I woke up, this morning, just in time to turn on KCRW and hear Patsy Cline singing Crazy. What a great way to start the day. Thank heaven for Morning Becomes Eclectic. If I'm not awake in time to hear it, I get so bummed. Anyway, great show today, as always.
Yesterday, I finally got all the suitcases out of the living room... and put them in my room... still overflowing. Wow, I'm so responsible and productive, I should write a book... I'll call it, "Under the Rug; The Audra Mae Story" hahaha. Actually that'd be way better as a Lifetime movie.
So, I'm trying to get this show together for Thursday night @ The Mint. Should be fun. I gotta say, coming off this tour, I'm a little nervous to do a solo show. I don't know why. I shouldn't say I'm nervous... how does Chuck Ragan put it?... I'm "fired up". :) I got THE FIRE! Lots of it, hahaha. It's just one of those things, I guess; I feel so different now. How can I describe it?... It's weird. It's like I've never been on stage or something. Why do I suddenly feel like I don't know what I'm doing? Shouldn't it be the opposite?
Got an iPhone today and lost all my numbers. Trying to get them all back has been interesting. Someone keeps texting me and getting a kick out of the fact that I have no idea who it is. They keep dropping little hints that make no sense and now I'm going insane... Whoever you are, this shit ain't funny today... maybe tomorrow, but NOT today.
So, I wrote the lyrics to one of the songs on Susan Boyle's album I Dreamed a Dream. For the record, I am so honored to be a part of something like this. I don't mean record sales, I mean HER. She's the ultimate symbol of the leap of faith. She's REAL and she's wonderful. Every time I see her face in print or online or on TV, my heart gets so warm for her. The song I helped write with Play Productions is called "Who I Was Born to Be", in case you wanna give it a listen. :) I'm so thrilled she liked it!
Anyway, it's my friend Os's bday today. He's probably been the one driving me crazy all day with the texting and the pretending he's from the Ukraine. Jesus. I guess I'll give him a happy bday high five anyway. What a turd. Anyway, my hair needs dryin'. :)
See you later alligators.
xo
Sunday, November 29, 2009
Tuesday, November 24, 2009
The Last Two Shows and I'm Back Home
It's Thanksgiving day in Los Angeles... well, everywhere, in fact. I've been back for 2 1/2 days and I haven't unpacked anything but my hairbrush. Luckily, I have the coolest roommate on the planet and he doesn't care that there are two, overflowing, suitcases in the middle of our living room.
I should have written this 2 1/2 days ago...
ST. PETERSBURG, FL @ State Theatre 11/21/09
We woke up and did a radio spot in Tampa. The folks at the station were so hospitable and we had a fabulous time. They said they've been playing my song, "The River", a lot. How cool is that? We walked outside and Matty was cutting Greg, captain of the ship,'s hair and had already cut Casey's. They looked great. It was like Matty Sizzorhands.
We drove to the venue and I sat outside, on the curb, watching the little lizards run around. They're so fun! Everywhere you walk, you can hear little critters rustling around in the bushes.
The crowd was on fire in St. Pete's. At the end of the show, Jim Ward climbed the rafters on stage right, with his microphone, and sang soul-style to "Will the Circle be Unbroken" while Frank Turner got frustrated, trying to climb the stage left rafters, because the mic chord wasn't long enough. Comedy.
After the show, I got on the bus and packed my stuff. It didn't take me as long as I thought it would. All I could think about was LA. I was praying the flights back would be easy.
I finished and stepped outside to see what was happening with the dudes. Chuck saw me and yelled, "Audra Mae, come take a load off and pick you a bush." We all congregated at the back end of the lot, by the bus, and used the local shrubbery as nature's lawnchairs, leaning back in our hoodies and taking after-show snoozes while Matty cut Frank and Jo, from the Zydepunks,'s hair.
The next day was the last of the tour.
ORLANDO, FL @ The Social 11/22/09
I woke up and went searching for food and a new purse. :) We found a craft fare and ate yummy treats and watched people play around in the park.
After the fair we went to Ross and I found the best purse ever. It can fit so much shit in it! AND it looks a little like Mary Poppins' carpet bag. I bet I could fit a lamp in it. Hangin' with The Zydepunks all day was a blast. We went to Wendy's and pigged out after our adventure and then it was off to load-in.
The Social is a cool club. There's a pit below the stage and stairs leading out of that into to another standing area surrounding it at stage level. Does that make sense? Anyway, we all had a great time and made the most of our last show. Vince and I did a cover of "Smile" and, at the end of the show, Scott let me stand on his upright bass. So fun!!!
Afterwards, it was pretty much load-out and goodbye... but there was, of course, pizza between all that. First it was the Zydepunks, then Chuck and Jill said "See ya later" and left. I never saw Frank.
The bus headed for the airport hotel. Jon Snodgrass and Chad Price checked into their rooms and out of my line of sight. I got all my luggage into the hotel lobby and said "adios" to Greg.
Then it was Jonny Gaunt, the only person I got a fulfilling farewell from. He gave me some great advice; "Keep kickin' life in the dick, Audra Mae." I will, Jon Gaunt. :)
I got up to the room, waved goodbye to Jim Ward from halfway between my pillow and dreamland, and fell asleep.
Woke up, got showered and ready, left a note for Casey and Digger (if you can't say goodbye, always leave a note) and headed to the airport. The travel was easy. My prayers were answered.
My buddy, Brenna, picked my up from LAX and by the time we got back to my place with Panda Express and all my luggage, I felt like I'd never left Silverlake. I guess I thought it would be harder to adapt back into the swing of things but, I was wrong. I woke up the next morning at 7:45am with no alarm and put on KCRW. Morning Becomes Eclectic. Nice.
Now I'm spending today being thankful for my adventures and resting up for the journeys to come. :) AAAAAaaaaaaahhhhhhh. Happy Thanksgiving! Gobble Gobble!
I should have written this 2 1/2 days ago...
ST. PETERSBURG, FL @ State Theatre 11/21/09
We woke up and did a radio spot in Tampa. The folks at the station were so hospitable and we had a fabulous time. They said they've been playing my song, "The River", a lot. How cool is that? We walked outside and Matty was cutting Greg, captain of the ship,'s hair and had already cut Casey's. They looked great. It was like Matty Sizzorhands.
We drove to the venue and I sat outside, on the curb, watching the little lizards run around. They're so fun! Everywhere you walk, you can hear little critters rustling around in the bushes.
The crowd was on fire in St. Pete's. At the end of the show, Jim Ward climbed the rafters on stage right, with his microphone, and sang soul-style to "Will the Circle be Unbroken" while Frank Turner got frustrated, trying to climb the stage left rafters, because the mic chord wasn't long enough. Comedy.
After the show, I got on the bus and packed my stuff. It didn't take me as long as I thought it would. All I could think about was LA. I was praying the flights back would be easy.
I finished and stepped outside to see what was happening with the dudes. Chuck saw me and yelled, "Audra Mae, come take a load off and pick you a bush." We all congregated at the back end of the lot, by the bus, and used the local shrubbery as nature's lawnchairs, leaning back in our hoodies and taking after-show snoozes while Matty cut Frank and Jo, from the Zydepunks,'s hair.
The next day was the last of the tour.
ORLANDO, FL @ The Social 11/22/09
I woke up and went searching for food and a new purse. :) We found a craft fare and ate yummy treats and watched people play around in the park.
After the fair we went to Ross and I found the best purse ever. It can fit so much shit in it! AND it looks a little like Mary Poppins' carpet bag. I bet I could fit a lamp in it. Hangin' with The Zydepunks all day was a blast. We went to Wendy's and pigged out after our adventure and then it was off to load-in.
The Social is a cool club. There's a pit below the stage and stairs leading out of that into to another standing area surrounding it at stage level. Does that make sense? Anyway, we all had a great time and made the most of our last show. Vince and I did a cover of "Smile" and, at the end of the show, Scott let me stand on his upright bass. So fun!!!
Afterwards, it was pretty much load-out and goodbye... but there was, of course, pizza between all that. First it was the Zydepunks, then Chuck and Jill said "See ya later" and left. I never saw Frank.
The bus headed for the airport hotel. Jon Snodgrass and Chad Price checked into their rooms and out of my line of sight. I got all my luggage into the hotel lobby and said "adios" to Greg.
Then it was Jonny Gaunt, the only person I got a fulfilling farewell from. He gave me some great advice; "Keep kickin' life in the dick, Audra Mae." I will, Jon Gaunt. :)
I got up to the room, waved goodbye to Jim Ward from halfway between my pillow and dreamland, and fell asleep.
