Rollin' Waters

Thursday

2011-06-09T12:44:00.001-07:00

Our fourth-graders learned about the Great Depression from third grade presenters ('professors') yesterday. Comparisons to the current recession were made, and everyone did a fine job.

Investigations are underway to find crayfish-laden bodies of water within walking distance to Franklin Elementary School. Lake Crescent is too far to travel. Meanwhile, check out these directions for making simple and inexpensive crayfish traps from household items.

Rollin' Waters Returns

2010-02-12T13:18:00.000-08:00

See Rollin' Waters at the Mardi Gras celebration at the Landing in Port Angeles this Saturday, starting at 1:00 PM.

Wine on the Waterfront

2009-05-07T09:01:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's been awhile since the last posting, but the weather and music are both heating up and there's a show at the WOW (Wine on the Waterfront) this Saturday with Bill and Rudy and featured guests Kelly, Cindy, Lambert and Laura. But that isn't all. Cindy Louder, Mike Pace, and I have sold out the Sons of Norway Hall here in Port Angeles for the Mother's Day Benefit event on Saturday afternoon. That's right; sold out! Alright, it is the Sons of Norway Hall, but still....

And that still isn't all. Stephanie and I are scheduled for the Farmers' Market on Saturday, the 16th, in Port Angeles. That's right..Rollin' Waters returns. More on that later.

Good Weekend

2009-03-15T13:48:00.000-07:00

What a great weekend so far! Lots of people at the WOW in Port Angeles last night. In fact, SRO! Looking forward to the Junction tonight.

And, as you can see, another good night at the Junction with lots of fine musicians ensued. Live music is best!

Fun Times at the Junction Jam

2009-01-26T20:48:00.000-08:00

Sure, it's an acoustic open mic/jam every Sunday, but it was an "electric" evening last night at the Junction Roadhouse in Port Angeles. Kim and Jason from Deadwood Revival made a long overdue appearance along with "Strider" and Kelly Hoch. Several members of "Thin Ice" also played for the large crowd of dancers and "singers along." Now that's the way to spend a winter's Sunday evening!

Sad news about the untimely death of long time local musician Forrest Rossaire brought forth song dedications and many well wishes for his family.

Guitar Instruction Tip #??: Get your left arm elbow off your leg when practicing sitting down, and sit in the correct position. Force your knees together if you have to, but avoid that lazy posture as it will cripple your playing progress. So many things to remember, but with practice, they eventually become automatic.

Happy New Year Olympic Peninsula

2009-01-02T10:17:00.000-08:00

The only bad thing about performing is that, at some point in the evening, you have to leave the stage. Most gigs leave me wanting more, and forget about encores-they're contrivances and pure ego in most situations. New Year's Eve at the Garden Club on Marrowstone Island was a very good night with dancing and of course, music. The crowd was a little grayer than last year but every bit as energetic and festive.

Home for Winter Break, the young people turned out at the Junction the Sunday before, braving a very icy parking lot (where is a bull dozer when you need one?). Live music is best!

2008-12-04T16:19:00.000-08:00

This is from a recent performance at the Wow Wow Room in Port Angeles. "Wow" stands for "Wine on the Waterfront." Ahhh...the sound of applause...

British Invasion

2008-11-28T19:14:00.001-08:00

Although Emma Peel didn't show up in her leather motorcycle outfit and there were only a few mini-dresses in attendance, the songs played at "British Invasion" night at the Junction Roadhouse in Port Angeles were great. The songs of the Yardbirds, Beatles, Kinks, Peter and Gordon, the Rolling Stones and Gerry and the Pacemakers along with the more familiar classic rock and country from some of the regular jammers made it a memorable night. Now one has to come up with another idea for a theme night. No, there will not be a disco night....that's for record players and Bee Gees fans. Stay tuned for more guitar instruction tips and keep warm in this November time of year. Cold and rainy here in the Northwest.

Halloween at the Junction

2008-10-31T19:46:00.000-07:00

Music, costumes, good cheer, and dancing fill the air at the Junction Roadhouse this weekend. Port Angeles folks sure like to dress up! Check out Vee's party dress in the sidebar below...wow! Bill, Rudy and I took our "show" on the road to the Itty Bitty Buzz and Franklin Elementary School this week. Can you tell we like Halloween? Join us for another round of fun at the Junction on Sunday night starting at 7. Stay tuned for more "recommended dress codes" and guitar instruction tips.

Halloween in Port Angeles

2008-10-22T18:39:00.001-07:00

That's "Boris" Tiderman in the clutches of vampire Stephanie, and he hasn't been the same since. In fact, Boris, Rudy, Paul and I have something special planned for 9:00 PM, this Sunday at the Junction Roadhouse Jam/Open Mic. Costumes are encouraged, and this is a chance to get an early start on the Hallowen festivities. The acoustic jam starts at 7 as usual but stick around for the 9:00 PM "show."

Rollin' Waters Performs!

2008-09-30T19:40:00.000-07:00

Lots of compliments for our show at the Ajax Cafe on Saturday found their way to the tiny stage at this outstanding Northwest restaurant. I had the top sirloin and Stephanie had something I can't remember, but it looked good! We even did a "new" song! "It Ain't Me, Babe" sounded good to my ear and some of the audience sang along which is always a good sign. We are quickly running out of cds and there are many other "new" songs to record. Sounds like a project to me!

Port Townsend Has a Great Open Mic

2008-08-26T11:08:00.000-07:00

Rollin' Waters played in Port Townsend at the Upstage Open Mic last night for the first time. Great venue with a sunken stage, balcony, good food and lots of musicians, including Andy Mackie and Paul Kell. Both have played at the Junction in Port Angeles with us a few times. After doing a song/poem with Jess, who is a gifted poet and pianist, we sang "I Shall Be Released," "Deep River Blues," and "Stormy Monday." The crowd was enthusiastic, especially when Stephanie sang "Stormy Monday," and it was a fun night. Looking forward to doing it again soon. Port Townsend has lots of music clubs and events going on throughout the year.

Not Too Warm for Hats in Port Angeles

2008-08-06T14:09:00.000-07:00

Sunglasses and summer go together pretty well, but when the sun finally fades around nine or so in the evening the word was passed at the Junction that it was ok to remove them for the rest of the evening. What great sports we have on Sunday nights these days! We'll see what creative kinds of hats show up next Sunday, it being "hat-night" and all. Some consideration will be given to making the Sunday after that "Sin Night" where the recommended "dress code" is the wearing of something "sinful." After all, one would have the remaining six days of the new week to repent.

Lots of fun at the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock last Saturday with Rudy and Bill although that stage is really too small for anything larger than a duet. The food is still awesome (try the halibut), and, for some reason, lots of people followed suggestions to try the excellent dessert. Maybe the powers of suggestion are returning! So, the Pink Door in Seattle, even with their good live music and similarly small stage, has got nothing on the Ajax, at least when it comes to good food.

On another note, it shouldn't take a hit record (are there such things any more?) to get a popular touring band a gig on the peninsula, especially when they aren't demanding top dollar, for crying out loud. The Lonely H, a local rock band now relocated to Seattle when they aren't playing festivals like SXSW in Austin or touring the country are here in Port Angeles this month and you'd think the local club owners would jump at the opportunity, but alas...still the effort will continue and at least, they and #2 son's band Doctor Doctor, also from Seattle, can host a Sunday night with me at the Junction.

Guitar Lesson Tip #26: If you're a finger-picker, drink lots of orange juice--steels strings will rip the bejesus out of weak nail tissue.

Summer in Port Angeles

2008-07-08T16:47:00.000-07:00

Barely a cloud in the sky now that summer is finally here on the Olympic Peninsula. So what if the Fourth of July was damp and cool--the sun is shining now and the air has warmed to a delicious 78.

The Open Mic/Jam at the Junction was big fun on Sunday night with teachers from all levels-primary through college joining a diverse crowd-dancing and singing away the stress of another fading school year, and recharging for the one coming up. Maybe the best way to describe Sundays at the Junction Jam is to say it's like an extended adult recess. It seems that playtime is important at all ages and the chance to sing and dance or play the guitar is one good way to do just that. Sure works for me.

Guitar Instruction Tip #24: Supplement your lessons with a quick trip to YouTube if you're and intermediate to advanced player. Just type in your favorite song title and chances are you'll find a video and get some fingering and chord tips. To get started, try clicking on "Railroad Bill" in the sidebar.

June at the Junction in Port Angeles

2008-06-23T16:23:00.000-07:00

It was a lively crowd at the Junction in Port Angeles last night for our weekly open mic/jam. Rudy (left), Paul and I held down the fort while Bill flew to unknown locations in the American Southwest. Lots of players, including newcomers Byron and Dirk, took the stage, and yes, there was lots of dancing! Johnny Mustang and George Snyder played blues and jazz with Stephen Farr joining us for a raucous "Wild Thing" that made the house sing along. The three of us tried out a "new" old song called "Walk Away, Renee," with challenging harmonies and "finger-pluckin'." Rusty(near left), always a good sport, remembered to bring sunglasses as part of our requested dress code and also played songs solo and with the band through the night. Next week the suggested dress code: crazy neckties!

Guitar Instruction Tip #24: You should carry more than an extra G string. Bring a whole set to your gigs or, at the very least, extra B,D, and high E strings. They also break sometimes!

Big Crowd in Port Angeles at the Junction and Rollin' Waters Performs

2008-05-27T19:41:00.000-07:00

That's Bill, Rudy, and Paul relaxing at the Junction Jam/Open Mic last Sunday. Stephanie's family showed up in force, and we nearly got her brother Brent(see sidebar) to sing with us. Steve liked our harmonies on "Kiss Me Baby" and a few others. And, since it was the Sunday before Memorial Day, we played and stayed a little longer. No one was in a hurry to go home and that's how we like it. It 's amazing that Mary, the bartender, can serve so many people on her own. I hope she got lots of generous tips.

On Saturday, Stephanie and I played together for the first time in months (with the exception of a few songs at the Junction) at the Sequim Open Aire Market. A Rollin' Waters gig! Crowd response was very favorable, and we were reminded that we know lots of songs--it seems our tastes in music are very similar! Hoping for a return engagement soon. Pictures were taken and I'll post if sent one or two.

Guitar Instruction Tip#23: Don't neglect chord practice. Sure, it's fun to play melodies and solos, but you won't be doing that for the most part since the guitar is most often a rhythm instrument and that means chords. Quit messing around and learn those open chords this month! You'll need the F chord, too, so get busy!

Free and Low Cost Entertainment in Port Angeles

2008-04-18T09:51:00.000-07:00

Most people think of the Olympic Peninsula as an "outdoorsy" kind of place when it comes to leisure activities and looking for fun, and for the most part, a person finds a very good value when it comes to paying for such activities like hiking, swimming, exploring mountains and beaches. Except when April looks and feels like December without the holiday glitter and warmth. This is the situation we find ourselves in this "spring" as gasoline prices climb ever higher along with the prices of most everything else. Even the wind is blowing hard this week. And, rain or possibly snow is expected throughout the weekend.

Perhaps therein lies the reason for the larger crowds of late at the Junction and the Soho Asian Bistro. Maybe it's that and the combination of good music and opportunities for local musicians to perform in a friendly and enthusiastic atmosphere despite the weather outside. There's no cover charge at either place on Sundays or weekdays and the price of beer isn't rising with each passing day or week. When you find yourself singing along to a Beatles or Yardbirds song you're unlikely to worry about mortgage payments, the cost of milk and other groceries, or plane fare to Disneyland. You can forget about it for awhile. Sometimes there are sights for sore eyes on and off stage, and that's an added bonus for dancers, singers-along, and musicians. In other words, it's a good bang for your buck at the Junction in Port Angeles and other local music venues.

Guitar Instruction Tip#22: Change your strings more often and you'll be more motivated to practice more because your guitar will sound more pleasing to the ear.

Stephanie, Mike, and Barry at the Junction!

2008-03-31T20:52:00.000-07:00

No, it wasn't a dream--Mike Pace, Stephanie Batson and I were on stage at the same time last night at the Junction in Port Angeles and that means Rollin' Waters performed for the first time in months. The crowd was awed by Stephanie's voice and Mike's guitar playing, and my own singing and playing was tolerable. What a surprise and a treat! Yes, there was dancing, and maybe Tina will send me a pic from the night since I was in shock and forgot to take photos. Grrr....
Patrick received a well-deserved beer for his excellent playing and for wearing the recommended (but not required) black shirt.

