Yesterday, via Ars Technica, I found out about iPhoneTracker, a free application that snoops into your iPhone backups and visually displays a record of your movements. The app is at the center of some controversy, because unbeknownst to most iPhone users, Apple has been collecting data about our whereabouts via cell tower triangulation. While this [...]
Yesterday, via Ars Technica, I found out about iPhoneTracker, a free application that snoops into your iPhone backups and visually displays a record of your movements. The app is at the center of some controversy, because unbeknownst to most iPhone users, Apple has been collecting data about our whereabouts via cell tower triangulation. While this kind of information has been used by cell companies for some time now “to improve their network,” and has been made available to law enforcement with a warrant, the data has not been so accessible to users until iOS 4 came out.
Data is collected and stored on the iPhone in an unencrypted file called consolidated.db. The file contains information like latitude, longitude, and timestamps that can be used to determine where you have been and when you were there. You can gain access to the file through the iPhone backup file created by iTunes. Because the file is not encrypted, it’s fairly easy to get to the data, which poses a security risk for iPhone users. To get a little more protection, you can encrypt the iPhone backups iTunes stores on your computer, but this still won’t protect the data on your iPhone. Malicious apps, websites, and hacks on could potentially extract the information straight from your iPhone.
My Tour Map… According to My iPhone 4
Security risks aside, I was hoping I could get a nice little map of all my travels from the iPhoneTracker program. Here’s a screen grab of the results it pulled up for me, which ranges from about a year ago to today.
You can see where my tours have taken me over the past year. While some of the data is erroneous (cell tower triangulation is a not fool-proof method for geolocation), the map gives a decent overview of where I’ve been. Is your hometown not on this map? Want me to come play in your area? Let me know!
My cousin Aaron is the pastor at LaOtto Wesleyan Church, the church I attended while growing up. He’s enrolled in some correspondence courses and was asked by a professor to solicit answers from friends and family about their thoughts on “the state of biblical preaching.” When he sent me a message on Facebook requesting that [...]
My cousin Aaron is the pastor at LaOtto Wesleyan Church, the church I attended while growing up. He’s enrolled in some correspondence courses and was asked by a professor to solicit answers from friends and family about their thoughts on “the state of biblical preaching.”
When he sent me a message on Facebook requesting that I answer the question, I didn’t know how to respond. The topic seemed so open-ended and nearly unanswerable. Still, I wanted to help my cousin out, so I spent an hour typing out my thoughts (which are mostly questions). I’m curious to hear your thoughts on this. Below is my reply.
Aaron, here is my answer.
Determining the state of biblical preaching today is difficult for two reasons.
1. Definition
Our discussion is troublesome if our topic is not defined. What exactly is “biblical” preaching? This raises many more questions than it answers.
Does “biblical” preaching imply a certain methodology that uses the Bible as it’s primary source? Or is it a specific type of preaching that is defined by biblical scriptures?
Does “biblical” preaching include or exclude certain interpretations of the Bible? If so, are some right and some wrong?
Are there various forms of biblical preaching? If so, are some right and some wrong?
How does “biblical” preaching differ from other types of preaching? Is it the practice of placing dependence upon the bible during the sermon? Or does it mean that the Bible is the focus of the preaching? What about Christ-centered preaching?
Is the Bible the only source from which we should draw sermon material? If we do make such a severe line in the sand and say that only the Bible should be used as source material, then what about all other sources (e.g. divine inspirations/epiphanies, modern parables, personal experiences, extra-biblical stories, contemporary context, biblical commentaries, and any other spiritual or nonspiritual texts)? Must we exclude them entirely? What are the implications upon our ability to communicate scripture with certainty, meaning, and context with our congregants?
What about preaching to tribes for which there is no Bible translation? How then do we preach? Can we only preach to a group of people if a Bible in their language exists? What about the dark ages when only priests had access to the Bible in a foreign language and the people could not understand the text?
Furthermore, was Jesus Christ a biblical preacher? By what definition? Does that definition differ from the definition we use for ourselves today?
What about this bit of wisdom from St. Francis of Assisi: “Preach the Gospel at all times and when necessary use words.” – Is that not biblical?
2. Data
We both lack data and are surrounded by it.
The general public has unprecedented access to data at that touch of a finger. The available data regarding biblical text is abundant, accurate, cross-referenced, downloadable, translated, paraphrased, and rich with commentary. More than ever before, we know (or can know, if we do a little research) so much about the Bible, it’s authors, the location and times it was written, and the precise meanings of various books, passages, and even specific words.
In stark contrast, we know very little about the state of biblical preaching within the church universal because the data is hard to quantify, collect, and interpret. Most churchgoers spend their entire lives attending less than a handful of churches. Their ability to judge their church in light of all the churches of the world and give a commentary on a topic as far-reaching as “the state of biblical preaching” is not a good barometer for the church universal. Even though I travel for a living and have had interactions with hundreds of churches from various denominational backgrounds over the course of just a few years, I would hardly consider myself able or willing to look upon the church universal and pass judgement about wether or not she is practicing “biblical” preaching.
A better question to ask ourselves might be:
Considering all the biblical data we have access to, have we become more like Christ?
Better still:
Considering all the biblical data I have access to, have I become more like Christ?
Old Books Are Fun
All this talk about old books makes me think of my friend Andrew, a book buyer/seller for Bruce McKittrick Rare Books in the Philadelphia area. Katie Nelson and I were able to stop in and see Andrew and his family on our last tour out east. He showed us some of his new favorite curiosities that the shop had on the shelves. This little beauty is a book of hours printed in Paris in 1528 for the use of Salsbury (sp?). Asking Price: If you have to ask, you can’t afford it.
On the morning of August 29th, I (along with the help of fellow musician Katie Nelson) played music for the good people of Lakewood Baptist Church in Lakewood, Ohio, a suburb of Cleveland. We set up outdoors on their east lawn as part of their final al fresco service of the summer. The weather was [...]
On the morning of August 29th, I (along with the help of fellow musician Katie Nelson) played music for the good people of Lakewood Baptist Church in Lakewood, Ohio, a suburb of Cleveland. We set up outdoors on their east lawn as part of their final al fresco service of the summer. The weather was perfect (I was able to remain the shade the entire time) and we sang and played well, which from my perspective made the entire experience enjoyable.
During the portions of the service in which Katie and I were not playing, we sat off to the side of the makeshift stage area with our backs against the stone wall of the church. As we listened to various readings and other musicians playing, we noticed a young man walking by on the sidewalk, mere feet from the congregants in attendance that morning. As he passed, I noticed (amongst other things) a paperback conspicuously poking out of the back pocket of his jeans – a tell tale sign of belonging to a particular faction of the now burgeoning hipster scene. I leaned over to ask Katie if she had noticed this small detail. She replied with the even more insightful observation she had made; that as this young man had passed, he had swiftly, and without losing step, swiped a pen from a table sitting next to the sidewalk. Though he did this in full view of the entire congregation, no one seemed to notice.
“The audacity!” I exclaimed in my head. “How dare he? Stealing! …and from a church! …and in front of so many people! What gall!” Inside I could feel my well-developed sense of justice rising up. I contemplated hurrying after him to correct this problem, but decided the scene would cause too much distraction since I was sitting in front of everyone. Instead, I quietly sat there and worked through a logical progression of thoughts.
Calm down. It’s just a pen. No big deal.
But it’s the principle of it all! Stealing is wrong.
Maybe he has nothing. I hope he stole because he needed it, not just because he wanted it.
How ironic though that he would steal from a group that would have given it to him had he simply asked. If he really needed a pen, anyone of us would have handed him a large supply of pens without reservation.
Why would he steal from a church? There must be more to the story. Maybe this was a small statement of his perspective. Maybe he thinks that the church steals from people (a common and sometimes justified belief) and that he was simply playing his part as Robin Hood in this sad story.
The plot thickened in my imagination. “Oh well. Let it go,” I thought as I attempted to refocus my mind on the morning’s service and it’s over-arching themes of orphanhood, abandonment and adoption. (Apropos topics in hind sight.) Still, as I tried to engage myself completely, my mind wandered back to the possibilities of the young man’s motives.
A quote came to mind that I had read just a few days prior. The late comedian George Carlin once said:
I would never want to be a member of a group whose symbol was a guy nailed to two pieces of wood.
I mulled over that quote, weighing its humorous pithiness, poignancy, and pride against its subtext of angst, antagonism, and atheism. Knowing that all comedy is rooted in tragedy, I wondered of the origins of this one-liner. How had it been given birth via the life of its author? What were the “causes” of this “effect?” What did Carlin experience to arrive at a belief like this? Was this young thief on the streets of Cleveland living out a similar experience?
Again, I thought, “Oh well” and pushed the subject from my mind. The service finished with three songs performed by Katie and me, followed by a pizza lunch on the lawn. With the almost-noon sun moving over head, the shade was disappearing quickly, so as most everyone ate pizza and chatted with each other, I hurried to wrap cables and box up equipment. While I worked, a friend was kind enough to reserve an entire pizza for me. After packing away all the gear, I sat down again in the shade of the stone church to eat a few slices, when suddenly I noticed the young thief coming down the sidewalk again. This time with his shirt off and skateboard under his arm.
I was surprised to see him return, but remembered that oft repeated maxim: “A criminal always returns to the scene of the crime.” For whatever reason, the young man had returned and immediately I thought I should offer him some pizza, but Katie jumped first. “Nice shoes!” she yelled to him. He stopped and looked to see who had complimented his bright blues and yellow kicks, then he approached us. “Thanks. They’re pretty fresh aren’t they? My mom gave them to me.” We talked about shoes for a little bit, then I offered him a slice of pizza. He declined when he found out it had pepperoni on it. “He might be a vegetarian,” I deduced. I wished that I had something that fit his diet, but all I had was a pizza that generously had been given to me. Katie offered him some gluten-free cheese ravioli she had brought along. He accepted with a manner of indirect thank you accompanied by earnest looks and head nods saying, “Yeah, it’s all about generosity.”
