing...leaves are turning, the rains are coming, kids back to school etc. 2009 was a very full year musically...Lots of younger players emerging and filling what venues are available to us here with fresh, innovative music. Its always an inspiration to me to hear these players and it moves us all in a direction of creative spirit that is enduring, entertaining and just all good!...so thanks for all of that...Get out and support local music. Live Music is Best!...check www.islandsmusic for updates and please email me with any and all content you'd like to see on here @ slidezone@inbox.com....m August 31st Ok., a done deal!..very awesome....the Village Fair...3 days of most excellent folks gathered at Missing Mountain (Buck prop) enjoying each others company, music, barter and humanness!...Lots of volunteers/friends who pitched in with food prep, kid help, and a genuine spirit of community... this years event, was possibly the last and Kels Boreen and family went all out to ensure a great spectacle that was shared by hundreds of locals as well as travelers from all over...I got to play on Fri. with the Duotones(myself and Bob Leytze) and got to see Avery perform as well...There were 3 days of performances which included a large part of our musical community...Ill post a link to James Krall's website to see lots of great images he took over the weekend so you can see what you missed!...or revisit it if you were there... I want to mention a particular session on sat. pm with the Kels Boreen Project. Simply put....WOW!...I've known Kels (Quest) since he was a wee lad, and I consider myself a small part of that family thru my inheritance of Funk & Junk over 20 years ago from his dad, Jai Boreen...I've watched Kels grow up into a fine musician and this year was pivotal in my mind for a couple reasons...really good tunes, vocal maturity and a confidence that was unmistakable. Of course it didnt hurt that he was backed up by a group of excellent players who were in the "zone" and well, it was one of those magical musical moments that you dont forget. So...thanks Kels for the inspiration and staying the course of your dreams!...Look for the Kels Boreen Project CD to be released soon on Onetreerecords.org August 21st... San Juan Co. Fair wow... gotta say, that musically I had a blast and I think I can vouch for most all of the entertainers that this fair really was excellent. Not just musically but the whole enchilada and ahi burners too! ...thanks Rev., Shell, Jen, all thier staff, all the grounds helpers, volunteers in all departments, Michael the stage manager and Cliff and his daughter for doing a fine job w/sound...just great...some music pix here Local Harvest Band, Byington Boys, Drop Stop & Rock, Fabulous Rhythmatics, Cambelache, Runs Deep Band, Duo-Tones, Tony Florino and Friends, Zach Reitan, Dan Finn, Avery Adams, Devorah, and a host of other local and not so local players...we live in a very rich environment of musicians and I for one am very thankful to have so much music in my life!...yep, no doubt about it... Man the last 6 weeks have gone by in a flash...summer has almost come and gone...got some time left folks so...enjoy the sun, whales, parks , beachs and many fine people who come to see these islands. Get out while your in your prime! ...Lots of great music has happened here in Friday Harbor as well and is continuing as we speak. The Bills came thru and made us feel lucky indeed to have them as our neighbor...Great musicians all, and good friends who really like being, well, the Bills...see em next time... The "Summer on the Lawn" Concert series was great this year with locals and mainland acts gracing the stage...there were some nites when it was hot both musically and weatherwise...nice venue...very much appreciate the efforts to support live music in F.H. July 5th Well this has been a "full" weekend...the music at the SJ Historical Museum was really good...lots of folks came up to enjoy food, friends, family and fun...thanks to all the people who made it happen...and the parade was once again (as always), big fun...Were very lucky to be here. thanks for that!...Don't forget the Naked Bean for casual coffee and music...nice spot in the downtown space shared by Pelindaba...Live Music is Best!..Peace....MA June 27th Fri. Nite the 25th, , there was music at Spring st. School. Ian Cooper sounded as good as Ive ever heard him...Avery Adams and Chris Carter did a duo set that had originals and more...good time for all...good music... Well last weekend was Glen Hargroves birthday (40) bash out at Tanglewood....big fun indeed...thanks to all that made it happen...Joint Cheefs, Spur, Uncle Otto, the metal guys(cool), Avery Adams and Donnie Galts band was it for me...that was too much Donnie, way awesome...Good weather, over 250 folks, and a good time had by all.....Lots of talent on this island for sure...trying to get some pix rallied up for you to see in the near future.. June 1st... Wow...its almost really summer...things are happening fast as I can manage to keep up with...Thanks to the Fairgrounds and Staff for the recent efforts in putting on thier Benefit Fundraiser they did on Sat. the 23rd of May...a good time was had by all. We're hoping to have a bigger event in the future with the same type of idea...Community involvement to help keep our San Jaun Fairgrounds alive and well...thanks again to all those who came and played music, danced and visited with friends and supported the event!...Muy Bueno! May 11 Hope alls well in your world...happy moms day to all you mothers...and friends of mothers... so...lots been happening...upcoming shows, in and around town , new instruments (Bobby Warren), talk of a guitar makers co-op here in islands, etc. etc...I've been a little delinquint about posting more often here on islandsmusic.com, but frankly have been quite busy...I plan to launch this site on another local TBD website to get more coverage...Ill let you know when that happens...for now...just a quick post to continue my mantra of LIVE MUSIC IS BEST!!! and please come back for more about the islands local music scene...thanks ma Other news....the Bella Luna (now called the Pavvo Vivo) is now being run by Mary Beth and looks forward to continuing the tradition of live music here in friday harbor...Look for an expanded menu as well as possibly more nites of music...you go girl!... April 3rd... Well, I've been back from Mexico for just over 2 weeks...frankly, Ive been very cold, coming from the 88+ warmth of Perula and the playa back to the NW's never ending winter...oh well...its always good to be home.... Of things musical in mexico...I finally made my pilgrimage to Paracho Michocan...Paracho is "the" guitarmaking capitol of Mexico for over 350 years...It was mind blowing in all respects...Paracho is not easy to get to. If you come from the coast, you must bus to Guadalajara, then to Uruapan, then to Paracho. Takes about 12 hrs. total bus time. Its located high up in the mountains of the Sierra Madres range which rise to over 13,000 feet in some places. When you arrive, one of the first things you notice is the 30 foot tall guitar sign at the head of the town...you know youve arrived when you spot that...After finding a hotel near the plaza, I headed out to find the best guitars I could....more to come... I'm Gone to Mexico til the 18th of Mar. or they make me come home...whichever comes first... Don't Forget, Support Local Live Music!!! The Bella Luna will have some "other " music over the next couple weeks. Specifically the Henry James Band, and Be Careful will be filling in for the regular cast of musicians some of which are also gone to Mexico( Stevie& Louisa Keys) Remember to Have fun while your still in your prime!...(famous quote) Feb 13th... Well I"m happy to announce that my fledgling guitar building business got a boost today when I delivered another "True Hawiian" to a happy customer. This one is African Mahogany with Honduras neck, and ebony fretboard...Flamed maple bindings and trim and a nitro/tung oil finish....I put the secret sauce inside the box, and it sounds very, very good....heres a couple pics of it
