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Unicorn
Sunday Nov 30, 2003 - Link to Entry
34 degrees. Evanston, IL. The clock is glowing purple. Rob Newman and Jeremy Round together again.
Though I was hoping for more of a professional style show, a lack of preparation coupled with a lack of appropriate gear made for a more casual style performance. However for all of the shortcomings I felt the event had the audience still seemed very impressed. On to the assessment.
Grades:
1. Guitar: A - , Though the gear we were playing with was a step below what I was used to working with through the rest of the tour, my friend and old bandmate Will Dannen tweaked the guitar sound to the warmth and eq that I like to hear. This made for an enjoyable guitar playing event and as a result I played the best I did all tour. Woo hoo.
2. Vocals: A , I did not nail everything I wanted to, but I had some moments that I am so proud of that I went ahead and gave myself my first A of the tour. When Rob and I performed our original work, Disillusion, I really rocked the microphone. He had a really wonderful mic that responded well to my vocal range. Anyway, I was happy with my work in the vox dept.
3. Rob's Playing: I , Rob and I decided that since he was unable to perform on several songs due to equipment mishaps that we would give him an incomplete for this category. However he did play very well on the songs that did function. There were a few miscues, but nothing you wouldnt expect from a band playing a set for the first time.
4. Rob's Singing: A, Rob's voice has really matured. He sounded AMAZING on Let it Be. Also Disillusion was a masterpiece! Good Work!
5. Venue: B+ , A warm place on a cold night. Good food and beverages. Cooperative staff. However, managers once again withheld the information of our arrival. We were simply unexpected. Though the venue was probably my favorite on this short tour, you've gotta dock points for miscommunication.
6. Techincal Difficulties: B - , Technical difficulties had a pretty strong showing. He was able to mess up Rob's keyboard for several tunes and distort my vox. But I loved the sound of the guitar and the vocals so he did not destroy the show as he had intended. So for partial success the low B has been awarded to Mr. Difficulties.
7. Rob Overall: P, Also discussed with Rob was his overall grade. He felt he didn't really get to show what he was made of due to technical difficulties. When he did perform, he did quite well, so he receives a well deserved Pass.
8. Jeremy Overall: B+, I was much much more attentive to the audience. I however lost composure a few times due to coffee shop noises, technical difficulties, and the need to switch up the set list. I did however get a real sense of how strong my performance will be able to be when I am part of a band. My energy was very different, I was able to have more fun with my vocals, and play guitar the way I want to. The Unicorn performance was a perfect precursor to the band era about to begin. I had fun, I got butterflies, I sold a good amount of CD's, and I felt ready to move on.
Chicago overall was a great success and a great trip. I was able to spend a lot of quality time with friends and family. The CD's are being very well received and are selling well. Though it will be a very busy December I look forward to creating the band and moving forward musically into 2004.
Chez Lerner
Saturday Nov 29, 2003 - Link to Entry
There I stood. Over 40 people staring. Red Turtle Neck Sweater. People from so many different parts of my life. I had two jobs. Play damn well and sell some discs.
Grades
1. Vocals: A - . I continued to improve on this front but the lack of amplication paired with the difficulty of determining my dynamics in a room with an arched 25 foot ceiling, I struggled to provide the appropriate volume and missed a few parts I had nailed in practice. I did however really rock out my covers, Can't Help Fallin' with my Elvis, and also of course my Buddy Holly impression of Peggy Sue. Its getting there.
2. Guitar Playing : B. Plain and simple, I overplayed. Trying to compensate for the lack of an amp and also being over taken by nerves, I played way way too hard and drowned out the intricacies of several parts as well as my vocals.
3. Venue: C - . With a couch layout instead of chairs and several ways to enter and exit the room, focusing and staying engaged with the audience were a Big Challenge that I did not quite rise up to. The cold temperature and the strange acoustics were not friendly to my sound.
4. My Performance: B-/C+ . Man was I nervous. I stepped out and was shaking and sweating from the moment I started playing. I pitched the CD well, sang well, and even kept tempo well, but I had alot of trouble looking at my audience and engaging them in the tunes. I was not much of an entertainer tonight.
Look for a more relaxed Jeremy tomorrow night especially with a friend sharing the stage!
