Greetings from The Netherlands where we are wrapping up a fantastic two week Europe tour. Last night’s show in Hamburg was our tenth in a row since starting in Zurich on December 7th. We had a great crowd and the venue, Knust, was killer. It is pretty cool to think about the historical significance of Hamburg, musically speaking. The Beatles and The Stones both started their meteoric ascent there in the early 60’s. Adjacent to our hotel was a famous music store where George Harrison (still in his teens) purchased a Rickenbacher guitar during their now famous residency in August 1960. Apparently Jimi Hendrix was a customer as well.
All of the shows on this tour have been really memorable. On a fundamental level, it is very rewarding to be able to share music with people in a foreign country (especially when they are excited to be there!). This tour has served as a reminder to me personally that live music is about communion between the performer(s) and the audience. The opportunity to share heart and soul for and with the people in attendance is special and seems to be even more evident when there are cultural or language barriers involved. The audiences here have all been very attentive and seem to be really into all that’s happening on stage. It’s really wonderful.
Music aside, the horrific tragedy in Newtown, CT has certainly made the last few days very somber. I’ve actually been surprised at how extensive the coverage has been in the European media. People over here seem to be in as much horror, disbelief, and sadness as people in the United States. I guess it goes to show how much the world is shrinking…in spite of ethnicity, age, gender, religious beliefs, etc. we are all in this together. What took place is pure evil and it is completely heartbreaking to think about the victims and all the families affected. This sort of thing is happening too often. Maybe some changes will be made institutionally (the prevalence and availability of guns is a real problem in my opinion) but hopefully this tragedy reminds us all to treat those around us–family, friends, foes, random acquaintances, etc.–with love and respect.
We are almost to Amsterdam where we will be staying the next three nights. A much deserved night off tonight before we play the legendary Paradiso tomorrow night and Nijmegen Wednesday night. Flying back to Texas on Thursday morning.
As always here some records to check out.
Happy Holidays everybody!
Alex Bradford, Too Close. One of the greatest gospel singers ever. In his autobiography, Ray Charles talks about Bradford’s influence on his singing.
Bruce Hornsby & The Range, A Night On The Town. This album is killer, in spite of it’s 90’s production qualities! All the songs are really great. Hornsby was really on a roll at this point in his career, coming off a Best New Artist Grammy and having just joined the Grateful Dead. Garcia guests on a few tunes and really cranks it up. Wayne Shorter and Bela Fleck also play on a few tracks and deliver the goods.
Allen Toussaint, Southern Nights. I was fortunate enough to catch Toussaint in Austin a few weeks ago. What a terrific night that was. He is a true gentleman, known as the ‘High Priest of New Orleans’ his music and presence is that of a true healer.
Kenny Burrell, Midnight Blue. Brilliant, a quintessential Blue Note session…such a great hang, especially late in the evening.
Peace,
TN