We're Moving

We’re moving the studio. What I mean to say is, we are packing up and moving these computers across town. It has been very time consuming getting this all together and that has kept me from updating the station. The actual move will be sometime this week or next. I will try and do it as far off hours as possible. Meanwhile, Starting today (Tuesday) at around 8:53am Pacific Coast time, I am going to start playing everything from my current digital library. That’s 5000 songs with no repeats!

As soon as everything is back together, I’ve got new music from Bruce Springsteen, Neil Young, Calexico, T-Bone Burnett, Drive-By Truckers, Gomez, The Watson Twins, Ben Harper, Matthew Sweet and Susanna Hoffs, Rhett Miller and more.

Thank you all for listening to The Promise and for your patience during the move.

This Weeks Play List

Jeremiah Lockwood – American Primitive (2005)
What a fascinating CD. Jeremiah’s music is so totally unique and yet it is steeped in the many traditions of Americana: Traditional Blues, folk, bluegrass all are here. Experience it yourself at: http://www.jeremiahlockwood.com/home.html

Traveling Wilburys – Vol 1 (1988) Vol 3 (1990)
It all started at Penny Lane Records in Pasadena. They had a Russian import of the 2 Wilburys CDs. When I tried to buy it I found out that it had already been sold; however they couldn’t find the cover (they keep the actual CDs behind the counter). I got a nice, “thanks for finding it”. No finders fee, nothing. But then the guy in charge says, “We have Vol 3 in stock”. Okay, cool. He finds it for me and off I go, generally happy with at least buying the real thing. Of course, listening to this fun CD made me want Vol 1 even more. So, on to Ebay I went and 12 hours later I was the owner of both Traveling Wilburys CDs. These aren’t important CDs. And maybe if they weren’t out of print I might not have cared as much. But, they are a reminder of how much fun rock and roll can be. The word on the Internet is that George was working on a box set when he died and that now his son has picked up the project. Someday these unimportant and yet essential CDs will be available once again.

Skydiggers & Cash Brothers – Skydiggers Cash Brothers (2005)
The Skydiggers and the Cash Brothers are both integral parts of the Canadian alt-country scene. It has been several years (at least) since the Cash brothers left the Skydiggers to start up their own successful band. Late last year they got back together to do this low cost reunion type acoustic CD. Listening, I felt like I was in a big overstuffed chair. The feel here is comfortable and relaxed as the main songwriters from each band trade off compositions and vocals. I believe this is only available on their websites. Do check it out.

Rufus Wainwright – Poses (2001)
While I’m writing this, my IPOD starts playing “Dead Skunk”; the first single from Rufus’ father, Loudon. That has nothing to do with this, just thought it was funny. Anyway, Stacey, http://chewingtheclef.blogspot.com/ recently reviewed this CD on her blog and I was so taken by the review I decided it was time to own a Rufus Wainwright CD. After listening to Poses for the first time, I couldn’t help but feel like I had just come out of a Broadway play. That is not to say that these are “Broadway tunes”. Okay, maybe they are, but they are really good “Broadway tunes”. I’m not one to sit down and listen to a musical but I can see myself enjoying this on a rainy day, like today, or a cold night in front of the fireplace. It is soothing, yet edgy. And his voice is just so beautiful and inspired. The bonus track, “Across the Universe” demonstrates this perfectly. Thanks Stacey.

Janis Ian – Billie’s Bones (2004)
Janis Ian has been making music now for 40 years! Her outspoken nature has served her music well throughout the years. This CD takes an interesting and successful move into country. It isn’t a full blown country/alt-country CD, but that feel permeates it. There is a wonderful duet with Dolly Parton which highlights this new direction. But… Janis Ian is and has always been one of the greatest singer/songwriters we have. And it shows in the excellent CD. “Billie’s Bones” deserves so much more attention then it received. Please, go support Janis at http://www.janisian.com/

Toad the Wet Sprocket – Dulcinea (1994)
I spent most of the 90’s listening to women (this would be a good place to put in an ex joke, but…) and Glen Phillips and his band were so popular it was easy to just ignore them (I still can’t believe I ignored a band that derived their name from a Monty Python skit). I do remember seeing them during the “Rock The Vote” tour. I was there to see 10,000 Maniacs but came away in awe of T-Bone Burnett. And why didn’t I get the hint that I should have been listening when Glen said to the crowd how excited he was to be in the same building as Sam Phillips (she didn’t perform that night)? So, here I am, years later listening to their CDs for the first time. But you all already know about them: Great production, lush arrangements, beautiful tunes. Listening to Dulcinea is an overall enjoyable experience. I guess I’m going to have to listen to the rest of them.

Tina Schlieske at The Mint and Kristy Kruger at Genghis Cohen.

So it was like this… There's this singer with a voice as powerful as a small atom bomb. But she lives/tours in Minnesota. What are the chances she'll find her way out to L.A. And there is this woman with long hair and a kazoo who captured our attention in Austin with her unique style and who's last CD was one of my biggest and happiest surprises last year. But she lives in Dallas. What are the chances she'll find her way out to L.A. But last night Tina Schlieske was the opening act for the monthly Sin City concert at The Mint and Kristy Kruger had her CD release party at Genghis Cohen's. If that isn't a big enough coincidence, when I saw Kristy in Austin, she was one of the opening acts for a Texas version of Sin City.

Okay, here's the plan: Tina is going on at 8PM and Kristy goes on at 9PM "Sharp". An email to Shilah, who runs the Sin City shows confirms that Tina will be on no later than 8:15. The Mint is 2.5 miles from Genghis Cohen. I CAN DO THIS!

The evening started out great; finding a parking space a block from The Mint. The staff there is very friendly and obviously love the music. Stephanie, my bartender that night, was bouncing around and couldn't wait for the music to start. On Stephanie's suggestion I had the Filet Mignon Slider; a burger made with fresh ground filet mignon and piled high with, uhmmm, stuff. What a treat, and it stayed with me all night.