...If you want to talk about guitars/building etc. I'm always game...email me at here or give me a call @ 360-378-2638 Feb. 3rd Local singer/songwriter Tom Henry Doenges has written a new tune called "I'm Lookin for a Bailout" which is getting hits on Broadjam and also Itunes. The hope is that it will get picked up by workin class folks who have sort of missed out on the funds lent to our prestigious banks and bankers...something for the little guy for a change...Go Tom!...support local music and musicians!...see it on YOUTUBE fer yerself....I know I want some money, real bad...hear that Boehner...www.Imlookinforabailout.com Wow...great superbowl game!...I don't think I've ever seen some of the things that happened in that game!...very inneresting indeed... Hey...mark your calender...FEB. 9th.....the town of Friday Harbors 100 year celebration with all kinds of activities, music, and goings on at various locations around town....go for HERE for info and schedule of events... Jan. 17th Aaaahhhhh....sunny! Beth Hudson is doing much better thanks to great care at Harborview and from loving friends and family. We are praying for her every day that she mends wholly and soundly given the circumstances....xobeth I try to not post my political views here on this blog, but sometimes things deserve to be said. GWB, dont let the door hit you in the ass on the way out!...Seriously folks. He gave a speech thursday that was nothing short of delusional. I can't believe we as Americans have put up with this dumbed down version of Alfred E.Newman for 8 years. Good riddance. After decimating our country both economicaly, and physically, he rides off into the sunset thinking hes done good. Sure theres a couple of things, but by and large he will be judged by the experts and the rest of the world as the worst in our history who pillaged our constitution, our treasury and our good standing...Next up, President Barak Obama. Dec. 28th Hope you all had a merry Christmas... Well that was some storm eh!...don't forget that "Global Warming" means that places like the Pac NW will have longer crummier colder winters and that we all need to bitch about our reps both state and local to do something about it...write em....I never thought I'd welcome the rain so much...sweet warm(er) rain.... Ok...so, an oppertunity came about for me to play more harp and sing more in the sort of new/old band the "Ottomatics"....I wasnt too keen on idea at first as I would not be playing bass but then figured out I could live out one of my musical fantisies of being the front man of a band!...not really but close enuf...so....then Im thinking, my old Gibson Ajr doesn't have enuf "pop" for the electricness of it all so I need an electric mando...so when I was on the mainland, I went to Hugos which if you haven't been there in a while, its packed with lots of the newest gear and worth the stop....anyway, I played all the offerings and they basically didnt sound so good to me...I also checked out "Ill Be Jamming" to see what Kirk had...there was a couple hanging that I tried, but they somehow didnt do it for me either (FYI, threes LOTS of other instruements for sale there)...so what then?...well, Ill just make one!....my own design from scratch...sure, its winter, I got time (not) and it will be fun...well, the fact of the matter is that it was fun, and it came out great...Im stoked...gonna make some more too!...there ya go....here's a pic of what came out of my brainstorming during the stormin...kind of paul reed smith meets les paul...ha ha...it actually sounds really good.....peace ma Ottomatics at the Bella Luna New Years (Early) from 6pm to 9pm Also Be Careful w/Sandman at the Alehouse Jan. 3rd...Sat. 8-11...Live music is better....
Dec. 8th... We'll, its truely gone by very quickly this year...New Year 2009...already....wow...Avery has gone off to Evergreen and is now fully engaged as a Guiduck and seemingly enjoying his young adolescence...right on son...He has a new group together called "Gnarwhal" which I can only speculate on...I do know, that his friend Rachel plays cello with Ave on guitar and mando and keys and one other guy...you just know thery're cooking up some good tunes. Can't wait to hear some....Other notes....Ive been working on building an electric mandolin for the newly invigorated "Ottomatics" gig. We'll be at the Bella Luna on New Years from 6-9pm...its billed as an "East Cost New Years" cause of the time difference...its mostly because we're old duffs who can't stay up later than midnite...yep..We did a halloween show there, and it was pretty good...come down and see fer yerself... .I'll post some pics of the mandolin when its done....Its looking good, very RED...Always wanted a red mando... Music stuff...The Bella Luna every wednesday same time, same place...all good...I ran into my friend Gary, and he went to Victoria Sat. nite to see Nine Inch Nails....said it was an awesome show...I can believe it... Its almost a new year folks...I would be remiss if I didnt wish our new President Elect Barak Obama and family best wishes. He has an enormous job in front of him digging out from the Bush Regime...make no mistake, no matter what side of the isle your on...The Bush Administration has screwed us into the dirt and if you dont see it, ya aint paying much attention...nuff said...xom Nov. 20th I had the pleasure of playing Blues Nite at the Bella Luna with special guest, 20 year old Kurtis Dengler from Lopez island who is a fine guitar player by any measure. It was a blast...Kurtis has gotten a dose of fame while playing on tour with Paul Rogers Band last year with a highlight engagement at Royal Albert Hall...yes thats correct...Kurtis is well, bout as nice a young man as you could wanna meet. And his playing was tasty, tone to the bone and inspiring, kicking the Bella Luna Social Club band in the butt. Nothing like a bunch of old guys playing music and smiling like cheshire cats while Kurtis is burning down the house...wow....thanks Kurtis that was swwweeettt!...Expect to see a lot