In the meantime to bed I go. Chicago, you are showing me a great time. Thanks :)
It's Showtime
Friday Nov 28, 2003 - Link to Entry
The Pomp and Circumstance of my return home have died down. It's time to refocus and prepare for the shows. We begin tonight at Chez Lerner, a venue known for having challenging acoustics and a history of strained performances. I look to break those precedents with my greatest solo show to date.
More exciting and impressive is that the CD's are getting purchased at a high rate. I actually do not think I will have many to return to San Francisco with. Cash Flow rules!
Last night my friends and I continued a wonderful Thanksgiving tradition, The Keg of Evanston. This year featured a lot of new faces from the last, a lot of good gossip and story swaps, our unofficial 5 year high school reunion, and of course $3.00 32oz Thirsty Thursday Beer Steins. I had a coke.
Today looks to be mellow with a slight chance of a movie outing. That means its practice time so that I'll be ready for Showtime. Ladies and Gentlemen, 9 hours till curtain....
Windy Turkey
Thursday Nov 27, 2003 - Link to Entry
As the cool breeze rises from the lake I look east and feel it brush against my day old beard stubble. Welcome Home.
I must say being back in Chicago has been exciting, relaxing, welcoming, and joyous. I have spent quality time with my friends and family, received the fully packaged Goodbye Project, had quite a few sales, and seen a few flicks in the interim.
I am here today to wish all a happy thanksgiving! Be well :)
The airport
Tuesday Nov 25, 2003 - Link to Entry
The airport could very well be more entertaining that most amusement parks. Not only do you have lovely sequins (I have no idea how to spell that word) creating a wave like pattern that is mesmorizing and fantastic as you step off ofBART (bay area rapid transit) but they have escalators, free internet, and my personal favorite, the moving walkway.
Now I know some people feel the moving walkway is a waste of electricity and space. Those people will be punished come judgement day. I believe it was invented for three reasons.
1) Heathrow Airport - I don't know if you've had the pleasure, but Heathrow is the biggest and longest airport Ever! From the tube to your gate is easily a 4 mile trek. Moving walkways allow for the brits and tourists to rest a bit and still make forward progress.
2) The Weary Traveller - While we're on the topic of International Travel the image should be vivid in all of our minds of the extreme grouchiness and fatigue that set in after a several hours in transit. The moving walkway is there as that last pick me up. The same burst of joy arises from its presence as that of the nomad in the heat of the summer seeing his oasis.
3) Making me an olympic long jumper - I don't know if you've tried this. But ever since I though about it from a theoretical state of mind, realizing that I could add to my top running speed an additional 3.5 miles per hour through the power of the block long conveyor belt I so treasure, I knew the world was in trouble. With about 10 yards to go I start running. I get to a full head of steam before the conveyor ends and right at that my moment I launch. This works much better in the airport than say a place like Vegas. You would think this behavior would be much more acceptible in Vegas, but there are always old ladies at the other end. Every time I have attempted my famed moving walk way/long jump in Vegas I have come close to a lawsuit. Point being, only try this at your favorite airhub. I recommend fully Seattle/Tacoma, O'hare, and even my local San Francisco where people often applaud the effort.
They just called final boarding...I should go.
To Chicago I go...Public Transportation is in Effect
Tuesday Nov 25, 2003 - Link to Entry
I'm leaving on a jet plane...i know when i'll be back again...
Anyway, saw Kill Bill Vol. I last night. Though my friend Cara was absolutely shocked by the gore and violence and I cannot say I loved every moment of dismemberment glory myself, this was an Excellent film! Both mocking itself and other action films along the way, Kill Bill, challenges for one of the greatest action films of all time. The concept is simple but credible and the thoughtful structure and character development made for an absolutely entertaining film.
I had to take a bus to work today. The idea was simple, bring luggage to work on monday via car, leave car parked today, and arrive by bus with carry ons. Well thats a simple plan when I get up when the alarm says what up. But of course I snoozed away a good 45 minutes. So it was a speed shower and shave for me as I rushed my way down to the bus stop. When I exited my front door, there she was. The 43. I knew she saw me and I knew she didn't want to stop. But I also knew if I could beat her to the corner she would have to.