Woke up, got showered and ready, left a note for Casey and Digger (if you can't say goodbye, always leave a note) and headed to the airport. The travel was easy. My prayers were answered.
My buddy, Brenna, picked my up from LAX and by the time we got back to my place with Panda Express and all my luggage, I felt like I'd never left Silverlake. I guess I thought it would be harder to adapt back into the swing of things but, I was wrong. I woke up the next morning at 7:45am with no alarm and put on KCRW. Morning Becomes Eclectic. Nice.
Now I'm spending today being thankful for my adventures and resting up for the journeys to come. :) AAAAAaaaaaaahhhhhhh. Happy Thanksgiving! Gobble Gobble!
Saturday, November 21, 2009
Gainesville, Florida
GAINESVILLE, FL @ Common Grounds 11/20/09
I had the best day. Woke up, went for a walk, got some coffee then went with Jon Gaunt and Digger Barnes on an adventure.
We went to Boca Fiesta and got probably the best breakfast burrito I've ever had... except for Astro Burger in LA. I'm sorry, but at Astro Burger they shred the potatoes which makes for a crispier texture and I'm partial to a nice crunch. :) After that, we went to Las Margaritas for the best taco salad ever. The shell... mmmmmmmm....
Jon took us thru all the back roads and I fell in love with spanish moss; it hangs on all the trees like some kind of Dr. Seuss weeping willow and its smokey, gray, color is so beautiful next to the green trees. Oh, spanish moss! You are grace.
After taco salad, we stopped at a tiny bar called The Barn. We drank mason jars of Bud Light and listened to old country on the juke box. George Jones, "Old King Kong" and Patsy Cline and Garth Brooks. Across the street from The Barn is this really cool pizza place with a little junk/toy store. I got a t-shirt and a magnet.
So, then we went back to Jonny Gaunt's to shower and chill. We hung out and played horse shoes, which I SUCK at! One of the dogs could catch a frisby like it was nothin' and we had a good ole time.
Then there was the show... The crowd was SO WONDERFUL! They even danced. I wish people danced more at concerts instead of just beating the crap out of each other or standing around with blank looks on their faces. Seeing people dance makes me so happy. I'm asking Santa for more dancing, this Christmas. Anyway, the show was the bomb.
Only two more to go; Tonight and tomorrow. Man, I can't think about that right now. Too many emotions.
Tonight, we're in St. Petersburg, FL at The State Theatre. Right now, we're watching Tom Petty on DVD. I want to go to there. :)
I had the best day. Woke up, went for a walk, got some coffee then went with Jon Gaunt and Digger Barnes on an adventure.
We went to Boca Fiesta and got probably the best breakfast burrito I've ever had... except for Astro Burger in LA. I'm sorry, but at Astro Burger they shred the potatoes which makes for a crispier texture and I'm partial to a nice crunch. :) After that, we went to Las Margaritas for the best taco salad ever. The shell... mmmmmmmm....
Jon took us thru all the back roads and I fell in love with spanish moss; it hangs on all the trees like some kind of Dr. Seuss weeping willow and its smokey, gray, color is so beautiful next to the green trees. Oh, spanish moss! You are grace.
After taco salad, we stopped at a tiny bar called The Barn. We drank mason jars of Bud Light and listened to old country on the juke box. George Jones, "Old King Kong" and Patsy Cline and Garth Brooks. Across the street from The Barn is this really cool pizza place with a little junk/toy store. I got a t-shirt and a magnet.
So, then we went back to Jonny Gaunt's to shower and chill. We hung out and played horse shoes, which I SUCK at! One of the dogs could catch a frisby like it was nothin' and we had a good ole time.
Then there was the show... The crowd was SO WONDERFUL! They even danced. I wish people danced more at concerts instead of just beating the crap out of each other or standing around with blank looks on their faces. Seeing people dance makes me so happy. I'm asking Santa for more dancing, this Christmas. Anyway, the show was the bomb.
Only two more to go; Tonight and tomorrow. Man, I can't think about that right now. Too many emotions.
Tonight, we're in St. Petersburg, FL at The State Theatre. Right now, we're watching Tom Petty on DVD. I want to go to there. :)
Thursday, November 19, 2009
B-Ham & Hotlanta
BIRMINGHAM, ALABAMA @ The Bottletree Cafe 11/18/09
This place was incredible; A colorful oasis in a sea of brown roads and gray skies. The food at Bottletree was wonderful! I had some really yummy potato and corn chowder. Mmmmm...
In the back of the venue, where we got to hang out, the walls were lined from floor to ceiling in old vinyl record covers. Everything from Christian Aerobics "Praise-r-size!" to Bill Cosby comedy albums. Passed the arcade games and up a few steps, there are two, old, round, trailers on rug-like AstroTurf patches with a picnic table outside and cool lawn chairs. They had flat screens and space heaters which was a huge blessing because IT WAS FREEZING outside.
The show went great because the crowd was so into it. They new all the words of their favorite Revival Tour artists' songs and they were excited for the new music they hadn't, yet, heard. Jim Ward was on after me and as I was introducing him to the audience there were audible sighs coming from the front row. haha. It was awesome. Frank Turner had the show of a lifetime. We could hear the whole crowd singing his songs right along with him.
I had one of the best Hot-Totties of my life, walked down to the Chevron, got some junk food, came back to the van, ate the junk food and went nigh night.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA @ Masquerade 11/19/09
Weird day today. I can't put my finger on it. Maybe I woke up too late. I don't know. There was a lot of waiting around but not a lot to do around the venue. Makes it kind of uneventful.
The crowd at the show was waaaaaayyyyy into it. It was so awesome. I think I sold out of cds tonight. haha. We were into it, too. By the end of the show, Sticks the Clown from the Zydepunks and Frank Turner were standing on the stage right and left monitors with tambourines, Jim Ward and Jon Snodgrass were at the front of the stage sitting on the stage side of the barricade with microphones and I was laughing my head off.
Now we're on the bus and all I want is food. Hmmmmm..... What can I make?
This place was incredible; A colorful oasis in a sea of brown roads and gray skies. The food at Bottletree was wonderful! I had some really yummy potato and corn chowder. Mmmmm...
In the back of the venue, where we got to hang out, the walls were lined from floor to ceiling in old vinyl record covers. Everything from Christian Aerobics "Praise-r-size!" to Bill Cosby comedy albums. Passed the arcade games and up a few steps, there are two, old, round, trailers on rug-like AstroTurf patches with a picnic table outside and cool lawn chairs. They had flat screens and space heaters which was a huge blessing because IT WAS FREEZING outside.
The show went great because the crowd was so into it. They new all the words of their favorite Revival Tour artists' songs and they were excited for the new music they hadn't, yet, heard. Jim Ward was on after me and as I was introducing him to the audience there were audible sighs coming from the front row. haha. It was awesome. Frank Turner had the show of a lifetime. We could hear the whole crowd singing his songs right along with him.
I had one of the best Hot-Totties of my life, walked down to the Chevron, got some junk food, came back to the van, ate the junk food and went nigh night.
ATLANTA, GEORGIA @ Masquerade 11/19/09
Weird day today. I can't put my finger on it. Maybe I woke up too late. I don't know. There was a lot of waiting around but not a lot to do around the venue. Makes it kind of uneventful.
The crowd at the show was waaaaaayyyyy into it. It was so awesome. I think I sold out of cds tonight. haha. We were into it, too. By the end of the show, Sticks the Clown from the Zydepunks and Frank Turner were standing on the stage right and left monitors with tambourines, Jim Ward and Jon Snodgrass were at the front of the stage sitting on the stage side of the barricade with microphones and I was laughing my head off.
Now we're on the bus and all I want is food. Hmmmmm..... What can I make?
Wednesday, November 18, 2009
Nawlins
NEW ORLEANS, LA @ One-Eyed Jacks 11/17/09
We played in the French Quarter, so that means we got to walk around there all day. I ate alligator sliders and they were SO GOOD! The people of New Orleans are so speacial; lots of people smiling, not a lot of people seeming fearful. It has the cultural diversity of Los Angeles without anyone being too cool for everyone else. Everywhere I went it was, "How're you doin', Baby" and "Excuse me, Baby" and "Take care, Baby". :) Love it.
Before the show, I ate dinner with my friend, Lauren at her Dad's restaurant, Nola. We ate stuffed chicken legs and corn bread and crab cakes that would make you slap yo mama.
The show was epic. We joined up with the Zydepunks and they're with us until the end of the tour. They are so cool lookin', like gypsy train riders, and they sound amazing. Watching the crowd dance made me so happy and just when I thought it couldn't get any better, the bartendresses tore it up! They were jumpin' around and dancin' and it was beautiful.