more of him in the future as he's part of a new group of young players that just have it......check out his myspace page HERE Nov. 5th.... President Elect Barak Obama 2008 Goodbye and Good Riddance GWB and Co. Bastards! Oct. 1st So, music....yes thats why I write this blog and maintain this website. I always think that "this summer" Im really gonna do some big time gigs, and you know what...they are all big time gigs. You see....I dont' ever take for granted my ability to play music. It is a gift. The fact that I can share it with my friends and acquaintences makes it even more important ofd a gift. The fact that I've passed it on to my son Avery has made me beam from ear to ear on many occaision with my envy, pride and well wishes...Music is a common denominator in everyones life. Doesnt matter what your skin color is, or your political affiliation, or your place in society...we all love music. And its ALL good!...Ive said this before, but we live in a great community here in Friday Harbor. Our music scene is vibrant, our theater scene is alive and very well, and we have local businesses that truely support live music. Venues,like the Bella Luna, I'll be Jammin, Herbs, the China Pearl, the Ale House, The Port of Friday Harbor, Island Recs summer concert series, Roche Harbor etc....we are very lucky to have all this!...I'd like to thank all those places and folks responsible for having a vision of creativity, and desire to engage in the arts...its a huge benefit living in such a small town, enjoy it....Also, a big thanks to all the fans of all the musicians who make it happen and last but not least the fans of the music who come from everywhere to have fun and share a common bond...Peace m.a. Don't forget to VOTE! July 30 Ok so 6 weeks had gone by....summer is flying past and we have yet to see a good 90 degree day...any time would be fine by me... Theres been lots of music in and around town over the last month or so....the pig war picnic was big fun 4th of July...Devorah, Anthemology, Ottomatics, and the Island Jazz Band were all on hand.....Kiwanis did a great job with putting it together....Also the Timebenders played their set at the Port lot that eve. Great fun indeed..... The Chamber of Commerce Arts & Crafts fair, July 19/20th was a success this year with more vendors and a wide variety of music on both days. Every year it gets better and better...Dont forget.....the SJCTheater is having lots of really good BLUES the month of SEPT. make sure to check out their website for listings. Duke Robillard, Lloyd Jones Struggle, and more....Live music also going on every Fri. and Sat. at the Front St. Ale house....also the Port of Friday Harbor Summer Fridays/ and Sundays...please see our index pages for these and other venues to catch LIVE music in and around Friday Harbor....best ma June 15th Congrats to the FHHS Senior Class of 2008....Bright bunch , those guys/girls...hard to believe that its been 18 years since Avery was born, but there ya go....It was a bittersweet moment for me but also made me very proud.....Thanks to all the teachers thruout the years that helped shaped these kids to what they are today....we are truely lucky to live in such a place. May 28th Celebrity Golf Classic Well, Im not golfin much these days but I go out to support the cause and see my buddy Alan White of Yes fame. Alan is the drummer in Yes for 30 years now, and has been coming to the Classic for 10 years running now making him the longest stalwart of the celebs that have graced this fine event...Good news from Alan is that Yes will be starting a world tour in July in Quebec, and will have a date in Seattle at WaMu sometime early Aug....Rick Wakemans son will be manning the keys for this tour. Alan says he sounds just like his dad...cool...they might be older but they are at the peak of their playing....go see em...well worth the trip!.. SASQUATCH...Avery and I went (along w/24,000 othere) to the Gorge this past weekend to catch over 40 bands at one of the best outdoor music venues in North America....man, what a cool place the gorge is...took the westy and camped old guy style and was glad for that...sorry, the ground is made of walkin on, not sleepin on imho...so the bands....REM, The Cure, Flaming Lips, Ozomatli, Death Cab for Cutie, The Mars Volta, The New Pornographers, Beirut, Cold War Kids, The National, M.I.A., Blue Scolars, Teagan and Sarah, The Hives, Modest Mouse and so many more....its was amazing, inspiring and exhausting... The Cure...this was for me a big deal...although I paid littla attention to them in their heyday, theres no doubt Robert Smith is a seminal figure in contempory music... since 1979 when they released thier first album, they have continued to push the limits of Smiths songwriting. Their set was simply huge...7 encore songs! Check out more on The Cures history here REM played on Sat. nite at 10:pm just when the rain began...no doubt here...big time music, big time stage show, big time rock & roll!...They played old and new tunes and weathered the rains to do a stellar set...total pros... Flaming Lips!...well if you have never seen Wayne Coynes traveling spaceship show your missing something...I had heard of them but wasnt sure what to expect...it was over the top. Dancing nakid ladies, aliens, the man in the bubble, Led Zeppelin, confetti canons, and great moments in music!...amazing show.... Death Cab for Cutie...Ben Gibbard started this band in Bellingham Wa. and they have gone on to huge critical acclaim...Big songs with emotional lyrics, great compositions and a string of hits have placed them as one of the top touring bands this year...no wonder...the tunes are awsome...it was a Sasquatch moment... There was so much to see and hear I cant do it justice here...go to the Gorge...take your wife, kids and dog...sunscreen too, pack food cause the festival food is spendy. Beer is $11.00 each!...but GO SEE A SHOW....the sound crew at this venue is the best...25 minute set changes, minimal sound issues, and overall it was amazing how smooth it all was... some pix of the show.. .
Wow, a month is gone by since my last post....lots of stuff has been going on too!... Front Street Ale House has a full summer of music scheduled at the "Topside" lounge....see thier schedule here... Last weekend, the AM Sring Band was there. Nice folks indeed, and I got to play some tunes with them as well...Michael, Johanna and Adam...really good ole down home roots music, big fun...thanks for that....you can check out thier site here The Bella Luna Blues Band w/ Steve Keys and coherts, continues on Wed. nites at the Bella 6:00 pm... The Playright Boys had thier CD Release Party at the Gubleman Room at SJCT the 26th and had a full house.An evening of original music from Teddy Deane and Johnathan Piff along with Cecil Demerleer, and Debbie Nash was full of well written tunes, good humor and a dog gone good time!... Thier disc, "So Far So Good" is now available here Congratulations...on that April 20 Great Moments in Local Music History! Uncle Otto, Debbie Nash Strasser and Anthemology at SJCT Apr. 18th....