43 already travelling at 15 miles an hour... advantage bus
Jeremy with guitar and backpack in hand...advantage bus
Truck slightly blocking righthand lane....advantage Jeremy
Stale Green Light...advantage Jeremy
Somehow I managed to cross against the red weaving through traffic and was safely to the stop before the ol' 43 could blow me by. Take that I thought as I boarded, realizing I still had a race against father time to win and not much to do but sit back and rely on my once rival, the 43, to hurry the hell up.
Long story short, the bus was empty, no one was seemingly travelling on our route because most of the stops were empty. I got to work in record time. The principal even commented that I was earlier than usual today.
Thanks 43, thanks. Now I must trust your close cousin, the Bart, to get me to the airport on time, where I must then place my faith in United to deliver me safely and in a timely fashion from their second biggest hub, SF, to their central hub, Chicago.
Enough already, just come to my shows Chicagoland! Peace, I'm outtie.
8th grade, Music Reviewer, and a Bass?
Monday Nov 24, 2003 - Link to Entry
Did you know that lightning is nearly 5 times hotter than the surface of the sun? Or did you know the typical strand is over 3 miles in length and a mere inch in diameter? (Nova. "Lightning." 1996) Well neither did I before I watched this video FOUR times this morning. But I'm really not complaining. Fact is I love the 8th graders. I had almost half of these kids last year and they know how to behave in class. Not only that but its good to see these kids every once in awhile since I spent so much time with them last year.
On Craigslist today, my San Francisco Bible, there was a post for music reviewers. Reading it I quickly remembered that the kickstart business guy said get yourself published in periodicals related to your field. So pre-Oprah, and even pre-Rolling Stone, I am going to start writing reviews on new releases and also articles about music and cultural trends. Since there is a new Beatles album on the market and I have studied all of the others in great depth, it seems Let It Be Naked will be the victim of my inagural music review. I think the only way to really analyze a re-mix is a to compare and contrast it with its predecesor. I also plan to examine the music in the context of when it was released. The original Let it Be does seem more dated than the other Beatles albums, and perhaps that was due to mixing choices. I'm not ready to draw these conclusions yet. I'll keep you posted.
Also on CL (www.craigslist.com) I found a post for a used bass that has been made to play like a jazz bass. From what I have read a jazz bass would be an ideal instrument to learn on since it has a thinner neck and will feel more like a guitar. Why am I buying a bass you may be wondering? Well it looks as though bass may be my gigging instrument here in SF. Yes thats right, I'm adding a new instrument to my repetoire. Truth be told, commercial Pop/Rock is not a popular genre for players in the Bay Area. Everyone I am finding that I am musically compatible with plays guitar. Well if you want something done right, do it yourself. So like Paul did, I'm going to pick up the bass , maybe as soon as tonight.
Last thought. Now that the site is really up and running please refer your friends here and bookmark it as one of your favorites. We at RoundRecords appreciate you spending your time here and need your help to get the word out!
Packing
Sunday Nov 23, 2003 - Link to Entry
For some reason it is always really difficult for me to pack. Some say that this shortcoming is a bit feminine, but I disagree. I believe it is the battle between my very logical mind, my frequent inability to take on a task before the 11th hour (crunch-time), and my disinterest in clothing. See I really like to look nice. It makes me feel good about myself when my presentation is sharp and attention grabbing. But I do not really care about what I wear.
The way I see it there are only about four types of packers, not including the Brett Farve led NFL squad:
-The prepare everything way ahead of time packer: This individual knows exactly what he or she will be wearing for every moment of the trip. Has already thought it out enough in advance to utilize the dry cleaners for the nicer garments they intend to bring along. These people tend to have OCD and sometimes even make an inventory list of the belongings they have extracted from their closet.
- The Gabriel E. Drukar packer: This is your typical college kid going home type packer or in San Francisco, your friend from the drum circle. Luggage is optional and often is substituted by a garbage bag. Nothing is clean execpt the clothes on his or her back. This traveller does not care what they have and assumes that a washing machine will be available at the city of arrival.