Thanks to everyone who came out!! Can't wait for Bottletree tonight in Burmingham!
We played in the French Quarter, so that means we got to walk around there all day. I ate alligator sliders and they were SO GOOD! The people of New Orleans are so speacial; lots of people smiling, not a lot of people seeming fearful. It has the cultural diversity of Los Angeles without anyone being too cool for everyone else. Everywhere I went it was, "How're you doin', Baby" and "Excuse me, Baby" and "Take care, Baby". :) Love it.
Before the show, I ate dinner with my friend, Lauren at her Dad's restaurant, Nola. We ate stuffed chicken legs and corn bread and crab cakes that would make you slap yo mama.
The show was epic. We joined up with the Zydepunks and they're with us until the end of the tour. They are so cool lookin', like gypsy train riders, and they sound amazing. Watching the crowd dance made me so happy and just when I thought it couldn't get any better, the bartendresses tore it up! They were jumpin' around and dancin' and it was beautiful.
Thanks to everyone who came out!! Can't wait for Bottletree tonight in Burmingham!
Tuesday, November 17, 2009
Memphis
MEMPHIS, TN @ The Hi-Tone Cafe 11/16/09
I woke up and went for a walk in the drizzle. Following my nose, I found the tiniest cafe called CK's Coffee Shop. The waffles smelled like cake batter and the waitress, Linda, was responsible for cooking, bussing the tables and serving the food, not to mention catching the patrons up on the latest news. She was a master at pouring coffee while talking on her cell. I heard her say, "Well, that's when I told her call 911" in a tone that suggested this wasn't the first time. I asked her how she was doing and she said, "I'm doin' so-so". I told her I hoped her day went great. She said, "It needs to".
I came back to The Hi-Tone and starting loading in. It's a great place. They were playing killer music the whole time we were there and even after the show. The crowd was so wonderful. They stayed the entire time and everyone was so sweet afterward.
After my set, I went out back to think about things. I love when it rains when I need it to. I needed to think. I was thinkin' about everything I need to get together and about how Thanksgiving is coming soon and that means Christmas is coming and I can't wait to go home for a bit. Anyway, at some point, I decided it was time to go back inside and as I came around the corner, there was this man in the parking lot, next to his bicycle, with two drum sticks. I walked up right as he was singing the intro to the song for about 5 other people. They new the song and so did I but I never heard the words until then. He banged out the rhythm hitting the drum sticks together and he sang;
Old pirates, yes, they rob I;
Sold I to the merchant ships,
Minutes after they took I
From the bottomless pit.
But my hand was made strong
By the 'and of the Almighty.
We forward in this generation
Triumphantly.
Won't you help to sing
These songs of freedom? -
'Cause all I ever have:
Redemption songs;
Redemption songs.
Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery;
None but ourselves can free our minds.
Have no fear for atomic energy,
'Cause none of them can stop the time.
How long shall they kill our prophets,
While we stand aside and look? Ooh!
Some say it's just a part of it:
We've got to fulfil de book.
Won't you help to sing
These songs of freedom? -
'Cause all I ever have:
Redemption songs;
Redemption songs;
Redemption songs.
I woke up and went for a walk in the drizzle. Following my nose, I found the tiniest cafe called CK's Coffee Shop. The waffles smelled like cake batter and the waitress, Linda, was responsible for cooking, bussing the tables and serving the food, not to mention catching the patrons up on the latest news. She was a master at pouring coffee while talking on her cell. I heard her say, "Well, that's when I told her call 911" in a tone that suggested this wasn't the first time. I asked her how she was doing and she said, "I'm doin' so-so". I told her I hoped her day went great. She said, "It needs to".
I came back to The Hi-Tone and starting loading in. It's a great place. They were playing killer music the whole time we were there and even after the show. The crowd was so wonderful. They stayed the entire time and everyone was so sweet afterward.
After my set, I went out back to think about things. I love when it rains when I need it to. I needed to think. I was thinkin' about everything I need to get together and about how Thanksgiving is coming soon and that means Christmas is coming and I can't wait to go home for a bit. Anyway, at some point, I decided it was time to go back inside and as I came around the corner, there was this man in the parking lot, next to his bicycle, with two drum sticks. I walked up right as he was singing the intro to the song for about 5 other people. They new the song and so did I but I never heard the words until then. He banged out the rhythm hitting the drum sticks together and he sang;
Old pirates, yes, they rob I;
Sold I to the merchant ships,
Minutes after they took I
From the bottomless pit.
But my hand was made strong
By the 'and of the Almighty.
We forward in this generation
Triumphantly.
Won't you help to sing
These songs of freedom? -
'Cause all I ever have:
Redemption songs;
Redemption songs.
Emancipate yourselves from mental slavery;
None but ourselves can free our minds.
Have no fear for atomic energy,
'Cause none of them can stop the time.
How long shall they kill our prophets,
While we stand aside and look? Ooh!
Some say it's just a part of it:
We've got to fulfil de book.
Won't you help to sing
These songs of freedom? -
'Cause all I ever have:
Redemption songs;
Redemption songs;
Redemption songs.
Sunday, November 15, 2009
Austin, Dallas, & Little Rock
AUSTIN, TX @ Red 7 11/13/09
Friday the 13th, MwwwaaaaaahahahahahHAHAHAHAhahaha!
The show was great. Man, that crowd was incredible. Very generous. I saw people with their eyes closed just swaying back and forth to the jams and one girl already knew all the words to The River! Crazy!
It was Joey Cape's last show! :( We miss him already. We picked up Jon Snodgrass and Chad Price. They sing together and it's really awesome. Great songs, wonderful stage presence, awesome voices, WHAT'S NOT TO LIKE?
Everything was going so well.... and then....
After the show, we went to this after hours music jam thing and it was awful. They made us pay 5 bucks to get in because they said they needed to pay for the beer. "It's a 5 dollar donation... SOOOO.... Five dollars". They kept saying "donation" but I'm pretty sure mandatory donation = cover charge. Let's be honest.
After we got passed the door Nazis, I started looking around for the beer I just payed for. Hmmmm, nothing to the right..... nothing to the left..... So I see this chick with a beer in her hand and I ask her, "Excuse me, where did you lay hands on that beer?" and she, with the dirtiest look she can muster, says to me, slowly and with venom, "At the bar." ...
...okay, at this point, I should have just bounced, but I went to the bar anyway; Guess what? Yep! OUTA BEER!!!!!... twice. I walked around that place for ten minutes and came back and still no beer.
Rude people, no beer, door Nazi's... fuck this mess!! We headed out and went to a pizza place where we met yet another pissed of person who stayed docile just long enough to put our individual slices in an oven and heat them up. The nicer I was to her, the ruder she was to me.
I refuse to believe this night represents the whole of Austin TX. I'm going back to play SXSW in March and, this time, I'm steering clear of anything but music.
DALLAS, TX @ The Prophet Bar 11/14/09
My family and friends came down from OKC and Edmond to the show. When I got to the hotel where my sisters were staying, I walked in the door and all three of them were snuggling in one bed. At the same time, they all yelled "COME SNUGGLE!!!" I jumped on them and it was like snuggling with the three cutest, warmest teddy bears you ever saw. I raced to take a shower and get back to the club. My brother came with his buddies, and my dad and his whole crew came. My Mamie was there with her best friends who called themselves The Bingo Ladies for decades but have now changed their name to The Grandma Groupies. :) Even my aunt Michele and cousin Molly came! It was so cool to see them all in the crowd. They loved everyone and everyone loved them which gave me warm fuzzies. I counted 23 of them!!! Holy moly!
The show was a blast. I miss them already. Christmas in Oklahoma is going to RULE!!
LITTLE ROCK, AR @ Juanita's 11/15/09
There were all of 20 poeple at this show, but it was one of our BEST. They stayed the whole show and we all went over to the billiards place next door to hang out for a while.
They make AMAZING burgers at this place. I wish I could remember what it was called, but it's like 2 doors down from Juanita's, so if you're in Arkansas, go get one! If you don't eat meat, they also make kick ass grilled egg, cheese, and jalepeno samiches. Mmmmmmmm...
I walked around in the rain with a new friend, and had a total blast. My purse is still wet. :)
Got back to the bus just in time to head to Memphis. Woke up, and here we are. We're playing Hi-Tone Cafe tonight. Should be yet another great show!
Friday the 13th, MwwwaaaaaahahahahahHAHAHAHAhahaha!
The show was great. Man, that crowd was incredible. Very generous. I saw people with their eyes closed just swaying back and forth to the jams and one girl already knew all the words to The River! Crazy!