Anthemology in action...Chris Carter, Shay Byington and Avery Adams Wow, I've played some shows in my time, but that ranks right up there with the BEST!...A very nice crowd showed up and the vibe was most excellent!....Anthemology set the tone with a great 4 song set of originals and 1 cover I think...Avery Adams, Chris Carter and Shay Byington really threw it down...Averys vocals were great, and all of em just rocked the house. Debbie Nash Strasser who is one of my most favorite singer/songwriters, was fabulous. Her delivery is very captivating...and her unique fingerstyle playing and beautiful voice is simply one of the good things in life...it was a treat for many in the audience who had never heard her perform before...Thanks Debbie for being a part of it...Next up...Uncle Otto...James Barkshire, Steve Keys and Mike Adams have performend for over 8 years around Friday Harbor and the San Juans...this was Michaels B-Day (yes 30 agian!) and it was a celebration of that with a lot of AARP jokes (thanks Steve) and an expectedly good set of classics and originals...I can never say enuf about how much I enjoy playing with these guys....sometimes its another gig and sometimes its very special, but always good. Fri. nite was one of the "Special" nites. The boys were in fine singing voice and the crowd was very entusiastic thruout the entire set. It was just great. I want to thanks all involved in the success of this show, including Merritt Olson, Mark Hetrick, Ed Ashcraft, Loren, Don, Pete D. and all the theatre folks as well as all the performers....Avery, Chris, Shay, Debbie and James and Stevie. Also the folks who came out to see us who truely make it a happening. It was indeed a nite we'll remember for a long time...thanks again....ma .Apr. 4th... Thanks Coco for a great show....and thanks to Steve Evans for doing a bass workshop with us...it was great! March 28th Working on a BASS workshop with Steve Evans who is now touring w/Coco Montoya....Scheduled for Fri Apr. 4th @ 10:00 am...this is a bit up in the air but as of today its how it stands...Steve is a monster player and educator suprimo...very lucky to have this oppertunity....cost is $30.00 please call 378-2638 or 5720 for info...or use the email links on this site...m So....I missed a great performance ( had a gig) by the band Grand Derangement at the theatre recently. Everyone said it was a great musical event and they promised to come back to see us....cool... Also wanted to mention and give kudos to Dan Paulson for his continued efforts in bringing great Irish music to the islands. Its been 6 years since Dan seeded this great event and it only gets better. I was gone duing the workshops/shows but reports were all around that it was again spectaclar...thanks dano... March 17th... Happy St. Patricks Day... David Lovine paid Friday Harbor a visit recently and did a show at "Ill Be Jammin" and the "Front Street Ale House"...... A great shantyman, story teller and racountour...David has performed thruout the NW for years playing sea chantys, folk songs and acappela traditional music....very nice to see him as always... Oh, yeah, Az was sweet...and it was in fact warm and sunny and a nice respite from the NW dampness... March 1st, in like a Lamb! Spring is springing... I'm leaving (again) to go back to AZ and help my buddy wire his house...cheech and chong inc. Yessir, Nels says its 80degrees...gotta love that...So, Im leaving you in charge, back on the 13th to keep on keepin on...peace...ma Uncle Otto is having a show at the SJCT on April 18th. Our first gig on the big stage promises to be lots of fun. We're excited to have Debbie Nash Strasser open for us along with some "Special Guests"...Tickets on sale soon... Bella Luna this month has the Dirt Monkeys, Solar Siblings, and Henry James Band on tap...Stevie will be back middle of March and we'll all be anxious to see if he's browned up some! ... Ok...well Wintergrass was a hoot. Literally!...saw some great bands like The Wilders, Crooked Still, Punch Bros., The Duhks, Seldom Scene, Grascals, Mike Marshal, Darrol Anger w/Vasen...on and on and on....I don't get to go see much bluegrass but this was great. Lots of people I knew there,(my old friend Dale Chestnut) and lots of jamming everywhere you looked....Psychograss. New Grass, Old Grass and yes Bluegrass too!...A great inspiration to anyone who attended. What I really likes was the friendlyness of everyone involved. No one turned away from jams regardless of age, beauty or ability...a good thing indeed. So....check out some of the above links. Feb. 21st Premier Bluegrass event held annually in Tacoma Wa. This years event promises to be one of the best ever...Check out thier website for more informaition...more to follow...m Jan. 6th.... Mr.Dave laying it down at SJCT!...
Whats to say?...an almost sold out crowd of over 260 came to the San Juan Community Theatre to give witness to the "Big Twang" theory of Mr.Dave and his tales of lemurs, furry poker chips and best of all, a virtuosity on stringed instruments that left the crowd on its feet, truely awed by his most awesome talents. Singing/Playing cuts from his newest release "Big Twang, recorded at Tom Fitzgeralds studio in S.Ca., Mr. Dave, was in fine form indeed. Opening up with the POG, (baritone weissenborn style guitar made by Larry Pogreba) which was a deep voiced huge sounding instrument, a version of "Revenge Will Come" (Greg Copeland) was a great lead in to a great set. Followed by, "Junk Bond King" (W.Zevon), "Where the Palm Meets the Pine" (D O'Keefe), "Copperhead Road" (S.Earle), "Brothers Under the Bridge" (B.Springsteen), "Soul of a Man" (Trad. Blind Willie Johnson, arr.by D.L.), "Sacajawea" (D.L), "Catfood Sandwiches" (D.L.), "Methlab Boyfriend" (D.L.) and "Lazyman" (D.L.). This last tune brought the house to its feet requesting more and more we got it. 2 Encores..., one a great tune written by W.Zevon, "Beneath the Vast Indifference of Heaven" ,and ending the show with a classic Lindley interpretation of Bon Temp Rouler...a great set, covering lots of material from both the new, Big Twang disc, and some past gems thrown in along the way. nice..... David is known for his eclectic collection of instruments(yes polyester too) and he brought a pile of em to the show...no dissappointments there!...2 Paddy Burgin (playing in photo) Weissenborn copies, 2 bouzoukis, the POGreba weiss, a very cool Najarian built electric oud and a Saga "Django style" 6 string. All the good stuff...check out the rest of his collection... here... I was lucky enuf to sponsor this show and have some time with Dave and his traveling partner, roadie, producer and good friend, Tom Fitzgerald. I can't say enuf as to their genuine love of performing, of people, and of music and for just being good humans!...folks will talk about this show for some time realizing they saw something special... New fans, old fans, it was a treat for all who attended...so thanks Mr. David Lindley and Tom Fitzgerald for making the trip to our island. Special thanks to the SJCT for having the gumption to get muscians in our venue that matter!...peace.... out. ma Jan.26th North American Musical Merchandisers Trade show... Wow....back from NAMM 08' and once again it was pretty wild!...This year I went with my buddy Nelson of Swansong Guitars and his friend (now mine too!) Jimmy Dufrense...I really like driving