Sin City is a alt-country/Americana showcase and Tina Schlieske doesn't exactly fit. But man can she sing; which is probably why she was added to the show. Opening with just her singing over her guitar, the song slowly built until the whole band (which includes her sister Laura on backing vocals… Okay, it is a family thing 'cause her sister has a great voice too!) was cooking on all burners and Tina's voice was exploding on top of it. Tina's songs are rock with some white soul and a bit of country thrown in. It's a very Midwestern sound and it works well around her soaring vocals. The performance, which ran about 45 minutes, focused on music from her current CD "Slow Burn"; one of my favorite indie releases last year. For someone who has several CDs out, she seemed a bit timid when talking to the audience (called us "Ladies and Gentleman" several times), but her performance proved that the CD isn't a fluke. She's got the talent. Tina can be found at: http://www.tinabsides.com/default.asp

With one song left in Tina's show, I ran out of The Mint, http://www.themintla.com/ , and jumped in my car for the long 2.5 mile drive down Fairfax to Genghis Cohen; http://www.genghiscohen.com/ . I gave myself 15 minutes, but there was plenty of traffic on Fairfax on a Friday night. Arriving only a few minutes late, I was still able to get a seat before Kristy started. The place was packed. I've never been to GC when it was filled up. The poor waitress (don't know her name, but she is always there. You can't miss her with her blond pigtails and artwork all over her back) was covering the entire room. There were 3 shows there that night, and not everyone was there to see Kristy, but they were a good and sometimes enthusiastic audience. Kristy opened with a story, actually a nightmare, about what could happen to her this night. It was a multi-part dream in which everything that you couldn't imagine would go wrong; finishing up with the sound guy cutting off the sound and calling her a bitch. Luckily for her and us, none of it came true. With her 4 piece band behind her (Upright bass, acoustic guitar, steel guitar and for the last half of the set banjo), Kristy ran through most of her new CD, (I love this title!) "Songs from a dead man's couch". She played acoustic guitar throughout, sang into a bullet for about half of the show (gives it a 40's quality) and not only pulled out a harmonica for the closer, "Gold Rush", but even got the kazoo out. Her sound is hard to pinpoint. Take a bit of the current Sam Phillips, throw in a dash of Tom Waits, it's a bit jazz with a country beat, and all singer/songwriter. The new songs seem to be about the loneliness of the road and about striving to find "gold". Kristy Kruger is young and strong. And she will need to be because she is taking the road less traveled and we are all very grateful for it. Find out more about Kristy at http://www.kristykruger.com/ and you can get her new CD at http://cdbaby.com/cd/kruger4 .

On my way out the door I heard one of her band members say they were headed out to Largo to see Jon Brion. It was only 10pm… Hmmm…

This Weeks Play List

Bruce Springsteen & The E Street Band – Hammersmith Odeon London ’75 (2006)
So, now it is official: We are playing music from this heavily bootlegged concert, considered by many to be one of the great E Street shows. The energy, the excitement, the risks, they are all here. It is a great show and worth having in your collection, even if you now also own the DVD.

Melissa McClelland – Stranded in Suburbia (2004)
When I saw Luke Doucet in concert, Melissa was his partner on stage. She is also his new partner in real life and they were just so cute together on stage. Melissa has a great voice (you don’t get to sing backup on a Sarah McLachlan tour without the pipes). It might be easy to compare her songs to Avril Lavigne, but there is so much more. Listening to the songs, this appears to be a woman who knows how beautiful she is yet is still insecure. She puts on a tough outer exterior, but is scared on the inside. I believe she has a CD coming out this month in Canada. I can’t wait to see the growth over the last 2 years. You can find out more at Melissa’s site: http://www.melissamcclelland.com/

Beth Orton – Comfort of Strangers (2006)
To be honest, I first discovered Beth upon hearing “Central Reservation” from 1999. I loved the moody atmosphere of the CD and the single, “Stolen Car”. Nothing she did before or has done since has been quite like it. For many casual fans that meant disappointment. Well, it has been 7 years and it is time to put that behind us (myself included here). This new CD from Beth Orton does not have the atmosphere, and I don’t know if I’ve changed more than she has, but I love it that way. I was really surprised at how I found myself not wanting to take this CD out of my player. There are great melodies and rhythms here to keep your foot taping and your mind thinking. This may become my favorite Beth CD.

Jim Wolf – No Sleep What-so-ever (2005)
Indie artist Jim Wolf has some great tunes on this new CD. I really enjoyed it. There is a strong pop sense here with good production. Worth checking out at: http://www.jimwolf.com .

Tina Dico at The Hotel Cafe

It was a cold and rainy night as I walked up to the Hotel Café. Okay, this is Hollywood, so when I say cold and raining, I really mean low 50s and drizzling. But I was the first in line so I stood under the doorway and listened to Astrid Swan I believe (I could be completely wrong here) as she did her sound check; sounded like Fiona Apple as her voice was filtered through the walls. I was all prepared for an evening alone; had my IPOD with me. But shortly after I arrived three people rolled out of a car and became my new best friends. Ed, Amanda, the guy with the hat (sorry, I just can’t remember his name) and I had a fun filled pre concert conversation, talking about everything from gas explosions (guy with hat works for Gas Company) to Chucky Cheese (Amanda used to be a rat). As the line grew, we were talking about gas blowing up in your face and this guy behind us tells us about his burns. Someone asked what the gas was and he said, “Petroleum Ether” (or something like that). I couldn’t resist, “Was that the last time you did freebase”? “Uhmmmm, actually it was hash oil”. Okay, enough nonsense.

The doors opened and in we went. If you haven’t been to the remodeled Hotel Café, they did a great job. You enter from the back now and there is a big lobby area where you can sit at cocktail tables and drink (there is a second bar too). You then go through double doors into the old room. They have widened the room by about 1/3 and instead of 2 rows of tables; there are now 5 or so rows. The capacity on the wall says 189, but that probably includes the back lobby where you can’t really hear the music. They did not change the stage one bit and yes, the red curtains are still there.

We sat down at the front table against the wall and awaited the opening act, Kristin Hoffman. Kristin is, according to her bio, classically trained. Part way through the first song you figure out that her instrument was her voice. One of the highlights of her performance was her cover of Joni Mitchell’s, “Case of You”. She hit all of the low and high notes. It was very impressive. There were a couple of really good songs in the set also, but it seemed like her voice lacked the emotion required to pull off this kind of music. Ed thought her piano playing on her right hand was a little heavy handed. Overall I enjoyed her show though. As she sang, you could hear the rain beating down on the side of the building (this time it really was rain) and Kristin commented on how cool it was and that it was like being in a cave. Yes, a cave filled with beautiful female voices.

And then it was Tina’s Turn. You can not start out a discussion of Tina Dico live without talking about her statuesque beauty. All legs, blond hair and the sweetest smile, this native of Denmark is as beautiful as she is humble. What you realize when she smiles is that she probably knows that she is beautiful, but that this is her art and that is what is important about the evening. The music isn’t about a producer making some beauty the next big thing, it is her personal life and she wants to share it with us.

