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as of Monday, June 30, 2008 -

Where did that month go?  A little recap of Nickel happenings . . . 

The show at the D-Note was exceptional.  After the debacle that was the People's Fair, having a soundman that listened, set things up right, and then left them alone was a real treat.  It was a very high-energy but relaxed show, and a big thank you to the folks who came out.  

We recorded a segment at KCUV for their local music hour.  It was a 20-minute slot that included three tunes, and the interview by Mike Wolf was very well done.  It's sure nice to have an appreciative radio community in Denver, and I hope we continue the relationship and talk to some of the other great stations in the area doing similar things.

The last gig of the month was at the Denver Art Museum, and it was a blast.  A bit of an unusual venue but folks were very receptive and generous.

In bigger news, the first CD by The Hobo Nickels (actually by Tim McCanna) is now available.  These are the 10 songs Tim put together himself to establish the sound and direction of the band he wanted to form, and we are performing most of these, albeit in a more energetic and collaborative vein.  Here's where to go to hear and buy, and I highly recommend you do both!

CDBaby -   http://cdbaby.com/cd/hobonickels

iTunes -  Click here

Amazon -  Click here

as of Wednesday, June 11, 2008 -

It's a bit of a late notice, but if you haven't made plans for Friday night, there's a great show happening at the D-Note downtown.  Here's the poster, hope to see you then and there.

as of Thursday, May 29, 2008 -

Here's a opportunity to get in on the ground floor!  The Hobo Nickels official Show Notification and E-Mail List is here! 

Just sign up using the form below, and you'll be added to the snazzy new list.  Don't worry - We will ONLY send you ONE e-mail per month, because we're kind, and we know you get too much junky e-mail already.  So rather than litter your in-box with multiple mails, we'll let you know what's coming up in the next month or so, and you'll only hear from us that often.

as of Friday, May 23, 2008 -

The Hobo Nickels show at the Highlands Ranch Music Arts Festival was a great time.  It was a perfect sunny warm May Saturday, and judging by the number of kids dancing, we were a big hit. 

We have another big festival date coming up on Sunday, June 8 at the Capital Hill People's Fair, and then a follow-up night the following Friday at the D-Note in Arvada, sort of an unofficial after-party and showcase for the acoustic/Americana acts that are being featured.  More news on those shows in a bit.

as of Thursday, May 15, 2008 -

Well, The Hobo Nickels have been hard at work, not only getting more new tunes together, but getting gigs.  If you haven't been a regular visitor to the band's site or my Shows page, you should check it out for all the latest summer festival dates we're playing.  And we've had to turn down a couple due to scheduling conflicts, which is a great place to be for a new band on the scene.

This weekend is the first of the outdoor festival dates, and it looks like the weather will be perfect.  Here's the poster -

as of Monday, April 14, 2008 -

A reminder that this Thursday, April 17, The Hobo Nickels are playing at Herman's Hideaway, and my last update (below) has more details.  It's been brought to my attention that Herman's has a ticket on their website, right here in fact, that you can print and take to the show to get the discounted admission of $3.  If you do that, please mention to the door person that you're there to see The Hobo Nickels, otherwise we won't get paid.  Shameless plug, I know, but more importantly, get to the show and throw a vote for more acoustic music in Denver.  See you at the show, it's gonna be a lot of fun. 

as of Thursday, April 10, 2008 -

On April 17, The Hobo Nickels are playing a special show at Herman's Hideaway.  It's special because Herman's is known as a rock club, and they are trying to shake a bit of that image by starting an Americana/Acoustic music night.  If this goes well, each Thursday night at Herman's may feature the best of Denver-area bluegrass, folk, and acoustic music.  Go to -this page- on the Herman's website to learn more about this show, or click on the poster below.

We hope to have a big turnout to support us and the other fine acts on the bill, as well as show support for this kind of music expanding to more venues.

Discount tickets are available to get you in the door for a measly $3.  If you'll email me or call (those who have my phone #), I'll get you as many of these tickets as you need.  Hope to see you there!

as of Sunday, April 6, 2008 -

Charlton Heston died today. 

I'm not sure how I feel about this, and I was a little bit surprised by my reaction to a comment to that effect this afternoon.  My first thought, and my verbal outburst, was along the lines of "another gun nut gone, good riddance." 

In the moments immediate to that, I thought about the film career and the roles for which he seemed to have been born.  There's no doubt that The Ten Commandments and Ben Hur and Planet Of The Apes established Charlton Heston as an icon of cinema, and I admit that I absolutely loved him in all those roles. 

Still, it's a damn shame that the NRA took his stature and image and used those to further its cause. 

I guess I want to think that, since the man was suffering from Alzheimer's Disease, he was not aware of the extent to which he was being used, and the NRA was taking advantage of his disease to promote gun access using a powerful spokesman and cinematic hero for their notorious gain.  I really, really want to think that Mr. Heston was disconnected, to some degree, from the message he'd been hired to promulgate. 

So, hoping this was the case, rest in peace, Moses.  You were larger than life on the screen, a 30-foot-tall Michelangelo, an artist and craftsman that elevated the art of film heroes.  I only hope that the people you inspired, like myself, decide to be heroes for the cause of good and peace rather than the advocates for weapons and destruction you became in your late life.

Here's to the heroes. 

as of Thursday, February 7, 2008 -

Happy Year of the Rat. 

The Hobo Nickels had a fun Fat Tuesday.  We opened for the legendary Doug Kershaw, the Ragin' Cajun himself, at a big ol' Mardi Gras party at Herman's Hideaway.  I have fond memories of sitting around the family tv in the 1970's watching this crazy man fiddle and jump around, and he still puts on a great show.  Here's a little zydeco thing we did -

If you like that, here's another youtube bit from a few weeks ago, a little bluegrassy number that goes to show what can happen when you're at the mercy of the venue.

as of Tuesday, February 5, 2008 -

If anyone is still on the fence this Super Tuesday, there's this -

http://my.barackobama.com/page/invite/yeswecanvideo

as of Tuesday, January 15, 2008 -

If anyone is interested in seeing what The Hobo Nickels is all about, we'll be hitting the open mic tomorrow evening at the Mercury Cafe.  That's Wednesday, and performances start at 8:00pm.  We'll do 3 or 4 songs.

We've also been invited to perform at the "Best of" open mic showcase at Swallow Hill.  Not bad, given that the open mic we played was our very first time out, that they want to show us off at the end of the month "Best of" series.  That'll be on February 27.  Time to start up the old "Shows" page again, finally!

as of Wednesday, January 9, 2008 -

A belated Happy New Year.  This past holiday season was a particularly challenging one with so much going on in our lives, but we got through it with only minor scrapes and dings. 

