1-29 November
Fisken (Nyhavn)
Tuesdays - Sundays
Copenhagen,
Denmark
27 October
Rabinowitz
Haugesund,
Norway
5-6 October
The Scottish Pub
Copenhagen,
Denmark
16-30 September
Strecker's
Copenhagen,
Denmark
14 September
Musikhuset Aftenstjernen
Grenaa,
Denmark
12 September
Kasket Karl
Esbjerg,
Denmark
7 & 8 September
Finnegan's Wake
Hamburg,
Germany
23 August
Goldman's Bar
(Circus Hostel)
Solo Acoustic
Berlin,
Germany
17-18 August
Oscar Wilde Pub
Berlin,
Germany
11 August
Classic Pub
Golstrup,
Denmark
4-8 August
Beach Resort
Blavand,
Denmark
30 & 31 July
Barock
Copenhagen,
Denmark
4 & 5 May
Finnegan's Wake
as Maroza
Hamburg, Germany
Fridays & Saturdays
Vesterbro Bryghus
23:00-3:00
Sundays
Scala
21:00-1:00
Mondays
Fisken
21:30-1:30
Tuesdays
Old English
21:30-2:00
Wednesdays
Barock
21:30-1:30
Thursdays
Rosie McGees
19:00-23:00
30 March
Oscar Wilde Pub
Berlin, Germany
oscar-wilde-irish-pub.de
10 March
The Dubliner
Berlin, Germany
www.the-dubliner-berlin.de
February
Tues.-Sat. nights
Secret Place
Copenhagen, Denmark
19 & 20 January
Finnegan's Wake
as Maroza
Hamburg, Germany
9 December
private party
Teltow, Germany
1 December
Bierkeller
Berlin, Germany
24 & 25 November
Oscar Wilde Pub
as Maroza
Berlin, Germany
10 & 11 November
Finnegan's Wake
as Maroza
Hamburg, Germany
28 October
Oscar Wilde Pub
as Maroza
Berlin, Germany
27 October
Oscar Wilde Pub
as Maroza
Berlin, Germany
21 October
Cafe Canto
chill solo acoustic
Berlin, Germany
7 October
Ostzone Bar
Berlin
2 & 3 October
Honky Tonk
Madrid
23 September
Cafe Canto
Berlin
16 September
Oscar Wilde Irish Pub
Berlin
15 September
Goldman's Bar
Berlin
8 & 9 September
Finnegan's Wake
Hamburg
2 September
Ostzone Bar
Berlin
21 August
Bundespressestrand
Berlin
11 August
Circus Hostel
Goldman's Bar website Matthias on piano
22:00 Hr. Free Show
28 and 29 July
Finnegan's Wake
Hamburg website Matthias on piano
21:30 Hr.
17 July and 21 August
Monday, 20:00 hr.
Bundespressestrand
Friedrichstrasse, Berlin website Matthias on piano
No entrance fee • 2 sets
7 July
Friday, 22:00 hr.
Cafe Canto
Kopenhagener str. 69, Prenzlauerberg Chill solo acousitc set • No entrance fee
28 December, 2009
Berlin, Germany. Maybe I am psychic. Well, according to the dictionary cause of my recent experience with "phenomena that are apparently inexplicable by natural laws". In other words, I get these visions every once in a while. Usually happens when I feel healthy, getting good sleep, not partying or on some fitness routine. It's like a De Ja Vu but more clear and usually after these visions, experience in reality the same thing. I know it sounds crazy but it really does happen sometimes. It's a bit scary but interestingly strange. Trying to tap into that so I will let you know soon what will happen. • I played a fun cover last night, Kung Fu Fighting by Carl Douglas. Guess it was made modern by the film Kung Fu Panda. Also played a new song of mine, Promises. Maybe I will post it here.