It was Joey Cape's last show! :( We miss him already. We picked up Jon Snodgrass and Chad Price. They sing together and it's really awesome. Great songs, wonderful stage presence, awesome voices, WHAT'S NOT TO LIKE?
Everything was going so well.... and then....
After the show, we went to this after hours music jam thing and it was awful. They made us pay 5 bucks to get in because they said they needed to pay for the beer. "It's a 5 dollar donation... SOOOO.... Five dollars". They kept saying "donation" but I'm pretty sure mandatory donation = cover charge. Let's be honest.
After we got passed the door Nazis, I started looking around for the beer I just payed for. Hmmmm, nothing to the right..... nothing to the left..... So I see this chick with a beer in her hand and I ask her, "Excuse me, where did you lay hands on that beer?" and she, with the dirtiest look she can muster, says to me, slowly and with venom, "At the bar." ...
...okay, at this point, I should have just bounced, but I went to the bar anyway; Guess what? Yep! OUTA BEER!!!!!... twice. I walked around that place for ten minutes and came back and still no beer.
Rude people, no beer, door Nazi's... fuck this mess!! We headed out and went to a pizza place where we met yet another pissed of person who stayed docile just long enough to put our individual slices in an oven and heat them up. The nicer I was to her, the ruder she was to me.
I refuse to believe this night represents the whole of Austin TX. I'm going back to play SXSW in March and, this time, I'm steering clear of anything but music.
DALLAS, TX @ The Prophet Bar 11/14/09
My family and friends came down from OKC and Edmond to the show. When I got to the hotel where my sisters were staying, I walked in the door and all three of them were snuggling in one bed. At the same time, they all yelled "COME SNUGGLE!!!" I jumped on them and it was like snuggling with the three cutest, warmest teddy bears you ever saw. I raced to take a shower and get back to the club. My brother came with his buddies, and my dad and his whole crew came. My Mamie was there with her best friends who called themselves The Bingo Ladies for decades but have now changed their name to The Grandma Groupies. :) Even my aunt Michele and cousin Molly came! It was so cool to see them all in the crowd. They loved everyone and everyone loved them which gave me warm fuzzies. I counted 23 of them!!! Holy moly!
The show was a blast. I miss them already. Christmas in Oklahoma is going to RULE!!
LITTLE ROCK, AR @ Juanita's 11/15/09
There were all of 20 poeple at this show, but it was one of our BEST. They stayed the whole show and we all went over to the billiards place next door to hang out for a while.
They make AMAZING burgers at this place. I wish I could remember what it was called, but it's like 2 doors down from Juanita's, so if you're in Arkansas, go get one! If you don't eat meat, they also make kick ass grilled egg, cheese, and jalepeno samiches. Mmmmmmmm...
I walked around in the rain with a new friend, and had a total blast. My purse is still wet. :)
Got back to the bus just in time to head to Memphis. Woke up, and here we are. We're playing Hi-Tone Cafe tonight. Should be yet another great show!
Tuesday, November 10, 2009
Fo Mo
VIVA LAS VEGAS 11/09/09
We performed at The Beauty Bar which has a really fun back area for music. It was outside so I didn't get all sweaty!!!!! Can you believe it???? AMAZING!!!
The show was like butta. We all had such a great time. Afterwards, we attempted a little gambling and lost a lot of money. Craps is the most confusing game I've ever watched. We walked up to the table and leaned on it like, "Okay, how we gonna do this?" and IMMEDIATELY got yelled at; "NO LEANING ON THE TABLE!!!" Oh shit, sorry! I spent most of the time trying to explain to this poor woman that we're reeeeeaaaaaalllly slow at this and asking Chuck, "Why are you putting the chips right there?" to which he ALWAYS replied "I don't know." hahahaha Well, we'd had enough of that in about ten minutes so we went searching for food. Let me tell ya, the plate of grub that ended up in my belly included scrambled eggs, bacon, potatoes, and a biscuit with white gravy on it. aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa....
We went back to the bus with pumpkin donuts in hand and full bellies.
SCOTTSDALE 11/10/09
We spent all day in a parking lot of Chasers. It was hot that day; like 90 degrees. I just chilled in the shade watching these two black birds play. The first bird was very independent, walking around, shaking it's tail feather and everywhere it went, the second bird would follow. But the second bird didn't want the first bird to know so he kept pretending he wasn't following. It was so cute. He'd wander off, always eyeing the first bird, and when he thought bird one had found something cool, he'd run over there like, "Oh, yea, I was totally looking for that, too." hahaha. Anyone who thinks animals don't have souls, just doesn't speak animal. :)
The show was awesome. We had a mini industrial fan on stage which was really fun. I didn't realize it, at the time, but it was blowing my hair all around and when Jon Gaunt told me, after my set, I felt like a total rock star. :)
They split the crowd up between people "old enough" to drink and all-ages. Honestly, from the stage, I couldn't tell which side was which. I'd imagine if you wanted to have a beer but, you weren't old enough, you'd just drink it all before you got to the club. I'm pretty sure that's what happened. I'M PLEADING with America's sensibilities; If you're gonna send these people to vote, to war, or to holy matrimony, THEY SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO DRINK. Wanna know why? Cause they'll do it anyway, and they'll look like idiots and maybe hurt someone because they feel like they have to drink everything they can get their hands on before they leave the house. Jeez louise. Guys, Gals, if you want to have a pint and you're 19, I suggest a trip to Merry Old England. :) It's really fun and you never drive anywhere anyway.
ALBUQUERQUE 11/11/09
The elevation here is higher than Denver and we all felt it. Casey, our tour manager, is actually sick. We all feel like we're getting sick because of the elevation so it was a very quiet day. Everyone's worried about poor Casey. He was so sick, he couldn't run sound for us this night. Brutal.
We played The Launch Pad and our stand-in sound man's name was Erin and he took great care of us. This crowd was AMAZING. I mean, they went dead silent when Jim Ward played and since they could actually hear the lyrics he absolutely hypnotized them. There was more than one epic moment in his set and the crowd was right there with him the whole time. It was just beautiful. Jim's set was first so he totally raised the bar for the rest of us and we all stepped it up. Joey Cape was a master, once again, at pleasing the crowd. I learned and continue to learn so much from these guys.
I was ready to get to the lowlands after that show, tho. The thing about elevation is, you have to really pay attention to what you're putting in your body because everything affects you more when there's less oxygen around. I think the elevation only worsened Casey's troubles.
EL PASO 11/12/09
Take II is a fun place to play. They open all the giant windows on the sides of the place and you can sit on the ledges and watch the band. Casey was back with us, but half way thru the show, he was in a bad way again.
After the show we went to The Ope and Anchor, Jim and Christine Ward's bar. If you live in El Paso or you ever pass thru there, GO TO THIS PLACE. It was seriously one of the freshest bars I've ever been to. There are two, light-up, blue whales hanging from the ceiling on either side of the bar, a kick ass juke box (considering Jim's history, this shouldn't surprise you), a HUGE patio in the back, and awesome art on the walls. Can't say enough good things about it.
Tonight we're in Austin, TX. I'm so excited! I've never been here. We just pulled up in front of Red 7 and I'm about to go check out The Arab Cowboy, a hookah/coffee shop my buddies Dawn and Anwar. Woo Hookah!
We performed at The Beauty Bar which has a really fun back area for music. It was outside so I didn't get all sweaty!!!!! Can you believe it???? AMAZING!!!
The show was like butta. We all had such a great time. Afterwards, we attempted a little gambling and lost a lot of money. Craps is the most confusing game I've ever watched. We walked up to the table and leaned on it like, "Okay, how we gonna do this?" and IMMEDIATELY got yelled at; "NO LEANING ON THE TABLE!!!" Oh shit, sorry! I spent most of the time trying to explain to this poor woman that we're reeeeeaaaaaalllly slow at this and asking Chuck, "Why are you putting the chips right there?" to which he ALWAYS replied "I don't know." hahahaha Well, we'd had enough of that in about ten minutes so we went searching for food. Let me tell ya, the plate of grub that ended up in my belly included scrambled eggs, bacon, potatoes, and a biscuit with white gravy on it. aaaaaaaaaaaaaaaaa....
We went back to the bus with pumpkin donuts in hand and full bellies.