Among the highlights were a fun holiday party we threw, with members of both my bands in attendance as well as great family and friends.  We spent some days in Ohio, having a nice low-key visit with my folks.  We also got all around Colorado visiting family here, and had friends from our Connecticut days passing through and staying in our home for a while.  All in all, a busy but happy holiday time.

Now it's 2008, which means the long and dreary election process has begun.  I expect the already ridiculous media frenzy to only get worse after the results of Iowa and New Hampshire.  It makes me glad we don't have television.  The only pictures and noise we have to contend with are those we choose to put into the DVD player, and we're keeping our sanity that way. 

The Hobo Nickels are getting right back into action after the lull.  We're going to be showing up at several more open mics in the next month, and we've recently visited Sawtelle Studio at Swallow Hill, with the intent of beginning a recording somewhere, probably in late Feb/early March.  Look for more info on the goings-on in the very near future.

Much peace and love to everyone in this new year.  Happy 2008.

as of Tuesday, December 18, 2007 -

This past Sunday, the world lost one of the greatest singer-songwriters that's ever been, Dan Fogelberg.  The New York Times had this to say -

http://www.nytimes.com/2007/12/17/arts/music/17fogelberg.html?_r=1&oref=slogin

When his first records were coming out, I was deep into my hard rock phase, and it took a few years for me to discover and appreciate this amazing songwriter and singer.  I did eventually wear out my vinyl copy of Souvenirs, finding deeper meaning in his lyrics each time I played the record.  His biggest hit, Longer, from the 1979 album Phoenix, was for a long time my favorite love song, and is probably one of the greatest ones ever written.  I think Dan Fogelberg may single-handedly be responsible for my transition to more meaningful music, and I am amazed that this legend was a mere eight years my senior, and is now gone from this world.  A great loss is upon us, and let's be glad for the great musical legacy left behind.  From Part of the Plan, words to live by -

Love when you can,
Cry when you have to.
Be who you must,
That's a part of the plan.
Await your arrival
With simple survival,
And one day we'll all understand.

 

as of Tuesday, December 11, 2007 -

A couple of new stuffs.

A few weeks ago, I had the distinct and wonderful pleasure to see, in person, after some 25 years, my friend Randy Brant.  The very same guy who taught me to play bass in 7th grade, the fabulous guitarist from many of my early bands, and later with Bogus Rogue and The Manifold Gaskets, Randy was in Denver and we got to spend some time catching up after a quarter of a century.  Some folks wonder why have a personal website and spend the time and money maintaining it.  Well, let me tell you, reconnecting with a friend like that makes every bit of it worthwhile.

In other news, The Hobo Nickels are performing this week at the Swallow Hill open mic.  This will be our first public appearance, to get a feel for performing the songs and working together.  I'm really looking forward to it, and hope it's the beginning of a long and glorious run.  Check out the new website at the link above, and if you're in Denver, come out on Thursday and see the launch.  More dates to be announced!

as of Sunday, November 4, 2007 -

Happy Birthday, Henry Lee Combs.  Our son turned the big oh-three today, and we had quite a little shindig.  Having Hallowe'en and his birthday just four days apart is a blast, and we're pretty excited about the years of celebrating this way to look forward to.

I've neglected to catch y'all up on band matters.  I am officially in TWO bands now, plus doing sub jobs for one of the more prestigious trad bluegrass bands in the area, so that means I'm settled in and the Denver music scene is mine. 

Alpine Junction (no link yet) is a country/bluegrass/pop/americana sextet that also plays train songs, hobo laments, and Hendrix.  It's all acoustic, Matt Shaddeau on guitar/ukulele/vocals, Kimberle Burke on guitar/vocals, Art Frankel on guitar/vocals, Mark Sherak on mandolin/vocals, Steve Rothenberg on dobro/banjo, and yours truly on standup.  It's a rare, anything-goes type of outfit, and we have way too much fun playing together.  Kimberle has an incredible voice, Art and Mark write amazing tunes, and while we haven't played out much, I expect this band will impress a lot of folks. 

The Hobo Nickels is a new venture, the brainchild of Tim McCanna who plays accordion, kazoo, and ukulele, and writes incredible songs.  Ostensively children's songs, the influences and styles are diverse and rootsy, the drive and groove remarkable, and I expect this stuff to be an all-ages hit on the festival stages.  It's also Rob Silk on ukulele (of Connecticut's own Hulabilly), Andy Sherman on guitar, and yours truly on standup.  Big, big thanks to Linda Hayes, who noticed Rob and I had relocated to the Denver area within a year or so of each other, and hooked us up.  Brilliant.  Check out the myspace page at the link above, Tim recorded those versions of the tunes himself, and while they're great, the acoustic quartet gives them a new intensity and vibe.  No one will be sitting still for this stuff, this band will do wonderful things.

I'll share more details about both these outfits, and start posting gigs, in the very near future.  That's all the latest from here.

as of Monday, October 8, 2007 -

I'm just a baaaaaaad website updater person.

There's all kinds of stuff, musical and otherwise, I should be posting.  I'll fall back on the usual excuse of life, family, work, etc.  When I've had free moments, I've been disappearing into a book or a movie or a recording, something restorative, rather than come tell my latest on this website.  Baaaad, I know.

And you'll be greatly disappointed, I'm afraid, that I'm only here now out of outrage at this stupid so-called holiday.  Here's a good primer on good ol' Columbus Day.

http://www.commondreams.org/archive/2007/10/08/4398/

I'll try to be back soon to talk fun stuff, I promise.

as of Sunday, August 12, 2007 -

Just a quick couple of recommendations.

I've managed to sneak off and see a couple of very good movies lately.  If you get a chance, seek these out and pay to see them in theaters, both are very much fun and worth supporting -

ONCE -  dir. John Carney, playing smaller art houses, a must for the musicians and romantics out there.

STARDUST - dir. Mathew Vaughn, not blockbuster-ish, won't be in theaters long, but deserving of support for good old-fashioned real and fun storytelling. 

as of Thursday, June 21, 2007 -

Winning the Good Fight.

The fine citizens of Littleton, Colorado have spoken.  Wal-Mart can plant their overblown corporate butts in somebody else's town, NOT OURS.  By a substantial margin, the voters overturned the city council and booted the wage-slavers and slave-laborers out. 

I love this town.

as of Friday, June 1, 2007 -

Fighting the Good Fight.

Two pointers for you this evening.  One local, one national.  You can choose your battle, but the war is going on with or without you.  Better get involved, it's called Democracy.