23 December 2009
Berlin, Germany. Thanks to the coffee, I'm inspired and have some energy for another entry, thank gawd I have no hangover today, really getting tired of those. So, below is a rough clip of me playing a newish song Places. It's about finding a place to live or finding a happy spot to settle. Geeze, I would know, been kicking around here for the last few years, hope I would have some words to write about. Anyways, the performance is a bit shaky, sound is just ok but at least the song is done and being heard. I know, I keep writing about this little bar Madame Claude, but the open mic there on sundays is a great place to see new artisits and hear orginal music in its raw form. I tell Heiko and Tory that the open mic night will be legendary someday, like the old singer-songwriter scene in the US and New York during the early 90s with guys like Elliott Smith, Jeff Buckley, Jason Mraz, etc. Oh, and I was playing around a bit as well then. Yes, been around for a while: auf alten Schiffen lernt man segeln.
19 December 2009
Berlin, Germany. I am playing tonight at Canto in Berlin, will be a few sets of solo acoustic guitar and singing. • I have been to a few open stages in Berlin, my fave is "Open Mic L. J. Fox" (Madame Claude), will be here sunday night. Facebook link for more info. • I wanted to add some new pics here at my homepage but decided to just post a link to my Facebook music photo album.
December 17 , 2009
Berlin, Germany. I just uploaded old Scarecrows footage from a gig years ago in California. I miss my Les Paul, sustain for hours. The gig was a reunion filmed by Frank with Curt Fike, Jeff Chandler and Corky Sellers. We were a bit trashy and stiff solos but it was a fun night.
December 15 , 2009
Berlin, Germany. Oh my brain hurts, too much gluhwein last night at the christmas market with friends. I played a few songs at the Open Mic L J. Fox in Madame Claude bar (Kreutzberg) last Sunday. I will be back there again this Sunday. its fun and realy worth checking out, every Sunday 21:30. This weekend Saturday night I will be back at Cafe Canto for some covers, originals, dinner and coca-cola. Its small but cozy. Free entrance.
Dec. 12, 2009
Berlin, Germany. I am playing tonight at Canto in Prenzlauer Berg. The evenings are so nice during this time of year in this city with all the lights and Christmas decor. Plus the Berliners are not so grouchy, many happy moods abound. Here's some interesting. Berlin was the 3rd largest city in the world just before WWII after New York and London. Then when the dust settled and the German army got their asses kicked, a few million people had been taken out of the equation for Berlin. But it's still a huge place with about 4 million. • What I've been listening to. I had time in Malmo to give a great album a good listen, Highway To Hell by AC/DC on my iPod. I have always known that it's a decent record but never took the time to discover how great and classic the release really is. Every song, chord structure and hook is brilliant. • These days I am busy with lovely visitors like Julie and Kristy, conversations about auras, karma and hidden secrets of young German Turkish women, what some are really doing under those silky wraps. • I am a bit sad that this ski season I will not be working at the Austrian resort Saalbach because of scheduling. Wie entstanden die Berg? In the area of the alps there's a myth that says giants built the mountains. Within the moutain above a village is where the giant who built it lies buried. So the people say that all the mountains are tombs for the giants who built them. • Have to give a shout out to good friends and sweet people in Sverieg: Ditte, Joakim, Simon, Juan Carlos, Jose & Pablo at Simpan, Houman, Jamin and Camilla at Balthazar, Johhny at Hornet, Lobo & Annette, Nanne, Krisitn, Gry, Angelina. You guys rock, merry Christmas and see ya soon.