And then she starts playing and wow! She played the guitar (a Gibson Hummingbird, which just sounded so good) with confidence and sang with the kind of emotion you get from sitting all day in an unfurnished flat in London with no money and only your music to get you by. Most of the evening was dedicated to her new CD, “In the Red”. No band was needed for this music: You can see that the songs are really that good. For her encore she dipped into her past for a couple of songs. One of the funny moments was when this guy yelled out an old song. She told the crowd that last night in San Diego someone yelled out that song and she said, “I’m sorry, I don’t really think I know that one well enough. Next time”. And the guy in the crowd said, “No problem, I’ll see you tomorrow in Hollywood”. So, there he was and so, as she promised, she sang it. For those wondering, she did not sing any Zero 7 songs (unless I missed one).

It was a great show that lasted about 45 to 50 minutes. Afterward we hung out in the lobby. The doorman said that after he let all of the people waiting in line for Jose Gonzales in, we could buy tickets. He assured us it wouldn’t sell out. So the 4 of us talked for about an hour. I slipped over and chatted with Tina for a few minutes. She really is so sweet. At about 10:30 the gang left. We said goodbye, never to see each other again. And I waited another 20 minutes. It became apparent that the line outside was continuing to grow and when I peaked my head into the room, it was packed all the way to the back of the bar. They were sold out (at least the fire marshal would probably say so) even as they continued to let people in. At just before 11, with no music started, I decided that as much as I wanted to see Jose, it was time to leave. I could barely see the stage and the sound in the back of The Hotel Café is usually overshadowed by talking. With Jose Gonzales, you really want to be right there: The music is so intimate. Maybe next time. He is playing at the Echo tonight, but I can’t see driving out to L.A. again.

Jill Sobule and Julia Sweeney at Largo in Hollywood

A funny thing happens when you combine a SNL alumnus with one of music’s most interesting, humorous, A.D.D. songwriters. In fact lots of funny things happen. Which is what we got last night at Largo as Jill brought up Julia Sweeney for a bit of fun on stage. The way it worked was very simple. Jill and the band (Adam Levy on guitar and Dave Carpenter on stand up bass) would play a song and then when it ended, the band would continue playing and Julia would tell a story that related to the song. So, when Jill sang Angel/Asshole, Julia talked about a guy she dumped (not to mention throwing up all over him). This went on for 4 or 5 glorious songs/monologues. There are always plenty of laughs at a Jill Sobule concert, but it went into overdrive with Julia doing her one woman act. Still, there are few people in the world as quick and funny as Jill and during the encore Julia was stumped when Jill made her come up for an unrehearsed story after singing “Under the Disco Ball” a story about a young gay man. Julia didn’t know what to say until a man in the audience yelled out, “Have you ever dated a gay man?”. Julia laughed and said, “Yes, but neither of us knew it”. It was a fun funny evening and those of us in So.Cal. may be lucky enough to see it again in the near future.

Opening the show was Adam Levy. Adam is best known as Norah Jones guitar player, but has played on everyone from Tracy Chapman to Amos Lee. And, yes he is a good guitar player. But what really got me, were his vocals. He is a cleaner/deeper/softer Jon Dee Graham. I can’t believe that he hasn’t been singing on his CDs. His songs, even when they were about doing the wash, sounded so special and important you were ready to cry. I look forward to hearing more from him down the road.

This Weeks Play List

Lots of music to add this week, so I’ll keep the comments short…

Grant Lyle – Grant Lyle (2006) An indie artist. He sent me some mp3s that I liked. You can hear more at http://www.grantlyle.com/music.htm

KT Tunstall – Eye to the Telescope (2006) Another one of the hot new artists you may be hearing a lot about this year. Very very good CD.

Elvis Costello (Live with the Metropole Orkest) – My Flame Burns Blue (2006) Not many artists take the risks that Elvis does. And when it works, it works real well. You start by enjoying the jazz remakes of a few of his songs, but even the new songs sound great. Yes, it is a jazz CD. But it is also an Elvis Costello CD. My favorite on the CD has to be the samba raved-up version of “Clubland”.

Etienne de Rocher – Etienne de Rocher (2006) Thanks to Mike for raving about this one. I really don’t know how to describe this guy. The first thing that came to mind was how much I kept thinking about Beck (not that he sounds like him). This is one talented guy who shouldn’t be on an indie label for very long. http://www.etiennederocher.com/

Willie Nile – Streets of New York (2006) I saw Willie at the “Light of Day” concert in Hollywood a few months ago and loved his music right off the bat. You can hear everything from Dylan to Springsteen in his influences. An excellent CD.

Hem – No Word from Tom (2006) This is the first time I’ve heard these guys. This is an odds and ends type CD based on performances over the last 5 years or so. Think Cowboy Junkies and you have a good idea how special they are. But I bought this CD just because of one song, REM’s “South Central Rain”. What a great version.

Sia – Colour The Small One (2006 – U.S. Release) This is the official U.S. release with a couple of new songs and 2 more versions of “Breathe Me”. Neither are as good as the original release, but well worth the listen.

Saint Etienne – Tales From Turnpike House (2006) A concept album for the new millennium. This one is about the people living in this apartment complex. The music at times takes you back to the days before the Beatles and Stones took over the world. At the same time they can have a very techno feel. This is a fascinating CD.

Slacktone – Slacktone (1997) I heard “The Bells of St Kahuna” in concert and realized for the first time how good surf music can be. These guys are as tight as any prog rock band. Best surf music I have ever heard.

Luke Doucet – Broken (and other rogue states) (2005) This may be the breakup CD of the year (maybe the new millennium). There are lots of songs about cold and broken hearts (or lack there of) and, well, I just love this CD. His future wife, Melissa Mclelland sings backup vocals on many of the songs. He is the indie poster boy of Canada. Someday… Buy this CD! http://www.lukedoucet.com

Beaver Nelson – Motion (2004) We saw Beaver in Austin last year and picked up this CD (yes I am way behind on my listening). A very enjoyable CD… but I have run out of time. http://www.beavernelson.com

Jenny Lewis at the Glass House in Pomona

An art center, right in the middle of Pomona: Who would have thought it was possible. This is a very cool alternative to driving all the way into L.A. Although, if I’m in the OC at 4pm, it ain’t gonna happen. I was able to adjust my schedule this week and work at my client’s in Chino Hills Wednesday, so I lucked out this time.