First off, the Littleton vote to overturn the city council's allowance for a Wal-Mart to intrude.  You can get most of the details at www.littletonagainstwalmart.com and www.yesforlittleton.com.  The ballots are coming out shortly, and if you are a Littleton voter, I urge you to look into this important issue.  Wal-Mart is responsible for the crippling of untold numbers of children in sweatshops around the world, all so over-fed middle class folks in this country can save a buck and a half on a damn shirt.  It's criminal, it's obscene, and it's gotta stop.  Don't shop at that place, don't give them another red cent, it ain't worth the fingers of ONE 8-year old girl in Bolivia, not to mention the dignity of thousands of abused American workers that slave for that overblown corporation.

Second on the agenda, check out www.impeachgonzales.org.  The laughing-stock president's high command is guilty on so many counts, it's not funny.  This guy just happens to be the most visible right now.  It's in OUR power, as citizens of this country, to oust the criminals.  Let's take some action, demand BETTER of these so-called representatives, and take back the country from these smug hitmen. 

There ya go.

as of Sunday, May 20, 2007 -

Randomness.

Spring sprung, and now summer's coming on.  The Xeriscape is taking off; the plants we set last fall have come out like gangbusters and are fixin' to bloom.  We just put in a raised bed and set out tomatoes, peppers, beans, and the like; all is planted as of today.  Now we'll see what the Colorado growing season can dish out.  We're ready, and quite excited.

Bluegrass is in the air.  I'm playing a lot of jams, some nice invitation-only shindigs for visiting luminaries and out-of-town hot shots.  It's been a blast, tho I'd like nothing more than to have a paying gig for a big crowd right now.  I'm missing that and looking forward to the day.  That's soon, stay tuned to hear more about it.

I've spoken to a lot of former Republicans, there's a lot in CO, folks who supported this buffoon of a president at first, but are now seeing the light.  Talk about frustrated, angry people!!!  I can't say I'm surprised or that I feel sorry for those that were taken in by the lies and manipulation.  It's still the case that all you have to do is READ, spend some time looking stuff up, learning about history, listen with a CRITICAL ear to what is being said, and it's all too obvious.  Anyway, now it seems to be coming to roost. 

If you fell for it, you're feeling foolish right about now.  It's amazing to hear everyone now talking about how many years, probably decades, it'll be to undo the damage caused by this criminal administration and their evil terrorist ways.  It's a sad time to be an American. 

I was recently commissioned to do a couple of plaques for a war memorial in Littleton.  It's been on the news, mainly because the statue depicts the fallen young citizen of this small town with his weapon, and it's near 3 schools.  (Guns and schools are a bit of a touchy thing here in Littleton, as if you couldn't guess.) 

Anyway, I was torn about the job.  On the one hand, a war memorial featuring the fallen with a weapon is commonplace, there are countless statues of sword-bearing generals across this country.  On the other hand, here we are perpetuating a glorification of warfare and gun use, for the sake of war, or fighting for freedom, or whatever we need to say to keep it going. 

It's probably a good thing that the city located a source for these war memorial emblems in Philadelphia, and canceled the job with me at the last possible moment.  I had already started the job, I'd been informed that the city manager had signed my contract, so I went ahead and completed it.  The Navy Cross is now on my website at www.strangineer.com.  I look at it and wonder how I would have felt at the 4th of July dedication, with all the dignitaries on hand, and the inevitable patriotic speeches. 

The sad fact remains.  Here was a boy, from Littleton, Colorado, killed in Afghanistan in 2005.  Two whole years ago.  Two whole years after we attacked that country to get Bin Laden and the Taliban, saying it would be a quick end. 

And where are we now?

as of Tuesday, May 15, 2007 -

Well, if there's anything that could happen to bring me out of hiding and posting, it's this.

We the people, now, as of today, finally, once and for all, live in a Jerry Falwell-free world. 

I couldn't be happier, myself, and you better believe, I am celebrating.  Now, I wonder how long it will be before his "followers" blame the gays and feminists for his demise . . .

Good riddance could not be more appropriate.  Here's to a new, and little more hate-free, era.

as of Tuesday, January 23, 2007 -

As alluded to last post, there's been MUCH brewing on the home front here, too much to allow me time to play on this website.  The good news is that the bulk of the 'everything else' is taken care of, the setup is done, and the fun has begun!  I'm proud to announce that I'm now in business for myself as a Contract Designer and Engineer.  You can see & read all about it at www.strangineer.com.

It's been a long time coming, something that's been percolating in my head for at least 10 or 15 years.  So far, it's been a real blast, everything I thought it could be, and all those things that I carefully set it up to be, which is a real big relief. 

Check out the site, especially the Design Samples page, to see what I'm up to.  And better yet, spread the word.  I've got some fine collaborators out here, artists and fabricators, enough to turn pretty much anything into a product or a piece of art, or both.  I'm off to New Orleans in a week or so, to the annual SolidWorks World Conference for all the design jockeys who are using SolidWorks to make stuff happen.  I'll be posting more often after I'm back in February (at least that's the plan) as well as catching up with friends and emails and such.

Peace and Love.  Oh, and I almost forgot . . . something even more important to spread around!  Don't forget -

as of Monday, January 1, 2007 -

Happy New Year, y'all. 

It's been months since an update, I apologize for that.  Things have been a bit strained of late, just no time to spend on the old personal website with everything else going on.  I'll post about the 'everything else' sometime soon, but in the meantime, let it be known that the fires are burning, we've survived two blizzards, dug ourselves out, and beautiful things are happening here in Littleton, CO.

I sincerely hope the new year brings you everything you could want, and that you reflect on the old obsolete '06 and make the coming year better for yourselves, everyone you come in contact with, and especially for everyone you don't.  Forget them old resolution ways, and make it a year to give, give, give, until it hurts, and in the giving you'll have the best year of yer lives.  I gar-orn-teee. 

As for my and mine, we look at '06 as The Transition Year, the time we needed to build up and tear down, the time we needed to keep on goals and targets.  Here's to 2007.  It's gonna be a good 'un.

as of Tuesday, October 31, 2006 -

Happy Hallowe'en, y'all. 

It's been a fun one, I hope you had your share of frights, laughs, and treats. 

On a more serious note (you knew this was coming), it's just one week to Election Day.  With all the talk of voter shift, and leaning, and staggering disappointment with the Bush regime, etc., it may be an election that makes some significant history.  Out here in the Mountain states, there does seem to be something significant in the air.  Here is an interesting article with a bit of focus on Colorado as a state in transition.  I must say, we're SO happy to be here, and helping the cause.

VOTE!!!!!

as of Monday, October 23, 2006 -

I could link to any number of major network/newspaper sites who are reporting the same thing.  It appears King George II and his insane vendetta have soured more than just you & me on this whole Iraq thing.  The 2006 election looks promising for shutting this idiotic, criminal regime down for the remainder of the term.  I hope you all hold the course (Ha!) and vote Democrat wherever you can - two weeks and a day from now.

Please, please, PLEASE!!!! whatever you do, don't skip out!!  It's too easy to just figure it's a done deal, go to work, and squander your chance to be a part of the recovery. 

