Been a long time since I’ve played out on my own and one of my plans for this year was to do some shows. Unfortunately, I’ve found that once I’ve stopped getting out in front people it takes a bit to get back up to speed (both musically and as a performer). The solution? Open mics. In my mind there is no better way of getting comfortable playing in front of an audience. It’s low risk and (most of the time) a really supportive environment. One of my favorite spots has been and still is The Blue Rock Shoot in Saratoga. Thanks to Bob and the folks running the restaurant for keeping it going. So awesome to have a space like this to go to!

Here’s a shot of me playing at the Blue Rock in 2008. If I remember correctly, I believe that it was taken by Thomas E. Snuggs. And yes, it was back when I still had plenty of hair. :-D

I’ve had the great fortune to study with the amazing Hristo Vitchev over the past couple of years. Recently we’ve started charting out some of my songs. There’s something really powerful about seeing your songs notated. Makes them seem like they are (almost) tangible.

Thanks to Hristo for all his help!

Was able to fit some music time in while visiting Kauai this past May. Just had my Baby Taylor, an Apogee Mic and GarageBand on an iPad2. Really stoked with the sound I was able to get. Very clean and direct. The room had a great vaulted ceiling giving a nice natural reverb. Ironically, it was one of the nicest days weather wise during the whole trip and we spent it indoors. :-p

You can listen to some of the tracks here.