Guitar Instruction Tip #21: Learn to read standard notation first. Tab can wait. Don't ask for a reason, just do it.

Things to Do in Port Angeles

2008-03-13T12:48:00.001-07:00

Come down to the Junction on Sunday nights for the no-cover,acoustic jam/open mike. You can even exercise your lungs or fingers if you'd like to sing or play an acoustic instrument. Plaid or cowboy shirts are encouraged (but not required) for this week's dress code. Haha.

It's not Las Vegas, but there's lots to do in this town. For a few ideas when the music isn't playing:

Getting to know Port Angeles, takes time...bad day, get a 'shot in the dark' and drive out on the hook and enjoy the view of the mountains over the city...no charge.

20 minute drive, 20 minute walk, rest your buns in warm natural pools above the Elwha River in the woods....no charge.

Tongue Point, a few miles west, turn over rocks see what you find...no charge.

Spend $2 on a day pass, ride to Forks early, transfer to La Push, get off at 2nd or 3rd beach, hike down spend the day, catch the 4:00 back, home by 6:30.

Jump either ferry, spend the night at Ocean Island Backpackers for under $30 and get whatever big city thrills you need and then leave all the negatives across the water when you come home.

Ride your bike, run, or walk along the waterfront trail to Morse Creek and check out the new bench they put in and notice the shimmer off the water as you enjoy a Mt. Baker sunrise or view of boats running through the straight....no charge.

On your ride back drop into downtown and check out Port Book and News, for what IS HAPPENING in town-Allen and daughter Cassidy know a lot.

Stop by Swain's(where bullets used to be an impulse item) or go to the movies at the college on Friday night, swing into Goodwill and you always see somebody you know, eat the buffet at China First, do the garage sales on Saturday...more later as the weather improves on the Olympic Peninsula.

Guitar Instruction Tip#20: Get percussive with your strum technique, especially on bluegrass and country songs. Let your wrist do the work and make yourself heard above those other instruments and vocals.

Ramblin' Post in Port Angeles

2008-02-18T13:40:00.000-08:00

No school today and recent polls show Lincoln is the most popular American president, at least on this President's Day, 2008. With a Monday holiday, one would think more of my colleagues would venture out to the Junction on a winter's evening, but only a few did including the ever-photogenic Emily at left next to a smiling Paul. Today the sun is shining in Port Angeles after weeks of pewter skies, snow, rain, and drizzle. The streets downtown are still dug up, making things like going to the bank or a restaurant difficult. But it's only temporary. Larry returned to the jam last night and helped us with a new (old) song, "Wasn't Born to Follow." The key will be changed to Eb, not that it matters to any but a few guitar players who won't be pleased at all, especially those who refuse to use a capo. Oh well...rule: the singer gets to choose the key, but not the dress code...I was only kidding about flannel shirts and gingham pants! Apparently no one has any gingham pants, but flannel was well-represented. Well done.
Guitar Instruction Tip #19: There's a reason it's called the "F" chord so buck up and keep trying.

Snowgrass, Surgery and a Not So Subtle Winter

2008-01-24T11:50:00.000-08:00

Yes, it's still winter on the Olympic Peninsula, and Port Angeles is cold, like the surgeon's knife. Snow threatens and Snowgrass is tonight! It's a benefit for "First Step Families" held each year in the high school auditorium. This year, Deadwood Revival headlines, and Loose Gravel from Forks performs along with other local groups, all in the bluegrass or semi-bluegrass style. It oftens sells out, but there may be a few tickets left at Port Book and News in Port Angeles.

Three of our regulars at the Junction Jam, Johnny Mustang, Rudy Maxion, and Bob Driver, play for the lunch crowd at the now non-profit Roots Coffee House in Port Angeles. They serve fair trade coffee and white clam chowder (wish someone would start serving red around here) along with the usual sandwiches, scones and stuff. But the music was good as one would expect. Ok, it's Saturday and time for guitar lessons.

Guitar Instruction Tip #18: Acoustic Guitar magazine has published a new instruction book worth a look.

Winter on the Olympic Peninsula

2008-01-14T19:58:00.000-08:00

Wow! How many times did that particular comment enter my email this morning? After last night's jam at the Junction in Port Angeles most people were at a loss for words, apparently. There was a lot of dancing! And then smiling. And more smiling and dancing. Fun, fun, fun. There was the group of teachers (whose names shall not be mentioned) exuberant over their graduation from a Master's program that found the perfect celebratory location and proceeded to revel with the other revelers. No, you won't pry any details out of me! Check the sidebar for more revelatory images. It certainly is winter with a vengeance as far as the season is concerned, but inside the Junction on Sunday nights it's warm, cozy and cheery like summer at the beach. Did someone mention surf songs? Yes, we have those, too, just didn't get around to them last night. Thanks again to the Dry Creek gang for coming out last night! Oops, that may have been too much detail.
Guitar Instruction Tip #18: Keep using a flatpick and anchor your hand to the pickguard. You're not ready for finger-picking yet so show a little patience.

Last Jam at Crazy Fish

2007-12-29T20:29:00.000-08:00

A large crowd turned out for what could have been the last Wednesday night jam at the Crazy Fish in Port Angeles. That's Johnny and Eric Whitman from the Lonely H joining Miles(number two son on drums) and me onstage for "Down on the Corner" and "I Shall Be Released," among other songs. Lots of their friends, many home from school for Christmas break, were present to cheer them on. Looks like they're playing tonight at the Tractor Tavern in Seattle. Certainly a highlight of the season for me since both Miles and Mick got up on stage with me to perform, and everyone else seemed to have a good time. Stephen sang expecially well on "Stormy Monday" and "Route 66." This isn't the first time patrons have been heard to comment about how there sure is a lot of musical talent in our neck of the woods. And, not all of them are guitar players! Whatever happens with the Crazy Fish, the music will continue in one venue or another for a long time to come. Speaking of which, the acoustic jam on Sundays at the Junction in Port Angeles continues to thrive. Maybe some of the at-risk tech-savvy youth out there will step up to make a web page for that venue. Would that ruin the "low-tech" atmosphere of the place?

Guitar Instruction Tip #18: So you want to be a rich rock and roll star? Well, listen now to what I say. Practice early in the morning(that means you have to get up!), play every gig offered to you, practice some more, and then strike oil or win the lottery.

Stephanie at the Junction!

2007-12-21T21:36:00.000-08:00

Believe your eyes. That is Stephanie last Sunday at the Junction in Port Angeles, and we're performing "Stormy Monday," with Patrick(in the background on lead guitar) and Paul and Joe (off camera) on drums and harmonica respectively. Needless to say, the crowd was tuned in and awed by her voice. We also played along with Dave Secord and Luck of the Draw who also made one of their all too infrequent appearances. Rollin' Waters may play the Ajax in Port Hadlock soon--stay tuned.

The fate of the Crazy Fish in Port Angeles is uncertain, and consequently, so is the Wednesday night jazz/blues/folk/country jam. The owners are trying to sell the business or make some kind of arrangement so the club can stay open. There have been lots of fun nights there over the last four years, many of them on recent Wednesdays at the jam. Last Wednesday, thirteen year old Ashley brought her fiddle and wowed the crowd with solos on "Old Joe Clark" and "You Ain't Goin' Nowhere." Maybe there'll be some good news next week about the future of the "Fish."

Guitar Instruction Tip 17: Keep your guitars--all of them. Never ever give your guitar to a girlfriend/boyfriend/significant other/ex-wife/ex-husband/whatever/. They will sell it and buy a better one every time.

The Unbearable Heaviness of Holidays

2007-12-05T08:52:00.000-08:00

I want a dog, plain and simple. But, for now and because of the holiday season crunch, work schedules and the joy of responsibilities, singing about "Old Blue" and playing with the neighborhood canines will have to suffice.

It seems my current musical partners will insist on doing Christmas songs at the jams and upcoming party gigs. This is a new turn of events. In the past none of my partners made such outrageous and difficult musical demands. As a result last night, Rudy and Bill "forced" me to rehearse "The Little St. Nick, Jingle Bell Rock, and Jingle Bells." Actually, "The Little St. Nick" is a Beach Boys song, and therefore at least somewhat enjoyable to play and sing with the background parts and extra unusual chords. Thinking the worst might be over (at least until Friday's sing-along) I settled into the Math lesson this morning only to hear, wafting through the thin classroom wall, the sounds of neighbor teacher Warren leading the fifth graders in Xmas carols. So we paused and sang along since it would have been futile to resist. Ok, maybe it was a little bit enjoyable....

On Sunday we started a little later at the Junction, but the players turned out in good numbers once again and we played until nearly 12:30 AM. This was after our gig at the "Flotation Device" in Gig Harbor where we barely arrived on time having fought the snowstorm that ravaged the region over the weekend. Rudy, who recently moved here from Oakland, CA, was a little nervous about the white stuff, but we told him to consider it an adventure. Peer pressure sometimes works but we did see lots of vehicles in the ditch between Port Angeles and Bremerton.

Saturday, Mike and I played at the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock. What a treat! Music, good audience, funny hats on the diners and a halibut dinner, too.

Guitar Instruction Tip #16: Never change your guitar strings right before a performance. The strings will inevitably stretch and you will spend time either tuning or playing out of tune.

Live Music and Dancing in Port Angeles

2007-11-13T10:53:00.000-08:00

If you've ever wondered whether people would dance to music played on acoustic guitars and a few voices sans bass and drums, the answer is "Hell yes!" That very question was answered on Sunday night at the Junction between the hours of 7:00 PM and 12:20 AM. We're supposed to stop at 11:00 PM but there were lots of players to get on stage and everyone seemed to be having fun so we went longer. Conventional wisdom dictates that a band must have bass and drums (especially drums) before people will get out on the dance floor. Not necessarily true. The proof is in the pictures. It has happened before, but it still surprises and inspires. The next best thing for a musician is seeing people in the audience singing along with a song that has moved them to vocalize. Nice.

For the second week in a row we had no drums at Crazy Fish, but there were plenty of electric guitars and my borrowed Peavey Classic 30(thanks Strait Music). Rudy, as always shined on bass and he's starting to sing more with fine harmonies. Kelly was missing in action but will be back next week. Dan, from Rate Limiting Step, and Mike from the Soul Shakers, once again sparkled on electric blues, drums or no drums. Patrick played lick after tasty lick on my Strat and voiced good reviews for the Classic 30. I must admit it took several songs for Stephen and I to find a groove in the first set, but his vocal on Route 66 perked up the crowd. Hope to see you all at the jam at the Junction on Sunday.

Rain on the Olympic Peninsula

2007-11-07T08:49:00.000-08:00

The rain is returning to the Olympic Peninsula this week. It never leaves for very long, however. The streets are wet and skies are gray. Normal. Election day has passed, and apparently few bothered to vote, and Jefferson County had more voters than Clallam County. Why is that? Different worlds in some ways except when it comes to music. A lot of musicians travel and perform between the two counties even though the rural miles are long, especially during the frequent rainy nights.

Here in Port Angeles Sunday night at the Junction got a boost from Cindy and Mike of the Soul Shakers when they revved up the crowd with rockin' blues. Even without electric guitars! In fact, the vocals were right up front where they belong. Very cool. Check the sidebar for pics of Phyllis and John who also lifted our spirits on another musical night at the Junction.

Last night at the Crazy Fish was really fun. Kelly wowed the large crowd with new songs and Dan Lieberman accompanied on my Stratocaster while Marty added harmonica. Cory was in fine form wth Rudy and Patrick playing the blues. Bill never fails to bring the dancers to their feet with his classic version of the Wanderer. Back in New Jersey, Dion is proud of you, Bill. Stephen added some jazz classics including Route 66 and Wonderful World. Teachers and firefighters-each out of uniform-made up much of the lively crowd.