Please vote; it's not enough to just look at the news on Tuesday night and see what happened . . .  Be a part, put your hard-won, intrinsic right as an American on the line, and no matter what kind of machine they're running in your district -- Show up, sign in, and walk proudly into that booth.

It's the right, Right, thing to do.

as of Thursday, October 5, 2006 -

Upcoming on my reading list (#4, 5?) is the new Bob Woodward book, State Of Denial.  Here's an interesting "reader's guide" posted on Slate.com.  It should tickle your fancy . . .

Woodward and You: A reader's guide to State of Denial.

as of Monday, October 2, 2006 -

I saw a very good movie over the weekend.  It's imperative I tell you about it because it may not be around long, and it's hard to find.  Playing in a couple handful of cities, but hopefully expanding to a city near you soon, is The U.S. vs. John Lennon.  Now there's an obvious reason to see it, and a not so obvious one.  Of course, any true music fan loves all things Beatle, and John especially, so for the new footage and remixed music, it's a must-see.  What's more important, however, is the political timeliness of this remarkable film. 

You see, everyone knows that Richard Nixon was the most criminal, evil man we've ever had in the White House.  Well, that comes into question when you are reminded of his handling of Viet Nam and his detractors.  Then, it's obvious that he was just ONE of the most criminal, evil men we've ever had in the White House.  The comparisons are too obvious to our very own murderous, lying leader of today.

It's an eye-opening lesson in what lengths a paranoid and powerful administration will go to to protect their evil agenda.  Take note, people, it's happened before and it's happening right now.  See the film, start thinking about the implications. 

And don't forget to vote!

as of Thursday, September 28, 2006 -

I've been laying off the political stuff for a while, you may have noticed.  One obvious reason is that I haven't been updating the site a lot, so those long-winded diatribes took a back seat to the more immediate musical news items and such.  Another reason has to do with the idea that I'd read a news item about some outrageous Republican stunt and think to myself, "What can I add to that?"  They've been shooting themselves in the foot enough to keep me quiet.  And I feel bad pointing at such obviously stupid people and shouting "Aren't they stupid?"

Well, then I realize how close we are to election time 2006.  So, for those that have missed it, I'm getting back in the ring.  For those I've annoyed and pissed off, guess what?  I don't care!

So here's a great place to start.  One of the biggest problems with mid-term elections is a lot of folks don't take the time to learn about their candidates and issues, and either don't vote or don't make informed decisions in the booth.  A great, impartial clearing house of a site is over at Project Vote Smart.  These folks do the research and put up the candidates' records in a side-by-side comparison.  They make clear the issues in referenda and ballot issues.  Go plug yourself in and LEARN before you VOTE.  And, absolutely, more important than anything, REGISTER and VOTE. 

I'll be bugging you about that some more . . .

as of Monday, September 25, 2006 -

My apologies for the site's down time.  I changed hosting plans and suffered a day or so while the pointers moved around and sorted themselves out.  I did manage to shorten the blackout time for the email address groovin@stevecombs.com, it was less than a day out of commission, but if you sent something to that address over the weekend and didn't hear back from me, I didn't get your message.  All should be in order now, so fire away . . .

as of Thursday, July 27, 2006 -

My good friend and musical compadre from back East, Marc Douglas Berardo, has been chosen as a finalist in the Songwriter Showcase at Folks Fest in Lyons, CO.  He will be playing the festival on Friday and Saturday, August 18 and 19.  He'll be doing a couple shows in Colorado after the festival as well, and may be joined by the great Dick Neal.  The dates are listed on my Shows page.

I'm very excited, because one of the last musical projects I did before leaving CT was to record with Marc on his latest CD, Harbor.  My greatest musical regret is that I left shortly thereafter, and was not able to play the songs out live with Marc and the gang.  I'm really looking forward to playing with him and catching up.

as of Monday, July 10, 2006 -

I've added a new page to the site, the first expansion in a looooong time.  I am now, like so many other of y'all, a YouTube junkie, and I want a place to post the cool stuff I'm finding.  YouTube makes it easy -- I love the embedded code option;  it lets you click play (maybe a couple times?) and the video clip plays right inside the stevecombs.com website, no rerouting and back buttons to deal with.  Pretty darn clever.  

Let me know what you think of the stuff I'm putting up here, I'm hoping to turn you on to some stuff you would not ordinarily find, even if you do poke around there a lot.  The new page is Videology and I hope y'all dig it.

as of Friday, July 7, 2006 -

Well, this may end up being a new page on the site.  A work in progress, as they say . . .  For now, enjoy the best incarnation of one of the best bands EVER.   Stick with it thru the guitar solo, you won't regret . . .

as of Tuesday, June 6, 2006 -

Happy date-of-the-beast day.  I trust all your apocalypses went well.  None here, tho the temperature was in the low 90's again.  And the humidity!  Up to 34% this afternoon, of all the nerve . . .  I sure don't miss that saturated air carrying the heat into the deepest shade, and holding it all thru the night. 

It's been a fun couple of weeks.  I'm suddenly in touch with all sorts of folks from my past that I haven't talked to in either many decades (!), many years, or way too many months.  It's nice, I hope it's a call to arms.  I've never been good at staying in touch, maybe this will make me better at it.

June and July are going to be crazy.  I've had to clear a lot of stuff off my schedule to give Megan time to study for the bar exam.  It's already consumed most of her, tho I hope there'll be something left for the actual exam.  Then a busy playing schedule in August.  I'm excited about that, and maybe some new musical possibilities making themselves available.  I'll keep in touch.  That's the lesson for today, The Beast says "ya gotta talk to these people!"

Then I see that Billy Preston died today.  And then, that David Lee Roth released a record of bluegrass Van Halen songs today.  I think The Beast done got us now . . .

as of Wednesday, May 24, 2006 -

Whoop, there went 3 months in a hurry.  Blame the optimist in me, who thought that the transition from East Coast to Mountains would be a minor bump in life, a month or two and the adjustments would be done.  Also blame my transition from Ohio to Connecticut, which was far easier, as it was just me to tend to.  This time, with Henry, Megan, two cats, and a whole lot more possessions, plus coming out here without jobs, i.e., no routine to start into, well, it's been, and continues to be, adjustment after adjustment.  Time gets eaten up, and things like websites fall into the cracks . . .

It's all good, though. 

I'm in a band, The Shamans, and they are terrific folks who have made me feel extremely welcome and I'm having a lot of fun with them.  We have some great gigs coming up this summer, festival stuff, including a 5-day jaunt into Wyoming and hanging with some blues greats.

Henry Lee has started into daycare.  Half-days to start, and we're glad he's spending time with other kids and adults finally.  It's an important network to have, and not an easy one to lose and then build up from scratch in a new place.