Unfortunately, after a few sentences I was pulled into another conversation with some other folks, but I kept my ear perked on the conversation that continued between Katie and the young thief. He expressed his belief that “everyone should share together,” but that “the world and everybody just wants money.” His take on the local farmer’s market (an incredible market, which has some of the most affordable produce I’ve ever seen) was that the marketers are “just trying to take people’s money” and that “people should share food or offer food at a modest prices.” He talked about music, books, people, and church all with the same skeptical-about-everything-but-we-got-to-share-and-one-love-is-it-man sort of view. The irony of his thievery just moments earlier was not lost on me. I could tell that he had some deeply rooted anger, a very suspect anti-capitalist worldview, and plenty of sophomoric pride in his reading list.
As he turned to leave, he jabbed at Katie, “Nose rings aren’t very churchy.” Katie responded with honest sentiments about her experience with churches, describing religious people, the Jesus she knew, and the difference between the two. When Katie said, “I really love Jesus,” the young man agreed that he really liked Jesus too and added, “He is in my top ten people of all time.” Katie asked who else made it onto his top ten people list. He reiterated Jesus and mentioned a few authors before tagging on George Carlin to finished the list. I nearly laughed out loud. I wanted to point out, “That’s like saying your favorite books are Anne Frank: The Diary of a Young Girl and Mein Campf.” I could’ve drawn a Venn diagram to show him the concept of mutual exclusivity, but recognized that rationality was not the impetus at work. He was a wounded boy striking back at a world that had brought him pain.
A Mutually Exclusive Venn Diagram
I dug deeper, “Where are you from?” He launched into a story about being born in Virginia, moving to Ohio at a young age, being drug to Detroit by his ex-minister mother chasing after “love for her boyfriend or whatever that whole thing is.” He returned to Cleveland when his girlfriend parted ways with him. Now he’s sleeping on a couch at the boarding house where his mother is staying. Katie saw that he was carrying a portable CD player and asked him if he wanted some CDs. “Sure! I love music,” he said. “I’ll probably just burn the tracks and then sell the CDs ’cause I need the money, you know. I gotta survive.” Katie gave him two of her albums as well as two of mine. He expressed his gratitude to us again with another obscure type of thank you and then left.
We spent much of that afternoon walking around town with some good friends. As we popped in and out of little shops, cafes, and novelty stores, the odd events of that morning came up in our discussion. We verbally processed the theft and subsequent conversation that took place, touching on the possible roots of such problems before moving on to lighter topics like “Which shop should we go to next?,” “Do we need to feed the meter?,” and “What do you want for dinner?” Towards the end of the day we found ourselves walking along the path of a local park just in time to catch the reddish-orange sun slowly sinking into Lake Erie. We paused for a moment to enjoy the scene before deciding it’s best to head “home” before dark in an unfamiliar town.
The path out of the park took us directly past a skate park. I scanned the crowd of young guys skating there wondering if the young man we had met earlier was among the dozens enjoying this extremely nice skate park, one of the many perks paid for by the hard work of the local “capitalist pigs.” I didn’t spot him, so we continued on. Just as we reached the street, I was surprised to see our friend the thief making a last second dash through the busy intersection to beat traffic. Since he had not seen us yet and knowing that he probably gets hassled a lot for skating, I jokingly yelled to him, “No running!” He turned to see who was reprimanding him this time and smiled when he recognized us.
“Hey! I listened to your CDs and that’s some really good stuff,” he immediately offered. “I liked them a lot. I burned them and took them down to the exchange already ’cause I need the money. Gotta survive. They only gave me two bucks though for all four of them ’cause they said that you weren’t popular.” Though severely lacking tact, I had to admire his honesty. Most musicians might run away crying after such a frank assessment, but we grinned and said, “That’s fine man. We’re not really famous, so it’s not a surprise.”
He then offered his assessment of the music: “It just goes to show that God helps those who help themselves.” I’m sure I gave him a funny look when he said that, because I’m not really sure how he arrived at that conclusion. How could anyone boil down four albums of songs to such a singular and contrary thought? (But then again, how could Carlin boil down the entire discussion of Christianity to logo choice?) I concluded that either our young friend did not actually listen, or though he did listen, he was so wounded that he could not hear. Then again, maybe what happened was a phenomenon similar to what the Beastie Boys experienced with their song “(You Gotta) Fight for Your Right (to Party!).” A tongue-in-cheek satire of frat boy meatheadiness became the anthem of meatheaded frat boys everywhere.
Recently, I visited Harvest Home Farm to play a show in their barn. Owners Mike and Becky Poulos share their knowledge and love with anyone willing to come visit the farm. After the show, they kindly sent me on my way with an arm load of food and a warm, cozy sheep pelt, which I [...]
Recently, I visited Harvest Home Farm to play a show in their barn. Owners Mike and Becky Poulos share their knowledge and love with anyone willing to come visit the farm. After the show, they kindly sent me on my way with an arm load of food and a warm, cozy sheep pelt, which I plan to sleep on during the crisp nights of hammocking in the fall.
Among the many items in the cooler of fresh-from-the-farm goodies were some lamb chops and wild blackberries, which I put to use in the following recipe* of my own. Enjoy!
Blackberry Sauce for Lamb Chops
By Scott Troyer
Ingredients
1 qt. Blackberries (fresh or frozen)
2-3 T. Honey
2-3 T. Butter
2 cloves Garlic finely chopped
1/4 c. Onion or Shallot finely chopped
2 t. Dried Rosemary crushed
2 t. Dried Parsley
2 t. Dried Tarragon
Instructions
Cook the blackberries on medium high heat in a small saucepan until they have broken down and released most of their juice. Mashing them a bit will help release more of the juice too. Strain the berries through a fine sieve over a small sauté pan. Gently press the berries to remove the remaining juice. Reserve the berry pulp for baking or serving over ice cream, yogurt, cereal, etc.
Bring the juice to a simmer on medIum high heat and add the garlic, onions, and herbs. Stir continually to avoid burning. After the liquid has reduced to approximately half add honey until the desired sweetness is achieved. Continue simmering until the liquid is slightly thick (the sauce will thicken as it cools). Shortly before serving add the butter and stir until melted and completely combined with the sauce. Serve the warm sauce generously over freshly grilled or pan-seared lamb chops.
Notes
Makes enough sauce for 4-6 chops. Use more or less honey to achieve the right amount of sweetness. Other berries may be substituted. Wine can also replace the berries, in which case the recipe would call for far less honey. Most of the alcohol will be cooked off during the reduction process, so it is safe for children. Fresh herbs can replace the dried herbs and would actually be preferable if they are available. For a bit of showmanship sprinkle a few leaves of fresh tarragon on top of the sauce of each lamb chop.
*I don’t use recipes, but for the benefit of those that do, I’ve put this one together. If this doesn’t fit the MLA guidelines for culinary reference, I apologize; I’m a total hackchef.
(Wow, I haven’t updated my blog since May. Sorry! This entry is the remedy.) Life’s been busy – really busy. Many of you have been bugging me to record some material and I’ve been trying. But life on the road has made it very difficult for me to record. The answer: I’m taking time off from [...]
(Wow, I haven’t updated my blog since May. Sorry! This entry is the remedy.)
Life’s been busy – really busy. Many of you have been bugging me to record some material and I’ve been trying. But life on the road has made it very difficult for me to record. The answer: I’m taking time off from touring. For the past 3 years I’ve been non-stop traveling and playing shows and, frankly, it is time for a break. My goal during this “time off” is to finally lay down some tracks. I have such a backlog of material to choose from and quite a few irons in the fire, so I’m aiming to bite off manageable chunks.
If you’re not already a fan of my music on Facebook, go ahead and do so now. I keep in touch with everyone really well that way. Here’s an update I sent to my fans a few days ago that talks about one of the many “irons I’m heating up in the fire.”
This past weekend I had the pleasure of spending some quality time in the studio with my old bandmates. Our band, called Rudisill, formed in 2003 and performed under several monikers. In 2005 we put out a full length album called Carbon Paper Treaties, which featured 10 of our songs. We had many more songs (arguably some of our best) left to record when the band was forced into an indefinite hiatus due to our lives taking separate geographic directions. Though we’ve been apart for about 3 years, our hearts have always been in this music.
If you knew us back then and want to keep up to date with what’s happening in Camp Rudisill, click the link below to become a fan. Or if you are new to our music, but want to find out more about what I was involved with in the past (and hopefully will be in the future), click the link below.
Greetings my precious web babies. What’s the good word? Has February been nice to you so far? I hope so. I’ve been all over Wisconsin and the upper peninsula of Michigan trying to survive the frigid weather. Went in the ditch last night during one of the most intense wind storms I’ve ever experienced. The [...]
Greetings my precious web babies. What’s the good word? Has February been nice to you so far? I hope so. I’ve been all over Wisconsin and the upper peninsula of Michigan trying to survive the frigid weather. Went in the ditch last night during one of the most intense wind storms I’ve ever experienced. The road was super icy and drifts were all over the place. Besides a crack in the plastic bumper and another in my ego, everything turned out okay. Be careful out there!
In the last ten days, I’ve played 10 shows, so tonight feels like a much needed Friday for me. I get three days off then hit the road again. During this break, I’ll be hard at work on recordings. Right now though, I just wanna crash. So night, night.
February is shaping up to be the most insane month I will see so far. Tonight is the first date of a 20 date February tour that will take me from Wisconsin to Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. That’s crazy enough as is, but on top of that I’ve decided to take the RPM Challenge and [...]