- The Over Packer: Fairly self explanatory. This person checks www.weather.com constantly before heading to the airport. Rain Coat, Winter Coat, Swim Suit, and Tux are common items found in this non-risk taking individual's case. Downside, very heavy luggage. Upside, prepared for absolutely any situation.
- Everyone else: We pack and we don't like it. Thinking about what one is going to wear for an entire week instead of just deciding in the shower that morning is a daunting task. We procrastinate the actual packing for several hours and then when the cab is honking downstairs the packing begins.
I fit in the everyone else catergory. This is a problem since my plan of going to the airport to fly out two hours after work ends on Tuesday involves me bringing my luggage to work tomorrow morning. Alas, I'm falling into old college patterns of procrastination with errands I do not desire to do. So suitcase, we'll battle it out in that AM. For now its sleepy time!
Dreams
Sunday Nov 23, 2003 - Link to Entry
Weekends are always a tough time to add to this journal. Between DJing and trying to use the time to get caught up I actually have less downtime on the weekend than during the work week.
So tonight I found myself at another wedding. It had a very unique flare in that they hired a Hula Style Band. Great group. They had nice harmony vocals and good instrumental chemistry, although the songs all sounded the same. Anyway seein the band got me thinking more about my the near future and my move to Los Angeles. The fact is working in the wedding industry is a sweet, sweet gig. There is a lot of money to be made, its never dull, and 9 times out of 10 the people are really nice. That being said, I am starting to realize that it is clear I will be a wedding singer before 2004 is out. It is the logical merging of my DJing and Musical skills. It pays even better, I get to expose myself as a musician (not like Michael Jackson does though(bad joke)), and I get to practice playing for people which will help me further become a strong and engaging performer.
When I step back from my last statement, I think, "Me, a wedding singer?" I start to wonder what the hell I'm doing. How can it be that I am dropping everything to pursue music? Thats reckless, irresponsible, beneath my ability. These thoughts flow in and out of my head. Yet no one seems to be taking issue with it but me. Everyone has been more than supportive and I really have no reason to doubt because when I'm not busy entertaining negative thoughts I'm kicking ass and taking names. I am doing everything I can to get to a professional level and to make myself a decent living from doing what I love and want to do. But still its hard to shut off those voices in the back of your head sometimes. When you see your friends going to law school, med school, working the corporate ladder, getting married, and I'm envisioning myself singing at weddings next fall; well it can be a jagged pill to swallow.
But alas if not now, when? This is my time and this is my turn. I don't want to do all of those other things. I may have the skills but they just aren't me. I'm not a lawyer or a doctor. I have stories to tell and songs to sing. I will be a musician full time no matter what it takes!
I think my LA life will consist of a full time job in the industry doing sound editing, starting band that does both originals and full cover sets, and really getting RoundRecords launched with my home studio. It will be awesome! :)
Thanks for reading through that banter. Check out all of the now active links on the page. Whats this? Yes they all work!! Check em out! Also, please feel free to write in with comments, jeremy@jeremyround.com. Also feel free to shop for music here and to purchase a Build-Your-Song. You will love it!!!!
I leave you with this....Wildcats 6-6, can I get a Motorcity Bowl?
GO CATS!
Computer Lab, Oprah, Venue, Site Upgrades, and Football...
Thursday Nov 20, 2003 - Link to Entry
What a cushy gig I had today. Computer Lab! Sorry Frank, but its a cake job. Plain and simple my only responsibilities were the morning announcements and hanging out with the lab aides. A few things went wrong, and I volunteered to help out during my lunch, but still, never raised my voice, never felt overwhelmed, and got paid all the while! Sometimes subbing is great :)
Secondly, I've decided that my Aunt is right. An Oprah Show appearance is the way to boost my career. Anyone connected to her? If you're reading this Oprah, I'd be a great guest!
And while we're on the topic of asking questions of our readers...Anyone have any small venue connections in Chicago? Holiday weekends are a pain in the but to book out of town performances. I'll figure something out.
Matty and I have been hard at work at there are some improvements around here at JeremyRound.com. Check out the About, Shows, and Contact Pages. Build-Your-Song and Store will be live soon too. Enjoy!