The Glass House is an old furniture warehouse, according to Bill. It is one big open space with a stage in the corner; allowing for a wide viewing angle. At the back of the building, there is a small upstairs area with a few seats. Although it would have been a comfortable and reasonable place to watch a concert, we were afraid of how the sound would be, so back down we went; into the crowd. We figured it was heavily a Claremont College crowd. And what a wonderful crowd it was. Maybe the best I’ve been in since the last Springsteen show. It was so uplifting to me to know that there were young people today who come to concerts to hear the music. Even if… well, we’ll get to that in a minute. I think I was the oldest or second oldest in the crowd. We found 2 others who looked our age. Otherwise the crowd was pretty much not at drinking age yet (I understand it is a 16 and over club). The thing was, they were respectful. There was little talking during the show, lots of enthusiasm for all of the songs from all of the acts and it was just obvious that they were really there to hear the music. How refreshing that was.

Opening the show was Whispertown 2000. So, before I say what I have to say about their performance you should know that it was their first show and Morgan was sick. She actually came out and immediately sprayed something into her mouth. You expect that when an artist is sick they have trouble hitting notes. But what you forget is that it also can affect their hearing. I’ve been listening to their site on Myspace and am now sure that is what happened because, well, Susie and I kept looking at each other with painful looks on our faces as Morgan kept hitting notes that should be made illegal (and may be in some parts of the world). It was really painful. No. It was really really painful. I can’t even begin to talk about the music itself because it was just so hard to get past the vocals that night. Listening to songs on their website, I can see how they could go so wrong. She/they do not produce typical melodies and if you miss some of those notes, it’s like hitting a gravel patch off the side of they road; you’re in deep trouble. The crowd was very supportive though. Some even started clapping along with one of the songs.

Michael Runion was the second act on the bill. He did a fun solo set playing music that reminded me of Jack Johnson. The lyrics sounded pretty interesting too. He is someone I am going to keep an eye on. Probably the highlight of his act though was his back and forth dialog with the audience. He is a very funny guy and had the audience laughing out loud at some of his off the cuff comments. I’d love to see him in a small club sometime.

Jenny Lewis and the Watson Twins started the show in very dramatic fashion: With the band already on stage, they started singing the a capella opening to their CD, “Run Devil Run”. Slowly the three of them walked onto the stage, continuing to sing without microphones. As they hit the last note of the song, Jenny strummed her guitar creating a huge amount of feedback. It wasn’t what she had in mind, but this was opening night of the tour. Actually, sound was a problem all night for all three groups. Jenny apologized, they got the sound levels figured out, and off she went singing about God and religion and life in the big city. I love the new CD and they focused on it throughout the night; playing only a few songs outside of it. There were no Rilo Kiley songs, which seems to show how strongly she feels about this CD. Although I enjoyed the show, she really didn’t add to the songs. This is the first night of the tour so maybe it will take a bit of time and maybe I’m expecting too much; but I do like to see the artist push beyond the limits of the studio when they are in concert. One new song stood out, “Jack Killed Mom”, a funny rollicking blue-eyed soul/country song that turned into a gospel like rave at the end. During the encore they did an a copella version of “I met him on a Sunday”. The standout piece of the evening was the title track from “Rabbit Fur Coat” which she sang accompanied only by her guitar. It is a very powerful, semi-autobiographical song about growing up in Hollywood. The band, is comprised of a couple of Rilo Kiley members along with Michael Runion on bass and Jonathan Rice on guitar. Rice did a nice job playing lots of acoustic solos. Overall it was a good show and a fun evening.

This Weeks Play List

Jenny Lewis and The Watson Twins – Rabbit Fur Coat (2006) The voice of Rilo Kiley creates this excellent closer to country than alternative CD. Her pragmatic look at God and religion is so refreshing. She’s not angry and she sure isn’t kissing butt as she lays out her life to be examined. Will easily make my year end best of list.

Calexico & Iron and Wine – In The Reins (2005) A great collaboration between these two bands. Hopefully this won’t be the last.

The Gousters –The Gousters (2005) An independent release featuring, again a collaboration, Walt Cronin and Zander Schloss, bass player of “The Circle Jerks”. I love how this CD changes styles; sometimes a strong country feel, sometimes it almost sounds like Jon Dee Graham. There is some good stuff on this indie CD. You can find out more at: www.thegousters.com .

Surf Music in San Diego

My college radio station, KCR has put out a benefit CD to help buy needed equipment for the radio station. As part of this effort, we threw a CD release party at The Whistle Stop in San Diego. The CD contains music from 11 surf bands located in Southern California. So, of course, we showcased three of them for our party. Although I liked all three bands, I really need to talk about the last band of the evening, The Slacktones. I was not prepared to be wowed by a “surf band”, but these guys did it. For those of you who don’t follow surf music, there are two things that all good surf bands have in common; a fast and tight drummer and a great lead guitarist. I hadn’t really thought about the latter until I watched these guys play; and Dave Wronski from the Slacktones is amazing. His songwriting is creative, pushing the limits of surf and yet still maintaining a surf sound. And the guitar playing was so fast and accurate and inventive. I really didn’t expect to walk away with a band’s CD, but there I was, asking which CD had that great song with the soft section in the middle (that would be, “The Bells of St. Kahuna”… and what a fantastic song that is). It is almost like going to a jazz concert except that it may be more melodic and the chances of hearing the theme to Hawaii 5-0 are better (they did a nice job on it, although it was no where near the highlight of the evening). It was a fabulous evening and we, the alumni, were able to collect over $800 for the station.

Kenny White and Cheryl Wheeler in San Diego

Watching Kenny White work a grand piano brought back memories of the first time I saw him when he opened for Shawn Colvin. He is such an impressive piano player that I sometimes find myself thinking, okay, just get to “In My Recurring Dream” (which is always the closer) so I can watch you take off. And on a real piano… wow! I’ve seen Kenny a few times over the last year or so, and with only a half hour or so to play with, he really can’t do much extra in his shows. He did add a new political song that takes some hard shots at the current administration. He told me later that there are 4 or 5 political songs that may come out on an EP. They will be available on his website, http://www.kennywhite.net sometime in the near future, hopefully.

Cheryl Wheeler put on a show very similar to the one we saw in NYC a couple of years ago. She is so funny that you don’t mind hearing some of the same stories over again. There were new ones though, and as always they were a hoot. For those who have heard her CDs, what you don’t get on the CD is her beautiful voice. It really comes through in concert. Overall it was a lovely evening. I look forward to their next west coast tour.