thru the low desert on hwy 10. We passed Quartzite where theres at least 10,000 RV's and a giant flea market...it was late afternoon so we kept truckin. west...Im sure there was a 59' Les Paul out in that pile somewhere!...anyway, Namm is the largest tradeshow in the US and is miles of ilses with packed full of great instruments. Amps, guitars, basses, all string families, woodwinds, stompboxes, DAW's, sound reinforcement, gadgets, pretty girls, great music and so much more. Its boggling actually. I love going to this show. We attended the morning sessions w/industry heads who have a very optimistic feeling about the economy (good luck with that), and think the music supply industry might be in for a slow growth cycle...yeah, thanks (gw/dc/gop) for that!....But being musicians as well as ceo's, they also believe in thier customers desire to wanna play music, and instigate the playing of music, which will in turn sell merch and keep the ship floating. Considering the economy, I think thats pretty rational thought...Im doing my part and will get hold of a Boomerang phrase sampler to inspire myself and support the cause...Ok, Im getting off the path here. Back to the subject of NAMM... This year was again full of opertunities to see live music. My favorite was at the Hilton Ballroom at Doug Wimbishs' "Wimbash" where we caught Living Color. If you dont know these guys, and like rock music played w/conviction and musical excellence, check em out. Vernon Reid, Doug Wimbish, Cory Glover, and Will Calhoun, simply are the sh**. Check out their web site. Wimbash is a now an annual event put on by Doug Wimbish who is a founding member of Living Color. He hosts a cast of characters and puts on a great show. This year also featured George Lynch who is of Dokken fame. I am not a big metal fan but I'm telling you that it simpley was astonishing seeing him shred...Also Fishbone hammered down some very heavy twang...must mention the Coffin Case girls and Bad Apple Dancers as perfect ornamentation for the eveing....A surprise of the night was the all star jam band featuring frontman Tim “Ripper” Owens (Ex-Judas Priest/Iced Earth/current Beyond Fear vocalist), former Megadeth bassist David Ellefson, Marc Rizzo (Soulfly) and Rob Arnold (Chimaira) on guitar and drummer Jason Bittner (Shadows Fall). The guys played selections that included covers from Priest (“Breakin The Law”) Megadeth (“Holy Wars/Peace Sells”) and Sabbath (“Paranoid”). It was awesome to hear ripper cover these classics; the man is definitely one of the most underrated vocalists in existence today. Too much fun....there was more but after Living Color it was time to bail... We went to Bass Bash at JT's Brewery and saw English Bassist, Steve Lawson. He is a phenominal composer/player. Likes those loops!...Doug Johns was there, plays Pedulla bases and as a solo player was over the top. A bit much for me to comprehend but interesting. His new album is a major funk adventure a la Mark King. and Level 42...The most melodic player was Grady Muckleroy playing Bee basses...Nice player. His good humor showed thru in his compositions...I really liked his song about his dog!... The Hilton Lobby always has great music going on. Mostly locals ( I think) but all great players/bands. I only remember that it was "all good"!... The partys are all over Anaheim and surrounding areas, and being on foot, we stayed close to the hub. We tried to catch Phill Keaggy, John Mayer and a host of other acoustic players, but fagetaboutit..... we had tickets but way too many other folks had em too!...too many people to squeeze in the hall....Plan B...Wimbash!...see above.....On the floor of Namm is also great for seeing some of your favorite players/muscians, demo thier wares. The list is endless...really.... Johnny Hiland for PRS, Joe Bonammassa for some hi fi gadget I can't now remember, Steve Morse (Deep Purple, Dregs) for Engl amps, Lots of Black Label Rebel Society Guys, The Coffin Case girls, Leslie West, Corky Lang, George Lynch, Rick Derringer, Dick Dale, Victor Wooton, Steve Bailey, Alain Caron, Steve Gadd, Stevie Wonder checkin out keys, and many more.. I think theres over 225,000 people that attend.We're talkin jampacked!....Mostly trade buyers and retailers. But theres also lots of guys like us, who go cause we can. As a fledgling guitar builder, its great to talk to the true artisans of guitar building, and theres a lot of em out there. They are always open to talk about thier inventiveness, ideas, theories, materials, and products. Everyone has something to do with music on some level and you can't help but come away from there wanting to be a better musician. swell.... ...go here of a few pics of the show...NAMM PICS 08 thanks nel,laurie,rusty,monte,james d Dec. 31st.... FABULOUS RHYTHMATICS AT THE BELLA LUNA on New Years Eve (East Coast Style 6-9pm) Always a good groove with those guys, can't wait...Drive careful, be safe, and tip your waitresses and bar folks...See ya next year Over and Out! ma Dec. 29th ....Well that went well considering. (Christmas) I won't expound much other than to say, my family is the best, and thanks for fixing my favorite old watch. Ive been late for most everything since its been broken(only 8 months!) so no more of that! Dec. 17th. Christmas is 9 days away!...man the time is going faster each year at least for me...Im as usual not ready, don't have enuf dough to buy anything cool but will give with my heart this year. Yep, Im giving everyone cd's...agiain!...just kidding, but not really...I used to smoke a bunch of salmon and give that away but no more sockeyes for me...so thats most likely out. Hats are good, gloves too for that matter. I might go with a gas coupon gift certificates...thats pretty useful these days, much needed but costly ($3.55) here on SJ...mabey not...hmmm, I havent baked cookies for ever and everyone likes them? ... I get the ones in a plastic tube from Kings and whack off slices for the toaster oven. Just like homemade...its always a bit of a struggle for me buying stuff. Im pretty cheap as a rule. I like to make stuff to give people. On year I went on a last minute jag and made bird houses that looked like a New England church, a Federal style house, and a model of our old family cabin Gemini..(.which is still in Uncle Johns basement by the way).... I like to ask Santa to give me stuff I actually need. (We all should) You know, like a script for Bass Player mag., or renew my Guild of American Luthier membership, or fix my long dead favorite watch....or yes, I too like cd's and cookies too...Its all good, it all goes around. This year, remember those who are part of your life. Give them some of you. Your time, your energy. It matters and is a real gift that keeps on giving. PEACE m Dec. 15th Recently I was asked to help out and be a "mentor" to some local kids who have a band and for a school project wanted to have a concert to raise $$ for some decided cause (FHHS Jazz Band). Cameron Byington is the head honcho/guitarplayer and a junior at FHHS. Him, his brother Shay on drums and Reitan on bass make up District 49. Well, initally they wanted to do it out in the community at a public venue but because it was a school project, certain liability issues came up as well as the issue of admin staffing of the event, ie, security etc. We met with Mr. Soltman the super and Mr. Woods the principal. Both