Port Angeles Halloween at the Junction

2007-10-25T14:21:00.000-07:00

John Nelson calls it the "Six Days of Halloween." That because most, if not all, of the live music venues in Port Angeles are doing something for the Halloween season. I won't be hosting on Halloween itself (Wednesday) since the Crazy Fish will have some other band that night, but on Sunday scary folks indeed will come out to the Junction. There are many pictures of helpless victims in the clutches of Vampire Stephanie, but this is one of my favorites from last year. Bill is a huge fan of Halloween, and guests can expect his all out performance this Sunday.

Speaking of performances, Rusty was in top form last Sunday, and she sure makes my guitar sound and look good! Jimmy Hoffman also put in fine performances of some of his favorites, including the tribute to our friend Lawrence, but also helped us out on "Aimee" and several other standards. See the sidebar for one pic of him.

Blow up your TV and come on out to the Junction this Sunday! Trick or treat.

Port Angeles--Jam City Two

2007-10-15T19:13:00.000-07:00

George sang played especially well this last Sunday at the Junction, and that's Johnny Mustang to his left in the pic. There was music just about everywhere in Port Angeles last weekend with the Crabfest and all the usual venues with live music. For some reason the Crabfest features mostly out-of-town acts. Lots of folk singers and Irish types. But most people came for the crab anyway. Joe and I had hot dogs made deliciously by Cindy at the Junction. Sometimes a hot dog really hits the spot after a night of live music. Paul is trying hard to have his drums ready for next week and this Wednesday at the Crazyfish. It's almost for sure that Ed Donahue will bring his horn and knock your socks off once again.

Mike and I are at the Ajax in Port Hadlock Saturday evening for our debut performance. Yes, we've been practicing! We'll do new material as well as some of the Rollin'Waters favorites.

Guitar Instruction Tip #15: Practice chords, not just melody. You won't get to solo all the time or even half of the time. Develop a good rhythm technique or else!

Fall and Spider Season is Here

2007-09-29T19:43:00.000-07:00

Have you noticed how many spiders are around these days and did you know that spider silk or "gossamer" is one of the strongest materials? Well, now you do. There must be some good songs about spiders and if so, we should start playing them at the Juncton or Crazy Fish soon. I am trying to add a pic to this post but there seems to be some problem tonight. So, the pic may have to be loaded later in the edit mode. There's a whole bunch of new songs (actually old songs) to work on this week. I hope to have "Big Boss Man" ready to perform, if not tomorrow, then next week. We've been thinking up some cool ideas for "theme" nights at the Junction. Hmmm...I wonder if there are any Betty Page look-alikes on the Peninsula...

Guitar Instruction Tip #14: Find a song you like and practice singing it while playing. Don't wait twenty years to try this because you think you have no voice for singing. If nothing else, you'll learn more quickly how to accompany another singer(or yourself) which is what you'll be asked to do more often than not when playing in a band.

Jam City on the Peninsula

2007-09-16T13:37:00.000-07:00

Bill's birthday....tonight! You bet we'll sing, and the plan was to have a room full of dancing girls to help him celebrate, but most likely that won't happen this year. Still, we'll have a terrific jam like last week as you can see from Patrick's smiling face (I think he was dancing with that girl from Retroville in Port Angeles). I think Vicki is baking Bill's cake as I type this entry. Yummm.

Yes, school has started and I, along with the other ruler-packin' disciplinarians are back at it in full swing. That doesn't mean there's less music jammin' and open mikin' on the Peninsula, expecially in Port Angeles and Sequim. Quite the contrary, in fact. Why, it's truly "jam city" these days on the North Olympic Peninsula, and the talent keeps showing up at the Junction, the Baja and Crazy Fish, to name but a few of the local live music spots. Had a chance to jam with Blackbird and a dobro-playing guy from Texas last night. Sidney and Noel can really belt out the harmonies. At times I thought we were channeling Crosby, Stills and Nash. Very fun evening. Cary plays a mean harmonica, too, and plans to join us for a Junction jam soon.

Guitar Instruction Tip #13: If you are an acoustic player and don't have a capo, buy one now (that means today).

Port Angeles Electric Jam and Open Mike

2007-09-01T16:35:00.000-07:00

Not very often, but every now and then we open up the jam/open mike to electrict instruments. And so it shall be this Sunday at the Junction in Port Angeles as Joe (pictured left) helps me host from Seven to Eleven. Of course there will be acoustic instruments including a banjo! Can't wait to try "Wagon Wheel" with a banjo.

Patrick joined me at Strait Music after my guitar lessons today to work up a few more acoustic songs for upcoming jams. Did you know he sings, too? I don't think most people know that!

Still working on the "poster" and it's slow going. With all those pics from the last several years I'm determined to get a finished product soon. In the meantime, rough drafts will have to do. If anyone knows of a good program to make posters please let me know.

Guitar Instruction Tip #12: Use a hard or medium flatpick. You'll get more volume and a better tone.

Almost Over

2007-08-16T21:20:00.001-07:00

Rollin' Waters plays the Clallam County Fair this Sunday at 5:00 PM, and then we're at the Junction from 7:00 to 11:00 PM. Weather forecasts are not the best, but balmy weather is the norm at fair time in Port Angeles. The music, food, rides....sounds like summer!

Guitar lesson tip #11: Record yourself and listen critically. There's no excuse because cassette recorders (presuming you won't spring for digital software or hard disk recorders) are very cheap these days.

Summer Vacation at the Junction in Port Angeles

2007-08-06T17:01:00.000-07:00

So, we sat around after the jam/open mike and played more songs, drank a little more beer, and told some stories. Once again a good mix of regulars, local musicians and people on vacation filled the Junction in Port Angeles, and everyone seemed to have lots of fun. Rudy, a relative newcomer and transplant from Oakland, California, played terrific bass, and Bill Harper, longtime Port Angeles musician, found his way to the jam for the first time and promised to return. Many thanks to Bill Tiderman for helping host again and to Cindy who appropriately wore her "police" baseball cap.
With all the recent good weather and wealth of music and musicians and audiences, one is reminded why people like to visit our Olympic Peninsula. Well, at least those are some of the reasons!
Guitar Instruction Tip #10: When you're having trouble playing a familiar melody, try singing it first. Sometimes that will help make sense of the phrasing and rhythm.

August

2007-08-03T22:34:00.001-07:00

There's something about changing strings on my guitar that is almost inspirational, smoothing the way to learn new songs, try out new licks and play in front of people again. It's been a while since the last post, but Rollin' Waters carries on with another open mike/jam this Sunday at the Junction in Port Angeles, and it's acoustic so bring acoustic guitars, for crying out loud. Cindy's back and she can still make the best gin and tonics. Many thanks to our loyal jammers, Junction patrons, and new talents who make the jam the best on the Peninsula. Hope to see you there.
Guitar Instruction Tip #9: Change your guitar strings often depending on how much you play. Once a year is not enough for anyone!

Back in Sequim

2007-07-03T10:21:00.000-07:00

Rollin' Waters is back in Sequim this evening for the the "Concert in the Park." The music starts at 6:00 PM, and continues until 8:00 PM, and we'll be joined by superb bassist, Todd Fisher from Port Townsend. It's our first time "in the park," so join us for the event, and maybe the weather will cooperate. Cindy's birthday at the Junction provided a good reason for a party celebration, and Phyllis and Melanie did a great job decorating the place - in pink! Lots of jammers have been joining us on Sundays and it's been lots of fun playing well beyond our official ending time of 11:00 PM. Last weekend we had one busy Saturday with performances at the Sequim Open Air Market and then at the Port Townsend Brewing Company for their tenth anniversary party. Many thanks to Tim and the guys in "Lucious Clay" for letting us use their fine PA equipment. I'm envious!

Guitar Instruction Tip #8: Use your wrist when playing chords as well as single notes and you'll get a better tone (except when you want to be unusually loud). Watch Eric Clapton in the "Rolling Stones Circus" and you'll see what I mean.

School's Out

2007-06-26T17:30:00.000-07:00

School's out! Now there's time to work on new songs and arrangements--yeah. The Junction in Port Angeles fires up every Sunday starting at 7:00 PM, the weather gets better, and Rollin' Waters gets busy this weekend. On Saturday we're at the Sequim Open Air Market starting at 11:00 AM. Later that same day we play at the Port Townsend Brewing Company starting at 5:00 PM. Weather permitting it should be a fun and lively outdoor show. That's Joe, Johnny and Stephanie playing one of the standards at the Junction jam/open mike.

Guitar Lesson Tip #7: Learn to sight read the basic notes in standard notation on all six strings. It will help you develop discipline for practice and give you an advantage for learning unfamiliar songs. Tab won't always do the job.

Rollin' Waters Plays Port Townsend and the Junction

2007-06-05T11:06:00.000-07:00

Another busy weekend saw us in Port Townsend at the Port Townsend Brewing Company Friday night and at the Junction for our weekly open mike/jam on Sunday night. Playing with Tom and Todd on drums and bass is always a thrill for me, and we had a particularly lively jam on "For What It's Worth" complete with drum and bass solos! Those guys are good--no wonder they are in demand and perform so often. Although it was a little windy and cool(this time we played outside), the crowd stuck with us and we're looking forward to the next show at the PT Brewing Co. on June 30th, for their anniversary celebration. We need more of our regular jammers and any new musicians/spectators to join us on Sunday nights at the Junction in Port Angeles. You can perform solo our with us or another group and have a lot of fun. Lately, people have begun dancing again! It must be the approach of summer with its smells of barbecue and new flowers that's making the crowd frisky enough to start dancing again.

"Take Me to the River" is arranged, practiced and ready to perform, and Stephanie sounds great singing it. You'll want hear our version so get out there.

Guitar Lesson Tip #6: Hunch over the guitar when practicing and don't rest your left arm on your leg.

Sequim Open Air Market

2007-05-24T21:23:00.000-07:00

So Rollin' Waters was supposed to play the Sequim Open Air Market on Saturday, but it's going to be Luck of the Draw with me, Barry, instead. Yes, we will play some new songs, some familiar RW and LD songs and certainly some jokes by Dave. And, on Sunday, Bill and I hold down the fort at the Junction in Port Angeles with promises by many local musicians of their participation. Sounds promising! Oh yeah, the Juan de Fuca Festival is this weekend but we're not playing there.

Guitar instruction tip #5: Cut the nails short on your fretting hand...Girls and women, this means you!

2007-05-17T19:50:00.001-07:00

True spring weather this week on the Olympic Peninsula, and campers, hikers and birdwatchers get ready for Memorial Day Weekend. Port Angeles is a great place for walking when the sun shines and puddles dry up. Outdoor music venues like the Sequim Open Air Market are gearing up for the season, and my old group, Acoustic News, performs there on Saturday. I wouldn't be surprised if they've learned a new song or two. Later on in the summer, Rollin' Waters will perform at the Sequim Concert in the Park, and that will happen on July 3rd. More on that event later. We're getting ready for one of favorite gigs, and that is the Port Townsend Brewing Companing near the marina. We'll have Tom and Todd on drums and acoustic bass for that one. A lively atmosphere awaits all who come there on that Friday starting at 5:00 PM.

That's Bill next to Stephanie in the picture taken at the Junction a few weeks ago. New players show up every week along with our venerable musicians. We're there every Sunday and the gin and tonics (by Cindy) are still the best on the Peninsula!

Musicians Like a Busy Schedule...Oh Yes!

2007-05-09T08:58:00.000-07:00

Wow! The sun is shining on the Olympic Peninsula with new leaves and flowers lining the streets of Port Angeles. What a great weekend for Rollin' Waters! We were so busy the time disappeared so that it didn't seem like the weekend even happened. Friday a large crowd greeted us in Port Townsend at the Port Townsend Brewing Company, and after adjusting the sound a few times we were able to sing and play for three sets, standing most of the time. We took pictures of the audience which is something not done before, at least by us, and we'll put some on the blog soon. We're looking forward to our next show there on June 1st.

Then on Saturday, we were at the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock where the food is outstanding and the atmosphere is loud and raucous, complete with birthday parties and other celebrations. It has a particularly nice location, too, right on the water with boats, docks and old buildings that compliment the view.

As usual, on Sunday we were back at the Junction where a lively crowd of regulars players and listeners joined us for the jam/open mike. Bill and Rick did a fine job on several Beatles songs including "Nowhere Man." I joined them for "Norwegian Wood," one of my favorites, and there was harmony! Cool. Sure, my fingers are a little sore, but that's not a bad thing by a long shot.