Megan is working for a great little law firm (it's actually her THIRD job since February, don't ask) and plans to take the Bar exam in July.  She's doing great work in the meantime, helping the little guy in the perpetual struggle against evil Corporations and money-grubbers.

I'm starting a contract design business.  I'm in the early stages of setting the thing up, but it looks like it will be extremely interesting and fun.  Lots more news of this to come.

Lessee, what else?  W and his cronies continue to be entertaining.  It's wonderful to watch the wheels fall off, and see the whole administration careening into a ditch, the depth of which can't be nearly what they deserve.  Quiz time:  When was the last time a US President had an approval rating as low as George's?  Send me the right answer, win a prize.

It's been an absolutely beautiful Spring in Colorado.  We're short on rain here on the plain, and in the mountains the snowmelt is happening way too quickly, but the warm days, no humidity, and cool evenings are fantastic.  The snow-capped peaks in the bright light of an 85-degree day are just spectacular, and I can't imagine ever getting tired of the view, as it changes throughout each day, on top of each day being different. 

Well, that's as much as I can update for now.  Hopefully, more to come soon . . .

as of Saturday, February 18, 2006 -

Just added a Bio page, for the new folks out here Colorado-way who are checking out the site for the first time.  A work in progress . . .

as of Thursday, January 19, 2006 -

Just checking in.  Things have been moving along, slowly but surely.  Between my trips back to CT, all 3 of us being sick, computer problems, unpacking, getting lost, and countless small & random embarrassments & encumbrances, there should also be time to update my website and check the Denver music scene.  Hasn't happened like that.  I wish I had news of a band or a gig, but these things have taken the back seat.

We are starting to feel comfortable in the house, some of the rooms anyway.  There's lots to do and a good bit of winter left in which to do them, so no worries here.  We'll just hunker down and plow along.  I hope to share some stories and bits of what's been happening in detail, we'll see if I can make that happen.

Hope y'all are well, and the new year is off to a great start.

as of Wednesday, January 4, 2006 -

Happy New Year, y'all, from sunny Colorado.  Things are finally coming together.  Well, most things.  Our moving truck isn't arriving for another 5 days, and camping in the house is getting a little tiresome.  But, we're making do, and the phone is finally working.  If you tried to call before yesterday, there were issues, now resolved.  The DSL line is up, the new email address is live, and even the postal mail seems to be forwarding okay. 

The drive across country was just amazing.  Doing it in the dead of winter gives one a different perspective on the variety of landscape out there.  Beautiful countryside, the cats were fantastic for the whole trip, the weather was perfect, and I had a great time.

Little time to post, but we made it, and we are thrilled to be out here.  We're really looking forward to settling in over the winter, and expect a great spring.  Drop a line when you can.

as of Monday, December 26, 2005 -

Megan and Henry - and Megan's mom, Carolyn - flew off to Colorado early this morning in the pouring rain, and are gone now from Connecticut. 

I then put in my 14-hour day, starting with tearing down the Christmas tree, and then packing the last bits, which turned out to be never-ending bits.  All day long, the dark gray light made every box, and I mean box after box after box, a black hole that swallowed up random stuff until the last item floated near the top, and it was time to tape it shut.  It seemed like there were about two hours of daylight, and then it was dark again.  A very surreal day.  I know at some point I started labeling boxes "dining room" for no other reason than I happened to be packing the boxes in the dining room, and I hadn't labeled any "dining room" yet.  Who knows where the contents go . . . 

The last two weeks are a blur now, all I have is a sense of the escalating level of scramble as we saw the days on the calendar flip by on our way to tomorrow, the 27th, the Day The Truck Arrives.   Exhaustion set in a few days ago, Friday? Sunday?  Only momentum and the need to get to Colorado has kept me going for the last few.  But when the truck pulls away tomorrow, there's time to breathe and relax, and prepare for the drive.  I'm really looking forward to that. 

I have a new email address.  It is groovinagain@gmail.com.  If you have the old sbcglobal.net address saved, you should delete it from your address book, it's gone.  Wish me luck on the cross-country trek, and I'll let you know what 30 hours of driving with 2 cats is really like. 

as of Monday, December 12, 2005 -

Megan and I have made a truly epic executive decision - no matter how much packing and craziness there is ahead of us in the next 2 weeks, we're going to take a little time to go hang out at a couple of our favorite local haunts.  And since we've been totally inadequate at planning a going-away party, and even at letting someone else plan it for us (sorry, 'Lex), we're just going to tell y'all where and when we'll be somewhere, and we're hoping (please, please, PLEASE!) that some of you will show up so we can say a proper goodbye.

-  Thursday, Dec. 15, at the Acoustic Cafe, Bridgeport CT.   It's Bluegrass & Beer night, hosted by HOE.  I'm not playing, I'm going so we can say goodbye to the boys in the band, and so I can sit back and listen for once . . .  We'll arrive early, and probably leave fairly early, so come on out around 7:30 and we'll have a good time.  Nope, sorry, Henry Lee will NOT be in attendance, just me and Megan, hence the leaving early bit.

-  Sunday, Dec. 18, at BAR in New Haven CT.  It's mashed potato pizza and beer!  C'mon!!  We're going to stake out a big table around 5:00, and we're hoping some of our friends will come out and join us for a bite and a drink.  Yep, Henry Lee WILL be in attendance.  We'll stay as late as he'll let us. 

If we don't see ya at either of these, we may not see ya a'tall before we go . . . 

as of Thursday, December 8, 2005 -

Well, two days after that post, and plans have changed.  It's now only my wife & son who leave on the 26th (still flying), I'm probably heading out the morning of the 28th now (still driving).  Oh, well, so we're making it work out for the best.  That's what we do . . .

Live with intention
Walk to the edge
Listen hard
Practice wellness
Play with abandon
Laugh
Choose with no regret
Continue to learn
Appreciate your friends
Do what you love
Live as if this is all there is.

-- Mary Anne Radmacher

Oh, and buy Harbor, the new CD by Marc Douglas Berardo.  This thing - if you do it - will be, I promise, a thing you will be very happy you did.  AND!  If you buy it, and you don't like it, I will buy it back from you.  That's right, every penny you paid, I will give back to you, for the CD, shipping, the works.  That's the deal, and I stand by it. 

I am so sure this music will make you happy and make you think and grow on you, that I am willing to take that kind of risk here in the middle of an expensive cross-country move.  You have to check it out.  Click on the word Harbor up there.  CDBaby is painless, secure, & reliable, just go thru the steps to buy it and wait for it.  Give it a good listen - tell me you didn't like it, and your money is right back'atcha.  Simple as that, you really have NOTHING to lose.  And something wonderful to gain . . .

as of Tuesday, December 6, 2005 -

Well, it's less than 3 weeks now before we head west. 