Kathleen Edwards and Luke Doucet at Largo in Hollywood

It was a night for couples. Not that any of the songs had anything remotely resembling a love song in them. In fact Kathleen said it best last night when she said, “Luke sang songs about a breakup. I’m singing songs about whoring and slutting”. Of course she was overstating things a bit, but it got a good laugh. The reason it was couples night was that Luke played most of his set with his future wife Melissa McClelland and Kathleen played most of her set with just Colin Cripps (her guitar playing producer).

Luke Doucet and Melissa McClelland opened the evening and he warned us right off the bat that his new CD was all about his last breakup. Luke is pretty unknown in the U.S. which is too bad. He is a very talented writer. The music from the new CD was excellent in concert. And, yes many of the songs were about his breakup. In one of the best songs there was a line that was something like, “You have to have a heart in order for it to break”. As you might imagine, the breakup didn’t go well for him. But the intro to this song started a very funny moment, as he began explaining that he called her up to tell her the CD was coming out and it was all about her and that he thought she would rather she hear it from him then from friends. So he invited her over and he sang her the songs. It was at this point that Melissa said, “I wish I could have sung harmony on them”. We all laughed. She then did a clawing motion (can you say cat fight?). The ex’s response to all of this, according to Luke, was “You wrote an entire CD about our breakup. Do you know how many songs I’ve written? None”. And we all had to believe she was a heartless… uhmmm, songwriter. It was great moment that was only surpassed by the song about his brother who is selling crack on the street. It was a very sad and moving song. Luke spent much of the evening playing lead electric and singing, while Melissa played rhythm guitar and sang harmonies. She has a beautiful voice, and may be almost as witty as her future husband. What a wonderful duo they are and although Melissa hasn’t broken his heart yet, Luke was quick to point out that he had plenty more breakup songs that he just needs to add a name to. Yes, there is plenty of humor in his songs too.

When Kathleen Edwards doesn’t have a band behind her a different woman shows up. Or maybe it was just the small intimate surroundings that made her seem more accessible and soft (she was drinking whiskey straight up though). That isn’t to say that she didn’t rock hard with just the duo, but that she seemed more relaxed and approachable. In fact, after the show I talked to her for a minute and I was really surprised at how sweet she seemed. I gushed over her for a minute or so and she sincerely thanked me and asked my name. She was very sweet. But I digress. The duo played songs from both of her CDs along with a new song about a woman that never came home. It was a very sad and beautiful song. I’m guessing her third CD will be right up there with the first two. Part way through the show she asked a special guest to come join her. It was Benmont Tench; from Tom Petty’s Heartbreakers and so many guest appearances on CDs over the last 30 years. He is an amazing keyboardist. So he sat down at the old standup piano that lives on the back side of the Largo stage and refused to leave. After two songs, he said something to Kathleen or she said something to him, couldn’t really tell, and then he sat down as she said, “It’s in this key”, and strummed her guitar. Benmont said, “Oh that’s easy”. And then proceeded to play some awesome licks on a song he had never rehearsed with her. He did it again when they played an old John Prine song. He almost stole the show. Kathleen rounded out her set with several solo numbers which were easily as moving as the studio versions. They say that the true sign of a good song is how it holds up when you take the band away. The music held up just fine.

This Weeks Play List

I'm a bit late this week, but here we go. All three CDs are small label/Indie CDs. Hans and The Beautiful Girls are touring the U.S. right now, so check out their sites for tour dates.

And I just have to comment on the Super Bowl music... If I were the producer of the shows, I sure would have pulled my name from the credits. Mics going out. Guitars not in the mix. I know it is live, but you've got a billion people watching. Get it right or don't do it. Meanwhile my daughter was freaked out that she had to see Mick's stomach. Grant it, there are few 60 year olds that can show off their middriff. But please, for the sake of the children, DON'T. :-)

Leila Florentino – Sail (2005) Her voice reminds me a bit of Kate Bush. The music is more straightforward though and neither are as quirky. There is an innocence here that is beguiling. She is a young singer/songwriter with plenty of potential. Check her out at http://www.leilaflorentino.com and you can buy her CD at Amazon.com .

Hans York – Inside Out (2005) The guitar playing is exquisite and the production is impeccable. Think Bruce Cockburn and you’ll have an idea of where this artist is heading. Excellent CD. For more info you can visit his site: http://www.hansyork.com/

The Beautiful Girls – We’re Already Gone (2005) These Aussies are somewhere between Jack Johnson and Bob Marley. Most of the music on this CD is Reggae with the occasional JJ’ish ditty. You’ll also find socially aware lyrics and cool melodies. You can’t ask for much more then that. And I understand their live show is amazing. You can find them here: http://www.thebeautifulgirls.com

This Weeks Play List

Lots of new music for you this week, including our first batch of hot 2006 CDs. If the rest of the year is like last week, this is going to be an amazing year. And don't forget to pick up Tina Dico's first solo CD, In the Red, now available most everywhere.

Cat Power – The Greatest (2006) Okay, yes there is an R&B band behind her, but this isn’t R&B; no matter what the critics say. But having this excellent combo behind her may be just what she needs to move up to the next level.

Rosanne Cash – Black Cadillac (2006) Her best CD yet. That isn’t just from me, but from virtually every critic that has reviewed the album. Squarely focused on the death of her parents and step mother (all within 2 years), this as emotional an outpouring as you are going to see all year. A very sweet touch at the end is track 13 with is 71 seconds of silence. Both of her parents were 71 when they died.

Danielia Cotton – Small White Town (2005) A wonderful new artist with lots of wide variety of styles all mixed together. www.daniellia.com

KCR Radio Presents Aztec Beach (2005) Okay, this is a personal thing. My college radio station, KCR at San Diego State University, is having a fund raiser and this CD was put together for that very purpose. It is getting good reviews among the surf music community. If you wish to support college radio and hear some good surf music (11 bands, 21 songs) check it out here: www.kcralumni.org

Various Artists – Big Sweet Life, The Songs of Jon Dee Graham (2005) If you’re not going to donate to my old college radio station, then go to www.waterloorecords.com and buy this CD to help support Jon’s son who has a very expensive disease. It isn’t that he couldn’t afford insurance that this happened, but that his insurance company went under and no one will insure his son. It is so sad, and yet so exciting to see all of Austin come out to support him.