Guitar lesson tip #4: Keep the fingernails on your left hand (or whichever hand you use to fret) short so you can use the tips of your fingers and get the note or chord to shine.

Guitars or Cars

2007-05-03T11:30:00.000-07:00

There was a rule, and it was broken: Spend less money on cars and use the savings for more guitars, amps, etc. Sure enough, as soon as the more expensive car is purchased Marty at Strait Music presents a new Martin 00018 style guitar with the most beautiful custom hardshell case imaginable. There must be a solution to this latest dilemma. Too late? Maybe. But when it comes to desirable guitars, there's always hope.

Guitar lesson tip #3: Support your guitar with your right leg (if you're right-handed). You'll look silly using your left leg and your playing will suffer.

Spring Colds and Music on the Olympic Peninsula

2007-04-30T14:04:00.000-07:00

I don't like being sick...never have. Such a waste of time and the world stops for no one, not even musicians and school teachers. And then there's the work that has to be done whether you're sick or not--loading equipment, correcting papers, setting up for a show, planning for a sub, and the list goes on.

Another busy week is already under way. Rollin' Waters plays the Port Townsend Brewing Company this Friday, starting at 5:30 PM, and kicking their new season of live music. We haven't been there since last October, and we're excited. I may have mentioned before that the beer is really good and sometimes they have food. This week it's just Stephanie and me performing but subsequent shows will feature our quartet that includes Tom Svornitch on drums and Todd Fisher on bass.

Now that I have XM radio, a whole bunch of new songs are available to me, giving many ideas for new arrangements to add to our repertoire. Fun!

Northwest Radio, Truffles...

2007-04-17T08:25:00.000-07:00

With a radio spot on KONP in Port Angeles this Friday, more gigs scheduled at the Ajax in Port Hadlock and at Michael's Divine Dining in Port Angeles, and Sunday nights at the Junction, Rollin' Waters is having a busy month. Saturday at the Ajax was especially rewarding with the packed and generous diners and the food--delicious(I learned that a truffle is not something George Harrison made up for "Savoy Truffle" but rather a kind mushroom that makes a great sauce.)
Some guy at the Junction Sunday appropriately named "JC" kept saying 'Amen' after each comment....very ironic it seemed. Many thanks to Joe and Bill for helping me host during the last few weeks. That's Joe and me in the pic at left making the best of things in Stephanie's absence, but now she's back and the music plays on.

Guitar Instruction Tip #2: When using a flatpick always keep a few fingers loosely touching the pickguard below the soundhole at all times (yes, even when playing chords!). Try it and listen to the improved tone and notice how much easier it is to navigate the strings and notes.

RL note: Schools in Hawaii are planning a WASL-like test but it will be called the "HASL" (pronounced "hassle")

As Common as Boats...Good Thing

2007-04-07T20:20:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Joe and Patrick (pictured left) for helping me out last Sunday at the Junction in Port Angeles. Lots of fun playing with them along with Johnny Mustang, Tom and Dave Secord and Rosalee. We sure have a wealth of talent here on the Olympic Peninsula--that's for sure. That pic was taken by Tina, Stephanie's mom, and the new ones in the panel are by Patrick. Nice job!

The rain continues here in Port Angeles with brief periods of marginal clearing, but you should see the cherry trees! Wow...just exceptional this year, and I didn't see a one in Las Vegas where the temperature was about 87 degrees and gray and dusty and crowded with tourists like me. So nice to be back in the Northwest where it's green and guitars are almost as common as boats. The Junction still has the best gin and tonics, the music free, and if you're a musician (acoustic, of course), you should join us Sunday night.

Use the Tips of Your Fingers to Fret Notes on Guitar

2007-04-01T09:51:00.000-07:00

That's Johnny, Cody and Stephanie at the Junction in Port Angeles on a recent Sunday. If you're a player (guitar or other acoustic instrument, that is) get down to the Junction on Sunday night from seven to eleven and play some music with talented folks from the Olympic Peninsula and beyond.

Yes, that's the first of many guitar lesson tips up there in the title. You simply can't be too specific when it comes to helping learn guitar techniques. Too many bad habits to avoid!

New Songs, Frogs, and Spring Warmth

2007-03-05T20:35:00.000-08:00

A warming trend has finally found a foothold on the Olympic Peninsula after a long, cold, wet winter. Frogs are chirping, grass grows and cheerful music plays at the Junction, the Ajax Cafe and Michael's Divine Dining in Port Angeles. Armed with new songs and new smiles Rollin' Waters has rehearsed with drummer Tom Svornitch in anticipation of upcoming gigs in Port Townsend. Last week at the Junction open mike/jam inquiries were made regarding our playing for two weddings and private parties. In other words, it looks like a busy spring, and we're talking about recording songs such as "Time After Time." Be assured, it ain't gonna' sound like Cindy Lauper or even Eva Cassidy when we get done with it. Other new (old) songs we're arranging include "Down the Line," "Blender Blues," and "Take Me to the River," to name a few. By the way, that's not me pictured with Stephanie above with a face lift and dye job, but rather Cody, who jammed with us a week ago.

This Saturday starting at 6:00 PM we play at the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock, and the following week we're at Michael's Divine Dining in Port Angeles. Like usual, we're at the Junction in Port Angeles on Sundays for the Open Mike/Jam starting at 7:00 PM.

Live Music is Best

2007-02-21T10:14:00.000-08:00

Here you go, George--another good pic of Stephanie from the Junction in Port Angeles at our Sunday night open mike/jam. See the sidebar. And, that's Johnny, of the local band the Lonely H, Miles and Mick in order from left to right in the pic below.

You never know where you'll find good live music beyond the Olympic Peninsula, maybe a street corner in New Orleans, the Open Air Market in Sequim, a rooftop in Port Angeles or a Mexican restaurant in the U-District: Agua Verde as on Monday's trip to Seattle returning Miles to school. There was a duo there (no cover) playing Mexican and Venezuelan songs with guitar, fiddle, drum and Irish harp (not all at the same time, of course.) And they could sing well. Later that night, Mick and I stopped at Connor Byrne's for the weekly Bluegrass jam. Much different than Dave's Tuesday jam at the Fairmont in Port Angeles. No mikes, no amps, and every sat in a circle facing eachother rather than the audience who could barely hear them. And yet, there was lots of clapping at the end of each song from the noisy but interested crowd. I've heard about these bluegrass purists that eschew any kind of amplification. Next time I might talk to them and try to bring them along into the 21st century--they'll probably really appreciate that. Haha...

We're scheduled to play Michael's Divine Dining on March 17th after the Ajax on March 10th. The food is great at both places.

Music Resumes at the Junction

2007-02-12T10:09:00.000-08:00

Winter continues on the Olympic Peninsula and only a few patches of blue sky appear over Port Angeles these days, but Rollin' Waters pulls lots of dates this week. Starting with an energetic crowd and lots of "pickers" at the Junction Sunday night (have to stop using that word--we're in the Northwest, for crying out loud!) we travel fifty miles to Port Hadlock for Valentine's Day at the Ajax Cafe. Oh yes, we have some romantic songs for that night.

More pictures are coming soon--promise!

And, since travel seems to be the thing to do during the dark days of winter, here's a new restaurant to visit on the next trip to Seattle-Steelhead Diner-located by the Pike Place Market. Hmmm...gumbo or fish and chips....the chef and owner promises never to serve steelhead.

Wednesday, February 14, Rolling Waters at the Ajax Cafe

Guitar & vocals, Sweet & sultry folk

(from the Ajax Entertainment Calendar)

Rollin' Waters Plays Michael's Divine Dining This Weekend

2007-02-02T11:34:00.000-08:00

There are three kinds of people in the world...those who are good at Math and those who aren't.

No, that isn't a "Rollin' Waters" march down Lincoln Street in Port Angeles promoting our next cd release. Rather, it's a pic from a march of several weeks ago in support of the local school levy, and I wasn't the only local musician pounding the pavement that Saturday morning.

This Saturday we're at Michael's Divine Dining starting at 7:30 PM, for a few sets and featuring some new songs--at least new for Rollin' Waters. Later this week we could have a chance to rehearse with Tom and Todd for upcoming full band gigs on the Olympic Peninsula. Just might have to restring and electric guitar and fire up a vintage Fender amp for that opportunity.

The little Zoom H4 continues to record with pretty good results. Here is a live medley of two of our popular songs: I Know You Rider/Big Yellow Taxi

You can hear Ari on slide guitar, Paul on hand percussion and Bill on background vocals. Nice job, everybody! Hope they all turn out on Sunday when we return after being preempted by the the Super Bowl party at the Junction.

Deadwood Revival and Rollin' Waters Play the Junction

2007-01-22T20:39:00.000-08:00

Cold and rainy weather continue on the Olympic Peninsula, but it was plenty warm inside as local musicians packed the Junction Sunday night. Kim and Jason of Deadwood Revival, Paul Eyestone, Bill Tiderman, Dave Secord with Rosalee, Dottie, Carla, Patrick, Ari (long time, no see), and Rusty(in cool leopard clothes) played a fast and enjoyable night. New tables and chairs gave the old place a new look, and everyone seemed to have a lot of fun. Check out the new pics!

Stormy Mondays, Tuesdays, ....

2007-01-08T11:07:00.000-08:00

Wind-battered but recharged and shaken but not stirred by the once again brutal weather here on the Olympic Peninsula, Rollin' Waters plugs away at gig after gig whether it's the familiar, warm and friendly Junction or the bohemian and unpredictable "Alley Upstairs" in the University District in Seattle. Each show, like Tracy from Jazz in Blume says, is a "box of chocolates." You never know what you will face or have to deal with. Nevertheless, it was a good, truly acoustic, set we played there and the people that were there stayed and enjoyed our show. It was kind of a thrill to play a venue small enough so that no amplification was necessary.
This Thursday we're at the Pegasus in Bainbridge Island for another show at an all ages place. We'll have some cds to sell and a few new songs to try out for the islanders and anyone else who braves the wind and rain that night.
Port Angeles Olympic Peninsula [Junction]Port Townsend Ajax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

A New Year..a New Song

2007-01-03T13:57:00.000-08:00

New Year's Eve, 2006--two shows in Port Angeles, and we were busy from 2 in the afternoon until after midnight. The Olympic Peninsula was full of live music that night. Most of our musician friends were busy from Port Townsend to Sequim to Port Angeles and elsewhere.

Here it is-another live recording from the Junction.This one is The Long Way Home

After a road trip to Seattle on Friday Rollin' Waters is back at the Junction in Port Angeles on Sunday as usual. Maybe some of you can cross the water to see us in Seattle at the Alley Upstairs above Cafe Allegro in the U-District. Looks like a fun place conveniently located across the street from the UW campus(brings back memories!)
Port Angeles Olympic Peninsula [Junction]Port Townsend Ajax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

We Didn't Play Christmas Music

2006-12-26T15:28:00.000-08:00

Although we hosted the jam/open mike at the Junction in Port Angeles as usual(but last Sunday was Chrismas Eve), we played nary a one holiday song. However, we did make plans to learn a song both Stephanie and I like: Grandma Got Run Over by a Reindeer. Some of our regular jammers plus a few new ones turned out and sang and played with us until about 11:20 PM, and even though the crowd was a little lighter than usual, all seemed to have a good time.

Tuesday came with a nice Rollin' Waters surprise. My sister, along with niece Molly, made a rare pilgrimage to Port Angeles to visit my Dad and me, and took us (Mick, Miles and me) to lunch at Michael's Divine Dining. About half way through the meal the soft strains of Goodnight My Love and Shenandoah drifted back to our table, and I thought, "Hmmm...they're playing our cd!" To make it even better, I don't think they just played it because I was there as it was the day shift, and we're surprised when I thanked them for playing us. Obscurity is blessing, as Bob Dylan once said.