We have a house in Littleton, Colorado. 

Just typing that makes me excited.  Things are coming together in that mysterious way these things come together.  When things seem completely under control, you know they are, but you know they are within a hair's breadth of falling into total chaos.  One overlooked detail, one shift in a date, and all the cards come tumbling down, only to be put carefully (and quickly!) back atop one another.  I'll be sending out the new address, phone number, and a new email address very soon.  And December 26 still looks like the actual date of departure.

I'm very happy to say that I just completed some recording for my friend Mark Mirando.  Mark is one of the best reasons to stay in CT, so I try not to think about that too much.  Hard not to; he's a great writer, arranger, singer, player, producer, person, friend, . . . the list goes on and on.  I'm very proud to have been asked to do this, and so glad I could squeeze in the time to do it and catch up with him.  The songs sound great - keep an ear out and make sure you hear this guy, and make a point to meet him, he's real good people.

I hope to have time to post some progress reports on the move, but don't count on me.  Lots to do, and little time.  Stay tuned! 

as of Wednesday, November 9, 2005 -

As a comics fan, I "discovered" Steve Bissette some countless years ago, and always admired his art and writing.  Turns out he now has a very interesting blog, and a great take on the politics of today.  Go read here, and page down to the bit about the bird flu scare, it's worth your time to get some perspective on this situation. 

as of Wednesday, November 2, 2005 -

Here's a very interesting piece in The New Yorker on Brent Scowcroft, who you will remember as the right hand man of Bush I and proponent of Gulf War I, and where he is today.  Worth the read; there may be some insight there into the madness that's currently running rampant in the West Wing.

as of Tuesday, October 26, 2005 -

Click here for an interesting editorial from today's Washington Post.  Then, I'd like a show of hands.  Who admires this man?

as of Tuesday, October 11, 2005 -

Too much going on to have a regular go at updating the site.  But, as we're planning our move to Colorado and the subject of jobs keeps coming up, I have to share this opportunity with you - Bush is hiring.  

as of Sunday, September 25, 2005 -

Turns out that there's still a chance to get in on this pre-sale deal for Marc Berardo's new CD, Harbor.  Looks like you now have until October 8th.  Here's what I wrote a couple weeks ago -

"Please GO HERE and check out the options, and be one of the first to get Harbor, the new CD by Marc Berardo.  The songs on this record are incredible heart-felt songs about the lives of people tied to the sea.  Besides being really good music, there's a relevance here to the lives and loves impacted this summer on the Gulf coast.  I think it's a great way to both commemorate them and support compassion, which is what the best art can bring out in us all.  Hope you'll sign up. "

And here we are, still in need of some compassion.  Proceeds to the American Red Cross are a really good thing, and supporting the arts, especially caring positive artists like Marc, are a really good thing.  Please sign up, you'll be helping a lot of people & doing something to keep the good guys keepin' on.  Thanks.

as of Tuesday, September 20, 2005 -

". . . But seriously, Mr. President, this job can't be fun for you anymore. There's no more money to spend. You used up all of that. You can't start another war because you also used up the army. And now, darn the luck, the rest of your term has become the Bush family nightmare: helping poor people.

"Yeah, listen to your mom. The cupboard's bare, the credit card's maxed out, and no one is speaking to you: mission accomplished! Now it's time to do what you've always done best: lose interest and walk away. Like you did with your military service. And the oil company. And the baseball team. It's time. Time to move on and try the next fantasy job. How about cowboy or spaceman?! 

"Now, I know what you're saying. You're saying that there's so many other things that you, as president, could involve yourself in…Please don't. I know, I know, there's a lot left to do. There's a war with Venezuela, and eliminating the sales tax on yachts. Turning the space program over to the church. And Social Security to Fannie Mae. Giving embryos the vote. But, sir, none of that is going to happen now. Why? Because you govern like Billy Joel drives. You've performed so poorly I'm surprised you haven't given yourself a medal. You're a catastrophe that walks like a man.

"Herbert Hoover was a shitty president, but even he never conceded an entire metropolis to rising water and snakes.

"On your watch, we've lost almost all of our allies, the surplus, four airliners, two Trade Centers, a piece of the Pentagon and the City of New Orleans…Maybe you're just not lucky!

"I'm not saying you don't love this country. I'm just wondering how much worse it could be if you were on the other side. So, yes, God does speak to you, and what he's saying is, “Take a hint.” 

 . . . Bill Maher, Real Time With Bill Maher, Sept 9, 2005.  (Thanks to Alexis for the pointer)

as of Saturday, September 10, 2005 -

Well, I wouldn't call it "breaking news" . . .

as of Thursday, September 8, 2005 -

Here's a great offer, wherein you can help launch a new record of extraordinary music made by some really terrific people, AND some of that help will also reach Katrina victims down south.  Talk about win-win, it don't git much better'n that . . .

Please GO HERE and check out the options, and be one of the first to get Harbor, the new CD by Marc Berardo.  The songs on this record are incredible heart-felt songs about the lives of people tied to the sea.  Besides being really good music, there's a relevance here to the lives and loves impacted this summer on the Gulf coast.  I think it's a great way to both commemorate them and support compassion, which is what the best art can bring out in us all.  Hope you'll sign up. 

as of Tuesday, September 6, 2005 -

There's a number of fine summations of Where-We-Are-Today on the web.  If you really want to cut to the chase, and get an overview of the State of The Union - Click Here  -or-  Click Here. 

There ought to be a revolution of massive proportion taking place, over the state these bozos have brought us to, and yet, it's just going to keep going.  It makes me crazy . . .  On a positive note, here's a little reaching-out done in the name of revolution.  This Guy Is My New Hero.  I have no idea who he is, but suddenly, I want to buy all his records.  He speaks the truth.

as of Wednesday, August 31, 2005 -

I know there are big-hearted, caring folks stopping by here now & again.  If you're one of those, and you have been, like me, paralyzed by the reports of the worsening situation in Louisiana and Mississippi, please go to this website, Operation USA.  This is a great outfit, and they are highly respected in the disaster relief community for their rapid & effective response.  You can be assured your donation will go directly and quickly to help a family in the hurricane-ravaged deep south.  So give generously, it's about all we can do at a time like this.

as of Wednesday, August 24, 2005 -

Now this is education.  If you've followed the latest attack on evolutionary science, you really should check out this website, http://www.venganza.org/index.htm.  I think I see the light . . . or is that a meatball?