SCOTTSDALE 11/10/09
We spent all day in a parking lot of Chasers. It was hot that day; like 90 degrees. I just chilled in the shade watching these two black birds play. The first bird was very independent, walking around, shaking it's tail feather and everywhere it went, the second bird would follow. But the second bird didn't want the first bird to know so he kept pretending he wasn't following. It was so cute. He'd wander off, always eyeing the first bird, and when he thought bird one had found something cool, he'd run over there like, "Oh, yea, I was totally looking for that, too." hahaha. Anyone who thinks animals don't have souls, just doesn't speak animal. :)
The show was awesome. We had a mini industrial fan on stage which was really fun. I didn't realize it, at the time, but it was blowing my hair all around and when Jon Gaunt told me, after my set, I felt like a total rock star. :)
They split the crowd up between people "old enough" to drink and all-ages. Honestly, from the stage, I couldn't tell which side was which. I'd imagine if you wanted to have a beer but, you weren't old enough, you'd just drink it all before you got to the club. I'm pretty sure that's what happened. I'M PLEADING with America's sensibilities; If you're gonna send these people to vote, to war, or to holy matrimony, THEY SHOULD BE ALLOWED TO DRINK. Wanna know why? Cause they'll do it anyway, and they'll look like idiots and maybe hurt someone because they feel like they have to drink everything they can get their hands on before they leave the house. Jeez louise. Guys, Gals, if you want to have a pint and you're 19, I suggest a trip to Merry Old England. :) It's really fun and you never drive anywhere anyway.
ALBUQUERQUE 11/11/09
The elevation here is higher than Denver and we all felt it. Casey, our tour manager, is actually sick. We all feel like we're getting sick because of the elevation so it was a very quiet day. Everyone's worried about poor Casey. He was so sick, he couldn't run sound for us this night. Brutal.
We played The Launch Pad and our stand-in sound man's name was Erin and he took great care of us. This crowd was AMAZING. I mean, they went dead silent when Jim Ward played and since they could actually hear the lyrics he absolutely hypnotized them. There was more than one epic moment in his set and the crowd was right there with him the whole time. It was just beautiful. Jim's set was first so he totally raised the bar for the rest of us and we all stepped it up. Joey Cape was a master, once again, at pleasing the crowd. I learned and continue to learn so much from these guys.
I was ready to get to the lowlands after that show, tho. The thing about elevation is, you have to really pay attention to what you're putting in your body because everything affects you more when there's less oxygen around. I think the elevation only worsened Casey's troubles.
EL PASO 11/12/09
Take II is a fun place to play. They open all the giant windows on the sides of the place and you can sit on the ledges and watch the band. Casey was back with us, but half way thru the show, he was in a bad way again.
After the show we went to The Ope and Anchor, Jim and Christine Ward's bar. If you live in El Paso or you ever pass thru there, GO TO THIS PLACE. It was seriously one of the freshest bars I've ever been to. There are two, light-up, blue whales hanging from the ceiling on either side of the bar, a kick ass juke box (considering Jim's history, this shouldn't surprise you), a HUGE patio in the back, and awesome art on the walls. Can't say enough good things about it.
Tonight we're in Austin, TX. I'm so excited! I've never been here. We just pulled up in front of Red 7 and I'm about to go check out The Arab Cowboy, a hookah/coffee shop my buddies Dawn and Anwar. Woo Hookah!
Monday, November 9, 2009
Rock The Casbah
Last night was The Casbah in San Diego. There are planes, trains, and automobiles everywhere around the intersection where the club is and it was SO COOL to hear a train go by and see an airplane come in for landing so low and close to the buildings.
My best friend, Brent, came down on the bus with us (WAY cool of Chuck) and sang a couple songs with me. We sang together for years and haven't been able to in a while because we're both so awesome and busy all time. :) Anyway, I got to go on tour with my best friend for a minute which was a beautiful surprise. So, thank you, life. We had dinner with Blue, my awesome publisher/bro, and his friend, Scott. I had the most AMAZING squid ink pasta. Duuuuuuuude. After the show, I reheated it and easily a 1/4 cup of oil came out. Chuck begged me to drain it in a bowl so he could dip toast in it. hahahaha, he may have cried a little when he tasted it, but we won't tell, right?
The place was packed. Everyone there was so nice and, I must say, Chuck Ragan fans are hot. I'm sorry, but it's true. These guys showin' up with mustaches and flannel shirts and meat on their bones is just the sweetest breath of fresh air. Of course the gals are gorgeous, but you would assume that would be the case. :) Gorgeous in a way that's so different from the norm because it comes from a place of sincere self confidence. That makes all the difference. If you feel good about yourself, it shows through, whether you're wearing make-up or not.
Everyone's set in the show was solid as a rock. Hearing these fans scream along to every word these amazing guys sing, is totally inspiring. Imagine lot's of fists in the air, arms around each other, beers in hand, swaying back and forth to songs about not growing up, working hard to play hard, love and pulling up the poor. Every night it's a different show and, still, every night is magic.
Tonight, we play the old strip in Vegas at Beauty Bar. It's outside so maybe I won't sweat like a boy so much. hahaha.
My best friend, Brent, came down on the bus with us (WAY cool of Chuck) and sang a couple songs with me. We sang together for years and haven't been able to in a while because we're both so awesome and busy all time. :) Anyway, I got to go on tour with my best friend for a minute which was a beautiful surprise. So, thank you, life. We had dinner with Blue, my awesome publisher/bro, and his friend, Scott. I had the most AMAZING squid ink pasta. Duuuuuuuude. After the show, I reheated it and easily a 1/4 cup of oil came out. Chuck begged me to drain it in a bowl so he could dip toast in it. hahahaha, he may have cried a little when he tasted it, but we won't tell, right?
The place was packed. Everyone there was so nice and, I must say, Chuck Ragan fans are hot. I'm sorry, but it's true. These guys showin' up with mustaches and flannel shirts and meat on their bones is just the sweetest breath of fresh air. Of course the gals are gorgeous, but you would assume that would be the case. :) Gorgeous in a way that's so different from the norm because it comes from a place of sincere self confidence. That makes all the difference. If you feel good about yourself, it shows through, whether you're wearing make-up or not.
Everyone's set in the show was solid as a rock. Hearing these fans scream along to every word these amazing guys sing, is totally inspiring. Imagine lot's of fists in the air, arms around each other, beers in hand, swaying back and forth to songs about not growing up, working hard to play hard, love and pulling up the poor. Every night it's a different show and, still, every night is magic.
Tonight, we play the old strip in Vegas at Beauty Bar. It's outside so maybe I won't sweat like a boy so much. hahaha.
Thursday, November 5, 2009
Where Am I, Again? 11/4/09-11/7/09
We've done 4 shows now and I've been so lazy! Where am I, again? Let's see;
San Jose @ Blank Club 11 4 09
We met Conrad from Possessed By Paul James at this show. He plays fiddle, banjo, and guitar and sits in a chair with a board under his feet so you can hear him stomp. His voice is so old school and his songs are just wonderful. This man is SO MUCH FUN to watch. GO LOOK HIM UP!
Sacramento @ Blue Lamp 11 5 09
A wonderful group of friends of mine live here and they hooked us up with so much LOVE! They made us pot roast and vegan chili and cookies and brownies and mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.... We loaded the bus with leftovers and everyone went to bed with full happy bellies. Thanks so much to Pauline, Phyllis, Craig, Joan, Andy, Stacy and Shelby for all the hospitality.
11 6 09
San Fransisco @ Slim's
I woke up in San Fran to some not so fun phone calls from home; My aunt, Mary Kay, passed away that morning at 10:10am. She had brain cancer and my entire family had been taking care of her in her last days. She was surrounded by love before she went, but I wished I could have contributed in person. Being thousands of miles away from my family when they're in pain is not something I'm accustomed to. It was a strange and lonely. I wanted to be there to shield them from all from real life, or maybe to be distracted from it, myself. I don't know. I miss her.
Joey Cape joined us here. If you don't know of his songs, they're GREAT. It's gonna be really fun to keep playing with this dude.
This was also our last night with Anderson Family Bluegrass Band. I got so many great videos of them. One of the photographers taught little Daisy Mae Anderson who to work the cameras; She was taking kick ass video and digital pics ALL NIGHT. She's 8 years old, so she fits in the tiniest places and it was the cutest thing I've ever seen. Every time I tried to say goodbye to her or her family she'd remind me that it's not "goodbye" on the road; she'd say, "No, Audra, it's SEE YOU LATER!!!" I'll miss that family very very much. :(
Los Angeles 11 7 09
Aaaaaaahhhhh, Los Angeles. We played the El Rey and it was the COOLEST show I've ever done. The crowd was totally ready for it and we were so ready to give it to them. By the end of the show, Frank and Jim were out in the audience with tambourines and microphones and it was like a real revival minus the judgement. :)
We're on our way to San Diego now. I'm HUNGRY. HUUUUUNNNNNGGGGGRRRRYYYYY! I had a donut and a taco and some coffee and now I.... WAAAANNNT.... MOOOOOORRRRREEEE. hahahaha.