real nice guys who like music and wanted to make something happen. What did finally happen was that they got permission to hold it at the commons like a regular dance but have LIVE music. Usually its a DJ affair and thats cool but c'mon, give it to us live!...so...along with Anthemolgy another local band made up of Chris Carter, Avery Adams, Shay (again)Byington and Miles Cobos, District 49 had thier show!...Everyone was happy, the kids had a blast, the bands were great and they raised $650 or so...Way to go guys. Thanks to Mrs. Paul, Mr. Woods, Mr. Soltman and the rest of the chaperones who made it fun and possible...Special thanks to Clinton Gauthier for his DJ expertise and use of his speaks!....Rock On!... Nov. 28th... Winter is setting in and Im already jonesing for sun and warmth...Congrats to Tomdog (Doenges) and Dick Hieronymous, for thier nomination at the LA Music Awards in the Country artist catagory. Its very prestigeous and a great step towards some recognition of these fellas songwriting skills of which we had no doubt!..ma Bella Luna Every Wed. 6pm Blues Nite... Banry Benefit...Dec. 7th...a great success. The community raised over 75,000$ to help Gordy and Diana remodel thier house to accomodate Sam and Claytons special needs. Its testiment to the generousness of San Juan Islanders. You can contribute to their cause by going here... Nov. 6th...Vote! Ok, we're home after having my "pendix" out...yahoo...pay attention to your body if its telling you you need to go to the docs...glad I did...in by 9 out by 11 am...one stop shop...thanks for the kind words. Oct. 15th WheelhouseGuitars.com Recent Instruments..."True Hawiian" #2 Oregon Mountain Laruel (Myrtle), Mahogany, Ebony Custom orders accepted or call...360-378-5720
Oct. 7... Anthemology will be playing a Halloween show at the Front Street Ale House time TBA.... Blues nite is now happining EVERY WED. at the Bella Luna!....C,mon down!... ******** NAMM is coming!....Annual trade show in Anaheim will be held Jan. 18th thur 21st...its an awesome event and if you can finagle a way in**, you won't be dissappointed. Lots to see, hear and experience. ** Requires membership to NAMM ******* Sept. 25th... I'd like to say THANKS to all the musicians/performers who played both public and private gigs in and around the San Juan Islands this year...we're very lucky to have so many oppertunities to play LIVE MUSIC. Truely there is a great comraderie here amongst musicians and diversity abounds!...Performance is one of the great aspects of playing a musical instrument. Something about getting up on stage and haveing a good/great set that gets folks into the groove, dancing, singing or just bopping thier head to the music...its all good....Music on the Lawn, the Jack Fairweather Park concerts, the Bella Luna Blues Night, Tanglewood, The County Fair, Roche Harbor, Isle be Jammin, San Juan Brewing Co., Herbs et all...Also thanks to The San Juan Update, and the San Juan Islander for keeping music in the News...Thanks for hearing us! ******* Aug. 15th...San Juan Co. Fair Opening Wow....sure looks great at the fair....hard to believe its here already...summer gone? Hardly...the folks who make the fair happen really do a great job...thanks for all the efforts. The rides are up and going, the pies, veggies,pigs, bunnies, horses, chickens, musicians, food vendors, ice man, everthing is humming along nicely. Dont forget the Zuchinni 500 races daily at 5....just go! Music today was good. I got there at 2 so missed some of the early acts which were all nice shows. I saw the 3 pm show with Anthemology which included Avery Adams, Miles Cobos, Chris Carter and Shay Byington...them kids got it going on....Good songwriting and energy. Being Averys dad, I was very proud. Nice Set!...Caught Kate Schumann and Steve Dyers set. They sure sing well together...it was a treat as always... Tonites headliner the Fabulous Rhythmatics, flat laid it down!...Big Shoes Ryhthm & Blues... Great set, lots of great fans (thanks), and a good time had by all....We Love the Fair!...Thurs. PM Local Harvest Band!
Aug 8th Egg Lake Music Faire!...Wow...Thanks you Bill and Sue Maas for hosting this stellar event!... Every year (almost) these folks put together one of the best musical events happening locally. Nothing short of amazing. This year the bands included Kinski, form Seattle (Sub Pop) Jennifer Gentle from Italy (Sub Pop), Randy Hanson Seattle, along with.....3 Leafs, Birch Book, Nick Castro just awesome.... Great lights and visuals by Gary Westcott, who has worked the biggest shows here and abroad, along with real time artists capturing the event to canvas, this concert always leaves me with a fresh insight into new music and an aspiration to create!...Thanks to all the folks who helped put this together and the local neighbors who allow it to happen...Its great that we can still kick it on the rock!
August 1st! Can you believe its already August....Its been 3 months since my last update and I can honestly say Im not sure where that time went!....So.....without futher ado... This summer as always brings a lot of musical happenings to the island. Weddings, Parties, Concerts and all other related events happen mostly during our tourist season. For the musicians, it creats a bit of a hectic schedule as most of them have families and real world working jobs that take up most of thier time. The thing I admire about our local musicians is their talents of course, but also their adaptability. Most of them (the ones I know best) are able to jump from one type of show to another without missing a beat, no pun intended. Versatility on the move!...gotta love it...The Music on the Lawn program has had a bit of a tussle with the weather this summer. Pretty goofy mid July that...but they continue the series on Wed. eves...please check out Island Recs Web site for more info on this. (Uncle Otto is there Aug. 8th)... The summer concert series is at Jack Fairweather Park is also in full swing with music on Fri. eves and on Sun afternoons. Thanks to Chinmayo for all her efforts in this ongoing and growing program....Go here for schedule. Coming shortly is the San Juan Co. Fair, August 15th -18th. Lots of great entertainment this year with a local twist. We always like the fair...Gives the local musicans from all islands a time to shine and show their stuff. Im happy to say my sons band will perform on Wed @ 3pm....you can see the entire schedule HERE. We also would like to hook you up with the San Juan Brewing Co. as Oren and Peggy have been very supportive of local music and players. Thanks for that...Heres the list for the brew pub. Of course, don't forget the other local places to hear music...Roche Harbor offers weekend dancing both fri and sat nites....Herb's Tavern, most weekends, China Pearl, most weekends, Front Street Ale house as well has a summer full of music see above link...Ok nuff said... Support your local musician and give peace a chance!!... Update May 16th On Sat. May 12th, the Steve Maas Benefit was a huge success...Eddie Ashcraft and his family and friends put on a spectacular fundraiser for Steve who recently underwent a bone marrow transplant which by the way is working out well. Estimated crowd was around 600 folks who ate, donated, danced and bid up a storm! Its rumored that the event raised over 60K$!!!...Wow...thats our community coming together