February is shaping up to be the most insane month I will see so far. Tonight is the first date of a 20 date February tour that will take me from Wisconsin to Michigan, Indiana and Ohio. That’s crazy enough as is, but on top of that I’ve decided to take the RPM Challenge and record an album in the month of February. RPM Challenge has outlined an album as 10 songs or 35 minutes (Is that whichever comes first?). There is no real incentive to take the challenge. I suppose the big goal is to motivate artists to stop procrastinating, make an effort, and do something. Like my song “Oceans of Blood” says, “The perfect moment will never come. Is that what we’re waiting for?” So here are my top ten reasons why I’m taking the RPM Challenge. 01. To stay in touch with friends. I’m going to collaborate with some of my various musician friends scattered across the map. Nothing brings people together like a common goal. 02. I want my mind to be fresh. Doing something new with music will keep me on my toes. Hopefully it will open some new horizons and maybe some untapped talent I didn’t know I have. 03. There’s no time to second guess. This is both exciting and scary. Having to produce something in a short order will force me to make quick decisions, some which I will no doubt regret, but this will help me develop my “under-pressure” skills. 04. Recording will be good practice. Who can’t use a little practice. Tiger Woods has said that he often practices up to 14 hours a day – sun up to sun down even! 05. Why not? Besides it making my life hectic, what’s there to worry about? Gotta fill time in February somehow. 06. I’ve been wanting to experiment with some ideas anyway. This is just a good excuse to make new music. 07. I’m trying to adopt a can-do attitude. That’s what makes life enjoyable and the American life so attractive. I’m determined to make 2008 the best year of my life so far. 08. I can’t not do it. Seriously, I just felt really compelled. I know I’m in over my head, but all the more reason to start swimming. 09. Good will come of it. Unknown benefits will come from this. I can’t wait to find out what. 10. Community. By participating, I’m becoming part of something larger than myself. If myself is the only thing I live for, then I lead a sad life. This project will get me involved in a greater community of artists. That’s it. I’ll try to post something here on a regular basis, though probably not daily, as I did in January. It’s only day one, but there’s already a plot developing and conspiring telephone calls. Ooooo, so mysterious! Even I’m intrigued – and I know what’s going on!
Great. I’ve answered that question a hundred times in the day and a half that I’ve been home and I’m sure it’s not the last time I’ve heard it either. It’s hard to sum up a month long trip full of music, friends, and tourism in just a few words. So if you’re curious about [...]
I’ve answered that question a hundred times in the day and a half that I’ve been home and I’m sure it’s not the last time I’ve heard it either. It’s hard to sum up a month long trip full of music, friends, and tourism in just a few words. So if you’re curious about anything, you can check out my pictures from the trip which I have posted on Facebook.
My back is aching today. I think the train/bus/plane trip home took it’s toll on me. Still trying to recoup from jet lag.
I’m glad to be home for the holidays. Being on tour so much, I’ve missed Halloween, Thanksgiving, my birthday and some quality family time this year. It’ll be good to be around for Christmas and New Year’s.
I think the time is right for me to lock myself up in a room with my gear and start cranking out some album material. I’ve lots to do and have a bit of time free in the next few weeks.
I was pulled over today in Rosendale, Wisconsin for allegedly traveling 46 MPH in a 30 MPH zone. I used the word “allegedly” because I know I was not speeding. It was Sunday afternoon on a sunny, clear day. Katie Nelson and I had played a show that morning and were heading back to the [...]
I was pulled over today in Rosendale, Wisconsin for allegedly traveling 46 MPH in a 30 MPH zone. I used the word “allegedly” because I know I was not speeding.
It was Sunday afternoon on a sunny, clear day. Katie Nelson and I had played a show that morning and were heading back to the Fox Valley. Katie had warned me that Rosendale is known as a speed trap, so I was very conscious of my speed as we entered the town, going under the speed limit by a few MPH. As we were pulling out of town, we passed a police car parked on the side of the road. I looked down at my speedometer, confirmed that was going under the speed limit, then looked back up at the road ahead. As soon as we passed the police car, the officer pulled out in our direction and turned on his lights. I remarked to Katie, “He must’ve got a call about a wreck somewhere.” To my surprise he sped up right behind me. I pulled over to move out of his way and he pulled over too. It was only then that I realized he was pulling me over.
The officer came to my window and gruffly told me that I was speeding. In disbelief I asked, “Really?!” We had come to a stop right near the speed limit sign, so I knew what the speed limit was and how fast I was going. He confirmed the allegation and simply demanded to see my driver’s license and vehicle registration. He made no mention of his name, didn’t show his badge, or ask me any questions. I handed him my driver’s license while Katie dug the vehicle registration out of the glove box. He took one look at my license, grinned greedily and said, “Oh, you’re from Indiana! Well, we’ll have to do this a different way.” He explained that since I am not a citizen of Wisconsin, that he would need “some assurance” that I would not flee the State of Wisconsin, escaping my “debt to the government.” His proposed methods were:
Post a $109.00 cash bond directly to him. I had $5 on me, so this was not an option.
Give him my social security number, which he was ready to scribble down on a little notebook. Red lights started going off in my head.
If I couldn’t pay or give a SSN, then he would have to take me to jail and sort things out on Monday.
I refused to do option 1 or 2, citing my concern with both options and expressed my disbelief that option 3 was a reasonable third option. I told him that even if I had the money, it didn’t seem right for me to give cash to an officer on the street. Nor did it seem wise to give him my SSN, which I have always been told to be reluctant to share with anyone, to an “officer” that acted nervous and unprofessional. I felt like I was suddenly in Mexico. I had to double check my GPS to make sure I was indeed still in the U.S. of Amazing. He reluctantly said he understood and would see what he could do.
When the officer returned to my vehicle he gave me a ticket citing me for the maximum charge for the alleged infraction. I took the paper and looked over it. I saw that he had written down that I was going 46 MPH in a 30 MPH zone, so I asked to see the radar gun. When I asked to see the radar gun, he looked flabbergasted and acted offended that I would ask such a thing. The way he reacted to my request made me feel like I was doing something wrong, but I knew that asking to see the evidence against me was not unreasonable. He then told me that he couldn’t show me the gun. In my mind I speculated about the reasonable explanations why he couldn’t show me the gun. Maybe it was affixed to his car’s dash? Or was there some law preventing me from seeing the gun? How do these guns work? Do they keep the high speed on the display? For how long?
Out of curiosity, I simply asked him why he couldn’t show me. Sheepishly, he explained that he couldn’t show me the “alleged” speed I was going, because he did not have his gun in “lock mode” (whatever that means). He claimed that the gun was “more accurate when it wasn’t in lock mode.” I asked if there was a print out or electronic record. He said there was no such thing.
My mind reeled. At this point everything felt weird. I began to worry that I was in the middle of a roadside scam.
Essentially, this “alleged officer” claimed that I had broken the law and owed the State of Wisconsin $109.00, but had no evidence of the “alleged” infraction. I pressed him further trying to get him to admit to this. I stated that this incident would basically come down to his word against mine. He claimed that “officers are trained observers” and that he “would win in court” against me.
He would not admit to anything else except that he had “heard complaints of Rosendale being considered a speed trap.” I expressed my concern that this whole operation seemed fishy and recapped the situation from my point of view: I was actively going under the speed limit, he had pulled me over with no proof of me breaking the law, acted unprofessionally (making my wonder if he was a poseur impersonating an officer), could not present evidence of wrongdoing, and demanded either cash or my SSN to avoid being taken to jail. I told him that all of these things made me seriously question whether this was a scam being run by a crooked cop or simply a guy that had access to a police car and uniform. I also explained that because it was Sunday afternoon, there was no way for me to confirm that he was legit, so it gave me even more reason to believe this was a perfect time to be hit by a scam. I did all of this calmly, without raising my voice.
His already poor attitude suddenly changed for the worse. He angrily threatened me with imprisonment until bond could be posted “for resisting law enforcement.” He asked me, “What’s it gonna be?!” I told him that the citation would be enough for me, thank you, and that I would proceed with things in court.
Lessons Learned
The justice system is not infallible.
It is a human institution, susceptible to mistakes, bias, and injustice. But we must still hold it to very high standards, even at the smallest level. Consistency and diligence on the part of average citizens are the only guards against abuse.
Always ask to see the radar gun.
If the officer can’t provide proof, there is NO evidence against you. By asking for evidence we are upholding our right to due process. We are not a police state (yet) and we must remain steadfast in requiring just enforcement.
Don’t admit fault.
You will have your time in court to make your plea. You are innocent until proven guilty. Our entire justice system is built upon this basic premise. Hold onto that precious presumption of innocence as long as possible.
Never give an officer cash, your SSN, or other valuable items/information.
Complying with these roadside demands is dangerous and prone to abuse, opening the doors to cronyism. You are the only thing keeping our system corruption free. By law, you are required to provide only your drivers license, vehicle registration, and in some cases, proof of auto insurance.
Be respectful.
Jerks will get nowhere and often end up instigating more charges. Speak kindly, clearly, and firmly. Gently ask for light(er) treatment, proof of evidence, and the officer’s information. When things sour (hopefully not on account of you), politely thank the officer and agree that things will be settled in the proper venue.
Record the incident, if possible.
As soon as you are pulled over, start recording audio, video, still photos, and data. Use your cell phone, camera, pencil and paper, whatever. Document the facts. Have a friend help. Just get the information recorded somehow. You have the right to do so and it may be the only to protect you in court.
Updates about the Rosendale Speed Trap
T-Shirt: ROSENDALE, “Just the Ticket!”
At the local gas station, you can buy a t-shirt that says, ‘ROSENDALE, “Just the Ticket!”’ If this isn’t evidence that there’s a unchecked police problem in Rosendale, I don’t know what could convince you.
Life has been a whirlwind of highway pavement and dirty laundry. I’ve worn everything in my suitcase more times than I could care to wear them and seen plenty of asphalt. But you know what? I love it. I love the road, I love music, and I love people (or at least the idea sometimes). [...]
Life has been a whirlwind of highway pavement and dirty laundry. I’ve worn everything in my suitcase more times than I could care to wear them and seen plenty of asphalt. But you know what? I love it. I love the road, I love music, and I love people (or at least the idea sometimes).