San Jose @ Blank Club 11 4 09
We met Conrad from Possessed By Paul James at this show. He plays fiddle, banjo, and guitar and sits in a chair with a board under his feet so you can hear him stomp. His voice is so old school and his songs are just wonderful. This man is SO MUCH FUN to watch. GO LOOK HIM UP!
Sacramento @ Blue Lamp 11 5 09
A wonderful group of friends of mine live here and they hooked us up with so much LOVE! They made us pot roast and vegan chili and cookies and brownies and mmmmmmmmmmmmmmmm.... We loaded the bus with leftovers and everyone went to bed with full happy bellies. Thanks so much to Pauline, Phyllis, Craig, Joan, Andy, Stacy and Shelby for all the hospitality.
11 6 09
San Fransisco @ Slim's
I woke up in San Fran to some not so fun phone calls from home; My aunt, Mary Kay, passed away that morning at 10:10am. She had brain cancer and my entire family had been taking care of her in her last days. She was surrounded by love before she went, but I wished I could have contributed in person. Being thousands of miles away from my family when they're in pain is not something I'm accustomed to. It was a strange and lonely. I wanted to be there to shield them from all from real life, or maybe to be distracted from it, myself. I don't know. I miss her.
Joey Cape joined us here. If you don't know of his songs, they're GREAT. It's gonna be really fun to keep playing with this dude.
This was also our last night with Anderson Family Bluegrass Band. I got so many great videos of them. One of the photographers taught little Daisy Mae Anderson who to work the cameras; She was taking kick ass video and digital pics ALL NIGHT. She's 8 years old, so she fits in the tiniest places and it was the cutest thing I've ever seen. Every time I tried to say goodbye to her or her family she'd remind me that it's not "goodbye" on the road; she'd say, "No, Audra, it's SEE YOU LATER!!!" I'll miss that family very very much. :(
Los Angeles 11 7 09
Aaaaaaahhhhh, Los Angeles. We played the El Rey and it was the COOLEST show I've ever done. The crowd was totally ready for it and we were so ready to give it to them. By the end of the show, Frank and Jim were out in the audience with tambourines and microphones and it was like a real revival minus the judgement. :)
We're on our way to San Diego now. I'm HUNGRY. HUUUUUNNNNNGGGGGRRRRYYYYY! I had a donut and a taco and some coffee and now I.... WAAAANNNT.... MOOOOOORRRRREEEE. hahahaha.
Wednesday, November 4, 2009
Nevada City, CA
We loaded a rental car and a pick-up in the truck yard in Yuba City and drove them out to the venue in Nevada City. We got there in plenty of time to walk around and contribute to the economy. :)
I got the coolest shit!!! A MUCH-NEEDED tamborine from Peru; Every time I try to play Jim's tambo it's all the way on the other side of the stage which means I have to either get in everyone's way or just stand there and clap like an idiot. haha. Anyway, it's sooooo cool. Sort of reddish brown wood and sounds like it's already got reverb on it. HELL YES! I found a leather hat, made in Morocco, that made me miss my step-daddy and little brother (they're Moroccan).
There was a chocolate shop where I got some pumpkin pie fudge and a caramel-and-chocolate-covered marshmallow... *swoon! The sweet woman who half owns the place said her husband makes most of the candy there... there was A LOT of candy there. I told her she was the luckiest woman in the world. :) P.S. Pumpkin pie fudge is the cure for homesick.
Last night's show was incredible. I know I say that every day, but I wouldn't if it weren't true. We played with the Anderson Family Bluegrass Band; Let me just break it down for you
-Mama Anderson, Bass, used to be a fire fighter, face like an angel, makes REALLY good veggie lasagna
-Papa Anderson, Banjo, the look on his face when his kids play music should be bottled and sold as a cure for all that ails you
-Paige Anderson, Guitar, Vocals, just turned 14, writes songs like a true story teller, plays guitar better than EVERYONE in the room...
-Amy Anderson, Fiddle, Vocals, 13 years old, she taught her entire family to sing harmony so they always ask her if they're doing it right.
-Ethan Anderson, Mandolin, 9 years old, showed Chuck a million things he never knew and it was so inspiring to see Chuck's eyes light up every time he played.
-Daisy Anderson, maybe 6 years old, played her first show ever last night with a dobro guitar twice her size. She sat behind everyone and just strummed away with her little thumb pick in the right hand and her slide in the left.
When Ethan, Amy, and Paige sing three part harmony together, it's like angels. Amy and Paige played The River with me and they already knew it when we sat down to practice which totally made my night. They did a great job! I'm so excited to play with them, again, tonight. We're in San Jose at Blank Club.
I just ate the best double cheese burger ever... mmmmmmmmm... well, half of a double cheeseburger. The other half is marinating in the fridge for later. Double mmmmmmmmm...
I got the coolest shit!!! A MUCH-NEEDED tamborine from Peru; Every time I try to play Jim's tambo it's all the way on the other side of the stage which means I have to either get in everyone's way or just stand there and clap like an idiot. haha. Anyway, it's sooooo cool. Sort of reddish brown wood and sounds like it's already got reverb on it. HELL YES! I found a leather hat, made in Morocco, that made me miss my step-daddy and little brother (they're Moroccan).
There was a chocolate shop where I got some pumpkin pie fudge and a caramel-and-chocolate-covered marshmallow... *swoon! The sweet woman who half owns the place said her husband makes most of the candy there... there was A LOT of candy there. I told her she was the luckiest woman in the world. :) P.S. Pumpkin pie fudge is the cure for homesick.
Last night's show was incredible. I know I say that every day, but I wouldn't if it weren't true. We played with the Anderson Family Bluegrass Band; Let me just break it down for you
-Mama Anderson, Bass, used to be a fire fighter, face like an angel, makes REALLY good veggie lasagna
-Papa Anderson, Banjo, the look on his face when his kids play music should be bottled and sold as a cure for all that ails you
-Paige Anderson, Guitar, Vocals, just turned 14, writes songs like a true story teller, plays guitar better than EVERYONE in the room...
-Amy Anderson, Fiddle, Vocals, 13 years old, she taught her entire family to sing harmony so they always ask her if they're doing it right.
-Ethan Anderson, Mandolin, 9 years old, showed Chuck a million things he never knew and it was so inspiring to see Chuck's eyes light up every time he played.
-Daisy Anderson, maybe 6 years old, played her first show ever last night with a dobro guitar twice her size. She sat behind everyone and just strummed away with her little thumb pick in the right hand and her slide in the left.
When Ethan, Amy, and Paige sing three part harmony together, it's like angels. Amy and Paige played The River with me and they already knew it when we sat down to practice which totally made my night. They did a great job! I'm so excited to play with them, again, tonight. We're in San Jose at Blank Club.
I just ate the best double cheese burger ever... mmmmmmmmm... well, half of a double cheeseburger. The other half is marinating in the fridge for later. Double mmmmmmmmm...
Tuesday, November 3, 2009
Day Off In Grass Valley
I took the most glorious shower of my life yesterday. That's not being dramatic, either... I've never felt closer to an Herbal Essence commercial in my 25 years of livin'. Best part of the day; I got my nails did!!! Hell yes!! Seriously, all day long, I had that old song "I Enjoy Being a Girl" stuck in my head. hahaha. Shameless music theatre references make me happy. :)
We ate gigantic burritos and chimichangas at Maria's in Grass Valley. I totally fell in love with that place. Great service, yummy margaritas, tasty food and they brought us some of the house hot sauce... heavens to Betsy that was good.
After we ate we went to see Paranormal Activity. I'm glad it was hyped up before I saw it because I think it would have scared the living SHIT out of me if I hadn't heard that it was the scariest movie ever made. I liked it, though. My only issue was (STOP READING NOW IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN IT) her stupid boyfriend. She was way to smart to be with someone who says things like, "You're too cute to talk." and "I wonder why my face is scratched in the picture and yours isn't." Jesus. What a turd.
Came back to the bus after that and watched yet another movie about nerds who love boobies... go figure.
Now we're stuck in a truck yard in Yuba City because Goldie's got an oil leak. :( Poor Goldie!
Show in Nevada City tonight. Woot!!
We ate gigantic burritos and chimichangas at Maria's in Grass Valley. I totally fell in love with that place. Great service, yummy margaritas, tasty food and they brought us some of the house hot sauce... heavens to Betsy that was good.
After we ate we went to see Paranormal Activity. I'm glad it was hyped up before I saw it because I think it would have scared the living SHIT out of me if I hadn't heard that it was the scariest movie ever made. I liked it, though. My only issue was (STOP READING NOW IF YOU HAVEN'T SEEN IT) her stupid boyfriend. She was way to smart to be with someone who says things like, "You're too cute to talk." and "I wonder why my face is scratched in the picture and yours isn't." Jesus. What a turd.