And, New Year's Eve is almost upon us. Bring your resolutions and appetites to Cest Si Bon and Michael's Divine Dining (both in Port Angeles on the beautiful Olympic Peninsula) this Sunday evening. We start at Cest Si Bon on 5:00 PM and at Michael's at 9:30 PM.
Port Angeles Olympic Peninsula [Junction]Port Townsend Ajax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Brutal Wind But the Music Played On

2006-12-20T16:04:00.000-08:00

Today was spent repairing the blown down fence gate in my backyard after last week's brutal wind storm. School was closed again on Friday allowing more guitar practice and the learning of more new songs for possible use by Rollin' Waters.
Sunday was another good night at the Junction in Port Angeles. There is no shortage of live music on the Olympic Peninsula during these cold, windy, snowy winter months. Stephanie suggested we rearrange our "stage" at the Junction, and it worked so well we plan to keep it that way. Sometimes change is good, yes? We also debuted some new songs that went over well with Cindy, the bartender, and some of the other regular patrons.
The handy little H4 Flash recorder got quite a workout, too. I will post White House Blues as soon as possible--that means when I find a suitable host site. Meanwhile, I'll try to ease an mp3 or two over to Stephanie at the Myspace site. There's a good live version of Fine and Mellow with number one son Mick on the acoustic guitar solo and a sweet sounding Long Way Home that need posting soon. Here is "White House Blues" live from the Junction.
On Saturday we're back at Michael's Divine Dining starting at 7:30 PM. The food is always great so get on down there and hear some of our new songs along with old favorites. We may even have a new joke to tell. Who knows?

Hot Times at the Junction in Port Angeles

2006-12-12T21:05:00.000-08:00

Sunday the Junction was hoppin' with local musicians Noel Price, Jonathon, Rusty, Bill Jagger, and of course Rollin' Waters joined at times for blues and ballads by Ida and Patrick. Bill Tiderman was present but under the weather and didn't want to sing, so he'll be back in good voice next week.

The little Zoom H4 is proving to be a good investment as it records very well in live situations like our jam/open mike on Sundays. Stephanie did a nice job on Old Man and here it is! Old Man

Hats were off and congratulations and thanks given to Tia just back from Iraq. She and her party stayed most of the night and seemed to enjoy all the music. I particularly liked Noel's versions of "All Along the Watchtower" and "The Cuckoo." That guy can really fingerpick.

Do you have plans for New Year's Eve yet? Well, Rollin' Waters plays two venues that night at both Cest Si Bon starting at 5:00 PM and then at Michael's Divine Dining starting at 9:30 PM.
One of my students gave me a baggie of mini-marshmallows with the following poem attached:
Santa looked at his list
even checked it twice,
And he found out you haven't been very nice.
Since coal's so expensive
Here is the scoop-
Santa's filling your stocking
with
SNOWMAN POOP!
Port Angeles Olympic Peninsula [Junction]Port Townsend Ajax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Learn the Song First

2006-12-01T13:18:00.000-08:00

"You have to know the song so well, that while your playing, if somebody blows your head off with a double barrel shotgun, your body will keep playin'."
-Stephan Grossman

Could it get any colder on the Olympic Peninsula, both inside and outside? Probably..and most likely it will after the rain forecasted for Thursday and Friday. The snow lingers, but melt it must, sooner or later.

Rollin' Waters performed especially well Saturday night in Olympia at Engineered Software's Christmas party. We didn't play any holiday songs, but they liked us a lot, and we sold a few cds. Free dinner, too! We even had a bite from the Little Creek Casino as a result of a party-goer with a connection there. We'll see what happens. Sunday at the Junction was another story, however. Sometimes I think I must have a lot of misdirected nerve to open my mouth to sing some of these great songs and then mess them up terribly. What was I thinking? Next time will be better...promise! Of course, all is never completely wasted, and we did record a live version of "Freight Train" with some great vocals by Stephanie. Here's the link: Freight Train. The back-ordered Zoom H4 finally arrived and it sounds pretty good to my ear for a first live recording. More to follow with any luck.
Port Angeles Olympic Peninsula [Junction]Port Townsend Ajax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Snow Bored on the Olympic Peninsula

2006-11-28T10:26:00.000-08:00

More rain. Snow...freezing temperatures...then more snow. And it's still only November. One major holiday down and another will pass soon. Meanwhile, Rollin' Waters nearly had a busy weekend with shows on Friday at Michael's Divine Dining and on Saturday at the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock. But on Sunday we were cancelled out of our weekly gig at the Junction in Port Angeles due to excessive snow. Sally and Cindy decided to shut down when at least of foot of snow covered the parking lot. Several of the regular jammers called to see if we were going ahead with Sunday night, hoping to attend and perform, despite the snow thereby showing the trooper-like nature of our loyal participants.
So, at least the time was put to good use sharpening up some old songs and working on new ones and figuring out the ins and outs of new recording software and hardware. Go ahead...cancel school for the whole week. I'll stay in the studio and never be bored!
Saturday at the Ajax was a good night with rowdy diners and many compliments for both Stephanie and me--now that doesn't happen often. Usually Stephanie gets the lion's share of response. Not complaining--that's as it should be! Much thanks to Abel for helping haul equipment. Crowd pleasers in our sets included: Down on the Corner, Long Journey Home, Rocky Top, Deep River Blues, Wonderful World, Tell Me Why, I'm Looking Through You, Shenandoah, Soul of a Man, Fever, Shenandoah, and Blue Skies. Stephanie donned various hats, but I liked the motorcycle cap best--see the side panel. Most of the hats won't fit my big head--could it be an enlarged ego causing the problem and is there a way to have that surgically removed? But should this cold weather and snow continue I will definitely starting wearing navy watchcaps. They stretch.

More Rain and Music on the Olympic Peninsula

2006-11-21T20:11:00.000-08:00

There's plenty of rain here in Port Angeles so the trip to Forks in a logging truck is on hold. Besides, the cds or radio in the truck would most likely play contemporary country music, and that would just be too much to take.

The dark days and biblical rains haven't stopped the music, however. That's Stephanie, mother Tina and Joe in the picture at last Sunday's jam. Jeff and Jacob again drew big responses with their songs and I especially liked "Going to California." Bill, Johnny and Patrick(the slide master) were great as usual, and here is Shady Grove recorded on a pocket camera. With any luck more and better video from the Junction and elsewhere with songs featuring Stephanie will follow in the next weeks.

This Friday Rollin' Waters is at Michael's Divine Dining in Port Angeles and Saturday we play the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock next door to Port Townsend. The food is exceptional at both restaurants, and you get to wear hats and act silly at the Ajax. Besides, who would feel like cooking after Thursday? Sunday, as usual, we host the open mike/jam at the Junction in Port Angeles.
Port Angeles Olympic Peninsula [Junction]Port Townsend Ajax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Dark and Dismal on Olympic Peninsula

2006-11-18T16:44:00.000-08:00

I hate the Fall. Everything looks like death and destruction with the leaves almost gone from trees, power outages, howling winds and record rainfall in Port Angeles. There's nothing to do but work, as John Lennon said, yet working for peace seems all but futile. A war protester on a Lincoln Street corner today swayed back and forth in some new age type dance that would have been more appropriate had she been at a Grateful Dead concert twenty years ago. How can the war inspire dancing? Geez! I need to get out of this town. Maybe I'll go to Seattle and live with my boys for a few days. Wouldn't they love that! Sure hope they don't read this! Then again, maybe I'll hitch a ride in a logging truck to Forks like Jack Nicholson in "Five Easy Pieces."
But then it has already been a musical weekend, and Rollin Waters will play at the Junction on Sunday as usual. Tonight my niece and nephew recorded a very rough video version of "Railroad Bill" with just me and a guitar in my living room complete with inane commentary and coughing.

Raining on the Olympic Peninsula

2006-11-15T08:53:00.000-08:00

Well, it's still raining in Port Angeles (and maybe all over the world), and my optimism has passed. All you have to do is lie down for awhile and it's gone. Maybe the key to hanging on to a "good" attitude is to keep moving forward, but then it's probably impossible not to keep moving with all the work one needs to do to make a living in this world. That's enough philosophy--get to the music and show business already, for god's sake.
The Junction served potato soup last Sunday, and our regular jammers said it was good and tasty. I will take their word on that one. Jeff and Jacob, of Idaho and Florida respectively, played a lot of Southern rock for our mid-sized crowd that night who, I must admit,liked it better than I did. Don't get me wrong, they can play and sing very well, but "Sweet Home Alabama" has been played way too often, and the whole "southern rock" thing is more than a little dreary. Just my opinion! Like I said, the crowd liked it a lot. Tom, who plays songs by the reverend and Jorma is much more to my liking--the guy can really finger-pick! So it's off to more practice or maybe a leisurely jaunt down to the Crazy Fish for the jazz jam tonight or to see Baby Gramps on Friday. Who knows what the next few days will bring? Perhaps a blizzard after all the storming so far this week.

What a Birthday!

2006-11-07T20:29:00.000-08:00

Birthday cake(Red Velvet), balloons with helium, decorations and presents--not to mention all the fellow musicians Stephanie dragged away from homely comforts to attend our Sunday jam at the Junction in Port Angeles. Do I feel honored? Yes! Do I feel older? Not hardly! I feel lucky, as the song goes, and grateful for all the good things that have come our way recently. Had a great conversation with Kim, who also has a November birthday, of Deadwood Revival about just such things that night. I remember an interview with John Lennon where he talked about all the work involved with being a musician that never seemed like work when he was doing it. Paul McCartney disagreed, but I prefer Lennon's attitude. Maybe I should lie down and let this optimism pass, but not just yet. Another good thing about the weekend was that both sons came home from Seattle where they go to school. How can they be young adults already? When did that happen? There's something about nineteen or twenty that is the same as it was in 1973, but that's another post altogether. More on that later....
This Friday we're at Michael's Divine Dining in Port Angeles. The food is mouth-watering and not to be missed. The music is not half-bad either--new songs too!
Port Angeles Olympic Peninsula [Junction]Port Townsend Ajax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Raining on Olympic Peninsula

2006-11-02T18:27:00.000-08:00

Not much of a surprise for this time of year in Port Angeles (or any time most years). Sure was warm, dry and inviting at the Port Townsend Brewing Company last weekend. This week were back at the Junction where Highway 101 meets Highway 112 just west of our fair city. And the following weekend we're at Michael's Divine Dining in Port Angeles. We hoped to get some more pictures this week with all the cool fall foliage, but it's just too wet outside. So indoor pics! That's John Nelson in his Halloween attire taking a writing break from the Peninsula Daily News where his column details the whereabouts of Rollin' Waters and other local musicians each Thursday.

Save Money on Entertainment

2006-11-01T18:28:00.000-08:00

What a great night at Port Townsend Brewing Company last Friday night!It was so much fun playing with Tom on drums again and newcomer Dave on stand-up bass. And the crowd really seemed to enjoy the evening..and the beer which is excellent. When you think about going out on a Friday night..well I have to say, our show was a very good deal. No food, but for the price of a few beers, a lot of fun was had by the patrons of the brewing company. We made some new contacts, including other club owners in the area, and we hope to play more in Port Townsend, which isn't all that far from Port Angeles and other Olympic Peninsula locations. Rumor has it that PTBC will continue to have live music in the "off season." Wouldn't that be nice?
Meanwhile, I'm going through new strings like excrement through a Thanksgiving goose. All this guitar-playing, you know...
And yes, we dressed up on Sunday for the Junction in Port Angeles. Just when it looked like we would be the only revelers, in walked, or should I say creeped, Bill in his outrageous monster costume complete with carved pumpkin and cool blue lights. Jason, from Deadwood Revival, treated us again to his fine singing and guitar-playing and even performed his signature song, "Daisy," with Stephanie on harmonica. When is Barry going to get that podcast thing going?
Then, it was happening again at Dave's Tuesday night jam at the Fairmont in Port Angeles. He really packs 'em in and along with Bill, Stephanie and I did "Long Journey Home" and "Angel from Montgomery." Next time I'm having the pizza, which is the best in town. It's a great time and place to be a guitar player and and a very good deal for audiences around these parts.
Port Angeles Olympic Peninsula [Junction]Port Townsend Ajax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Some Guitarists Like the Dead Sound