Today, I posted my updated calendar, because I was tired of receiving flack for not doing so. Now you all can know where I am, maybe not exactly what I’m doing, but at least what city and/or state I’m in. Happy now?!
I’m just playing. Anyway, I’m excited about the next few months. Fall is always a time for new horizons, so that’s what I’m gonna go see.
Muchas besas,
Scott
Currently listening:
Sky Blue Sky
By Wilco
Release date: 15 May, 2007
Official tour booking dates for Ireland/U.K. Tour 2007 are November 13–December 10. Dates are not limited to Ireland and the U.K., but will make up the majority of tour routing. Supporting artists include Katie Nelson, Aaron Heise, Nathan Hamlin, et al. For all booking inquiries, please click here. Currently listening: Songs from the Deep Forest [...]
Official tour booking dates for Ireland/U.K. Tour 2007 are November 13–December 10. Dates are not limited to Ireland and the U.K., but will make up the majority of tour routing. Supporting artists include Katie Nelson, Aaron Heise, Nathan Hamlin, et al.
Nice stamp, huh? More of them can be found at Wikipedia. Anyway, today I’m announcing my tour to Ireland/Northern Ireland/wherever else in the U.K. and Europe. The official arrival and departure dates are November 12th through December 11th. I’m really excited to be returning there. I’m anxious to see old friends again and play them [...]
Nice stamp, huh? More of them can be found at Wikipedia.
Anyway, today I’m announcing my tour to Ireland/Northern Ireland/wherever else in the U.K. and Europe. The official arrival and departure dates are November 12th through December 11th. I’m really excited to be returning there. I’m anxious to see old friends again and play them some of my new music.
Currently listening:
The Reminder
By Feist
Release date: 01 May, 2007
Current mood: convinced, content, clear Last night was one of my top 3 shows of all time. I played a big festival called Lifest in central Wisconsin. My friends Lynn and Alex were able to join Katie Nelson, Hoss, and I for Katie’s set at the giant indoor cafe stage. I absolutely love playing with [...]
Last night was one of my top 3 shows of all time. I played a big festival called Lifest in central Wisconsin. My friends Lynn and Alex were able to join Katie Nelson, Hoss, and I for Katie’s set at the giant indoor cafe stage. I absolutely love playing with the whole band. Drums and bass made the music so much more enjoyable. It felt right just to turn it up and let go. Not having to push the cart musically makes my job so easy and fun.
Saturday was the first chance I’ve had to run my guitar through my new laptop. Everything went splendidly. No glitches, reboots, or random problems. Plus the tone was killer coming through the mains. I’m definitely hooked on this new rig. I can practice just about anywhere now because I don’t have to set up a ton of gear, just plug in my guitar and headphones. Definitely makes it easier to do what I do.
Before our set we walked the whole campus of the festival stopping in at several shows, smelling the carnival food, watching the unpredictable interactions of the thousands of festival goers. We caught several big name acts and some not so big ones too. Sadly, I walked away from most of them feeling dissatisfied and upset. I saw and heard too much agenda every where we went. I just wanted to leave, so as to not even be a part of it all. I know I can’t, nor should I, really judge the intentions of others, but I think I should probably always be checking my own heart. So before we went on I explained to the rest of the band what I was feeling. I think it helped me tremendously to express those thoughts and keep my head in the right place.
This is basically what I said:
We are not here to entertain, act like rockstars, or put ourselves on a pedestal. We are not here to preach, pose as examples, or catalyze the masses. We are not here to spiritualize, assume leadership, or cause miracles. We are only humans, nothing more and nothing less. Above all, we must be obedient to what we have been called to do: play music and live honestly. We simply must do what we do and leave all expectations, fears, and great work in the hands of a God who knows what really needs to happen. For this cause, for this obedience, we were born.
Currently listening:
1000 Kisses
By Patty Griffin
Release date: 09 April, 2002
Yesterday, I got back the copyright Certificates of Registration for “I Turn to You” and “Evidence of His Love,” songs I wrote and Katie Nelson recorded for her latest disc called Speak To Me. I think the record turned out great. Go pick up your copy. To support the record release, I’ve been touring a [...]
Yesterday, I got back the copyright Certificates of Registration for “I Turn to You” and “Evidence of His Love,” songs I wrote and Katie Nelson recorded for her latest disc called Speak To Me. I think the record turned out great. Go pick up your copy.
To support the record release, I’ve been touring a lot lately as a guitarist for Katie’s band. We’ve got a big show up in Wisconsin next weekend at Lifest.
As for my music, not many solo shows as of late. Sorry to disappoint so many of my local frans. I hope to play the home town circuit again soon, but first I must visit some lovely people in other states and countries. I hope you don’t mind. Or maybe you’d like to come with me?
Recently, I was able to upgrade to a new MacBook®, which as you know is so nice. Yes, I’m quite the Mac fanboy. I can’t help it. The designer and user in me just can’t get over the simplicity and effectiveness of the Apple approach. No, I’m not getting paid for this gushing, but it sure would be nice if someone over at Apple sent me an iPhone®. Hint, hint. Nudge, nudge. Know what I mean?
With the MacBook, came a plethora of new possibilities as well. Old gear works better, new gear works great. I now have several record buttons of various types and a different signal chain for my guitar. As we say in Mexico, “¡Mexcellent!”
Well, enough for now. I must go. Tonight I’ll be catching a show. My friend and former bandmate, Charlie, is playing the kit for Sunny Taylor at her CD release party. Congrats, Sunny! Oh, and it’s Charlie’s birthday today. Hope you have a great berfday, you stank old raisin.
My time here in New York has been an excursion outside of the normal confines of Hoosier living and the change has been nice. While visiting with family, I’ve enjoyed a hike through the beautiful Green Lakes State Park, a morning at the local farmer’s market, a chance to catch up with some friends at [...]
My time here in New York has been an excursion outside of the normal confines of Hoosier living and the change has been nice. While visiting with family, I’ve enjoyed a hike through the beautiful Green Lakes State Park, a morning at the local farmer’s market, a chance to catch up with some friends at Eastern Hills Bible Church, an exploration of an abandoned gravel pit, a jazz festival featuring Aretha Franklin, a wine tour and picnic in the Finger Lakes Region, a pops music concert in the park by the Stan Colella Orchestra, and of course, food gleaned from the wonderful selection at Wegman’s. I’ve really enjoyed my time out here with my family and wish we could spend more time together like this. And save for my sister forgetting to tell me about a free Béla Fleck & the Flecktones show the evening of our first day here, this trip has been spot on.
Friday, I finally was able to catch the Queen of Soul in person. Seeing Aretha in concert is one of those do-before-you-die checklist items. I’m glad I could see her perform. My friend Marcus scored some VIP tickets for us, so we were able to squeeze our way to the front of a 40,000 plus crowd. She had a large band with her, including her son on guitar, and featuring a local ensemble of horns and woodwinds. I’ll be honest, I wasn’t expecting a top performance from someone her age, but was pleasantly surprised to hear her great, strong voice belting out familiar songs in the cold July evening air. She definitely still has it.
Yesterday, we enjoyed a evening in the park with a much smaller crowd. The Stan Colella Orchestra set up on a patio near the park’s edge and played swing, dance, pop and jazz standards. Even though this music is not something I normally listen to, I could not help but appreciate the aesthetic is created in this live setting. Sipping wine from a local winery on a sunny afternoon, while lying on a blanket in the park, watching kids playing and biking and old couples dancing is pleasant no matter what genre or niche you normally operate within. It just felt right.
Also, I’ve met quite a few people recently that have never heard of Béla Fleck. Shame, shame, shame. If you’ve never experienced his music, check out the DVD I’ve listed below. I’d describe his music as virtuoso banjo elevator music for hippies. That’s sounds awful, but it really is breathtaking to watch. My friend Dan Wilton introduced me to Béla a few years ago. Thanks, Dan!
I may stay a little longer than I had planned. Who knows? Gotta go. Going to enjoy some homemade potato soup for lunch.
Currently watching:
Live at the Quick
Béla Fleck and the Flecktones
Release date: 26 February, 2002
This is the big blog of my self-righteous rant/expression-of-my-probably-biased-but-I-hope-not views that I’ve been dreading to write because it divides people and makes someone the bad guy. I know not everyone will see it the same way I do, but I must get it off my chest. That said, I must admit, that when it comes [...]
This is the big blog of my self-righteous rant/expression-of-my-probably-biased-but-I-hope-not views that I’ve been dreading to write because it divides people and makes someone the bad guy. I know not everyone will see it the same way I do, but I must get it off my chest.
That said, I must admit, that when it comes to this debate about music, file-sharing and copyright, I lose heart. I understand the poor kid that wants to hear everyone’s music, but can’t afford to pay for the songs. I’m that kid. On the other hand, I also understand the poor artist that wants everyone to hear his music, but can’t afford to give away his songs. I’m also that kid. It hurts to shell out $15 bucks for a CD of an artist you really like, but it’s your choice to pay or not. Likewise, it also hurts to give away (or to have taken away) the sale of music that cost you so much time to write, arrange, record, replicate, distribute and promote. You’re powerless. If someone wants to take it, they can just take it and the artist doesn’t have to be compensated.
I’ve heard many of the arguments from both sides and recognize that yesterday’s music business model is going the way of the buffalo. To be honest, I’m more than happy to see most of it go. There’s a lot of jacked up stuff that gets in the way of good music, but the uncertainty of the future and the attitudes of some of the more vocal spokesmen on both sides, leave me quite nervous. There are many thoughts I would like to articulate, but I’ll attempt to provide you (free of charge!) an overview of my views regarding this complicated industry.