to make it happen. I wanted to thank the musicians who donated their time and music to this event. They are always willing to step up and do their part for stuff like this. Its about community, spirit and giving. I can tell you that all of them are about that. We are very fortunate indeed to have such support here on our small island and it speaks volumns about the generosity and compassion folks have that live here...thanks to...Ed Ashcraft who strapped on the old Kramer to Rock & Roll after a 12 year hiatis and truely worked up a worthy sweat, Tom and Tami Doenges, Kate Schuman, Dan Gillespie, Keith Busha, Roger McGilvery, James Barkshire, Steve Keys, Teddy Deane, Cecil Demeerleer and Mike Adams for tunage, gear etc. Wow! Special thanks to my Auctioneer friend Tom Pasma whos selling skills made some big$$!!...thanks Tom... You can see/buy images of the event here...www.dicristinaphoto.com Lots of things have gone on since my last update...Wheelhouse Guitars has continued their growth cycle and has enlarged its resaw capity and shop space. That being done, were now back at it and hope to have several new instruments on hand in the next 6 weeks.... Went to Bellingham to pickup some things at Grizzley and went to Targo Hardwoods...They are near the old RE Store on Holly. Very nice guys. Monty has some ties to Friday Harbor as he is good friends w/Kelly Wade(Windjammer Janitorial)...so heres their link... www.targowoods.com...they are in the process of moving over to Sqallicum Harbor but will continue to have great hardwoods of all kinds. Guitar makers, Wood Turners Take Note!...they know what you want1 May 8th Went to Lopez and paid a visti to Bruce Creps of Notablewood. Hes a guitar wood sawyer and one worthy of mention. I have never seen such a nice stash of Koa in my life!...Im telling you, it was jaw dropping...so...of course I bought some for an upcoming Weissenborn project Im working on...He also has other great woods like Maple, Walnut and Myrtle...simple a great selection...Bruce is also a very nice guy to boot. Hes easy to find and likes to visit. Its the kind of place where you can get lost in the amour of great tonewoods and Bruce encourages you to visit purposly for that reason. Thanks Bruce...heres a link to his site...www.notablewoods.com Update April 2 Dont forget Carl Verheyen at the SJCT on April 14th...go here for flyer...Thanks to Mark Hetrick for bringing his old frined Carl back to the San Juans and theatre...one of the best players on the planet...thats right...one of the best...Here for a solo show with Bonnie Bailiff who now resides on Orcas...ought to be a great show...thanks for your support.. ****************************************** Well, in my quest for more tools to build guitars I have sold my much loved 1916 F2 Gibson mandolin...you know the kind. Just a very sweet instrument which I loved but onward...so to make the parting a bit easier on myself, I bought another bass...another guitar? yep...do you need another guitar? yes....ok then...got it!....I found a beautiful Mike Lull 5 string Bass in Aztec Gold w/green pickguard...these active/passive basses are based on the fender designs but like Roger Sadowsky, Mike Lull has taken this timeless design and improved on it with better electronics, a faster profile neck, high end fit and finish and a vintage contemporary vibe...Im thrilled to have it and will bring it down to the Bella Luna on my next bass slot....cheers ****************************************** update mar.21 swansongguitars.com is launched!...My friend and Bass Guitar builder Nelson Joyce has launched his website for his guitar buisness. Nelson is based in Rimrock Az. and can handle most any type of repair, rebuild, custom order and more that you might need pertaining to lutherie...He's a graduate of Roberto-Venn School of Lutherie in Phoenix and has been a craftsman, musician for most of his life. Nelson, knows tone! what more is there to say!...Check his site for info and more. He's also a sponsor of Gerald Veasleys Bass Boot Camp held annually in Philladelphia with some of the best players today...Cool... ****************************************** Update Mar. 14, 07 Songwriters Tour Concert Man, another great show. Ive had my share recently and this one was quite special as well. Held at the renovated Mt.Baker Theatre, this show had Lyle Lovett, John Hiatt, Joe Ely and Guy Clark on the bill. How cool is that? Very simple and very awesome. These guys are all consumate musicians and great songwriters. My longtime fave being Hiatt, did Memphis in the Meantime, Tennesee Plates, Have a Little Faith in Me, and mabey 3 more I can't remember. Lyle Lovett, wow what a great delivery this guy has. His writing is wry, poignant and humerous. You could tell by his stage banter that he was a very funny guy and truely a stellar songster...Joe Ely is a long time Texas rocker. His brand of songwriting is both energetic and blue collar. Joe was in good company at this show and very appreciated by the group and audience alike. Guy Clark...well I think it was clear the this was a show about paying homage to his long career of simple, clear and concise bluecollar songwriting. Painting pictures w/words is what he is about. It was also obvious that the rest of the guys on stage felt a connection to thier own songwriting thru Guys songs. It was a sold out show and a gala event for the Theatre. Check it out sometime, its a great venue and has great artists coming there all the time. PS. If you want food before the show...make a reservation, otherwise you'll be s.o.l....later m Irish Music Camp Great show at the theatre by the Friday Harbor Irish Camp Faculty. As always Dan Paulson outdid himself not only by putting together such a stellar event but by his tireless efforts to make the Irish Music Camp one of the best held anywhere. The jams held apres the classes/shows are always a fun social/musical event and are appreciated by many..thanks Dan and all that help you make the music camp happen!... ********************************* Updated Feb. 28th Wow...Mr. Dave sure knows how to have big fun!...great show! SRO! Im not sure Ive seen so many folks in the theatre at once!...It always gets me just how entertaining David Lindley is. The show is just as good in between the tunes as the tunes themselves!.. As an instrumentalist, he's just off the hook. Nonstop fusion of world music and eclectic humor keeps the audience laughing out loud and marveling at what theyre hearing at the same time...I was lucky enuf to be a co sponsor with Tom Doenges of San Juan Computers and Steve Keys of San Juan Garage Door. I got Mr. Dave over at Nichols Street Suites for some one on one about guitars, music and stories. He really does know a lot about guitars and ethnic instruments and loves to talk about them... His collection is varied and as eclectic as he is. The Paddy Burgen made "Weissenborn" guitars he was playing were huge at the theatre and are great instruments coming from a luthier in 'Australia. Sapele wood also called African Mahogany was what they were made of, very deep and lots of power..He had 2 of them, tuned to Bb and I think D... I also got to check out several of his other mainstays. One I really liked was the John McGrath (Australia) small bodied square neck he had with him but didnt play at the show. This guitar was just a lot of music waiting to