Came back to the bus after that and watched yet another movie about nerds who love boobies... go figure.
Now we're stuck in a truck yard in Yuba City because Goldie's got an oil leak. :( Poor Goldie!
Show in Nevada City tonight. Woot!!
Monday, November 2, 2009
Portland, Oregon
Portland's show kicked SO MUCH BUTT!!! The crowd was uber enthusiastic and we all had a wonderful time. The Water Tower Bucket Boys played their last show with us and so did Austin Lucas. It was bitter sweet times. I got to sing with Austin on his song "Sleep Well". Digger Barnes said we gave him "the chicken skin". :)
Frank Turner joined us last night and he's in it for the long haul. Really great guy already. Should be a blast!
We have the day off in Grass Valley today. I'm gonna shower and shower and shower, just to make up for all the showers I couldn't take so far. There is a layer of road scum covering my skin and hair and maybe my eyeballs. You probably don't care to know these things, but this is the real deal, right here. hahaha.
Just found out I got played on the radio!!! Santa Fe New Mexico's KBAC is playing The River at least once a day. I'm so excited I could scream. I'm on the radio. Imagine that.
Frank Turner joined us last night and he's in it for the long haul. Really great guy already. Should be a blast!
We have the day off in Grass Valley today. I'm gonna shower and shower and shower, just to make up for all the showers I couldn't take so far. There is a layer of road scum covering my skin and hair and maybe my eyeballs. You probably don't care to know these things, but this is the real deal, right here. hahaha.
Just found out I got played on the radio!!! Santa Fe New Mexico's KBAC is playing The River at least once a day. I'm so excited I could scream. I'm on the radio. Imagine that.
Sunday, November 1, 2009
Seattle, WA
Seattle was so much fun!!! We had to say "See you later" to Bob Lucas. Sad times, but he rocked the show hard enough to give me life long memories to look back on when I miss him. :)
After the show I hung Halloween style with some Seattle kids. I met so many amazing characters. Beth, the self-proclaimed Tranny Granny, was my favorite. Beth, if you're reading this, thank you for the magic. xoxoxoxo
We are in Portland today. Beautiful city. Went to a book store called Powell's and got a t-shirt I'm totally wearing to the show tonight! It has a book worm, under an umbrella, in a rainstorm, on the front of it. I'm stoked.
Tonight is Austin Lucas' last show with us. We'll miss him to pieces.
This tour has been the most awesome challenge, so far. I haven't smelled this bad since I was 11 years old and refused to take showers. Load in is in 20 minutes. I'm on a mission to find a sink and a plug for my hairdryer before the show.
Let's rock.
After the show I hung Halloween style with some Seattle kids. I met so many amazing characters. Beth, the self-proclaimed Tranny Granny, was my favorite. Beth, if you're reading this, thank you for the magic. xoxoxoxo
We are in Portland today. Beautiful city. Went to a book store called Powell's and got a t-shirt I'm totally wearing to the show tonight! It has a book worm, under an umbrella, in a rainstorm, on the front of it. I'm stoked.
Tonight is Austin Lucas' last show with us. We'll miss him to pieces.
This tour has been the most awesome challenge, so far. I haven't smelled this bad since I was 11 years old and refused to take showers. Load in is in 20 minutes. I'm on a mission to find a sink and a plug for my hairdryer before the show.
Let's rock.
Saturday, October 31, 2009
Happy Halloweeeeeeen!
On our way to Seattle. Driving through Idaho right now. BEAUTIFUL countryside. We're so ready to play a show!!! It's been fun finding ways to pass the time, but that's not what we're here for.
This bus smells like b.o. and piss. We fabreezed EVERYTHING this morning, including ourselves, and now my coffee tastes funny. hahaha. If I start trippin' later, we'll know why. I feel bad for anyone who ends up on this bus and doesn't know what they're in for. Whew.
It's Halloween... I wanted to be an owl this year. I miss LA today. I'm gonna put all my homesick energy towards this show tonight and give the folks in Seattle their money's worth. Hopefully they won't be able to smell me from the audience.
Seattle here we come! Happy Halloweeeeeeen! :)
This bus smells like b.o. and piss. We fabreezed EVERYTHING this morning, including ourselves, and now my coffee tastes funny. hahaha. If I start trippin' later, we'll know why. I feel bad for anyone who ends up on this bus and doesn't know what they're in for. Whew.
It's Halloween... I wanted to be an owl this year. I miss LA today. I'm gonna put all my homesick energy towards this show tonight and give the folks in Seattle their money's worth. Hopefully they won't be able to smell me from the audience.
Seattle here we come! Happy Halloweeeeeeen! :)
Friday, October 30, 2009
3 shows canceled and Chuck turns 35 today
Bozeman, MT will be the 3rd show we've missed because of weather including Salt Lake City and Denver. Bob Lucas is singing the blues next to me right now. We're all so bummed. It's Chuck's birthday today, too. We celebrated last night with confetti poppers and microwavable chocolate cake. The vibe was warm and cozy but not warm enough to melt the ice on the road.
All we could to was pass the time, waiting out the weather for two days, in Ogallala, Nebraska. There are some really nice people there. Right across the street from where we parked the bus was a wonderful antique shop we nosed around in for a couple hours and an all-you-can-eat diner in the truck stop who's menu read, "It's not homestyle if you can't ask for seconds." LOVE THAT!
Casey, our amazing tour manager, Jon Gaunt and Austin Lucas made a snow man with round pickles for eyes, a carrot nose and sliced apples for a mouth. Chuck named him Penfold. :) He held an empty bottle of Jameson, smoked a Marlboro and wore a trucker hat. Hahaha, how lucky to be with people you adore when stranded in the middle of nowhere. We listened to Fugazi and Leonard Cohen, wrote songs, and played dice games into the night.
Now we're on the road again in the hopes we'll make it to Seattle for the Halloween show tomorrow night. Looking out the windows of the bus, all I can think about is how cold all these cows must be. Colorado is beautiful.
All we could to was pass the time, waiting out the weather for two days, in Ogallala, Nebraska. There are some really nice people there. Right across the street from where we parked the bus was a wonderful antique shop we nosed around in for a couple hours and an all-you-can-eat diner in the truck stop who's menu read, "It's not homestyle if you can't ask for seconds." LOVE THAT!
Casey, our amazing tour manager, Jon Gaunt and Austin Lucas made a snow man with round pickles for eyes, a carrot nose and sliced apples for a mouth. Chuck named him Penfold. :) He held an empty bottle of Jameson, smoked a Marlboro and wore a trucker hat. Hahaha, how lucky to be with people you adore when stranded in the middle of nowhere. We listened to Fugazi and Leonard Cohen, wrote songs, and played dice games into the night.
Now we're on the road again in the hopes we'll make it to Seattle for the Halloween show tomorrow night. Looking out the windows of the bus, all I can think about is how cold all these cows must be. Colorado is beautiful.
Tuesday, October 27, 2009
Triple Rock Social Club, Minneapolis & The Aquarium, Fargo
Triple Rock was AWESOME! We really hit a groove and the crowd gave us so much to work with, we could have played all night if they'd have let us. The staff of the place was so wonderful, from the sound man to the bar tenders, everyone was a pleasure to work with.
We had a little room backstage and during the show everyone was walkin' back there, between their sets, talkin' about how lucky we are to be able to do a tour like this. We ARE lucky. It was a big ole' love fest. :)
After the show Jim Ward and I worked out a little rendition of Rainbow Connection which we performed last night at The Aquarium in Fargo, ND. The whole crowd whistled with us! It was joyous. The show was so much fun, again. GREAT crowd.
What a nice town. We got a chance to go have a hot meal at the lovely home of some friends of Chuck Ragan... mmmmmmm... pot roast. We got to hang out with their youngins and colored and watch Kung Fu Panda. Hahahaha! It was a BLAST. Everyone was so warm and hospitable.
I found it very endearing that so many of the folks in Fargo thought they had ugly accents when they spoke. For the record, I LOVE THE FARGO ACCENT!!
So, this afternoon, we got some bad news. We have to cancel the show in Denver, CO. I don't know if y'all saw the news, but there's a crazy blizzard there right now. We have to go to Salt Lake City for the show tomorrow, anyway, so we're just heading there instead. It's a total bummer. We have to drive through the blizzard, too. Jim Ward just pointed out "It's like being on a ship that's headed into a hurricane. It's in the back of all of our minds and the ship is creakin' a little louder than usual." Lucky for us, Greg is at the helm. He's the best bus driver either side of the Mississippi.