And I'd like to formally and officially call for the assassination of Pat Robertson.  We should take him out while we have the means, before it costs us more than $72.85.  Because, well, we've been talking about it, and I think he's evil.  So there.  And I want to know, someone please tell me, when a book of all of the stupid things Pat Robertson has said is going to be published.  It'll be a big book to carry around, but worth every penny. 

as of Saturday, August 20, 2005 -

The world at change.  This website, worldchanging.com, presents links to news & science pertaining to a future better world.  "Yawn, another hippy site . . . green this and green that."  Wrong!  While the word sustainability gets a lot of use by the environmental activism community, that is very limited scope for such a concept.  What this site strives to do is to present all the stuff that's going on in science and research, from agriculture to social engineering to game theory to things you can't imagine, that could eventually, if connected, make for a sustainable world.  That means sustainable economies, sustainable industries, and sustainable ways of relating to each other as well as the planet.  The tools and models that exist, if we connect all the dots, can get us a long way there.  It's all positive and thought-provoking.  Commit some time, and read thru a number of the articles in one sitting.  You'll start seeing connections, and you'll be surprised at what you can imagine.

as of Wednesday, August 17, 2005 -

Here's an interesting editorial written almost a year ago, entitled The Unfeeling President.   I challenge you to read this, and tell me if there's anything - ANYTHING - that has happened in the time since it was published to make you think he's better than this.  Chances are this is more true today than it was then, and there's nearly double the kids lying in graves.  

as of Tuesday, August 16, 2005 -

So, if you visit my "Inspiration" page, you'll see I'm listening to the new Ringo Starr CD, entitled Choose Love.  What you need to know about that is that my friend, Mark Mirando, is on the album.  Yeah.  Mark is on the latest Ringo.  One side of my brain is saying "Well, yeah, of course.  That was inevitable, and doesn't surprise me in the least."  The other half of my brain is saying "Holy crap!  Mark is singing on Ringo's record.  That's um, my friend, and that other guy's a Beatle."

What my two brain halves have in common include a tremendous respect for Mark,  continuing awe at his amazing musicality, and great pride while listening to the CD and knowing this guy who's singing harmony on the title track.

If you haven't heard a Ringo album in a while, this is really, really good.  There are a few Beatle-ish riffs (and why not) but it's unmistakably Ringo in every way - You hear that smile all through it, and every track - definitely all his drums.  Pick it up if you get a chance.   

as of Monday, August 15, 2005 -

I'm sure you've all been seeing lots of interesting blogs and articles on the 'net regarding our little monkey president and his rapid fall from grace.  It's been, what, 7 whole months since he started his second term, and the wheels are falling off?  The arrogant grinning idiots figured they had the whole world under their thumbs, only to see their own arrogance turning people against them, while there are people like Cindy Sheehan who ain't gonna give it up.  I'm loving it.  Crash & burn, baby.  May he and his handlers go down in the biggest flames . . .

And check this guy out.  He's good, and I love his attitude - Mickey Z.

One more thing - There's a group of authors who've come up with a clever way to raise money for the FIRST AMENDMENT PROJECT.  They've set up eBay auctions where the high bidder will be allowed to lend their name to a character, place, etc. in an upcoming book.  (Neil Gaiman did this first, and a lucky bidder got a cruise ship named after him in the forthcoming novel Anansi Boys.  That raised over $3500 for the Comic Book Legal Defense Fund.)  Check out this link to see what's up, and stake a small claim on a piece of literary history.  Or, better yet, just bid to keep Free Speech happening.

as of Saturday, July 30, 2005 -

I've been neglecting the site again . . . so much going on, this is the last thing on my mind.  Off the top of my head, here's all the latest new stuff -

Sold my truck and bought a new Scion xB.  Amazing little vehicle, inexpensive, comfy, great gas mileage, and I'm really happy with it.  The best part is that it exists somewhere outside our space-time continuum, where different laws of physics apply.  Somehow there's more space inside than the car takes up on the outside.  Great for hauling an upright bass, all the other gear I could possibly need, without taking up the passenger seat or the infant car seat.  I don't understand it, but I like it.

Took a trip out to Denver, CO, to scout neighborhoods, among other things.  While we were initially discouraged by the prices of houses, we did get happy when we discovered Littleton and surroundings.  Further investigation will center there.

I've been keeping the cat in the bag, but I'm getting too excited about the project to not say anything - I just finished the last bass part on a new recording project that may be the best musical thing I've ever done.  The CD is to be called Harbor, and it's the latest love-child of Marc Douglas Berardo.  I don't know where to start, there's so much amazing to tell you about the songs, the sessions, the recording techniques, the arrangements, and the people involved . . . It's something you'll have to hear to believe.  I'll talk more about it when it's available, sometime in October.

Henry Lee is about to turn 9 months old.  Wow, they weren't kidding about the time flying.  He's crawling, almost standing, and on the verge of almost beginning to start sounding like he might sometime soon start talking.  He's beyond amazing, and may be the best non-musical thing I've ever done.  And is probably the main reason I've neglected my website.  What dad could resist the little monkey? 

as of Friday, May 27, 2005 -

I've been boycotting Exxon/Mobil stations since the ExxonValdez spill in Alaska, and the company's subsequent avoidance of the responsibility for the clean up.  I'm proud to say that the so-many-thousands of dollars I've spent on gasoline since then has gone elsewhere.  But where is elsewhere?  Big Oil is made up of a lot of other evil polluting corporations, and they're on every corner.  What's a driver to do?  Who are the good guys? 

According to BuyBlue.org, Amerada Hess's owner donates money to the Democrats, the only oil company to snub the Republicans.  That's one good idea.

So where else should you buy gas?  Here's an even BETTER idea -  Join the BUY-cott!

as of Tuesday, May 10, 2005 -

You can bet that right now, in Louisville, Kentucky, there's a certain photo-journalist working real hard on her resume.  This is the text of a speech Molly Bingham gave after spending 10 months in Iraq being a real journalist.  So, you can bet that wheels are turning, and there will soon be, in this order, 1) A Severe Reprimand, to be followed by 2) Reassignment,  and finally 3) Firing on some trumped-up charge that has nothing to do with this little outburst, I'm sure . . .  More tragically, she'll be branded a terrorist, accused of collusion with the enemy, and her story will never see light beyond this week.

While you can, click HERE or HERE and read her opinion on the big propaganda machine, and especially her plea - to shake off the effects of all the brainwashing, and see what's really going on.

as of Saturday, April 3, 2005 -

Much thought and energy seems to be going into the "what do we do now" column, now that the pendulum seems stuck on the far right.  A good argument can be made that the fight needs to get back to basics, and that means the First Amendment.  So much rests on that, and shoring it up seems to be prudent for all that comes after. 

There's a new organization working on that premise, known as the FIRST AMENDMENT PROJECT.  Check out the website and the good work they're doing.  I know there are so many organizations fighting for your support & money, but please consider pitching in.  This really is what it is all about.

as of Friday, March 4, 2005 -

Check this out - This website is exactly what I've been looking for, a resource to separate the good guys from the bad guys, at least as far as corporations go . . . 