2006-10-26T08:46:00.000-07:00

Not talking about the Grateful Dead but rather guitar strings. When a guitar is played a lot new strings will go "dead" in a few days and certainly within a week. Some like the "thud" of dead strings, but I prefer the ring of new or semi-new strings. It's all personal preference, I know. And did you know--the harmonica was invented in Europe but popularized in America? I didn't know that. Apparently, here in America, people learned how to bend notes and find overtones that give it such an inviting sound. Stephanie plays it well, adding a lot to our songs. So tonight, back here on the Olympic Peninsula, we're at the Port Townsend Brewing Company starting at 5:00 PM. We'll be with Tom on drums and Dave on bass (Todd is out for a week or two). It's a cool place and this time we are inside the new room with the great beer. Sunday we hope to see lots of you at the Junction in Port Angeles in your Halloween costumes!
Port Angeles Olympic Peninsula [Junction]Port Townsend Ajax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Loyal Musicians

2006-10-16T19:18:00.000-07:00

That's loyal, true and terrific guitarist Patrick of Port Angeles and Junction fame next door in the photo with Stephanie. Week after week our stalwart Junction "regulars" join us for open mike and jamming at the local Sunday night hang. We can't thank the Bills, Patrick, Joe, Johnny, Bob, Ida, Ember, and Max nearly enough for their support and contributions to live music on the Olympic Peninsula. Next weekend,Saturday, October 21, Rollin' Waters plays the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock out near Port Townsend. Always a lively venue and a great photo op, we look forward to the food and the hats! You won't see more variety in headgear this side of Forks, Washington.
Port Angeles Olympic Peninsula [Junction]Port Townsend Ajax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Costumes and Baked Things

2006-10-10T08:53:00.000-07:00

Now it's October, and the weather has finally cooled some on the Olympic Peninsula. Costumes for Halloween have been delivered, and Rollin' Waters will dress up for the occasion, at least at the Junction in Port Angeles. Last year's costume contest was loads of fun and we're looking forward to another celebration. So many pictures were taken of us at the Farm Tour I had to use another one for this blog entry. This Saturday we're at the Bread and Roses in Port Townsend starting at 5:00 PM. I hear the baked goods are exceptional. Can't wait!Even outside of school culture, Fall seems like the liveliest season. Why is that?
Port Angeles Olympic Peninsula [Junction]Port Townsend Ajax Cafe
live music

Do You Remember Northern Exposure?

2006-10-03T20:09:00.000-07:00

I do not look like Holling, the bartender, from the old Northern Exposure television show! Despite what the adoring fans at last Saturday's Farm Tour (Clallam County Heritage Festival) said. Stephanie confirms my belief that he was much older than me, even back in 1991, or whenever that show ran.
Nevertheless, rural farm life in Clallam County certainly has plenty of charm. There were chickens, pigs, tomatoes, homemade soup, dogs that fetched, and plenty of bamboo. And there was nearly five hours of music by us, Rollin' Waters. That is a long time to play music, and my fingers and Stephanie's voice showed some wear and tear, but the day went by fast, and I, for one, would do it again...maybe in two or three weeks. But next week we're almost as busy with the Sequim Open Air Market on Saturday and then the party for Kevin Van DeWege's campaign workers (teachers) at the John Wayne Marina in Sequim. Then, on Sunday, we're playing at 1:00 PM for John Nelson's Food Bank benefit at the Port Angeles Eagles. Whew! Oh yeah, don't forget the Junction in Port Angeles on Sunday night, as usual, starting at 7:00 PM. The week after that is even busier! Stay tuned for more pictures.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Summer Should Be Over By Now

2006-09-27T12:13:00.000-07:00

Except for subtle indications and the Olympic Peninsula Farm Tour coming up this Saturday, one would never know it's officially Fall. Speaking only for myself (Stephanie likes hot, dry weather, particularly in the Southwest)it's time for summer's end. At least it's cooler at the Junction in Port Angeles where we continue the open mike/jam each Sunday evening. This Saturday for the Clallam County Harvest Festival (aka Farm Tour) we're at the Johnston Family Farm at 1046 Heuhstein Road. The Live Bread Shop will be hosting demonstrations and selling bread and Live Cookies. Besides our music there are bamboo gardens,a petting zoo and hay rides.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]

1966 Was Forty Years Ago

2006-09-22T08:34:00.000-07:00

1966 was a good year for music, too. It was October just after a neighbor gave me a very old (even in 1966) tube radio that I placed on the top shelf of my bedroom closet, and walking into the room after school was playing "Good Vibrations." Now this was really different and it sounded so good. Earlier that summer the Beatles had the spooky "Eleanor Rigby" on the radio again and again. Anyway that's what I remember from forty years ago.

So, back to the present year of 2006, and the music of Rollin' Waters on the Olympic Peninsula. Of course we'll be at the Junction on Sunday as usual. We've had a great turnout of local musicians over the last few weeks and it's been lots of fun. As you know or can imagine, lots of people come to Port Angeles and environs over the summer for vacations, and some of them are players and singers. How perfect for us and the Sunday night jam at the Junction. Last week, Jack from southern Oregon brought his powerful voice and impressed us all. What a treat. We'll see who turns up this Sunday. Next week we're at the Johnson Farm for the annual Farm Tour on Saturday and there's a benefit on Sunday. John Nelson's column in the Daily News will tell us where and when next Thursday. After next week, things get really busy!

When Tragedy Strikes Musicians Turn Out

2006-09-04T20:04:00.000-07:00

Last night at the Junction in Port Angeles musicians,friends and family of Dave Schaumberg gathered to raise money and play music. Dave's home burned down and then was looted the next day, wiping out possessions and threatening his family's future, but thanks to John Nelson and the folks at the Junction an event was planned, auctions held, and funds were raised to help out. It's inspiring when the music community, education community or any group of people unite to right some of the wrongs in our Olympic Peninsula world. There were more participating musicians at our jam/open mike that evening than ever in our experience as hosts of the Sunday Jam. I think we played until nearly midnight, and at times the dance floor was full!

Tomorrow Stephanie and I play "Fuel" in Seattle, a new venue for us. More to report later.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Music Abounds on the Olympic Peninsula

2006-08-29T16:27:00.000-07:00

Sometimes we need some extra help getting ready for a gig, especially if it's in Port Townsend at a place where we haven't yet performed, like the Port Townsend Brewery. Tomorrrow is our debut and we start at 5:00 PM. Looking forward to it! The beer is good, too!
We recorded a rough copy of "Love Me Like a Man," and plan to finish it up later this week if all goes according to plan, which rarely happens. But it's usually best to plan optimistically. Then, on Sunday as always, we're back at the Junction for the open mike/jam starting at 7:00 PM. Speaking of the Junction, one of the most delightful night spots on the Olympic Peninsula and in Port Angeles, here is a recent photo of some of our jammers.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

You Want Johnny Cash at Your Wedding?

2006-08-22T13:22:00.000-07:00

In the old days, everybody wanted the "Wedding Song." Thanks be to god those days are over! Apologies to Paul Stookey, but I'm still sick of that song. Fortunately, we've been asked to learn some different songs for this summer's weddings, including "You Belong to Me" made famous by Patsy Cline. It turned out well enough that we use it in some of our non-wedding shows. But I never would have guessed someone would want a Johnny Cash song during the wedding ceremony itself. Maybe the reception when people want to dance or hoot and holler, but in front of Grandma and Uncle Fred? Very surprising but not altogether unpleasant either. In fact, it turns out that some of those Cash songs are actually a challenge to learn, much to my surprise. Thus, Luther Perkins gets even more respect from this guitar player. Looking forward to this next wedding. We get to play both the ceremony and reception at the Wildfire restaurant.

And now the weather has cooled on the Olympic Peninsula, and you have to watch out for foggy conditions coming back from Seattle as you climb Walker Mountain after the Hood Canal brigde. Everybody complains about the extra summer traffic on the Peninsula, but compare that to I-5 during rush hour(?)in Seattle or Tacoma or anywhere on the west side of Puget Sound. It so much better to take Metro after walking off the ferry in downtown Seattle. A few weeks ago I had some extra time on a routine visit to see my dad who lives down south in Burien. Figuring it would take at least an hour to bus to his place I planned accordingly for a leisurely bus trip. But after call Metro and being directed to a really fast express bus it only took fifteen minutes to get from second and Marion to his place in Burien. Astonishing! Pray for subways and light rail! More about public transportation in later posts.

So tomorrow we take the new teachers to lunch at Cafe Garden. Maybe some of them sing or play the guitar (it's a fairly safely bet) and I can convince them to come down the Junction in Port Angeles for the open mike/jam Sunday nights starting at 7:00 PM. Stephanie and I continue to work on new songs and plans for a podcast right here on this site. Stay tuned!
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

How to Have Fun on the Olympic Peninsula in August

2006-08-15T23:06:00.000-07:00

The first thing to consider is the Rollin' Waters jam/open mike at the Junction in Port Angeles. Next, if you haven't already made plans to do so, get down to the Clallam County Fair on Sunday, August 20th at noon to see our show on the new Wilder Stage. Stephanie have worked out some new songs we're eager to play this weekend. Should more weekend stimulation be needed, get down to the Port Angeles Farmer's Market on Saturday starting at 10:00 AM where we'll once again perform. We had a very busy weekend last at the Sequim Open Aire Market and at the Studio Tour on Bainbridge Island (see pic above). Then on Sunday we played at the Forks Family Festival and that was fun, too. Lately the Junction has been hopping! Lots of jammers as well as appreciative audiences. Jason, of Deadwood Revival, dropped by and helped us out with Neil Young's "Old Man" on guitar. Joe, Johnny, Bill Tiderman, Ember and others joined in for some more good music. What a treat for us to be joined by so many of our fellow musicians on the Olympic Peninsula.

And so it goes, you don't have to look too far to have fun around our neck of the woods.

We're also fixin' to record some of our live shows and jams at the Junction. If any of you have ideas for the best ways, or easiest ways to record live audio, please respond in the comment section. Your help will be appreciated!
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]

How Old is that Gibson in Guitar Years?

2006-08-11T17:53:00.000-07:00

This is a shot from Port Angeles photographer, Dave Logan, at Melissa's and Devin's wedding reception last Saturday. Todd and Tom really helped us out with getting people on the dance floor and generally rocking out all afternoon. Tom even doubled as MC for the various reception activities such as the cutting of the cake and the tossing of various wearables. It was a memorable event for us and, hopefully, for the bride, groom and families. Oh yeah, they said they liked our music!

Not sure what's wrong with the weather out here on the Olympic Peninsula, but it's already foggy in the morning, kind of like Fall in August. Oh well, the summer winds down fast now anyway, and the forecast is for great weather over the weekend.

It could be a somber event at the Forks Family Festival with all the bad news about a fallen soldier from out there and the extensive local news coverage about effect on the family and local community. But maybe we can offer some healing tunes and entertain people to some good effect. Hope so.

Meanwhile, guitar strings have been changed, a new thumbpick has been found, and the guitar has been cleaned up, at least a bit. It's amazing how lasting guitars, good ones, that is, really are. Our audience often gets reminded that my guitar is older than Stephanie. How long do guitars last anyway? People talk about "dog years." Can there be something like "guitar years?"
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]

Lessons in Proper English

2006-08-07T21:59:00.000-07:00

So I received some lessons in “proper English” from my friends Alby and Richard in Australia and England, respectively. Apparently, one should refer to BS as “rubbish” and never as “trash,” for instance. I can’t wait for the next lesson. (They don’t know that in real life I’m a school teacher..hehe). Richard was surprised I wasn’t wearing a baseball cap…quintessential Port Angeles head gear.

After a wonderful weekend playing the reception at the Red Lion in Port Angeles for Melissa and Devin’s wedding, there was an opportunity to see our drummer, Tom, play with a jazz quartet, and what a treat! Having never been to the old town section of Silverdale, we now have a bead on more music venues for future gigs. After hearing Lee Pence use it to great effect, I will have to get a tremolo unit or finally change the worn out tubes in my ’66 Bandmaster and plug in at the next opportunity.

This weekend will be even busier with the Open Aire Market in Sequim on Saturday, Bill’s party on Friday night, the Forks Family festival on Sunday at 2:00 PM and the Junction later that evening.