First, the monsters that most everyone would like to see slaughtered: the record labels. I am not signed and from what I’ve found out, I don’t believe I want to be signed unless the Right Deal* comes along. I’ve read enough about labels to know they truly are offering the musician a credit card at 70% interest which he/she has no control over the spending. It rarely ever works out for the signed artist, so it’s nice to see “the machine” (that Pink Floyd so appropriately villianized on their “Wish You Were Here” album) being dismantled. “Getting signed” to a typical “record deal” means waiving your rights to ownership of your songs, control over your image, and hope for your future unless you somehow manage to reach the elusive and rare “superstar” status. If and when you reach that point, you may be able to negotiate a deal in which you buy your songs, rights and freedoms back from the label at ridiculous rates. Does this remind anyone of slavery?
There are those valiant consumers of music, who, in good conscience, cannot stand to see another artist screwed over by the same old tricks of the label and want to do something about it. Who wouldn’t want to stick it to such a deserving man? And so the “good conscience consumer” gets his jab at “the man,” while still “showing support for the artist,” by ripping their friends’ CD’s and freely sharing their iTunes library. The problem is, it’s hard, if not nearly impossible, to screw the label and not hurt the artist. If the artist doesn’t sell albums and songs, the label will drop the artist – or worse yet – bind them indefinitely to a contract and force them to alter their sound to something that promises a better financial return (read: sell out / lose focus / turn the “suck” knob up).
So labels are all bad, right?
Sort of. But the flip side of this coin is that without a label, most artists (save for the spoiled little rich brat for whom daddy foots the bill) are not able to survive the tumultuous years of touring for little-to-no money (and sometimes even paying to play), nor ante up the cash for promotions and exposure, nor give away their music for free because it cost thousands of dollars to record and produce.
I recently spent several grand to record and replicate my first solo EP called “Somewhere Between Nicaragua & New York.” I’ll repeat that – several grand. That’s thousands of dollars for an EP, of which a good majority of them will be given away as promotion. Those I do sell are must be priced so that people are encouraged to buy instead of rip, so there’s very little hope of recouping what it cost me to make them. I did manage to cut my costs tremendously by doing my own producing, design work, website, playing almost all of the instruments myself and trading my design services. I figure that I saved myself somewhere around $3-5K on my project. For those independent artists that must outsource everything, the cost of making a CD racks up quickly and much higher. It’s expensive to make a CD – a good one at least!
There is no option to not record, as songs are the wheels of the music vehicle. So, to offset expenses, most artists – indie and signed alike – must have multiple streams of revenue (merch sales, ticket sales, tips, other jobs and on rare occasion royalties), of which merchandise is usually the largest stream. Most venues, while not willing to put up with your “original crap,” thus forcing you to sneak your songs in between tired covers of Brown Eyed Girl and Freebird, pay you squat to entertain their patrons and some even charge you to play their venue, as if it’s a hardship for them to have you bring your fans in and buy beer from their fine establishment. As Metallica put it: “Sad but true.” Most bands merely hope to impress just a few rare souls enough to sell them a CD and maybe a tee shirt or two to help pay for gas to get to the next venue. Many run out of cash while on the road. And things aren’t getting any better, in fact, the many streams of income are running dry.
“Big deal!” some people are saying. “You’ve sold your recordings for a long time, but times are changing and that’s not going to work for you anymore.” They propose that musicians find new ways to bring in revenue. They cite examples of how actors, athletes and other public figures are turning to endorsements and marketing campaigns to supplement their incomes and suggest that we, the musicians, must do the same, because consumers no longer want to pay for our work.
Stop right there.
The proposal is to stop selling what you actually sell, whore yourself out to media and marketing companies to sell unrelated products, so that you may give away what you intended to sell in the first place. Now, I may be wrong, but as a society of honest folk, haven’t we established that we hate that? Don’t we buy our TiVo’s so we can skip the commercials – the very things that are paying for us to be able to view the content we really love? Don’t we hate when our celebs lower their ethical standards and emblazon a new perfume, clothing line, car, or widget with their name? Aren’t we, the democratically-minded citizens of a new and better world opposed to the exploitation of true art by big business? Don’t we lose faith in the noble pursuit of original expression and the artistic credibility of our creative minds when such “partnering” occurs? Or is it just me? Am I the only one disappointed by this? Because if not, we’re essentially asking for more areas of our lives to be inundated with advertising, marketing and branding.
So anyway… All of these difficult decisions are what musicians face every day. Granted, this mountain of challenging problems does help to root out the weak, the less talented, and those not fully committed to their craft; hardship separates the men from the boys, so to speak. But when survival is on the line, no amount of musical skill will put bread on the table without connections and resources to exploit that talent.
Thus, the dilemma.
Sell out or stay true? Keep going or give up? Believe in your gift or admit your delusion? Forsake food, family and friends or resign your talent for a life more certain? Pursue honorable avenues to release your music or lie, cheat and steal your way to the top? This is the internal debate of every musician; the struggle within ourselves. In the end, only the rich, ruthless, compromising and lucky survive for anyone to hear the their music.
“All across America, and increasingly, the world, people stand in line at their local Starbuck’s and happily pay anywhere from $1.70 for a shot of espresso to four bucks for the more complex caramel frappawhatever thingies. It’s not uncommon to fork out fifty bucks a month for high speed internet access, and around the same amount for cable TV. People pay four bucks to rent a new release DVD at the local Blockbuster or Hollywood Video. A pack of cigarettes can go anywhere from four to nine dollars, depending on where you live.
Yet, increasingly, no one wants to pay for music, especially the recorded kind. CDs are quickly becoming relics destined to join cassettes, eight-tracks and vinyl in the tech museum. I don’t listen to CDs much anymore, my iPod is much easier; everything is already there, ready to listen to on the slightest whim.”
Currently, iTunes tells me that I have 1.6 days of music on my laptop. This is not my entire collection of music. I have hundreds of CD’s at home that I haven’t loaded onto my computer yet, which I estimate would put me somewhere in the 10.5 days ballpark. But even without all that, the nearly 2 solid days of music that’s on my laptop is more than I really listen to on a regular basis. I know people, several in fact, that are actively downloading as many songs (and now movies) as possible; it’s what they do in their free time. They don’t listen to much of what they download, or really any of it, because they’re too preoccupied with downloading more. The music merely serves as background tracks to the more important task at hand: acquisition of more 3-6mb files. I know not everyone is this addicted to their peer-to-peer network, but most people have more music than they’ll ever listen to. An appropriate analogy here might look like this:
You’re hungry. You need groceries. You go to the grocery store, pick up the few items you need for the week and can reasonably eat before it goes bad. As you get to the checkout line, you realize that instead of paying for it, you could instead go around back to the loading dock, load up a semi trailer full of food and drive home without paying for any of your truckload of groceries. Theft. Overkill. Waste.
My point is, don’t feel like you have to own every song on every album from every artist that’s ever lived. I know there’s pressure to be hip musically, to stay “in the know” about every new artist, to be the first to hear of that great new upandcomer, but the pressure is peer pressure (which is just #*@%ing stupid) and the pursuit is in vain. The truth is I have a limited budget for music and I’m assuming you do too. There’s no shame in that. Pick your battles. Buy the albums that you really want. Support the artists you really love. If you can’t afford the whole album, go online and buy just the song or songs you really want as you can afford them – that’s so easy now with things like iTunes. This way you get the songs you want and the artists still get paid, thus continuing the sustainable cycle of production and consumption. (Which btw, this is a very “green” and responsible concept. Really quite trendy too.) It may take time to get what you want, but so does everything that’s worth having. Learn to value – nay, treasure – the intellectual property that’s so readily available to you (never has there been more accessible to you in all of history!), instead of becoming a virtual warehouse for lo-grade mp3′s. Classic Quality vs. Quantity.
I know all of this is very messed up right now and, believe me, I want to find a better way, a way in which the artist and the listener are both satisfied. I wish that in reality it could cost less to buy instruments, to record songs, to replicate cds, to distribute music, to tour, to promote, to survive. I wish I could give away all my music all the time, but I can’t afford to – literally. I wish money were not part of the equation. But the equation still stands stiff and true, for both the artist and the listener: No money = no music. It costs somebody, somewhere, something. Ain’t no meal for free.
Support your favorite artists. If you want to hear covers, support the actual guy who wrote it, not the guy who’s forced to play it. Support that “original crap” – in fact, demand it. Buy their records. Buy copies to give to your friends. Buy the t-shirts too. Wear them. Pay to see shows. Buy drinks while at the show (if you don’t drink, soda and appetizers count too). Tell the venue you loved having the artist there and want to see them back. Promote the artist on your MySpace/Facebook/Blog. Every little thing you do makes a big difference to the artist. Without your support, your favorite artists won’t make it.
I want to thank you for taking the time to read my thoughts. I’d love to hear yours.
*So you caught the asterisk! Good eye. Here is my idea of the Right Deal: I’m the artist. You’re the label. We coexist in a rewarding and beautiful symbiosis. I write the songs and provide the vision for my music. You provide insight, resources, connections, distribution and promotion. If I need something, I ask you. If you need something, you ask me. We talk. No demands, threats, backstabbing, or undercutting. No lying, cheating, stealing, or underhandedness. No mind games, power trips, raw deals, legal battles, or switch and bait tactics. Everyone behaves honorably and with respect to one another. We all benefit – emotionally, socially, musically, and financially – and through our hard work, the world becomes a better place. It’s all a very nice thing. That’s the deal I’m looking for. In the mean time, I’ll can be found playing music out there on the road with the much needed and even more appreciated help of my family, friends and fans. Thank you!
Currently listening:
Steal This Album By System of a Down
Release date: 26 November, 2002
On a whim, Katie Nelson and I decided to play at an acoustic open mic here in New Jersey last night. When we got to the venue we found out that the open mic was actually a contest with prizes. I’m not exactly thrilled about the concept of competitive music because of the spirit it [...]
On a whim, Katie Nelson and I decided to play at an acoustic open mic here in New Jersey last night. When we got to the venue we found out that the open mic was actually a contest with prizes. I’m not exactly thrilled about the concept of competitive music because of the spirit it fosters amongst musicians, but we decided to play anyway, for fun, for experience, for kicks and well…
Katie ended up winning.
