SO, we're all set for going to the Amplify music conference in Vegas. Yes, we are one of the 150-ish bands to play at the conference who were picked out of over a thousand bands. It's going to be a great time playing in Vegas in front of industry people and making many contacts that may help us get ahead as a band.

We were lucky enough to get Dave Gould from the band Pants to play with us at the show and we're very excited for the show. We practiced the songs we plan on playing at the show with Dave last night and we were very surprised at what a quick study he is. He picked all the songs right up and his style added a lot to the material. Pants better watch out or we may steal him! Just kidding. But really. We went through 6 songs in an hour and a half span and I was personally very satisfied with the way they sound with Dave. A couple more practices will cement the songs and hopefully we will be ready for August 6th. Dave said he really liked the material and it had never occured to me, but he said our song Living Dead sounds like SR71 singing about zombies.

Getting off work for a few days will be really nice. Mikie and Hans will flying there and Dave, Shari and I will be driving. If you're reading this: Thanks a lot for helping us out, Dave! Also, Mikie just started a new job about a month ago so kudos to him for getting the time off and many many thanks to his sister for also helping Mikie to be able to make it. Lisa, you are in our hearts <3

Halfway through practice last night I started getting a migraine and despite taking migraine pills it still hit me pretty hard, so I'm going to try to relax at work and get ready to hang out with Bruce tomorrow! Take it easy, everyone!

This weekend our bass player, Jim Carr, decided to call it quits on the band. It was a sad day for us. Jim was one of the best bass players we had the pleasure of playing with and he will be missed. So long, Jim.

Moved this last weekend and let me tell you, it is the last time I'm moving during summer. No more of that. No more of that. It took 3 days to move, and granted we took our time but it was such a harsh undertaking that I'm still feeling. Hopefully all the exercise in 110+ degree heat has made me stronger and will benefit our live performances. Anyway, just glad it's over.

Anyone know anything fun in the east Valley around Val Vista and Warner? Anyone? Anyone?

Yep, I'm a huge nerd. I'm finally making the comic book that I wanted to make for like 15 years. Anyway, here's some art I've made so far. Click to see large in new window.

Let me know what you guys think!!

Konnichiwa!

How are you all doing? Well, I'm doing great! It's Friday and I'm getting out of town again. Last weekend was definitely a success as far as camping is concerned. We went out to Payson, which is North East of Phoenix, for you non-locals. It got a little dark, so we had to camp it out in a pay site, which is not bad, but I guess is also not 'real' camping, or 'quasi-camping, as my better half would put it. Something about having toilets and running water didn't make it seem like 100% camping. Both Abbey, the golden mutt, and the Land Rover did a good job and seemed right at home camping.

The day after, thanks to some locals, we found our way to a place where we could do real camping!!! It was by a creek, a little bit away from town, but due to fire restrictions we decided not to stay. Camping without fire is sucky, but at least Abbs got to play in the water a little. We will be back there, oh yes!! Hopefully within the month.