Hood Canal oysters are still closed. Apparently the eighty people now reportedly sick from ingesting the creatures did not drink wine with the meal as advised by Ronald over at Cornichon.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]
[Hood Canal]

How to Save Money on Weddings

2006-08-01T22:23:00.000-07:00

First of all, don't tell anyone you want to save money on your daughter's wedding! For crying out loud--you don't want the cousins to think you're cheap. However, unless you want to wimp out and hire a dj, you can still get live music, which everyone know is better, and still have enough left over for the cake and flowers. Start by looking for a local band, say "Rollin' Waters," if you live on the Olympic Peninsula. They are really reasonable and you can negotiate with them. Furthermore, they are experienced! This summer alone they booked four weddings within two summer weeks. If you don't live on the peninsula you are not completely out of luck. Rollin' Waters will travel unless you live in Spokane or Denver, or some other silly place. In that case, check a local music store and ask they guy that doesn't any piercings or noticeable tattoos if he can recommend a local band for the wedding. It really is that simple. All about knowing who to ask. Rollin' Waters has so many wedding gigs this summer that I've had to give jobs away to other guitar players and bands, and there is some real satisfaction in knowing that we're sharing some work with our musical colleagues.
Don't forget to read John Nelson's column in Thursday's Peninsula Daily News to find out about all the musical happenings on the peninsula. Even if you don't like music, it's a good read because John's a fine writer, and sometimes in these long summer months one struggles to find enough good reading material. On the other hand, avoid the teacher bashing letters to the editor on the opinion page. Some of those are murder and enough to make one want to write a protest song!
One more thing, if you're hesitating to eat the oysters from Hood Canal, read the article over at Cornichon. It might help you enjoy some of our local restaurants.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]
[Hood Canal]

Thursday

2006-07-27T13:13:00.000-07:00

Smoldering! As you can see, the good weather has returned to the Olympic Peninsula, and last Saturday, at Arts in Action in Port Angeles, the heat was downright oppressive. But the music played on, and Stephanie agrees it was one of our better shows. The crowd was very generous with applause, the sound was good, and Miles took some pictures, although he wasn't satisfied with the the intense sunlight. Many thanks to Mike and Dwayne for the good work on sound and staqe and for organizing such a fun event. We're looking forward to playing outside again at the Clallam County Fair in August.
This last Saturday we played at Kat's wedding out at the Lake Crescent Lodge in the equally warm weather. Photographer Dave, my neighbor, couldn't resist taking extra pictures of Stephanie, so some of them may show up on this blog later this summer. We have another wedding coming up on the 5th for yet another teacher tying the knot this summer. Melissa's event will happen on August 5th, and we are scheduled for the reception at the Red Lion here in town. And, it looks like yet another wedding will employ Rollin' Waters later that same month. So nice to be musically busy!

Our deepest sympathy goes out to fellow musician Rick Thanem for the tragic loss of his son earlier this week.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]

Arts in Action

2006-07-20T14:59:00.000-07:00

Eighty three year old Doc Watson played at the Zoo Tunes show in Seattle last night, and Mick and I were there. What a treat to hear "Shady Grove" and some of "our" other songs played so well by the legend. Most of the licks are still there and his voice is the same--sure gives one hope for a long life of playing music.
On Saturday at noon we play at the Port Angeles Arts in Action event down on Hollywood Beach in what is normally the parking lot. It's probably the sand sculptures that bring most of the people to the Olympic Peninsula this weekend, but the music promises a lot starting tomorrow with our colleagues, Deadwood Revival and Stephanie's dad's new group, Second Nature. Now if that doesn't sound "all in the family" enough, consider that their guitar player, Mike, and singer, Kelly, have performed with us in previous bands over recent years. Sometimes the isolation of the peninsula makes one wonder if we don't have a lot in common with Appalachia, the Australian outback, and the Gallapagos.
So, a busy musical weekend looms-after the Arts in Action gig, we play a wedding at Lake Crescent Lodge on Sunday before the Junction open mike and jam. The weather is perfect, and that doesn't happen too often around here so, as they say on television, "let's get out there!"
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]
[Doc Watson]
[Arts in Action]

Dog and Jury Days

2006-07-18T18:59:00.000-07:00

It's never been clear just what "dog days" really means, although I know it has something to do with midsummer. The weather has improved on the Olympic Peninsula, just in time for jury duty! Luckily my number was high and there was no seat for me. It's quite possible the defense would have rejected me anyway. Living in Port Angeles for 26 years causes me to know lots of people in and out of law enforcement, not to mention those involved in music.
The Junction crowd was minimal to start with but grew along with the evening, and it turned into a good summer evening. Joe and Johnny played some unheard songs and we jammed along while Bill debuted a new Moody Blues medley. The pictures tell the story.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]

Farmers' Market

2006-07-15T21:32:00.000-07:00

Friday night and the weather on the Olympic Peninsula still seems like Fall. Clouds cover the sky and drizzle periodically scars the decks of homes throughout Port Angeles. But the music plays on! Forget about the Lavendar Festival, (it’s for grandmothers!), and get yourself down to the Junction Sunday night for the Jam/Open mic or on Saturday to the Farmer’s Market in the County Courthouse parking lot. As usual, Rollin’ Waters will host and play blues, folk and even some rock and roll. People will dance and do whatever they do, and Stephanie and I will tempt you with our new cd just off the presses and ready for your reviews and listening pleasure. You’ll notice guest appearances by some the finest musicians in the northwest, certainly on the north Olympic Peninsula. What a thrill that they are eager to play with us and record when the opportunity beckons. And, we are in daily rotation on Cygnus Radio out of Ontario, Canada! We hope to have some reviews of our new cd from other sites and venues soon. Be sure to check our Myspace site for more information. And keep stiff upper lip, it can’t be cloudy forever!
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]

Clouds on the Peninsula

2006-07-10T21:24:00.000-07:00

Clouds cover the Olympic Peninsula and rain threatens, but none of that dampens the fun at the Junction in Port Angeles. Sunday was great with Bill, Bob, Johnny Mustang, George, Ida and Gabriel all on hand to play and sing through the night. The crowd not only listened to our songs but danced to the more upbeat numbers. What fun! John Nelson, from the Peninsula Daily News, was there and we played "Shenandoah," his favorite of our songs. Sometimes the Junction reminds me of the old TV show, "Cheers." It's a place with personality, regulars, and the best gin and tonics north of Los Angeles.

Our new cd is delivered and ready to be heard. In fact, one cut, "Deep River Blues," was played on internet radio this evening. Check out Cygnus radio from Ontario, Canada. That makes two radion stations that have played our songs this year. Although I rarely listen to our local KONP AM station here in Port Angeles for fear of Rush Limbaugh, the station, thanks to Karen Hannan, played and promoted our local gig at the Seven Cedars Casino earlier this year. What a thrill to hear yourself on the radio!

Saturday we're at the Farmer's Market in Port Angeles, starting at ten in the morning. Cds will be available!
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]

Summer

2006-07-07T14:30:00.000-07:00

What is it about summer schedules and teenagers? Sleep until noon or later and stay out until 3:00 AM when 90% percent of the job prospects are only attainable during the daylight hours. I don't want to think about the kind of economic possibilities associated with the teenage hours. Next thing you know, your kids become musicians working at the Ritz on first avenue in Seattle for an audience of bikers. Well, that's another blog entry for a later date.

The sun has returned to the Olympic Peninsula, and summer is officially in session. Rollin' Waters might perform "Summer Wine" Sunday at the Junction in Port Angeles in honor of this natural event. Tomorrow we rehearse with Rick Thanem who plays at least three instruments and will help us out with an upcoming wedding show. I've worked with him before and he is a quick study...can't wait to play "Billy in the Lowground" with him again. Maybe, if my recording equipment is working well, we'll get to record a few songs, too. Talked with a reporter from the Peninsula Daily News this morning about a feature on the Arts in Action event in Port Angeles coming up on the 22nd of this month. I hope Stephanie likes the picture they choose! It's a fun event with lots of food and people in a near carnival atmosphere right there on Hollywood Beach.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]

[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]

Fourth of July

2006-07-04T11:34:00.000-07:00

A lively crowd joined us at the Junction in Port Angeles on Sunday. Stephanie's extended family stayed for most of the night, and Art, the harmonica player with the Jersey accent, performed after a six month absence. He also sang a cool version of "Stormy Monday" with very nice harmonica solo. Johnny Mustang was under the weather and could not be convinced to sing or play. Same for harmonica Bob, but Bill Tiderman brought newcomers to the dance floor, as usual, and he did a great solo version of "Don't Let the Sun Catch You Cryin'." Going to a barbecue at his house later today--haven't had a hot dog in ages.

The weather continues its splendor on the Olympic Peninsula, and we're waiting to hear where we are on the schedule for Arts in Action and for the next gig at the Ajax in Port Hadlock. So glad it's summer...busy, but in the best way.

I can't wait to do some more recording in my soon to be "cleaner" home studio where some new equipment is finally taking shape and making sense to a slow learning curve. Over 500 listens to "Wonderful World" on the my/space site!

Pegasus

2006-06-30T20:22:00.000-07:00

Last night we played the Pegasus Coffee House on Bainbridge Island. Cool place with tables and chairs set up and an outside sitting area which our friends from Poulsbo used. The weather was warm. Norm, the owner, seemed to like Stephanie's voice and my finger-picking blues. It's weird when people sit and read a book while we're performing, but what a thrill when they focus on us rather than the book! It reminded me of making people cry at a wedding with just the right song or performance. Then it's clear the job is well done! So, with two weddings coming up this summer, we'll have to keep that in mind!

People really seem to like Todd's double bass on our newest songs posted on myspace. There's something about the fine instrument he plays, his skill/talent, and the way we recorded him in Port Townsend this spring. He is truly a treasure of the Olympic Peninsula.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]
[folk/blues]

Wednesday

2006-06-28T09:32:00.000-07:00

Wednesday, known to some as "hump day," arrives as the fourth warm day of the summer, and one wonders how many more sunny days there are coming up this year. The Olympic Peninsula really shines on such days, rare as ant's teeth. Such was Saturday at the Ajax Cafe, and extra warm on the tiny stage--now it's clear why some performers (mostly male) go shirtless, but to the relief of our audience, that's not going to happen in my case. Instead, we're looking into stage fans, the kind that fasten on to mike stands...small ones, this is. If anyone out there knows where such things can be purchased, please let us know before we succumb to the "heat wave" here in Port Angeles.
The crowd at the Ajax was especially generous with their applause and reactions to our music on Saturday. There was hand-clapping on "I'm Looking Through You" and one guy came up to the stage and sang along on "Wagon Wheel." Some even hooted and hollered when Stephanie sang "Stormy Monday," which isn't unusual, just a first at the Ajax. There are more pictures from the Junction jam/open mike that I will publish soon. I promise! Now it's time to get back to work on our cd..oh, and check the new clips on myspace!
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[acoustic music]

Sing Along

2006-06-22T10:03:00.000-07:00

Before school let out last week Stephanie helped us with the Sing Along at Franklin Elementary School in Port Angeles. What a treat for the kids! In the past, we've had Deadwood Revival, Luck of the Draw, and other local musicians join us for the weekly sing along event. You might be surprised to learn that "Louie Louie" is a favorite every year. One day, at least twenty years ago, I looked up and the kids were doing this hand movement, hand jive kind of thing that I certainly had not taught them. Ever since, it has been handed down from one year to another.

But enough of school, which is out for the summer, and back to music on the Olympic Peninsula! Stephanie and I will perform at the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock this Saturday starting at 6:00 PM. The food is exceptional and the hats are a riot (see several posts back). Get a reservation at 360 385-3450. After that we're back at the Junction in Port Angeles for our weekly Jam/Open Mic starting at 7:00 PM. More pictures shot there appear next week as promised. With all this nice weather on the peninsula, maybe number two son, Miles, will take some outdoor pics of us next week, too. That is, if he isn't being interviewed on Northwest Afternoon again for his video work in the Seattle Times contest. Yes, I taped the program, and it was very cool.

Alright then, it's off to get a much needed haircut and work on our recordings.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[acoustic music]

School's Out!

2006-06-18T17:38:00.000-07:00

DSCN0111,
originally uploaded by barre1953.