happen...When I strummed it I was floored by the huge great tone coming out of it. Big Voice...Wow, I want to make a guitar that sounds like that!...someday I just might!...The other highlighted instrument David played was a custom Oud by Vikan Najarian. Very cool fretless electric. It had a very distinctive tone and for me was enlightening!... As a beginning luthier it was totally fun talking to Dave about these and other instruments not to mention great insight from years of GAS ! (Guitar Acquisition Syndrome) . ..and yes I did get David to check out my "True Hawiian" guitar I recently built(see below). I was a happy camper to get some invaluable feedback from a great player on my efforts in guitarmaking,so thanks for that!.... In checking out his stage setup, pretty simple and easy to move in and out. No more Roland AC120 Chorus Amps, nothing too heavy, nope, no more of that...Nowadays, its an acoustic box by D-TAR (Seymor Duncan and Bob Turner) and an A/B box. Also one small amp for a live moniter, one Shure 58, and a couple bouzoukis, Burgen weisenborns, oud, 12 string and voila, Live Mr. David Lindley!. Thanks to the San Juan Community Theater, Sponsors and all involved for hosting one of our faves, thanks to Tom Fitzgerald and David Lindley for making the trek over(they had a great time by the way)...I suspect in the futrure we'll see more interesting shows at our great little theatre!... Get them tickets!! David Lindley ...thats right is coming to Friday Harbor!...how cool is that...we're really lucky that Merritt felt compeled to try and get Mr. Dave to visit the San Juan Communty Theatre and make his magic. And it is just that, his magic of music...a multinstrumentalist of the higest caliber, he's played great music since his early days as the Topanga Canyon fiddle and banjo champion which he did for a number of years...After playing with a series of traditional folk and bluegrass bands, including the Smog City Trestle Hangers, the Mad Mountain Ramblers, and the Dry City Scat Band, Lindley joined a rock band, the Rodents. When the group disbanded, he formed his own group, Kaleidoscope, that blended traditional music with rock influences.Accepting an invitation to join Jackson Browne's band in 1971, Lindley remained with the singer/songwriter's group for a decade. When not touring or recording with Browne, he continued to explore a variety of projects. In 1979, he began working with Ry Cooder, contributing heavily to his albums Bop Till You Drop and the soundtrack to the film The Long Riders. The collaboration continues and in the early '90s, Lindley and Cooder toured as a duo. Lindley found time to work on his music, as well. Shortly after releasing a solo album, El Rayo-X, he formed a band of the same name with Bernie Larsen (guitar), Jorge Calderon (bass), Ian Wallace (drums), and Ras "Baboo" Pierre (percussion). In 1990, Lindley began performing in a duo that he shared with Jordan-born percussionist Hani Naser. The two musicians continued to tour and record together until 1995. Lindley has collaborated with avant-garde guitarist and ethnomusicologist Henry Kaiser on several albums based on their field recordings. A two-week field recording expedition to Madagascar in 1991 yielded six albums of Malagasy music, including the award-winning, two-volume set A World Out of Time. A trip to Norway in 1994 inspired two CDs, Sweet Sunny North, Vol. 1 & Vol. 2. ~ Craig Harris, All Music Guide **************************************** updated Feb.4th Well back from trip to Phoenix and the Namm show...too much Fun! My good friend Nelson, (Swansong Guitars) and I drove over from Rim Rock Az. to Anaheim to attend the recent winter convention. An interesting drive thru the heart of Az/Ca low desert country, which if you never have done it, was great. Many miles of straight highway, and vast desert!..oh yeah, wind generators...I had a distinct feeling of being in a sci fi landscape driving past these...kind of weird but in a good way...I need to get out more!..on to Anaheim and NAMM...All I can say is that if you like gear, people, music, performance and a lot of walkin, however you can, go to the Namm convention at least once in your musical life. Typically it is a show focused on presenting the years new products for dealers and industry retailers. From small vendors like Villex pickups (great stuff) to the big guys ie, Fender, Korg, Gibson and too many to name here, theres every type of musical thing imaginable...I mean everything!...We like to go see the small market guitar/bass builders and their wares, to find suppliers of tonewood, parts, tuners, tools etc for luthiers of which we aspire to be...Some of our faves are Listed here... We also go to hear great music and this year was no exception! First up when the doors to the show open were the Wicked Tinkers...very cool, very primal Scottish and very much having a really good time at 10 in the morning!... Both Nels and I are bass players and hes a notable builder of basses as well so we were happy to catch the Namm Bass Bash which introduced to me musicians I had never heard of...well, not quite true...I knew who Mike Keneally is from his Zappa, days, and Gerald Veasley from Bass Boot Camp held in Philly annually. But the music was amazing...Brian Beller Band, Just smokin fusion/funk/rock w/ Keneally on keys...flat out tearing it up... Adam Nitti Group w/Adam on Bass w/ Alex Machacek, Guitars and Marco Minneman on drums. Monster Players!!! We left around 10:30 and heard they went till 2:30!..Sorry to have missed Gerald Veasley though...hey do yourself a favor and check out all these guys...very inspiring and interesting stuff... Caught the 5:00 main entrance show by a group made up of guys from Yes, Alabama, Mungo Jerry, the Ventures, Steppenwolf and more...Spencer Davis on Vocals!...a treat for sure... We saw Johnny Hiland do a scorching set at the Hilton Lobby. If you dont know who this is, check him out...Nashville style picking at its best, simply jawdropping licks...We missed out on the Tony Levin Band (bummer)...at namm you can go to any shows, just need to get a pass at the sponsor booths...we spaced this one out...old guys, duh...ok that was the first nite of great music... As you'd expect, theres numerous floor shows going on all the time at namm...endorsees of products doing their thing to help promote said product. Some great treats all around in this vein...Caught Mike Dowling, Bob Brozman and co. slippin and a slidin at the National Guitar Booth...I think those guys jam the entire show!... Sat. nite tunes...Doug Wimbish (Living Color) and his annual Wimbash....In the back of the Hilton we saw Freekbass with the Bad Apple dancers...simply over the top!...endorsed by Bootsy himself...Bernie Worrell from Parliment Funkadelic, Leo Nocentelli guitarist for the Meters, Gary Hoey (lunatic fringe) just a tone monster strataholic!...Vernon Ried (Living Color), Doug Wimbish, Will Calhoun and a host of other great players...by 11 pm we were out of steam and went to our room...I think the Bad Apple Dancers kept em rockin till the wee hours.. Sun...400 miles back to Rim Rock and the fine cooking of one of the Powers Girls, a few days hanging in AZ talking about the show, guitars and culling out our swag, then home to the island! *******************************************
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