Various Artists – Austin City Limits Music Festival 2004 (2005) More a memento than anything else, there are still plenty of good songs on this CD. Available at www.waterloorecords.com

Firefly (2006) This Canadian band is working the alt-country scene and is doing a good job from what I’ve heard so far. They sent me a couple of mp3s and I liked them enough to play them for you. http://www.firefly-music.com/

Girlyman – Little Star (2005) My friend saw them open for the Indigo Girls and bought 2 of their CDs. They describe themselves as a coed Indigo Girls, and that really seems to fit. www.girlyman.com

David Lindley & El Rayo-X – Very Greasy (1988) An old classic. Call it Reggae. Call it Ska. It doesn’t matter. The beat will make your feet tape and your body will shiver from the great guitar solos.

This Weeks Play List

Beth Hart – Live at Paradiso (2005) This is Beth at her best; full of energy and power with the voice that… Well, let’s put it this way; It should have been Melissa Etheridge and Beth Hart instead of Joss Stone singing the tribute to Janis Joplin at the Grammy’s last year. She is that good. The in between chatter is pretty funny when held up against the singing on this CD. But she is so sincere and truly so excited to be performing for the crowd. After you’ve finished devouring this CD, pick up the DVD which will blow you away even more. Like so many good artists these days, she is taking the small/indie label route. You can purchase her CDs at www.bethhart.com .

Jill Sobule – The Folk Years (2004) The title is a bit of a joke. But I’m not joking when I say that Jill is one of America’s unknown treasures and one of our finest songwriters. Some of this CD ended up on her fabulous “Underdog Victorious” CD from 2004 and others we thought we would only hear in concert (Que Sara Sara and Sunrise/Sunset are such unusual covers in this rock in roll age). It is just more essential music that you should have in your CD collection. For more info, you can go to Jill’s website at www.jillsobule.com .

John Mayer Trio – Try! (2005) and Ryan Adams – 29 (2005) In some ways it is fitting that I add the John Mayer Trio CD and Ryan Adam’s last CD of 2005, “29” on the same play list. Ryan Adams has been accused of sounding like whoever he happens to be listening to at the time. If that is true, he has been listening to the Grateful Dead lately. John Mayer’s guitar playing not only sounds like Stevie Ray on Try!, even his voice when he is talking to the audience seems to have changed to fit the music. What is important here though, is that these two men do not care about labels. Playing the music they want to play is more important to them than pop stardom. And you have to give them both a lot of credit for that. This is Ryan’s second best CD of 2005, again with some of the songs having a very strong Dead sound to them. John’s CD is heavy on guitar and blues rock. He’s got the chops to play it and it is so funny to hear the girls screaming after songs they might not have been caught dead listening to a year ago. Neither album blazes any trails, but they are nice divergences (although in Ryan’s case every CD seems to be a divergence these days) from their more popular sounds.

KPRI – Live Tracks Volume 3 (2005) and KFOG – Live From the Archives 12 (2005) California is doing its best to keep up with the live CD compilations. San Diego’s KPRI and San Francisco’s KFOG have done an excellent job of putting together good live cuts.

Sylvia Tosun – Jump In (2005) Powered partially by Emil and Julie, two of the key songwriters for October Project, Sylvia has created a beautiful CD. If you like October Project, Sylvia’s beautiful voice and the lush production will win you over. www.sylviatosun.com

The Secret Policeman’s Third Ball (1987) A rare Kate Bush performance. Joan Armatrading, Peter Gabriel, Jackson Brown and World Party perform. Need I say more?

Jill Sobule and John Doe Live at Largo

It’s a new year. And what better way to kick it off then with some of the brilliant songwriting of Jill Sobule and solid musicianship of John Doe. John is “Presenting” acts every Thursday this month at Largo in L.A. Jill was the first in the series and what a great start. The evening actually opened with Tom Brousseau playing a few songs. Tom seemed a bit off this night. His guitar playing was a little sloppy. It was almost like he wasn’t prepared for the show. Still, he keeps growing on me. I may have to break down and buy his CD when it comes out (if it hasn’t come out already).

John Doe then came out with his 2 piece band consisting of a drummer and Dave Carpenter on stand up and electric bass. They played about an hour, singing old and new songs. John also did a couple of songs on his own. He finished up the set with Jill joining the band. After a nice duet, she got down on her knees ripping out a feedback drenched solo on her classic Gretsch guitar. At the end she stormed off stage, leaving her guitar lying on the floor. But, she came back a few seconds later because she just couldn’t leave such a beautiful guitar lying on the floor. It was all in fun, and we all enjoyed it enormously.

After a short break, Jill came out and did another hour. Most of it was solo, but about 5 or 6 songs were with the band (including John on guitar). I love when Jill plays solo. She is apt to do just about anything and that is just so much fun. But, you sometimes forget how good her songs can be. The full band brought that all back to me. When they rocked, they really rocked. Jill is working on new material, but it appears to be coming slowly right now. She ended up writing a song about writing a song. It was very cute and a nice start for the next CD. Meanwhile, she played lots of great stuff as she always does. The highlight may have been the closer; a blues number. It is, according to Jill, the first blues number she has ever written, and it really cooked. Jill was recently on tour with Cyndi Lauper. One of the highlights for her was when Cyndi asked her if she could sing with her on “Mexican Wrestler”. What I wouldn’t give to have a bootleg of that.

Last Weeks Play List

Okay, so I'm still behind with almost everything in my life. Here are last weeks additions to the play list along with my comments.

Beck Goldsmith – Purely Second Guesses (2005) I still can’t believe all the excellent female singer/songwriters that came my way this year. Beck, based in the UK (and if you listen very carefully, you can sometimes hear the accent) is another one to add to that list. This is a beautiful CD, not overly produced, but not stripped down either. She has a beautiful voice and has put together a very nice collection of songs. I look forward to hearing more from her in the future. You can find out more by going to her web site: http://www.beckgoldsmith.co.uk/

Kristy Kruger – An Unauthorized Guide To The Human Anatomy (2003) She got up on a little stage at a taco stand in Austin and I fell in love immediately. But it wasn’t until I realized that she had put a kazoo in her harmonica holder that I knew she was special. I finally got around to listening to the CD I purchased that day (I came home with over 20 CDs from the trip) and I can’t believe I wasted so much time on other artists’ CDs. I did not expect this CD to be this good: Sexy, strong, mysterious, a sound all its own. I just love this CD. Had I found it in 2003 it would have made my best of list. There are mp3s on her site. Please check them out and help support her “starving ass” (a little inside joke). http://www.kristykruger.com/index.html

Mary Gauthier – Mercy Now (2005) What an amazing artist Mary is. Sometimes it feels like I’m listening to Lucinda. Sometimes it feels more like Hank. The music is gritty and real and hard to ignore.

