PHOTO  BY JULIE

I just got photos from our early October tour-ette (not to be confused with Tourette’s Syndrome). Look how bright and awake we look at 5am! Actually, I don’t quite remember what time it was — just that it was really early. We are about to set off from Phoenix to San Diego to set up the installation and play at UCSD.

A new crew on this trip — from left to right Jalen (drums), me, Jordan (guitar) and Caralie (bass).  I was really impressed by them. It’s hard to find a crew that you can stand on the road…very hard. And to have so much fun is even nicer. Also they play well, which is important, but not as important as being able to stand someone in a van for 24 hours.

One thing that sucks on the road with AQ: if you join my band, you have to be totally okay with assembling trees, laying sod, washing teacups and generally working your ass off on stage and off. They did very nicely.

A note: Jalen (far left) is the youngest drummer I’ve ever played with. I’m really impressed with his musician smarts as well as the speed at which he learns parts. I can’t think of another drummer I’ve played with who learns faster.  And believe me, I’ve played with plenty — plenty of really experienced, and even some high profile dudes who ain’t any faster. Really inspiring.