It's called  BuyBlue.org, and the idea is that these people at these companies where you go buy things, they give money to political parties and causes.  BuyBlue tells you what side they're on.  It's just one more way to support the political needs with your hard-earned bucks.  It's really worth it to me, to know that some of the profits they're taking from me are going to progressive, democratic causes.  I'm happy to support the folks who are donating blue, and I'll drive on by those donating red.

Keep the faith, and keep working hard for peace and justice.

as of Sunday, February 13, 2005 -

I've made announcements for "special shows" here on stevecombs.com a number of times, and they've all been for good reason.  But, I can safely say, NONE has been as special as this one coming up Saturday.  On Feb 19th, at The Stonehouse in N. Stamford, you are invited to be part of the end of an era. 

The Liam Bailey Band will take to the stage for the very last time. 

Anyone who knows Liam knows what a talented player he is, sitting in with any- and everybody, how he sparkles with fiddle in hand with HOE.  If you know him well enough, you also know how passionate he is about his own songs, and his love for this band that's brought them to life over the past year or so.  

I'm proud to have been part of this amazing musical unit, and it's with heavy heart and a lot of love that I'll be taking the stage next Saturday night.  It's a special celebration, and also features Liam's OTHER favorite band in the whole wide world, HOE.  That's right, a set of HOE bluegrass, and The Liam Bailey Band.  All in one special night of music, and celebration of friendship and fun, and I'd absolutely love it if everyone I know, and anyone who comes here, would be a part of it.  You can go to http://www.liambaileysite.com and get more info about where it is and how to get a reservation.  Do call ahead, we just played a sold-out show this weekend with HOE, and it is definitely sad to turn people away from the door.

Hope to see you this Saturday.  It is your last chance to see this great band.

as of Tuesday, February 3, 2005 -

I came across this essay by Ward Churchill; it's been causing headlines for days at the Denver Post.  There's a link there, and more of the story.  The sad part is that it is only news because of narrow-minded people and death threats against the author and anyone who would let him speak.  The good part is that the essay and it's ideas are popping up again.  It is timely.  As we careen into four more years under a madman imbecile as president, it's a little reminder of how we got here.  Maybe it is really time to ask ourselves, again, WHY Sept. 11, '01 happened, and what exactly our government is doing today to insure it happens again.  They're certainly not doing what it takes to insure it doesn't.

Please click HERE to read; I think this is very important food for thought.

as of Sunday, January 23, 2005 -

Our show at The Space was cancelled due to weather; I hope everyone stayed warm and safe, and we'll get that show with Washboard Slim rescheduled soon.  We were looking forward to that one . . . Meanwhile, here's a couple of big shows coming up -

Feb 12, HOE at the Acoustic Cafe with Liz McNicholl.

Feb 19, HOE and LIAM BAILEY at The Stone House.

Jump on over to the SHOWS page to get more info and links.  The Liz show will feature some acoustical collaboration;  some combination of eight of us, or maybe all eight, will share the stage at some point, and Liz & band are a great act on their own.  Should be a lot of fun.  The Feb 19 show is the last hurrah for the Liam Bailey band.  It's his farewell show, all proceeds go to charity (more details later), and we're hoping that EVERYBODY who's ever been to a HOE or Liam or Uncle Dad show will come out to say goodbye.  And it goes without saying, if you haven't been to see Liam, this is your last chance short of going to Seattle.  

as of Saturday, January 15, 2005 -

If you've visited Liam Bailey's site, you know the news.  Liam and Claire are great folks and Meg and I wish them the very best in this new adventure.  We'll really miss them, they've become such good friends of ours.

If you're keeping score, yes, that leaves a grand total of 3 of my 3 current bands pretty much unhinged.  The Liam Bailey band and Uncle Dad will go with him; in some form or another that music will start shaking around Seattle within weeks of their arrival.  Lucky sods . . .  Rest assured that HOE will reform; v.2 discussions are under way, and I expect we'll post some dates and announcements before the winter gets too far along.

Stay tuned for more big haps, a big blow-out final show is in the works for Liam.

as of Saturday, January 1, 2005 -

Happy New Year to you.  I hope your '04 was good, and your '05 is better.   There's lots to look forward to in the next 365.  Here at the ranch, the landscape is lookin' to shift in a BIG way, and the end of this new year will find many, many changes in place.  Some friends and family know about the plans, some don't, but I'll be in touch here, there, and otherwhere to fill in the unaware.

Hints?  Okay, there looks to be an exciting new recording project, with someone I haven't recorded with before, probably happening soon.  Not big enough news, eh?  Hmm, you may be surprised.  How about this?  There seems to be a trend, something about people moving westward.  Hmm.  That's big, and impacts a lot of my current music scene.  More to share on that one in the coming months, too.  Lessee . . .  Megan will graduate from law school.  Henry Lee will see his first summer.  Wow, and these are just the beginning . . .

Here's something.  Start the new year right, and get yourself some real good karma by reaching out and helping people.  As you're full aware, there's recently been a terrible natural disaster that's claimed so many lives, and affected so many more.  If you can give a little money, or donate some old blankets, something, anything, PLEASE.  Our stupid embarrassment of a leader can't be bothered to shell out more than a day's fighting costs in Iraq, so it's up to the real caring people of this country and the rest of the world to stand up and help.  I hope you'll all do a little something, and spread the word.  I really, REALLY hope for that.

And with that, again my best wishes for '05.  Make it about love, and peace, and caring, and giving, and a better world.  Yeah, that's all a load of old cornball.  But it really is all we got, ain't it? 

Try it.  Just this year. 

as of Friday, November 26, 2004 -

Hope everyone who wanted to had a happy T'Giving, and whether you celebrate it or not, I hope everyone took time to be thankful.  As you might guess, Meg & I have a lot to be thankful for; see below if there's any doubt.  Having a baby changes your life; your perspective on so many things becomes clearer and more focused, and the important things in life become even more important, as another life hangs in the balance. 

Post-election, there's a new focus to the revolution and overthrow of this government.  Yes, I'm a terrorist, or whatever.  The point is, we ain't moving to Canada, and we're damn sure gonna make sure this country is in shape by the time little Henry Lee has any opportunity to form memories and impressions of the place.  We have not yet begun to fight.

A new website design, a new haircut, and new bumper stickers are on the truck.  A lot to shift and adjust as the end of '04 approaches.  Stay tuned for music news, ways to disrupt and confound the man, and celebrations.  It's all good stuff.

Peace.  

as of Sunday, November 14, 2004 -

Henry Lee Combs, born November 4th.  10 lb, 5 oz, and 22-1/2". 

And yes, now that you mention it, that is a perfect C major guitar chord.

That's my boy.