Raining on Olympic Peninsula

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

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 AngelesOlympic Peninsula[Junction]Port TownsendAjax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Some Guitarists Like the Dead Sound

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 AngelesOlympic Peninsula[Junction]Port TownsendAjax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Loyal Musicians

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 AngelesOlympic Peninsula[Junction]Port TownsendAjax Cafe
live music
[folk/blues]
[guitar]
[northwest]
[Puget Sound]

Costumes and Baked Things

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 AngelesOlympic Peninsula[Junction]Port TownsendAjax Cafe
live music

Do You Remember Northern Exposure?

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

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

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

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

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?

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

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?

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

 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

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

 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

 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!

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

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

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

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

 
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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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]

Port Angeles

Rollin' Waters will be busy in Port Angeles this weekend. On Saturday we help out with John Nelson's Benefit at the Eagles Annex, and as usual, on Sunday we're at the Junction for the open mike/jam. So bring your guitar, hand drums, bass and voice out there at 7:00 PM for some musical fun.

Stephanie worked on our upcoming cd this week making two trips out to Port Townsend to record drums and bass on several tracks. Tom and Todd really play up a storm on "Wagon Wheel" and "Fine and Mellow." Ida and Bill added some nice vocals last week as well. It's so fun to record and make cds. I hope we can record some live cuts out at the Junction in the near future.

Recording

We stayed in Port Angeles this weekend. No trips to Sequim and the Baja like last weekend. Meanwhile, the recording work progresses with Jim Spencer adding some more fire with electric guitar parts to "Wagon Wheel." Now all we need are the drums and bass from Tom and Todd who are scheduled to record their parts later this month. Our next casino date with the larger Rollin' Waters band is June 4th. Can't wait!

As usual, we'll be at the Junction next Sunday starting at 7:00 PM. Bring your instrument and voice and we'll see you there.

Sequim this Weekend

The weekend is almost here and it will be a busy one. Friday and Saturday we perform at the Baja Cantina in Sequim for the first time. We start at 8:30 PM and play until we get tired! We've heard there's often a large crowd on Fridays so you might want to get there early. Then, of course, we are at the Junction in Port Angeles on Sunday starting at 7:00 PM as usual.

Just received some new recording equipment and can't wait to record more with Stephanie. Any day now there should be some audio on this site. How exciting!

Weekend in Port Angeles

Not wandering far from Port Angeles this weekend we played an unusual event in Sequim. Suzanne Arnold's Celebration of Life was held at the John Wayne Marina on Sunday, and we were there to provide music. It was a sad but moving event, and it felt good to be there offering some kind of comfort to friends and relatives. Suzanne was killed tragically in an auto accident on Hurricane Ridge in January. She and her husband had seen some of our shows in Sequim and Port Angeles last summer and liked our music.

Sunday the jam/open mike at the Junction was slow at first but picked up by nine or so as more regulars stepped up to the mike and did their thing. Remarkably, it was nearly smoke free, which is unusual but a very welcome change. Maybe more musicians will attend from now on. We'll see.

Tree House

Thursday we'll be at the Treehouse Lounge in Poulsbo for the second time. Although it's bound to be different every week, the place looks so good (like you're really in a tree) that one can't help but have fun. Not sure what we'll play yet, but probably at least one with some finger pickin'.

Ran into a few problems with the audion posting process. I'll have to get out my trusty mac for the mp3 conversion, looks like. That's alright though, and by Friday the new audio interface for recording could arrive on my doorstep. Then we may just have to do some live recording at the Junction on Sunday nights! Glad to hear that John Nelson is feeling better, and we look forward to his article tomorrow in the Peninsula Daily News.

The pictures from our gig at the Seven Cedars should also arrive soon. Where could they be? I'll have to ask Stephanie about them this afternoon. Busy weekend coming up with a Celebration of Life performance at the John Wayne Marina on Sunday before our jam/open mike at the Junction.

Recording

While last weekend was a little less busy than usual in terms of gigs, it was nonetheless productive in other ways. Stephanie and I recorded "Wagon Wheel," one of our favorites that recently entered our set lists and receives a good reaction, especially at the Junction on Sunday nights. Now I can't wait to give a rough copy to Jim at Strait Music and record another guitar part. Stephanie's harmonica work on this song sounds most appealing. We plan to add it and "Fine and Mellow" to our cd asap. And yes, we're close to posting an audio clip right on this here blog!

We're looking forward to Thursday when we travel to Poulsbo for the second time to play at the "Treehouse Lounge" for their open mike/jam. Getting there early would be wise as they pack them in. Lots of good jammers are sure to be there--just wish it was a little closer to Port Angeles! More later....

Rollin' Waters

The Treehouse Lounge

Last week we were in Poulsbo at the "Treehouse Lounge," and it was a blast. Who knew Poulsbo was such a happening place? You walk up a set of steep outside stairs next to a big, leafless tree, and enter the coolest bar around with skylights, recessed booths, patio and small stage area. But the crowd....jeez...they hooted and hollered for us and the other players. Such enthusiasm and the place was packed to the gills. We're going back soon! We played the following: "Wagon Wheel," "Love Me Like a Man," "Wade in the Water," and "Stormy Monday." Randy Paddock, an ace sax player, helped us out on the last two, as did unamed piano and bongo players.

The Weekend

What a weekend! Saturday at Michael's started out slow, although the dinner was good, as usual. Around 10:30 people started coming in after the symphony auction and they stayed and cheered us on. We're at Michael's again Tuesday for the Children's Hospital Benefit. Good cause so come on downstairs.