Sunday arrives once again, and we're off to the Junction, the Olympic Peninsula's showcase for live blues and the weekly jam hosted by us, Rollin' Waters. With school out for the summer, Stephanie and I travel more to locations like Bainbridge Island and Port Hadlock. Who knows where the summer might find us? Port Angeles has a hold on us, for sure, but locations near and far beckon. We'll see what happens. Without a doubt there will be music and lots of it!
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[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction]

Sunday Jam at the Junction

2006-06-12T18:53:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to Ida and the gang (see photo) and Cindy (see photo)for another fun Sunday at the Junction in Port Angeles. It's certainly one of the must "go to" places for visitors to the Olympic Peninsula. As noted before, Cindy makes great drinks, and I'm particularly fond of her gin and tonics. Lots of pictures were taken last night, and we'll try to get more of them posted later this week. Such a photogenic crowd at the Junction! And they can sing, too. More later!
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction]

Sunday at the Casino in Sequim

2006-06-06T08:30:00.000-07:00

Many thanks to all of you who came out to see us Sunday night at the casino. The band had a great time playing for you, and although we had some trouble with the sound setup, especially in the first set, the crowd didn't hold it against us and danced the evening away. It sure is fun to play with the quintet again. Tom really nailed "Shake, Rattle, and Roll," and his new song, "Help Me." Stephanie wowed the audience as usual with her versions of "Stormy Monday" and "Guilty" among others.

We have many more gigs on the Olympic Peninsula coming up this summer. School is almost out! We're looking forward to the farmers' markets in Port Angeles and Sequim and our first time at the Port Townsend Brewery in August. We'll be at the Ajax Cafe on the 24th of this month and my mouth is already watering. And of course we'll be at the Junction again this Sunday hosting the jam/open mike.

You should check out John Nelson's column in Thursday's Peninsula Daily News to find out about live music on the peninsula.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]

Casino

2006-06-03T20:43:00.000-07:00

We're really looking forward to our gig at the Seven Cedars Casino Sunday night. There will be dancing and Bill and Ida have pledged to be there helping us sing "Wagon Wheel." Contrary to what the casino says, we are not funk! Blues and folk would be more like it, thank you very much!
But last Saturday we played the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock. For a region with relatively few people and lots of open space, the Olympic Peninsula sure has some fine restaurants, and the Ajax is certainly one of them. Not only is the food great, but there's live music and hats! Yes, even Stephanie and I donned hats that aprticular night, although not altogether voluntarily, as several were thrust upon my head by Maria and her rowdy entourage. What a lively gourp theya re as you can see by the accompanying pics. I had the halibut (for the "halibut") and it sure was tasty. Lots of people were trying the ribs which have not entered my mouth to date. We tried some new songs, including "Jackson" and "Move It On Over" and "Tore Down." Still a bit rough, but the crowd was generous with their applause. It's a fun place and we're there again June24th. Get reservations.

Then there was Thursday night at the Landings in Port Angeles and the open mike with Kim and Jason (Deadwood Revival)and we have more pictures of them, Bill and Stephanie, and Larry on guitar. It was a good that will have to wait for another posting. I'm going to bed!
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction]

Junction

2006-05-30T22:30:00.000-07:00

Sunday was Stephanie's birthday celebration at the Junction in Port Angeles, and it was a festive event. As you can see, Ida and Bill were in fine form as were Paul, Gabriel, Bill Jagger and Patrick, all of whom contributed enormously to a great jam. It was one of our best to be sure, and summer on the Olympic Peninsula looms ahead with the prospect of many more great jams/open mikes and live music.

Later this week look for another post about Saturday night's show at the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock with more pictures!We just heard that we get to play the Port Townsend Brewery in August and September.

Don't forget to come to the Seven Cedars Casino in Sequim for our show this Sunday starting at 5:30 PM. We'll have the quintet and there will be dancing!

[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction]

Live Music on the Olympic Peninsula

2006-05-23T08:31:00.000-07:00

Sunday night at the Junction in Port Angeles was full of mostly pleasant surprises. The weather was the more typically gray and cloudy but fairly warm in the early evening. Berry, the resident cat, was inside the bar for most of the night, and most of the "regulars" including Bill and Ida were in attendance and ready to sing and play. Paul, Bill and Ida joined us for "Wagon Wheel" early on and it was so much fun we repeated it later the same night. Bill Jagger was there with his banjo and Stephanie and I accompanied him on "Billy in the Lowground" and "Old Joe Clark."

Later in the evening, Freesound showed up and mentioned that they would like to play a few songs if they could borrow a guitar or two. We gladly came up with a couple guitars and they launched into wonderful versions of "All Along the Watchtower" and "Sitting on the Dock of the Bay." Then Kim and Jason, aka Deadwood Revival, walked in and joined them on vocals and bongos. What a treat! People, including Stephanie and Tina, got up and danced. The crowd really liked it so they played a few more songs, including "Stir It Up." A big part of the excitement at a jam/open mike or any live performance, for that matter, is that each night is different with surprises either in the form of new songs, new performers or even the weather.

We're looking forward to this weekend when we'll be at the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock hoping lots of you show up and wear a hat!
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Ajax Cafe]
[live music]

Rollin' Waters and Jazz in Blume

2006-05-19T09:11:00.000-07:00

On Wednesday we went down to the Crazy Fish in Port Angeles and participated in the Jazz Jam hosted by our friends Tracy Blume and the Jazz Express Band. What a treat for us and what a great audience! Tracy really has a great jam going there and everyone has a good time, both musicians and audience. We played three songs: Wagon Wheel, Fine and Mellow, and Stormy Monday. It was another opportunity for us to play with Tom Svornich, Ray Wood, Jim Rosand and Ed Donahue. Ed and Tom also perform on our demo cd, adding great trumpet and drums. One of the nice things about the Olympic Peninsula with its sparse population is the opportunity to play on numerous with musicians of their caliber. They are truly A-list players by any region's standards.
Last night was fun at the Landings where we hosted the jam/open mike for the second week in a row. Many thanks to Stephanie's dad, Bill Tiderman, Patrick, and Paul for playing with us again. Much larger crowd last night, too! Hope to see you all at the Junction on Sunday.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction]

Thursday

2006-05-17T17:42:00.000-07:00

I forgot to mention in the last post that Rollin' Waters will be at the Landings in Port Angeles Thursday (that's tomorrow) hosting the jam/open mike from eight to eleven. As usual, we'll be at the Junction on Sunday night from 7 to 11.

The Olympic Peninsula has more jams/open mikes per capita than anywhere else in the world. Or, at least it seems that way! At any rate, it sounds assertive, kind of like Stephanie's voice which you will hear if you come on downtown tomorrow night. Hope to see you there.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction]

Port Townsend

2006-05-16T08:45:00.000-07:00

Did you know Port Townsend has an "uptown?" I didn't. That's odd after living on the Olympic Peninsula for twenty seven years. But up the hill is a very cool little business district with the site of our Saturday night gig last weekend: the Uptown Pub. Parking right on the street in front of this little place we started unloading equipment and noticed raucous laughter and hoots from the fifteen or so pub-crawlers just getting ready to board their bus waiting on the street. Yes, they were wearing matching t-shirts. They were definitely having fun and this was their second to the last stop. Unfortunately, they were gone by the time we started playing and as this was a last minute gig, we played to very few people. But they liked us a lot and we hope to play there again soon...maybe for a happy hour or another pub crawl. And next door is Lanza's, which was packed--the menu looked great and the pizza, which you can order through a curtain at the back of the pub by ringing a small cowbell, was quite good.

Colorful characters at the pub really liked our music and were very encouraging. It's so nice to play for appreciative audiences, even when their numbers are few. Stephanie's powerful voice always gets compliments but this group would have stayed up late for more, or so it seemed. "You don't look like a blues singer, but you sure sound like one," said one guy. Another told we should check the Port Townsent Brew Pub downtown. Haven't found it yet, but we'll get there soon.
[Port Angeles][Olympic Peninsula][Junction][Port Townsend][Uptown Pub]

Landings

2006-05-09T19:02:00.000-07:00

Yes, it's true..we are covering the jam at the Landings in Port Angeles for Kim and Jason, aka Deadwood Revival this Thursday and next Thursday. Looks like the weather should be cooperative on the Olympic Peninsula, or at least in Port Angeles for the next few days so we'll try to play some good weather, spring songs. Hmmm....guess we'll find out what that means. Maybe I'll try a gin and tonic and see if Cindy out west at the Junction has any serious competition.

This just in: we are playing at the Uptown Pub in Port Townsend this Saturday from 8:00 PM to 11:00 or so. Never been there before but it sounds like a thrill!

Stephanie and I have been working on new (old) songs, especially the more obscure Bob Dylan selections. If Miles would ever return my cd we could take a shot at the ashtray song-bet nobody knows what I'm talking about. Yes, it's that obscure, even more so than "Wagon Wheel" that should be posted here soon, or at least a clip of it.

Later this month we play the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock again. I think it's the 27th but Stephanie will correct me if I'm wrong. Anyway, we hope to see you at the Landings on Thursday, the Uptown Pub on Saturday, and at the Junction on Sunday.
[Port Angeles]
[Olympic Peninsula]
[Junction]
[Port Townsend]
[Uptown Pub]

Junction and Wailers

2006-05-01T10:53:00.000-07:00

Without a doubt, Cindy at the Junction in Port Angeles makes the best gin and tonics I've ever tasted on the Olympic Peninsula. Even the ice was good! Last night was a very good night there with Smitty letting me play his new guitar and a new player, Doug, showing us an old Wailers song, "It's You Alone." I'm talking about the Wailers from Tacoma, not those guys from Jamaica, by the way. The author of that song, Ron something, played a show at the Rainbow tavern in Seattle many years ago, but I don't think he ever played with the original group. What a great song but it never became a national hit to my knowledge although it was played locally a lot. I heard one of the originals players now works in Las Vegas in a retro show. We hope Doug comes back next week as he claims to know three sets worth of songs.

The shoe still hangs proudly at the Junction, and I will tell its story soon.

[Port Angeles]
[Olympic Peninsula]
[Wailers]
[Junction]

Finding the Right Volume

2006-04-25T08:22:00.000-07:00

Playing live music in a busy restaurant is not without its special challenges. On Saturday we played at the Ajax Cafe near Port Townsend, and the food was good, the place was packed and the tips were generous as usual. However, finding the right volume, which usually isn't a problem when we perform as a duo, was particularly difficult that night. People applauded enthusiastically and seemed to like our sets, but all it seems to take there is for one person to tell a staff member that the volume should come down and we are asked to "turn it down." This happened several times that night until there was almost nothing coming out of the PA. Oh well, people still clapped and smiled and we got paid. So I'll stop complaining and just be grateful. The weather couldn't have been better and when the sun shines anywhere on the Olympic Peninsula, it's a definite treat, and from the tiny stage there you can see the water and trees...all that grandeur.

Then it was back to the Junction in Port Angeles, where volume is rarely a problem and a shoe hangs from the ceiling, but that's another story deserving of an entire post. Bill and Pat were in top form contributing excellent vocals and guitar to such favorites as "For What It's Worth" and "Feelin' Alright." Stephanie's harmony on Bill's version of "Since I Fell" is worth a recording session and we talked about getting that done later this week. We'll see.
[Port Angeles]
[Olympic Peninsula]
[Ajax Cafe]
[Port Townsend]

Ajax Cafe this Weekend

2006-04-18T09:24:00.000-07:00

On Saturday, we're at the Ajax Cafe in Port Hadlock--near Port Townsend on the Olympic Peninsula. Excellent food and unusual atmosphere awaits! It's right on the water and now that the days are longer the views are something to see. It's always a thrill playing there.

We had a good time at the food bank benefit on Saturday and Sunday even with my car problems. One of these days I'll have to get a proper musician's vehicle, a van or something larger than my Honda Accord which has lately been stalling at the worst possible times. Many thanks to Waynne for the wrenches on Sunday. And thanks to Dave for bringing the music stand I left to the Junction and for performing with us. Bill and Patrick also put in fine performances on guitar and vocals. Bill continues to rewrite some old favorites with surprising introductions--well, it's better listened to than described here so come down to the Junction on Sunday at seven or eight and you'll hear it.

There's live music in Port Angeles almost every night of the week now. Read John Nelson's column in the Peninsula Daily News on Thursdays and find out when and where.
[Port Angeles]
[olympic peninsula]
[Ajax Cafe]
[Port Townsend]