The prize package:
6 games of bowling
massive dinner for two
$25 certificate to a local tattoo parlor
I know, Katie getting a tattoo is funny, but despite my insistence to cash-in the certificate, Katie instead forfeited it to the Guy (capitalized because his name is Guy) who was runner up to us both. He was somewhat thankful and made a very proud acceptance speech despite being the third runner-up.
Later, this same Guy approached me to say/ask: “So, you guys play Christian Rock, right?” Knowing that this is typically a loaded question that reveals more about the questioner than the questionee, I avoided his bullet with semantics, “Well, we do play in churches a lot, but we’ve played just about everywhere.” He quickly retorted, “Well Christian Rock sucks!” I smiled and said, “Thank you.” He gloated, “You’re welcome.” Then he strutted away. Looking back, I’m not sure that he realized I had not actually answered his question, nor that I realized he was attempting to insult me. I feel sorry for the Guy, not because he insulted me, but because he tried to insult me. Unfortunately, he was able to walk away with a much undeserved feeling of superiority. Oh well.
On a good note, we met several other wonderful people there as well. We share a table and pint with Charlie, a self-described hippie with a never-gonna-grow-up Peter Pan sensibility. While we talked, Tom and Paul, a young duo with mop tops, quite proficiently flashed us back to the good old days of the Beatles, Simon & Garfunkel, Pink Floyd, the Monkees, and Jimmy Buffet. Later on, we hashed out the complications and problems of politics, organized religion, humanity, and the love of God with our new found friends Mike and Matt. All in all, it was an very interesting night.
Tonight, we’re heading back to the same venue to cash in our free meal and games, which we’ll be sharing with some of the new friends we met last night. I’m looking forward to just having a night of fun. And if it be up to me, we’ll all avoid the posturing, headiness and dogma that separates us from each other and the love of God.
Can I get an amen?
Currently listening:
Ambient 1: Music for Airports
By Brian Eno
Release date: 05 October, 2004
This early spring tour of 2007 has been an adventure of 3 legged proportions. The first leg was Wisconsin & Michigan. The second leg, a loop down to Florida, through Tennessee and back home through the Carolinas, West Virginia, and Ohio. The third and final leg takes me to upstate New York, New York City, [...]
This early spring tour of 2007 has been an adventure of 3 legged proportions. The first leg was Wisconsin & Michigan. The second leg, a loop down to Florida, through Tennessee and back home through the Carolinas, West Virginia, and Ohio. The third and final leg takes me to upstate New York, New York City, and New England, as well as Ohio again. I’ve travelled a lot in the past month and have at least another month on the road. I didn’t think I’d be ok with that, but I sense a change in me.
I’m beginning to feel odd being in the same place more than 1 or 2 nights. The sailor’s mind that tells him “the land feels funny” and I think I am starting to catch that mad disease. Staying in one place has no movement, no sense of going somewhere, no promise of new horizons. Maybe I’m developing ADD or maybe I’m just bored. Whatever it is, I sense a need within me to return to that ocean of interstates, to sail its’ currents of concrete and asphalt that connect the thousands of cities scattered across our nation.
My land fever got the best of me today. At lunchtime I decided to return to Guatemala in July. It feels like time to leave again. It’s always time, really. I know July will be here soon enough, but I can’t wait to see my friends in Guatemala again.
You know, after playing a few shows on the road, I’ve become anxious to record my full album. I can sense it’s inevitability building, like the lump in your throat growing as you try to fight back the tears. I like waiting for it though. It’s so much better when you can no longer hold it back and the music fights its way out of you. I know then that it’s not me making something out of nothing, but something making nothing out of me – whatever that means. I sense the songs, like storm clouds gathering on the horizon, filing into rank like eager soldiers, ready to unleash their havoc at the word of their commander/muse. (I know, I know… mixed metaphors.) I could run to meet them, but instead I’ll wait. I’d rather they build to a frenzy of unstoppable momentum and crush me, than to somehow tame the forces and avert something tragically beautiful.
So nervously, I wait.
Currently listening:
Continuum
By John Mayer
Release date: 12 September, 2006
Well, well, well. Life on the road has been all daisies and dolphins. We spent the last week in Florida. It was refreshing, though we worked the whole time. Still trying to finish up last minute details on Katie Nelson’s album. Everything should be all figured out by the end of the month. I was [...]
Well, well, well. Life on the road has been all daisies and dolphins. We spent the last week in Florida. It was refreshing, though we worked the whole time. Still trying to finish up last minute details on Katie Nelson’s album. Everything should be all figured out by the end of the month.
I was able to spend some time with my family in Pompano Beach. We celebrated my brother Eric’s birthday and enjoyed time with my nephew Trey. He can always bring a smile to my face. Such a cool little guy. He loves swimming, and for being just a little over a year old, he does really well. Every time a plane flies over he points up and says, “Air-pay!” So funny.
We’re in south carolina right now, just a mile from the state line and still within the suburbs of Charlotte, North Carolina. Our friends Jake & Katie have been gracious in hosting us the last two nights. We got into Charlotte late Saturday night after catching Bethany Dillon play at Murray Hill Theatre in Jacksonville, FL. A really good band called Future of Forestry opened for her. We were just passing through Jacksonville on our way north and decided to see the show, then drive through the night. I had left my phone at a Starbucks in Jacksonville, so we had to stop anyway.
Yesterday, we played at a church in Charlotte called Church At Charlotte. Kind of a silly name, but easy to remember and there are a lot of cool people there. Thanks to Chuck for setting up the show and helping us with our sound check.
At the Church at Charlotte, I ran into Amanda, a girl I knew from college. This was odd, because just moments before she walked up I was saying to Lynn that I was surprised I hadn’t run into anyone I knew from college or high school yet. Nice timing, Amanda!
We also met Tom the science professor, who mischievously set traps for us, into which we gladly stepped. Thanks for the extraordinary conversations, Tom!
And finally we met Jose from Maria Bonita Mexican Grill (well actually he’s from Peru, but he was our waiter for the evening). I had THE BEST STEAK I’ve ever tasted. It was a marinated flank steak served with all the traditional sides. The fried calamari was outstanding as well. I’m tempted to stop by there again for lunch today.
Good news! Jake just came in to tell us that lunch is ready and they fixed chicken fajitas, just as my mouth was beginning to water.
To all the kind folks that helped us: thanks! You’ve been such gracious hosts and great new friends. Thanks for taking us in and for all your positive feedback. I’m sure we’ll be back, it’s just a matter of time. See you again – hopefully sooner than later. Goodnight and goodbye, Johnson City.
To all the kind folks that helped us: thanks! You’ve been such gracious hosts and great new friends. Thanks for taking us in and for all your positive feedback. I’m sure we’ll be back, it’s just a matter of time. See you again – hopefully sooner than later. Goodnight and goodbye, Johnson City.
Last night, we played a gig in Leo, Indiana. Lots of cool kids. Very busy night. I moved out of my apartment last night and this morning. I figured that since I was on the road so much, it didn’t make much sense to keep an apartment. I think I’m officially homeless now, though technically [...]
Last night, we played a gig in Leo, Indiana. Lots of cool kids. Very busy night. I moved out of my apartment last night and this morning. I figured that since I was on the road so much, it didn’t make much sense to keep an apartment. I think I’m officially homeless now, though technically I don’t think I’m homeless until I try to return “home” at the end of the tour. Glad we got a lot of dates in front of us!
We’re coasting down to Johnson City, Tennessee at the moment. Night travel is the best – less traffic, no sun in your eyes, cool lights. I’m really looking forward to some time on the beach while in Florida. Can’t wait!
We’re heading home today. Our tour in the U.P. went really well and we had a lot of fun playing, especially with Hoss on keys. We were able to enjoy the sauna at Katie’s parents’ house and spend some time with her family. They have three Yorkie puppies that are absolutely adorable. As Lynn said, [...]
We’re heading home today. Our tour in the U.P. went really well and we had a lot of fun playing, especially with Hoss on keys. We were able to enjoy the sauna at Katie’s parents’ house and spend some time with her family. They have three Yorkie puppies that are absolutely adorable. As Lynn said, “They can make a grown man giggle.”
Last night we played at Ishpeming HS Auditorium for the local community. It’s a really cool venue: an old school theater complete with red velvet curtains and seats. I met a lot of really nice people from the area and I’m looking forward to coming back again soon.
When we get home, we’ll be playing a show in Leo, IN on Wednesday night, heading on down to Tennessee for Thursday and Friday, and then on to Florida for a week or so. We’ll be spending some time with my family while they’re on vacation in Pompano and also some time with Lynn’s parents in Sarasota. What a weather difference that will be to all the snow up here!
Right now we’re driving south through the quite remote state of Michigan, which is beautiful with all the snow on the pines. The drive is very scenic. We just saw a large fox scurry across the road in front of us. That’s not something you see everyday in Indiana. We’ve had several close encounters with deer too, though we’ve managed to avoid getting abducted or experimented on. A few minutes ago we had a close encounter with the Michigan State Police. Katie seems to think that cruise control is for sissies. Fortunately, the officer was very lenient with us and the fine won’t be that terrible.
We stopped at a small gas station along our route where they were selling smoked fish and all kinds of jerky. We loaded up on some of these local delicacies. The smoked salmon and cajun jerky make excellent road food. I also picked up some schweet bug-eyed ski goggles that will double as my sunglasses while in Florida. I’m anticipating some delicious racoon tan lines. Aww, who am I kidding? I never tan. My skin only comes in 2 shades: pearly white and delightful crimson. ’ello, aloe!