Kate Earl – Fate is the Hunter (2005) We enjoyed seeing Kate at ACL in 2005 and this debut CD is even better than her live performance. Like Fiona Apple 8 or so years ago, she is young and very talented and probably on her way to being someone very special.

Jud Newcomb – Byzantine (2005) Another artist we enjoyed on the ACL weekend in 2005, Scrappy Jud is part of that great Austin tradition of singer/songwriters; a little folk, a little rock, a bit of country, and a lot of heart. If you like artists like Jon Dee Graham and Alejandro Escovedo, you should check out Scrappy Jud Newcomb.

John Doe – Forever Hasn’t Happened Yet (2005) John Doe has been making good music since the 70’s when he was one of the leaders of one of L.A.’s greatest bands, X. I’m not real crazy about the production on this CD, but John is a good songwriter, and I love listening to what he has to say.

Bruce Cockburn – Speechless (2005) We’ve been raving about his guitar playing for years. And now, we have a full CD of it. There are some absolutely beautiful pieces on this CD and, of course, some great guitar playing. This is really for BC fans and fans of acoustic guitar playing only.

KGSR Broadcasts Vol. 13 (2005) I’ve said it before and I’ll say it again: This is the best series of live broadcasts on the planet. Buddy Miller opens with a rockin’ “Worry Too Much”, Sam Phillips makes her second appearance in the series and all of the usual suspects are here. Actually there are two regulars missing: Bob Schneider and Shawn Colvin. And it is still an excellent CD. You normally can buy this at www.waterloorecords.com . But if it is sold out, there will be plenty of copies showing up on www.ebay.com .

Sia – Colour The Small One (2004) “Breathe Me” is probably the best song from the Six Feet Under Soundtrack. Her CD is very good and well worth a listen if you love that song (which is on this CD also). This is an import right now, but expect to see it show up in the U.S. in 2006

Collin Herring – Avoiding the Circus (????) I am Not sure of the date, but I am sure that this is one of those CDs that got lost in the crowd and shouldn’t have. Easily up there in quality of songwriting with most of what Ryan Adams has done, this CD is just excellent; and unavailable as far as I can tell. A friend sent me a copy (thanks Jessica) and it didn’t leave my CD player for quite awhile. Scourer the Internet for this one, it is worth it.

Jesse Malin – The Heat (2004) Jess has a great sound; sincere and emotional. I really enjoyed it.

Best CDs in 2005

2005 was a good year for music. During the year The Promise brought you 70 of this year's releases. Below are the best and the rest from this year. All of these CDs were played on The Promise, and I enjoyed them all, but some are better than others. Below are what I believe are the best of the year (at least the best that I had time to listen to... I've still got a list of CDs to listen to from 2005). Enjoy the lists. Your mileage may vary. And Happy New Year everyone. Thanks so much for listening to The Promise this year.

The Top 19 (in Alphabetical Order)

Ryan Adams and the Cardinals – Cold Roses

Kate Bush – Aerial

Death Cab for Cutie – Plans

The Decemberists – Picaresque

Kathleen Edwards - Back To Me

Eliza Gilkyson – Paradise Hotel

Jose Gonzalez – Veneer

Collin Herring – The Other Side of Kindness

Jorane – the You and the Now

Nickel Creek – Why Should the Fire Die?

Graham Parker – Songs of No Consequence

Porcupine Tree – Deadwing

Amy Rigby – Little Fugitive

Tina Schlieske – Slow Burn

Son Volt – Okemah and the Melody of Riot

The Soundtrack of our Lives – Origin Vol. 1

Bruce Springsteen - Devils and Dust

Loudon Wainwright III – Here Come The Choppers!

Without Gravity – Tenderfoot

The Rest of the 2005 Releases

Ryan Adams & The Cardinals – Jacksonville City Nights

Amelia’s Dream – Unravel

Tori Amos - The Beekeeper

Jamie Anderson - A Promise of Light

And You Will Know Us By The Trail of Dead – Worlds Apart

Keren Ann – Nolita

Aqualung – Strange and Beautiful

Bill Bryant – drawn from memory

Brandi Carlilie – Brandi Carlile

Caitlin Cary & Thad Cockrell – Begonias

Caesars – Paper Tigers

The Clarks – Between Now and Then

Bruce Cockburn – Speechless (2005)

Cowboy Junkies –Early 21^st Century Blues

The Devlins – Waves

John Doe – Forever Hasn’t Happened Yet (2005)

Doves – Some Cities

Kate Earl – Fate is the Hunter (2005)

Ben Folds – Songs for Silverman

Gabrielle – Wide

Mary Gauthier – Mercy Now (2005)

Mark Geary – Ghosts

Beck Goldsmith – Purely Second Guesses (2005)

Jon Dee Graham – First Bear On The Moon

Gomez – Out West

John Hiatt – Master of Disaster

Missy Higgins – The Sound of White

Josh Joplin – Jaywalker

KGSR Broadcasts Vol. 13 (2005)

The Knitters – The Modern Sounds of the Knitters

Shelby Lynne – Suit Yourself

Aimee Mann – The Forgotten Arm

Fergus McCormick – Jumping The Gun

Maria McKee – Peddlin’ Dreams

James McMurtry – Childish Things

Blue Merle – Burning in the Sun

Jud Newcomb – Byzantine (2005)

John Prine – Fair & Square

Bonnie Raitt – Souls Alike

Anny Rusk – Naked

Maia Sharp – Fine Upstanding Citizen

Shivaree – Who’s Got Trouble?

Patti Smith – Horses / Horses (Legacy Edition)

Spamalot – Original Broadway Cast Recording

Spottiswoode And His Enemies – Building a Road

Richard Thompson – Live From Austin TX

Richard Thompson - Front Parlour Ballads

The Tom Collins – daylight tonight

The Wallflowers – Rebel, Sweetheart

Waterline – Long Goners

The White Stripes – Get Behind Me Satan

Lucinda Williams – Live at the Fillmore

Neil Young – Prairie Wind

Young Dubliners – Real World

This weeks play list... sort of

This year end has been so busy and a bit crazy. I added what will probably be the last set of the year on the 25th but haven't updated the web sites yet. It's a big list and I need to get through it all. I've also got my year end list of best CDs coming. Meanwhile, here are the CDs that were added this week. Another update is coming shortly. Happy Holidays everyone!