On Sunday Jim Spencer, local guitar master, came over to record at my place. I can't wait to finish "Fine and Mellow" in the home studio and post a piece of it here. He really smokes and Stephanie's vocals are amazing. I think you'll like it.

Later that night at the Junction, the house was treated to Kim and Jason, aka Deadwood Revival. We didn't get a chance to join them on stage, but it was as inspiring short set with new songs that turned into a great informal welcome home scene. Ari was there, too, and played some great slide and mandolin. There really will be a pic posted here soon. I promise.

Thursday

We're headed down to Poulsbo this evening to the "Treehouse Lounge" for a jam in a place I know little about. Should be fun.

Fat Tuesday at Michael's was a lot of fun with gumbo, martinis and a real good turnout. We even sold a bunch of our demo cd--can't wait to get back to recording and mixing the final product! Not everything was perfect, however, as my monitor blew out, fed back and may have even smoked a bit. Ah well, good excuse to buy some more equipment if it can't be fixed. It's resting in my living room right now.

We're back at Michael's on Saturday so come on downstairs, have dinner and listen to our best efforts.

Would someone please write a comment so I know I'm not just writing to the air? Thanks!

Good Weekend

Saturday night at Michael's Divine Dining was a real treat, and the food, as usual, was excellent. Later in the evening a small crowd formed in front of our small stage and stayed until after eleven. It was kind of like giving a little concert to a very appreciative audience. Even the people in the back booths clapped. It's a tough job, but somebody has to do it!

Thanks again to Bill for helping us out with harmonies on "I Shall Be Released" and "Wagon Wheel." We'll be back tomorrow night for the Mardi Gras party. Michael was on the phone looking for crawfish for that occassion. Hope he finds them! My mouth is watering already.

Last night at the Junction was fun, too. It turned into a full blown jam with Johnny, Joe, Jane, Bill and the bass player, whose name I can't remember. Orelia and Bill Jagger were in good form, too. Nothing definite on Berry, the cat, but I'll keep you posted, so to speak.

Thursday

When you wake up Thursday mornings do you always open the Peninsula Daily News and read John Nelson's column about music happenings in the area? Well, if you don't, then why not? Every week you can find out where Rollin' Waters is performing while being entertained by John's lively banter and good humor. For me, it's a Thursday ritual.

Saturday Stephanie and I will be at Michael's Fine Dining starting at 8:00 PM. If you haven't had dinner there yet, well, what are you waiting for? The food is nothing short of wonderful. And, we have a new instrumental to debut. If that isn't enough, then try Michael's killer martini.

Tuesday, at the dock in Seattle, a ferry worker smiled and told everyone to have a good evening. Oh yes, it was a shock, but a welcome one at that. Wish I could have stayed at the Owl and Thistle for the jazz jam, but a school night makes that difficult. Oh well, one of these Tuesdays will just have to be a late night leading to a bleary-eyed Wednesday.

President's Day

Happy President's Day! Sure is nice to have a lazy morning for once, especially after such a busy weekend playing at the Ajax Saturday and at the Junction last night. Highlights included Orelia on vocals and classical guitar. "Celito Lindo" was a show stopper! Hope she comes back next week. On top of that we sold four cds, and Bill Tiderman was in his usual fine form with the Mickey Mouse club theme songs of all surprises. Bad news about Berry, the cat, however. He needs a new home apparently.

Here's our set list from Saturday at the Ajax:
Set 1
When You Say Nothing
Don't Think Twice
Wagon Wheel
Wonderful World
The Long Way Home
Down on the Corner
I Shall Be Released
Soul of a Man
People Get Ready
I Know You Rider
Big Yellow Taxi

Set 2
Cold Cold Heart
Summertime
Hesitation Blues
Move It on Over
Sugar Baber
Ain't Nobody's Business
Love Me Like a Man
Fennario
Shenandoah
Deep River Blues
Blue Skies
If You Gotta Go
Wade in the Water
Fever
Goodnight My Love

Set 3 (can't remember)

It was a really good night as usual but with even more diners in what is always a packed restaurant. Let me explain. The food is so good it always packs 'em in, but this time we were asked to take breaks so people would leave to make room for the next reservations! With that and the applause (not always forthcoming in a restaurant setting) I'm pretty sure they liked us. We'll be back there in April.

Friday

Still trying to decide which pic to use for this blog! We had a bunch of new ones taken at the Casino last Sunday but I haven't seen them yet. Then there's a way to post some audio from our demo and upcoming cd that I need to figure out. In the meantime, we're at the Ajax in Port Hadlock this Saturday and back at the Junction on Sunday evening. With any luck we'll get Jim and Todd to record some guitar and bass on a couple of songs next week. It sure is cold outside!

Seven Cedars, February 12

What a thrill to see so many of our friends and fellow musicians at last night's show at the Seven Cedars Casino in Sequim! Stephanie sounded great, as usual, and the band...well they are awesome. Tom, Ray and Todd really know their stuff. We're used to playing as a duo or with maybe one other guitar player, but a full band...wow! The stage at Seven Cedars is something to behold and even something more to perform on. Scott, the sound engineer, is a pro and had us dialed in toot sweet. And the food was good, too. Jeff said we did well and wants us back, but the place is booked until May. We're looking forward to a return engagement. Hope to see you there.

Friday

No gig tonight but Stephanie will accompany the kids at school with guitars and vocals during the Franklin Sing along. I told the kids we might do "Orphan Girl" since the word came up in a Cinderalla story we're reading today. One thing leads to another when it comes to Music and Reading.