At the moment we’re approaching the Mackinaw Bridge, which at 5 miles long is the longest bridge in the USA and is the only connection between upper and lower Michigan. I haven’t been up this way since I was a kid. I remember coming up here for a family vacation. We went to Mackinac Island. My siblings and I insisted on getting Superman–flavored ice cream cones, which, unbeknownst to me at the time, are disgusting. The huge waffle cones held nearly a quart of ice cream and we ate ourselves sick. That’s all I can really remember about that vacation.
I need to finish up the design for Katie’s new album, so gotta get back to the grinding wheel. We’ll be stopping at Elderly’s in Lansing, Michigan to check out some sweet guitars we can’t afford. We’ll also be passing by the oddly bent trees in St. Johns, Michigan, which are pictured on the cover of the Rudisill album. Ahh, the memories…
Yours truly,
Scott
P.S. How about the latest Ray LaMontagne? [insert sound of someone whistling when really impressed]
Currently listening:
Till the Sun Turns Black
By Ray LaMontagne
Release date: 29 August, 2006
So this little journal entry finds me on the road somewhere between West Bend, Wisconsin and Oshkosh. I’m riding shotgun, sharing an internet connection over Lynn’s cell, while Katie plows this more than fully loaded Volvo wagon through the blowing snow. It’s dark and hard to see but it doesn’t seem to slow the semis, [...]
So this little journal entry finds me on the road somewhere between West Bend, Wisconsin and Oshkosh. I’m riding shotgun, sharing an internet connection over Lynn’s cell, while Katie plows this more than fully loaded Volvo wagon through the blowing snow. It’s dark and hard to see but it doesn’t seem to slow the semis, which are blasting on past us.
We just played in West Bend for a bunch of really nice people. A guy name Jason Burton opened for us. He has an amazing voice, great sense of humor and an uncanny ability to play left-handed on a right-handed guitar. I don’t really understand it, but he makes it work.
Our friend Hoss met us there to play some sweet B3 and Wurly with us. That boy can tear it up on the keys. He’s a natural. Love playing with him. You know, the four of us playing music together just feels right. I feel comfortable with the setup and love how the music is sounding. I could get used to this touring bidness.
Anyway, tomorrow we’re playing in Negaunee, MI, which is way up in the U.P. There’s pleny of snow here and the meterologists are all telling me that more snow is inevitable. Glad I have my Eskimo coat on.
Last night we had the privelege of catching the band Altan in concert at the University of Wisconsin in Whitewater. If you don’t know who they are, check out their website www.altan.ie. Altan are quite possibly the best traditional Irish/Gaelic band out there. They got their start about 20 years ago, so you can imagine they are all quite the virtuosos. They played phenomenally. Dåithí on guitar, Dermot on accordion, Mairéad on fiddle, Ciarån on fiddle and penny whistle. And another Ciarån on bouzouki (a crazy cool greek instrument). Each of them blew me away with their abilities and emotive playing.
My friend David Dunlop knows the band and was able to connect us. We had the chance to hang out back stage to chat about our mutual aquaintances, touring and car thievery.
On a side note, Mairéad and Dermot live just down the road from Limekiln B&B where I’ve stayed in Donegal, Ireland. Which, if you’re ever in that part of Ireland make sure to stop there. Rosemary Boyd can fix you a very mean Irish breakfast.
Another side not, car theft came up in our conversation because on Friday we locked ourselves out of our car just before leaving for the Wisconsin leg of our tour. John from the dealership was kind enough to show us how to “open” our car. Very nice of him!
Well we are getting close to our destination. I suppose we’ll arrive around 12:34am. I’ll post more about the tour as I get the chance.
How sick is that? Nature is such a perverse horror film. Enjoy. Tomorrow I’ll be heading to Wisconsin to play a show with Katie Nelson, Lynn Graber, Alex T., and Hoss. Should be a fun adventure. We’ll be recording Holly playing some violin for Katie’s album. Schweet. Tonight we practice. I got a sweet new [...]
How sick is that? Nature is such a perverse horror film. Enjoy.
Tomorrow I’ll be heading to Wisconsin to play a show with Katie Nelson, Lynn Graber, Alex T., and Hoss. Should be a fun adventure. We’ll be recording Holly playing some violin for Katie’s album. Schweet. Tonight we practice. I got a sweet new amp and cool little MIDI controller. Both are extremely portable and lightweight.
Being on this tour and seeing a lot of new places got me thinking about all the places I’ve been and places I’d like to go. I found this cool site where you can mark the countries you’ve been to and it creates a map for you. Below is my map. It seems crazy that [...]
Being on this tour and seeing a lot of new places got me thinking about all the places I’ve been and places I’d like to go. I found this cool site where you can mark the countries you’ve been to and it creates a map for you. Below is my map. It seems crazy that I still have 95% of the world left to see. In 28 years I’ve only managed to see 5% of it. Guess I better get busy. On a related topic, tonight my brother-in-law Jon and I were talking about how we sometimes think about a random person and feel like maybe God is putting them on our mind for a reason. After talking for a bit we figured out that I had randomly met his ex-girlfriend 2 years ago while in Thailand. This is a very random 6-degrees-of-Kevin-Bacon type connection. The world suddenly feels a lot smaller. Maybe it won’t be so hard to see the remaining 95% after all. So where have you been? Got any crazy connections? Who do we both know that we just haven’t figured out yet? And finally, Kevin Bacon, do you really know everyone?
Today is my birthday. What does that even mean? Time to assess the past year? Time to make plans and set goals for next year? Who knows? My mom sent me an email today: “Just a little note to say Happy Birthday. You were born at 12:53 a.m. on the 27th in Ball Memorial Hospital. [...]
Today is my birthday. What does that even mean? Time to assess the past year? Time to make plans and set goals for next year? Who knows?
My mom sent me an email today:
“Just a little note to say Happy Birthday. You were born at 12:53
a.m. on the 27th in Ball Memorial Hospital. The nurses brought you
in to my room after they washed and combed your hair. It was frosted
blonde. They parted your hair down the middle and just had to wake
me up to show me!”
Last night, we played a show for a lot of really nice people at EHBC in Fayetteville, NY. It’s so good to make new friends and see the world get a little smaller. We’ll be hanging out here for a few days and then we’ll end up in Buffalo this weekend.
The past few days I’ve been near Syracuse at my sister’s house with my family. We celebrated Thanksgiving together with some amazing food. Honestly, I made some of the best stuffing I’ve ever eaten. Nathan, I froze some of it for you to try when you come over – it’s that good. My little nephew [...]
The past few days I’ve been near Syracuse at my sister’s house with my family.
We celebrated Thanksgiving together with some amazing food. Honestly, I made some of the best stuffing I’ve ever eaten. Nathan, I froze some of it for you to try when you come over – it’s that good. My little nephew turns 1 on Tuesday and he’s been entertaining us all with his smiling, laughing, and newly learned ability to walk. He’s such a great kid. I can’t wait for him to start talking so we can carry on a conversation. That’ll be fun.
I’m on tour with Katie Nelson. We’ve been up and down all the New England states playing shows and meeting great new friends. On Tuesday, I picked up my CD’s at DiscMakers in Pennsauken, New Jersey, which is just across the Delaware from Philadelphia. The CD’s turned out great. I’m really happy with them. If you want your copy, I’m selling them here online. Hopefully, I’ll have my songs available as digital downloads soon.
I’ll be home from the tour in early December. I’m anxious to see you all again. Hope
you are having a great start to the holiday season.
I find that November never fails to be busy, complicated and beautiful. A year ago, I was on tour in Northern Ireland with my old band Rudisill. Today, I’m in Nyack, New York on tour with Katie Nelson, playing my solo stuff. The tour is going well and yesterday I was able to pick up [...]
I find that November never fails to be busy, complicated and beautiful. A year ago, I was on tour in Northern Ireland with my old band Rudisill. Today, I’m in Nyack, New York on tour with Katie Nelson, playing my solo stuff. The tour is going well and yesterday I was able to pick up my Somewhere Between Nicaragua & New York CD’s at the DiscMakers factory in Pennsauken, NJ. I’m excited for everyone to get a copy of it. The packaging really turned out nicely.
The last few days have been a blur of new places, faces and pavement. We’ve been in 9 or 10 states and seen almost every major city in the New England area. There’s so much I’d like to do and see while I’m out here, but time is not permitting a lot of it. We drove up the coast of New Hampshire and a bit of Maine, enjoyed an evening in Boston, and spent a half a day exploring lower Manhattan. While in Boston, we ate at an Irish pub called The Black Rose. The warm atmosphere and traditional food and music made me feel like I was actually in Ireland. Makes me miss my Irish friends. Can’t wait to see you all again. Thanks for calling us!
Anyway, today, we’re headed up to Syracuse to spend about a week at my sister Kelly’s house, playing music, celebrating Thanksgiving and several birthdays. Tomorrow, most of my family will be coming out too, to celebrate Thanksgiving with us. Can’t wait to cook that meal! My nephew Trey, who turns 1 on the 28th (the day after my birthday), recently fell and broke his two front teeth. He had to have them removed, so he won’t have any front teeth until his adult teeth grow in. What a bummer. I know what song he’ll be singing every Christmas for the next few years!
Well, I have to go soon, but I hope you are all doing well. Please let me know what you are up to, how and where you’ll be celebrating the holidays and what you think of my new music (once you have your copy).
I’m excited. I mailed everything for my EP out today. Know what it costs to overnite 2 CD’s to Pennsauken, NJ from Fort Wayne, IN? No clue? Well, it’s exactly $39.62. Rachel Ray could probably eat all day for that much. I bet she could start a show about it. Oh, wait… Today, I had [...]
I’m excited. I mailed everything for my EP out today. Know what it costs to overnite 2 CD’s to Pennsauken, NJ from Fort Wayne, IN? No clue? Well, it’s exactly $39.62. Rachel Ray could probably eat all day for that much. I bet she could start a show about it. Oh, wait…
Today, I had the Pepper Blue Steak Sandwich at Panera for lunch. That’s good stuff. It’s on the short list of things I could eat everyday. Other notables: tomato, basil and mozzarella on toasted bread, and my mom’s “king” pie. I call it that, because if I was king, I’d demand that it be available at every meal. I’d be a fat king. Just, equitable, and fair, but really fat. I like food too much. I know I’m not alone on that one either.