Beck Goldsmith – Purely Second Guesses (2005)

Mary Gauthier – Mercy Now (2005)

Kate Earl – Fate is the Hunter (2005)

Jud Newcomb – Byzantine (2005)

John Doe – Forever Hasn’t Happened Yet (2005)

Bruce Cockburn – Speechless (2005)

KGSR Broadcasts Vol 13 (2005)

Kristy Kruger – An Unauthorized Guide To The Human Anatomy (2003)

Sia – Colour The Small One (2004)

Cllin Herring – Avoiding the Circus (????)

Jesse Malin – The Heat (2004)

Light of Day - Hollywood Part 2

Okay, a good night’s sleep has helped. Let’s see if I can get through this.

As the next 4 artists came and left the stage (Scott Kempner, Rob Dunn, Shane Fontayne & Dawn Allen) I couldn’t help but think that it is really unfair to put Peter Himmelman on before them. Scott gave the show a bit of a rockabilly sound with just an electric guitar in hand and Shane Fontayne did some nice work with tape loops and a bit of a Latin sound from his acoustic guitar playing (he played a song with his son also… a nice touch).

I’m not sure if it is the years, or my ear just appreciates voices more, but Dave Alvin’s voice is breathtaking these days. Among his three or 4 songs were “4^th of July” and “Marie Marie”. Peter Case came out and played harmonica and an accordion player joined him. Excellent set.

Dave Alvin was a nice lead in to the highest energy portion of the show. Jimmy Lafave gave us some good Texas folk rock (or whatever you want to call it) that included Woody’s “Deportee” and a fun blues song (didn’t catch the name) to end his set.

My first real find of the evening came from Willie Nile, who brought his whole band with him. He is full of contradictions. He has this fun easy going appearance; very 50’s. Then he sings songs like, “Hard Times in America” and “Cell phones ringing in the pockets of the dead” (about the Spanish train bombings) and wraps it all up in a hard New Jersey rocking package. It was a great couple of tunes. I will be checking his music out.

The rockin’ continued with John Eddie and his band. I think they saw the need to keep the energy level up, because they just went right to it, playing “Family Tree” and then without stopping went into “Fall for it Every Time”. It isn’t a John Eddie concert without hearing 40 and it was at this point, an older woman whom I’ve never met or talked too, grabs me and says, “Isn’t he great? Is he from Jersey?” “Yes”, I said. “He must be from the Shore. Is he from the Shore?”. Excuse me! Do I look like I’m from Jersey! Okay, I didn’t say that. And not knowing the Shore from Hoboken, I said, “Yes. He is”. I thought that was it, until he started to play those unmistakable chords. She grabs my upper arm, hard, and yells, “That’s a Springsteen song! Isn’t it?!”. “Yes. Yes mam it is.” Okay, I didn’t say it exactly like that. I too was excited because John Eddie was about to perform, “She’s the One” and the whole place was starting to go nuts. He of course did a great version with only the solo near the end lacking compared to Bruce’s. John finished off with “Low Life” and that was that. I could have left pretty happy. But there were still 3 more acts!

Peter Himmelman’s brother-in-law was next. Jakob Dylan came out with just his guitar and performed three songs: “One Headlight”, “How Good it Can Get”, and… I just don’t remember the other song. Sorry. My notes said something about “beautiful sad song”. But I just don’t remember. It was nice and he had a few kinds words to say, but if I was only there to see him, it would have been disappointing. There was nothing wrong with his set, but after JE rocked the joint, it was a bit of a letdown.

I wasn’t really prepared for Buddy Miller. If you don’t know his music, think Steve Earle with a solid voice, projecting like those great old folk singers of the past. His short set was highlighted by a Steve Earle Christmas song which he said that he had learned for the Emmy Lou Harris show that he had performed at earlier that night. Since he had already written it down and he didn’t want to waste the only Christmas song he knew by only playing it once, he played it for us.

At about 1am, I moved downstairs. Did I mention I was in the VIP section and sat almost dead center upstairs hanging over the rail watching the show and eating dinner? Anyway, I figured that Lucinda Williams was worth standing for, and she was the last act. So, I wandered downstairs. Now, I haven’t said more than a few words to anyone all evening (that includes ordering dinner) and as soon as I get downstairs I run into a drummer for several cover bands in L.A. I know him from my connection to all the Springsteen fans I’m friends with in L.A. We talked for a few minutes and then this woman walks up to me. “Do you remember me?” Wow! I NEVER get that. She sees my blank stare and says, “Your name is Bruce, right?”. WOW again! “I’m Merit” (not sure of the spelling). “Of Course!” I said. “The 2000 Springsteen shows at the Pond”. We sat in line for a dozen hours and got to know each other pretty well. It all came back. She’s a teacher in Pacoima and loves the Dodgers. It was very cool reconnecting with her. We had started emailing with each other and I think her computer crashed and the emails just stopped (or maybe she was avoiding me). Oh well. We each found our honey’s (she’s been married for 3 years). How did I get on this subject? Anyway, Lucinda comes out; cute as ever. Okay, I’m gonna say this. I just can’t help it. She has got the cutest little tummy. And she wears her load-rider pants just below her tummy so it really sticks out. But it is so cute. That has nothing to do with the music. Just had to say it. For a woman over 50 she is in great shape.

Okay, the music. Lucinda did a nice 6 song set, starting with three new songs: “Jailhouse tears”, :Unsuffer me” and “Where is my love”: All good songs. If she gets someone like Hank Williams III to do the “Jailhouse Tears” duet, it will be a big country hit. The second half of her set was: “Out of touch”, “Righteously”, and “Fruits of my labor”. Throughout the 40 minutes or so that she played she kept, very sincerely, thanking the audience for staying up this late to see her set. She was really touched that we stuck it out for her. I’ve talked about how much I enjoy her in concert and this night was no exception. She seems very happy on stage these days, although she was a bit tired/out of it by 1 am. While the crew fetched her book, so that she could play “Fruits…”, she made a little impromptu speech about how we should enjoy life because we didn’t have any deadly diseases and should be thankful for that. She went on to talk about how she is obsessive compulsive and needs to have her lyrics in front of her (which by the way she glanced at a lot). Someone yelled out, “No you’re not”. And she said, “Oh YES I AM. And a perfectionist. I’m working on it though.” Whatever she’s doing, she needs to keep doing it, ‘cause her music continues to sound great.

At the 7 hour mark, the show ended and we all slowly shuffled out. Actually, a lot of people hung around. I’m guessing some of the artists came out. I know that John Eddie was just hanging in the corner chatting with people. I was way too tired and had too much on my plate the next day to turn it into a sunrise event. This is supposed to become an annual event. Hopefully they will pick a better night. It was a great evening. I’m so glad I went. Thanks to everyone who pushed me out the door. :-)