And finally, I am so excited about Saturday's OSU v. UM game. Almost time! Go Bucks...Photos From Tuesday Night
Brainwash
Wednesday Nov 19, 2003 - Link to Entry
One of my best musical performances yet but showmanship wise, I was very chill. This was mostly due to the fact that I was playing to a fairly empty space, and I was ampless and mic-less. No, not by choice...thats how Brainwash does it.
Grades:
Vocals: A - , I was really happy with my vocal control and the notes that were coming out of me. The minus is because I got a bit of something caught in my throat towards the end of the show and couldn't continue ripping it up.
Guitar: B - , I really got used to the amped sound so I had trouble hearing myself and was playing hard to compensate. As a result I made some funky notes and rhythms.
Venue: B/C, The venue gave me free food and drinks which was sweet so I cannot complain there. I also really like the way the place looks with the huge windows behind the stage. Biggest drawbacks were that amplification was not allowed and that the turnout of people who claimed they would be attending was disappointing. But a million thanks to those who did show, you guys are the best!
I'm so late for work...Pics and more later.
It's Sunny and I'm getting paid...
Monday Nov 17, 2003 - Link to Entry
Unbelievable, simply put. I arrive at school today to see that half the staff is absent including my two most frequent gigs (I am a onsite substitute for you new readers). So I calmly ask Carmen, "which room?" referring to the only two options I really see. I wait, dreading what she might say. "Goodmorning Mr. Round. Rm 309 today."
Room 309 is the sweetest gig in the entire building. Said classroom only hosts one class all day long and its with 18 nice kids that I like working with. I'm Jazzed!!! Simply Jazzed.
Yesterday went well. Finally cleaned my room/office/practice space, met with a very cool singer/songwriter for lunch, hung out with Jon for a bit, had dinner with the roomies Meghan and Nichole (yes they both have a needless/silent "h" in their names), and had some much needed downtime.
With another meeting with a potential collaborator today and a show tomorrow night things are on the up and up!
Nap time...
What a Weekend!
Sunday Nov 16, 2003 - Link to Entry
Friday ended up being coined "the Stand-by Day." After arriving at school to find out I only had one period of teaching responsibility, I found myself only on campus in case of an emergency. This theme continued into the evening. That night I was scheduled to DJ a tennis banquet from 8:30-11:30pm. I arrived and set everything up in time for the event. And there I was, alone. 100 people in the room behind me just beginning what was one of the longest dinners I have ever witnessed. 9:30 rolls around....nothing....10:00, still eating, chatting, talking tennis...10:15 presentations, speeches....10:19, finally they come out and join me. Hired for three hours, and only played music for a little over an hour. "the Stand-by Day"
Saturday had the potential of being a legendary football day in my life. With NU taking on Michigan, OSU v. Purdue, and the upstart Deerfield Warriors playing their state playoff quarterfinal game against defending state champion Rolling Meadows. 1-2. Not bad. In fact its what I expected. But congrats to the Warriors on their amazing season, NU you never cease toying with my heart, and OSU...BEAT MICHIGAN.
Where was I while all this action ensued? Ben's Bar-Mitzvah. Yes I had to spend an additional day of my week with 13-year-olds. No I wasn't happy about it. But it actually ended up a decent success. Besides the client showing up 20 minutes early and expecting music and the kids hounding me the entire time, it was easy-going and over quickly. Part two of a lucrative little weekend.
Saturday night also had some upsides. I had been invited to two parties, a birthday party, and Jon's appartment party. So I party hopped around the Mission District. Jon and I had decided that we would play a few songs around midnight. We cranked the amps and we went for it.
Grades and comments for the performance:
Vocals: A - , I thought my voice was a bit burnt, but when I went to sing it was there for me. I was finally happy with the sound of my amp and mic.
My Guitar: C+ , Simply put, out of tune for 1.5 songs. Oh and I did my speed up the tempo for no reason thing. argh
Jon's Guitar: A - , Jon leanred the parts really well, and even though he is upset at himself for forgetting one small part his playing really enhanced the songs and the performance...I blame alcohol, my light speed tempo, and people talking to him while he was playing...what a player!
Venue: D -, I love Jon, Abby, and Emily's pad, but a bedroom in the mission during a drunken bash, well its no Shanley Pavillion.