It rained a lot today. The rain spitting all day and the cars rushing along the wet roads below my apartment reminded me of Ireland and another food story.
My band Rudisill was on tour in Ireland last November. It was Thanksgiving day in America, but just another day in Ireland. We had just fixed and eaten an extremely large Thanksgiving dinner (5 turkeys) with all our Irish friends and family. I hadn’t slept much and wasn’t feeling very well. Still, we were headed to a Irish pub along the coast where they played traditional music in a jam setting.
It was a warm, friendly bar on a cold, wet night in a small town. The pub was packed, standing room only, and the air was thick with cigarette smoke. Everyone was having fun, but I just couldn’t deal with the heat, noise and smoke. I felt like I was going to get sick. There really wasn’t anywhere to go, so I headed outside into the dark, cold night.
The air was refreshing at first, a nice alternative to the hot pub. The novelty soon wore off. The wind was biting and relentless. It cut right through my leather jacket and straight into my bones. I turned my collar up and tried to walk with wind, but the rain rode the gusts and would crash against me in waves. I was cold, wet and sick. The small town was empty and, save for the sound of the wind, completely silent. No one was on the streets, no one but me. I explored every road in town and made my way down along the coast where there were no streetlights.
The ocean was violently beating against the rocky beach as I passed. I stopped and stared out into the black sea. It seemed so unforgiving, relentless. There was no letting up. The sea was a violent drunk on a rampage. There was no horizon; the sea was one with the night sky. They were accomplices in this crime. The night sky would not expose the belligerent sea for what it was. It turned a blind eye to the drunken beast.
I looked up into the starless sky and suddenly felt very alone, one man versus the elements of the earth. In defiance, I turned and started walking directly into the wind. As a display of will power, I opened my jacket and let the wind cut into me. Inside, my stomach was churning, but I would not let this storm have its way with me. I continued on up the hill, into the wind.
By the time I found my way back into town, everyone was waiting for me in the car. They were just about to go looking for me. I was happy to see them. The warm car ride home was full of pleasant stories of new friends, good drinks, and creative music.
Earlier this month, I played a show in Columbus with my friend Baxter Orr. Just as the show was getting ready to start, in walks a white kid sporting an afro and Hammer pants (I’m not even kidding) with his entourage, which includes his promoter, an older black guy. We soon realize that the show [...]
Earlier this month, I played a show in Columbus with my friend Baxter Orr. Just as the show was getting ready to start, in walks a white kid sporting an afro and Hammer pants (I’m not even kidding) with his entourage, which includes his promoter, an older black guy. We soon realize that the show had been double booked by the venue unbeknownst to anyone else.
The promoter and the kid decide that he should get to perform first. OK, fine. He plays his set (2 long hours of really sappy, bad John Mayer wannabe love songs mixed with beatboxing – again, not even kidding) and then leaves. We get to go on 2 hours late. On the way home late that night, my cousin Ryan, who was my guitar tech for the night, tells me that the promoter came up to him and told him, “Do you play? ‘Cause this kid’s the real deal. I’m telling ya, he’s the REAL DEAL.” This night, with it’s skinny white kid and an older black man, reminded me of a night a few weeks ago.
On September 11th of this year, I was at my apartment getting ready for bed. I flipped on the TV and caught the tail end of Craig Ferguson’s late night talk show just as he was introducing the musical guest for the evening. Most nights, I don’t get very excited about the late night musical performances for a variety of reasons.
The artist is someone I really admire, but the performance is less than moving for lack of enthusiasm, lack of venue atmosphere, or in my case lack of a high quality entertainment system. I can never hear the bass player.
The artist is someone I’ve already heard and might even like a little, but they are performing their over-played single. It’s like watching live reruns. Déjà vu-ish.
It’s just not my thing. Singing to a track while being backed by female dancers of questionable talent is not an acceptable form of entertainment for me, no matter how good your voice is or isn’t. {{{cough Mario Vasquez cough}}}
So, on September 11th, 2006 when Craig Ferguson announced the musical guest and I didn’t recognize the name, I thought, “Hmm… probably a number three on my list above.”
Boy, was I wrong.
The band begins to play and this hurt looking skinny white kid with big lips starts to sing. What? That doesn’t sound like a nineteen year old white kid! Where’s the older black guy that’s actually doing the singing? Come on, Ray Charles has got to be in the back there somewhere – behind the drummer maybe? Nope. Before my very eyes (through the magic of television), was a young, white punk from Scotland, that could pass for just another emo kid, singing with as much soul as a seasoned jazz crooner. I was hooked.
If you don’t already know of him, may I introduce to you a real deal, Paolo Nutini.
I’m exhausted. The last 2 days have been a whirlwind. Here’s what happened. Friday, Lynn calls to say he’s going with Katie and I to Nicaragua. Cool. Great news. So we drive down to Indy and stay with my friend Kory Pence. We go out to eat (some P.F. Changs is always great) and sat [...]
I’m exhausted. The last 2 days have been a whirlwind. Here’s what happened.
Friday, Lynn calls to say he’s going with Katie and I to Nicaragua. Cool. Great news. So we drive down to Indy and stay with my friend Kory Pence. We go out to eat (some P.F. Changs is always great) and sat around and talked. Early in the morning Kory takes us to the airport. We’re on time. The flight’s on time. We check in with Delta, board, buckle and taxi out to the runway. Everything’s good.
Then everything falls apart.
Note: In the following recap of events, I’m not complaining, I’m merely recounting the story. Hindsight now makes it all funny, but trust me, this was a pure shot of stress hormones to the jugular.
The pilot announces that the flight plan has been lost. Delay. He returns a few minutes later with a new flight plan, but announces that we will have to be rerouted due to bad weather. More delay. Then he comes on again to announce that all flights into Atlanta are grounded until further notice. Big delay. We sit on the plane for over an hour.
When we finally get to Atlanta, we discover we’ve missed the only flight out of Atlanta to Managua, Nicaragua. Delta automatically rebooks us for the next day’s flight. Which means we would have to sleep in the airport and be late for Sunday’s big event. So I inquire about other flights, hotel, etc. No progress here. Only a discounted rate (still $56!) for a hotel room. Meanwhile, we can’t find our luggage. No flight, no hotel, no luggage.
Delta, I’ve got an idea. For your convenience you should just hang posters around the airport that say, “We appreciate our customers.” The picture in the background would be a big hand presenting a nice middle finger.
Long story short, we miss flight after flight and have to get ourselves and our baggage, which never made it, rerouted on different airlines so we can get to Nicaragua by Saturday night. Our flight path: Indy > Atlanta > Miami > San Salvador, El Salvador > Managua, Nicaragua.
The Good News
It’s Monday morning. Yesterday went really well. We played for 35,000+ people at an amphitheater next to Lake Managua near the heart of the city. We roasted in the heat, while the locals seemed to not even break a sweat. All in all, a great trip. We are finished here and will be heading home today with hopefully no problems.
When’s the last time the Pope, the President, or the artist formerly (and once again) known as Prince wore a name tag? you know they never have to peel that “Hi, My Name Is…” sticker off their shirt at the end of the night. You won’t catch them wearing vip passes or laminated cards on [...]
When’s the last time the Pope, the President, or the artist formerly (and once again) known as Prince wore a name tag? you know they never have to peel that “Hi, My Name Is…” sticker off their shirt at the end of the night. You won’t catch them wearing vip passes or laminated cards on gawdy lanyards. They don’t have to show ID to the bouncer, keep their ticket stub, wear a neon wristband, or get their hand stamped at the door. And when it comes time for introductions, they never have to introduce themselves because someone else usually does that for them. But is that even necessary?
Come to think of it, all the rest of us have it pretty rough. Time and time again we have to produce ID, passes, and documents that prove we are decent, valid people worthy of entry. Then once inside, we have to submit ourselves to that ever-awkward game of introductions. So raise your lanyard/wristband/VIP pass and toast with me: “To the nobodys! May we always gain entry and make new friends!”
Speaking of friends, Brandon, my college roommate, former bandmate, and “adventure buddy” will be coming on tour with me to help out and provide some sanity (or insanity depending on what’s needed) along the way. I’m excited about the tour and hope to see a lot of you along the way. Make sure to comment below if you’d like to put your name in the hat for backstage and VIP passes. I’ll see what i can do. Hahaha
This fall I’ll be hitting the road to spread my music the old fashion way: playing shows. But I’m asking for help the new way: through MySpace. Starting in November, I’ll be heading east through Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Maryland on my way to NYC. After a fews day there, I’ll head north through all those [...]
This fall I’ll be hitting the road to spread my music the old fashion way: playing shows.
But I’m asking for help the new way: through MySpace.
Starting in November, I’ll be heading east through Ohio, Pennsylvania, and Maryland on my way to NYC. After a fews day there, I’ll head north through all those little New England states before heading back through upstate New York, Canada and then south through Michigan.
If you live in or near any of the cities I have listed in my “Upcoming Shows” let me know. I need to book shows in all these places and would love your help. Check the dates I’ll be in town then send me a message with your suggestions for cool venues to play at and any contact info you can get.
I just confirmed a show for Friday, August 18th at Aspen Coffee on Dupont Road. This will be my first solo show in nearly 3 years and only the second solo show ever. The last time I played a solo show, Nathan said, “Let’s start a band.” And so began Rudisill‘s journey. It would be [...]
I just confirmed a show for Friday, August 18th at Aspen Coffee on Dupont Road. This will be my first solo show in nearly 3 years and only the second solo show ever. The last time I played a solo show, Nathan said, “Let’s start a band.” And so began Rudisill‘s journey. It would be nice to see you there.
Nice stamp, huh? More of them can be found at 
