Befriending the Heat

Something metaphorical and poetic to me is how fire, something so destructive, can benefit the forest. Similarly to how pinecones open in the extreme heat, I think I learned a thing or two from the tour. I learned a few things about myself during that week, and it was a hot week of no air conditioning in both the van and the homes we stayed in. It was hotter than any other area in the country, with 100 degree days. The van was an oven on wheels. That memory of the tour only serves as an underpainting; there are few lessons learned.

I think it shows when people can see that we play as friends, and have a good time with each other. It makes people want to stick around see what happens, dance with us, sing along with us, and befriend us. We created environments, and the people we met along the way really liked being in that environment.  Perhaps it's mirror neurons? I can say that when I lose myself in a moment whether I'm playing or dancing along to the Homeless Apians throughout our mini tour I can open my eyes and see everyone else doing the same. Energy rubs off. 

Reading, then taking a time to pause and think about what you've read, allowing your mind to wander, and maybe opening up a conversation to the group about it was a way to remember, connect, and learn from others. The drive is very valuable time.  Even if you're in stopped traffic on the way to the next gig.

One of the books I finished reading was "Forgotten Arts and Crafts" by Seymour.  This introduction was written 17 year ago, and still SO applicable. 

There really are some incredibly generous people out there. People who don't know you and still want to house you, feed you, offer what they can to you. They know you're a musician trying to make a dollar, and expect nothing from you. Try not to lose too much faith in humanity.  Lucy in Battle Armor, Shagwuf, Midnight snack hosted us for a few nights.  These guys were so kind to us, please like their pages!

This girl killed it selling merch and hopping up on stage with us to play.

The Homeless Apians model in front of the Moog Factory in Asheville, NC. 

A miracle happened on the tour. I had some real concerns about the quality of my voice long before the tour, and tried my best to maintain it and not stress about losing it. For the first time in 3 years, I had 6 full days with a crystal clear voice. Try not to will things to happen by stressing over something you have no control over.  

Daimon, of all people, had some concerns about his voice, and drank a bottle of honey like a diva in the van.

When you don't live in excess, you value simple things more. Cold running water, something as simple as cold water, is a gift.

And finally, Just go with it.