Anyway, I hope the folks in Denver, and anywhere else this storm is headed, are keeping really warm and cozy!! We'll be sending you lots of good thoughts today!!!! And, we're sorry we have to miss you. :(
Salt Lake City, or BUST.
We had a little room backstage and during the show everyone was walkin' back there, between their sets, talkin' about how lucky we are to be able to do a tour like this. We ARE lucky. It was a big ole' love fest. :)
After the show Jim Ward and I worked out a little rendition of Rainbow Connection which we performed last night at The Aquarium in Fargo, ND. The whole crowd whistled with us! It was joyous. The show was so much fun, again. GREAT crowd.
What a nice town. We got a chance to go have a hot meal at the lovely home of some friends of Chuck Ragan... mmmmmmm... pot roast. We got to hang out with their youngins and colored and watch Kung Fu Panda. Hahahaha! It was a BLAST. Everyone was so warm and hospitable.
I found it very endearing that so many of the folks in Fargo thought they had ugly accents when they spoke. For the record, I LOVE THE FARGO ACCENT!!
So, this afternoon, we got some bad news. We have to cancel the show in Denver, CO. I don't know if y'all saw the news, but there's a crazy blizzard there right now. We have to go to Salt Lake City for the show tomorrow, anyway, so we're just heading there instead. It's a total bummer. We have to drive through the blizzard, too. Jim Ward just pointed out "It's like being on a ship that's headed into a hurricane. It's in the back of all of our minds and the ship is creakin' a little louder than usual." Lucky for us, Greg is at the helm. He's the best bus driver either side of the Mississippi.
Anyway, I hope the folks in Denver, and anywhere else this storm is headed, are keeping really warm and cozy!! We'll be sending you lots of good thoughts today!!!! And, we're sorry we have to miss you. :(
Salt Lake City, or BUST.
Monday, October 26, 2009
Reggie's Rock Club, Chicago
Okay, so Chicago was a little less scary than the night before! :)
First of all, Reggie's has the TASTIEST Mac & Cheese I've had in months. If it had been bright enough in the bar, I would have taken a picture.
Right, so the show! It was soooo much fun!!! The crowd was straight up ready for it, too. If you were there and you're reading this, thanks for such a great night.
After the show, we did an open mic at the bar and Mark Kurs One played a couple tunes. If you don't know who he is, LOOK HIM UP. He's a TOTAL one man band... the man played bass with his toes.... his toes.
Anyway, we're in Minneapolis tonight. Can't wait to meet this crowd and give 'em their money's worth!!
First of all, Reggie's has the TASTIEST Mac & Cheese I've had in months. If it had been bright enough in the bar, I would have taken a picture.
Right, so the show! It was soooo much fun!!! The crowd was straight up ready for it, too. If you were there and you're reading this, thanks for such a great night.
After the show, we did an open mic at the bar and Mark Kurs One played a couple tunes. If you don't know who he is, LOOK HIM UP. He's a TOTAL one man band... the man played bass with his toes.... his toes.
Anyway, we're in Minneapolis tonight. Can't wait to meet this crowd and give 'em their money's worth!!
Sunday, October 25, 2009
Cleveland at The Grog Shop
The first show was absolutely terrifying. Holy shit. These guys are reeeeediculously talented. I had no idea what I was doing, but no one really seemed to notice. Hahaha.
I saw some of the most awesome performances I've EVER seen live and it was only the first night. My head is gonna explode. I can't wait to share some videos! I saw more than one audience member stand glued to their spot for at least two hours. It was so cool to watch. So cool.
Tonight is Reggie's Rock Club in Chicago. It's gonna be a good one. I can feel it. :)
Check out http://therevivaltour.com and if you don't have tickets for the show closest to you, yet, get some!!!
I saw some of the most awesome performances I've EVER seen live and it was only the first night. My head is gonna explode. I can't wait to share some videos! I saw more than one audience member stand glued to their spot for at least two hours. It was so cool to watch. So cool.
Tonight is Reggie's Rock Club in Chicago. It's gonna be a good one. I can feel it. :)
Check out http://therevivaltour.com and if you don't have tickets for the show closest to you, yet, get some!!!
Thursday, October 22, 2009
Happy Graduation Day; Welcome To Kindergarten
Tomorrow morning I leave for The Revival Tour. Saturday night I start in Cleveland, OH joining Chuck Ragan, John Gaunt, Digger Barnes, and a whole cast of gypsy lumberjack punks gone acoustic for a month-long tour across the U.S. of A. Needless to say I'm bringin' a fishin' pole. :)
I wanted to chronicle this adventure with an ongoing scrapbook and so "Audra Mae Was Here" is born today.
Here are the dates of all the shows...
10.24.09 The Grog Shop
10.25.09 Reggie’s Rock Club- Chicago, IL
10.26.09 The Triple Rock Social Club- Minneapolis, MN
10.27.09 The Aquarium, Fargo ND
10.28.09 The Marquis Theatre- Denver, CO
10.29.09 In The Venue- Salt Lake City, UT
10.30.09 The Filling Station- Bozeman, MT
10.31.09 El Corazon- Seatle, WA
11.01.09 Berbati’s Pan- Portland, OR
11.03.09 Cooper’s Ale House
11.04.09 The Blank Club
11.05.09 Blue Lamp- Sacramento, CA
11.06.09 Slim’s- San Fransisco, CA
11.07.09 El Rey Theatre- Los Angeles, CA
11.08.09 Casbah- San Diego, CA
11.09.09 Beauty Bar- Las Vegas, NV
11.10.09 Chasers Night Club- Scottsdale AZ
11.11.09 Launchpad- Albuquerque, NM
11.12.09 Take 2- El Paso, TX
11.13.09 Red 7- Austin, TX
11.14.09 The Door; The Prophet Bar- Dallas, TX
11.15.09 Juanita’s Cantina Ballroom- Little Rock, AR
11.16.09 Hi-Tone Cafe- Memphis, TN
11.17.09 One Eyed Jacks- New Orleans, LA
11.18.09 Bottletree Cafe- Birmingham, AL
11.19.09 The Masquerade; Hell Stage- Atlanta, GA
11.20.09 Common Grounds- Gainseville FL
11.21.09 State Theatre- St Petersberg, FL
11.22.09 The Social- Orlando, FL
Another journey into the unknown. It's taken so much learning to get to this jumping off point. The feeling is hard to describe... It's like, Happy graduation day! Welcome to kindergarten. :)
More info at the following addresses...
http://myspace.com/audramae
http://therevivaltour.com
http://sideonedummy.com
I wanted to chronicle this adventure with an ongoing scrapbook and so "Audra Mae Was Here" is born today.
Here are the dates of all the shows...
10.24.09 The Grog Shop
10.25.09 Reggie’s Rock Club- Chicago, IL
10.26.09 The Triple Rock Social Club- Minneapolis, MN
10.27.09 The Aquarium, Fargo ND
10.28.09 The Marquis Theatre- Denver, CO
10.29.09 In The Venue- Salt Lake City, UT
10.30.09 The Filling Station- Bozeman, MT
10.31.09 El Corazon- Seatle, WA
11.01.09 Berbati’s Pan- Portland, OR
11.03.09 Cooper’s Ale House
11.04.09 The Blank Club
11.05.09 Blue Lamp- Sacramento, CA
11.06.09 Slim’s- San Fransisco, CA
11.07.09 El Rey Theatre- Los Angeles, CA
11.08.09 Casbah- San Diego, CA
11.09.09 Beauty Bar- Las Vegas, NV
11.10.09 Chasers Night Club- Scottsdale AZ
11.11.09 Launchpad- Albuquerque, NM
11.12.09 Take 2- El Paso, TX
11.13.09 Red 7- Austin, TX
11.14.09 The Door; The Prophet Bar- Dallas, TX
11.15.09 Juanita’s Cantina Ballroom- Little Rock, AR
11.16.09 Hi-Tone Cafe- Memphis, TN
11.17.09 One Eyed Jacks- New Orleans, LA
11.18.09 Bottletree Cafe- Birmingham, AL
11.19.09 The Masquerade; Hell Stage- Atlanta, GA
11.20.09 Common Grounds- Gainseville FL
11.21.09 State Theatre- St Petersberg, FL
11.22.09 The Social- Orlando, FL
Another journey into the unknown. It's taken so much learning to get to this jumping off point. The feeling is hard to describe... It's like, Happy graduation day! Welcome to kindergarten. :)
More info at the following addresses...
http://myspace.com/audramae
http://therevivaltour.com
http://sideonedummy.com
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