Overall: B +, Great Exposure...really promoted the show for Tuesday night well. Played three tunes, Goodbye, Bustin', and Must be the Weather. I'm really looking forward to playing more with Jon!
Alright, a busy day of work lies ahead. Come out to the show Tuesday night if you can. Later!
Boo Yah!
Friday Nov 14, 2003 - Link to Entry
JeremyRound.com is officially the first place you are directed to when you type in my name, Jeremy Round, on google or yahoo. I know, I know...You can't wait to check it out. Well go already...whats the hold up?
Fortune Smiles!
Friday Nov 14, 2003 - Link to Entry
Fearing I would be in my usual classroom, that being the class of a woman who shows up for work approximately 15% of the time, I was greeted at Denman with a wonderful suprise today. She showed up!!
So today my gig consists of teaching one period of a small class where I know all of the kids. Wonderful! As a result I've had quality time to do business research, make some calls, and of course relax.
Tonight I have a corporate event. I'm not sure what company its for so it could be very interesting. Anyway, I'm off to lunch.
Glitch, Pics, NJ, and Jobs
Thursday Nov 13, 2003 - Link to Entry
I had already written a very good journal entry and a computer glich caused me to start over again. Never did this happen with a pen and paper! Anyway, I'm willing to blog away again.
First things first....Some LA Photos
Me at the Grind...Red Eyed and Proud
Me at Suzy's...Sporting the Beatles Wear 
Happy?
Sadly, I only have one episode left of the Sopranos Fourth Complete Season. I've been addicted to this show for 2+ years ever since I enjoyed the first season's offerings. I must say though that this season is by far and away the best season since the very first. There was quite a drop off in years 2 and 3, not disimilar to the shortcomings of the Harry Potter sequels and The Matrix follow ups.
Today was another day in the classroom but some small successes were made. Last year I taught the children that x was a teacher who just wanted to be left alone and the annoying students would never leave the room. We as a class needed to help find a way for x to be alone so that we'd know who he was. For the kids who didn't get that I referred to x as a pimp who just wanted to take a nap but his clients and ho's wouldnt leave him be. They all got it. Today I used the traditional balance beam metaphor. Anything that changes on one side will effect the balance if we dont do the exact same to the other. I think they got it. I'm just a sub.
Two DJ events this weekend, Corporate Event tomorrow night, and a big Bar Mitzvah Saturday Afternoon. Yes that means I'm missing the two games I'd like to see. Yes I will be bringing a portable television, radio, and calling 1800-555Tell for all my sports score needs. Hopefully I'll be able to catch a few minutes here and there.
Saturday night my "band" makes its premier. Jon Brandon, lead guitarist, and I will be playing a two song set at his party to a crew of 50+ drunkards. Should be interesting.
I'm off to celebrate Jason's Birthday. Happy Birthday man! Go Cats and Bucks if I don't blog before Saturday. Later Friends.
Tony Soprano
Wednesday Nov 12, 2003 - Link to Entry
In the most recent episode screened, Tony bailed on his therapy. His psychiatrist felt that this was premature, that now having gotten past the original presenting problem, they could get more into the roots of his issues. I couldn't help but understand both of their perspectives on the issue.
Therapy often seems like walking backwards because it completely tears down the false constructs one has created to survive. Is truth worth that challenge?
A serious moment, brought to you by JeremyRound.com
Class Clown
Wednesday Nov 12, 2003 - Link to Entry
I used to be the class clown, a ham, the center of attention. Lately, I've been shy, removed, remote, unapproachable. Several factors have played into this metamorphasis and one such factor I am changing this very moment. JeremyRound.com should be just that, the world of Jeremy Round, not just business, not just marketing, not just music. My music is my megaphone but I musn't allow myself to ignore the voice behind that megaphone.
From here on out expect a more personal journal. News is for Music updates, Journal is for insight.
So I have reclaimed my site. The clown is back!
Ladies and Gentlemen...
Monday Nov 10, 2003 - Link to Entry
Not once but twice, the new high-concept pairing of comedy and music made its debut this weekend in the great "city" of Los Angeles. It all began on Friday night in a sizable bar called Suzy's in Hermosa Beach. Though the crowd was sizable we knew from the get go it was going to be a challenge to engage the group because of the sprawl of the environment and all the potential distractions. Because it was a return to the stage after quite sometime for both Sam and I neither of us succeeded in captivating the patrons, but there were some quality highlights that gave me confidence and made me eager to perform on Saturday. Check out one of those moments here.
Saturday night was a big success on many fronts. Both Sam and I committed ourselves to loosening up, trying new things, and just having a great time on stage. Doing such allowed for everyone present to enjoy the show. I tried out some new cover/original combos, joked around quite a bit with the audience about my "band" not being able to make it, and was more in the moment.
The challenge in the remainder of the pre-band era will be to connect with the audience in a fun but meaningful way. I will need to use my lyrics more to do this and continue to get more comfortable performing.
A special thanks to Aunt Judy and Uncle Jerry who drove all the way from Phoenix to see the shows and also to Mike Carniol who flew out from NY to show his support.
Weekend Grades:
Show 1: B-
Show 2: B+
Room to improve, but also work I can be proud of.
Pictures and more to follow upon my return to SF.
In LA
Friday Nov 7, 2003 - Link to Entry
So I barely made it, but I have arrived. I had to stick around SF for a few extra hours while UPS figured out how to do their job and get me my CD's. Anyway, I'm exhausted and I need to rest up for the shows. Look forward to photos and more. Lates.
One
Tuesday Nov 4, 2003 - Link to Entry
A UPS false alarm today...perhaps right on time tomorrow? I hope so!
Enjoyed an open mic tonight with my friend Janine. Went to check out a local singer/songwriter. Definate potential. We'll see...
And after one of the more exhausting and probably less effective marketing campaigns I have embarked upon to date...On with the countdown!!
Day 12 - 3:03am
The lullabye of The Goodbye Project. This is stripped down, Jeremy Round and his guitar. No tricks, no producers to fix up all my sh*#y tracks, one take, all live. Some love this sound, find it soothing, find it real.
3:03am is a jumble of ideas. A song of insomnia, of tension pulling me from my sleep, a desire to write, and yet a feeling of nothing. It ties up the album nicely by revisiting not only the themes of the previous songs but also has lyrics from a majority of the tunes in the outro.
Alright, that's it. Tomorrow is the day! Hope you enjoyed our countdown. Goodbye ;)
Too...
Monday Nov 3, 2003 - Link to Entry
UPS will be knocking at my door anyday now... Equally exciting is the booking of two shows this weekend, Friday and Saturday (the 7th and 8th). Specific Info posted in the News and Shows sections. Check me hanging with the king on Halloween...
Day 11 - A Year in the Life
What's that you say? A hip-hop song on an acoustic-rock record? Well now nobody can say I'm stuck in one genre. A Year in the Life is a rap about teaching in an urban setting. Its about the challenges my kids faced everyday and how I responded to them as an outsider brought very much inside of their lives. Features a orchestral sampling like any good rap song should and beats and bass from the keyboard. Different, but sometimes different is good.
III
Sunday Nov 2, 2003 - Link to Entry
Meeting with drummers today. Wish Jon and I luck!
Day 10 - Come Home to Me
When I first approached Jerry about The Goodbye Project I told him I had 11 songs but wanted 12. He assured me that a song always comes out of the recording process and that I shouldn't fret. Well, one night I was looking through old lyrics and my recorder when I found this beautiful ballad.
Straight up this song is a love song calling for the reuniting of two lovers seperated by time and space. Very Beatles, beautiful and warm, and it features my first ever electric guitar solo. Check the tune out here. Enjoy!
FORE!!!!!
Saturday Nov 1, 2003 - Link to Entry
Actually its four...but it seemed natural to put the golf call as the heading of this entry. I'm being a bit too lethargic today to add the cool Halloween photos, but check em out tomorrow...don't worry, I'll remind you!
Day 9 - Alone Again
A rock tune about the cycle of dating. The hypocricy of it all. Believing you'll never allow yourself to do it again, and yet you do, over and over again. Love to pain to love again. A subtext to the song is that this routine becomes something comfortable and familiar, a pain to thrive on, learn from, and improve your life as a result. The vocals are slightly different sounding on this track, a bit experimental. Yea.