December 4 , 2009
Berlin, Germany. Well, well, well. Back in town and ready to rock. I am good to Deuschtland and Deuschtland is good to me. Such a pretty site here in town with the Christmas markets and lovely friends. And thanks to Sandera, I will be playing at a very cool cafe next Tuesday, Intersoup! I heard there is two of the same but this the original and better spot. Tuesday 8 December at 9pmish. Intersoup: Schliemannstr. 31, Berlin, fon: 030 65702664
October 25, 2009
Berlin, Germany. It's 3:30am. I feel funky. Like a fever or stomach ache. Maybe because I only ate a jar of peanut butter today and had no sleep yet. • I was looking for an album to get me through the winter around here. Think I found one with this band from Iceland called, sigur rós. One of the songs from this album, ágætis byrjun, was used in the Vanilla Sky soundtrack. If you like Bowie's Low, I suggest this ambient collection of sounds. • Was an interesting little trip back home. Something I have never experienced before. Because this time around I reconnected with childhood friends on a new level. Never knew what it was like to develope a strong relationship, watch it vanish then come back to it almost an entire lifetime later. Many years earlier if I came across these people, probably would have been: "Hey whats up, what have you been doing these past twenty years?" But now its like, "Jeeze, you're alive and well? Me too. Thank Gawd". Hug and kiss. I don't really care about your rank, car model or the price of your house. I'm just happy to see that you're still alive and can help me remember things past from the good ol' days.
October 23, 2009
Berlin, Germany. Just arrived. Friggin cold here. Guess it could be colder but compared to California weather. Jettlagged, tired, feeling funky. Next gigs are in Copenhagen next week. Hey Berliner freunde, las uns treffen aber anderen tag. Ich bin besetzt. Und ich broche schlaf.
September 22, 2009
Huntington Beach , USA. Well, the eleven hour plane ride was not so fun, but getting to Wendy's for a chili and chocolate Frosty was nice. In two years and four months, not much has changed. Still loads of traffic on the 405 fwy, over abundance of the LA hybrid Asian-Latin America culture, same songs on the radio basically. Was not so excited until I got to my brother's for a visit and jam session with nephew. It's humid but sunny here, some haze and overcast. I get to talk to Roxy tomorrow on the phone, the girl I wrote a song for, Fool in the Sun. • Looking forward to my HB gig next week, fueled by Facebook. • "Time heals what reason cannot."- Seneca
September 10, 2009
Berlin, Germany. Don't worry, I'm not coming out of the closet with this. Today I am tearing apart Bee Gee's numbers to understand the chart topping genius that sold millions of copies. Ok, so they were not cool or disco whatever, the fact is that they made great pop songs. Like Jive Talkin' for example. Brilliant! I cannot believe how simple but catchy that tune is. The chorus is bassically one note with a clever melody line. So it comes down to this, the song. Trends, genres and bands will come and go. But, a great song will last forever. • "Better than a thousand hollow words, is one word that brings peace." - Buddha
September 8, 2009
Newcastle, England. Bit of a hangover today but nothing some chips 'n gravy can't cure. The show turned out to be very good. Kudos to Mark Simpson for managing a cracking event with such short time. I have to say that Dog and Parrot is classic, discovered some new music mates in Cult Image and Tom Hollingworth. There are plenty of props I could send out but brain not working. I can say that Newcastle is fabulous. Seems that every time I get here, something new to learn about Newcastle's rock 'n roll history and it's inhabitants comes my way. Can carry on for a while describing the lovely folks here and fun times. Nice to meet all you guys! Defenitely coming back.
August 30, 2009
Berlin. My pick of new music for this weekend has to be Datarock. A Norwegian act. Probably the most eclectic band I've ever heard but still fresh and fun for the ears. They've nicked their looks from Devo and White Stripes, the guitar rhythms come from Gang of Four and the melodies come from Simple Minds meets XTC. It's growing on me. This is the second time I've given them a long listen and I am still not bored. • I've created a Facebook page for a special area in Berlin called Hackesher Markt. Why is it special Dave? 'Cause on some weather friendly Saturdays and Sundays, the tourists are smiling and foot tapping to yours truly at Cafe Dante. I really love this place. It's interesting, has history and offers a wide variety of food. On Thursdays and Saturdays, they host an open air market.
27 August 2009
Berlin, Germany. It's back to England next week. Mary Poppins, fish & chips, jolly good (they don't really say that) for a gig in Newcastle. On the bill with some other singer-songwriter guy but I forgot his name and a band is playing but I forgot their name. But the drummer is Mark. Newcastle is cool. They are called Jordies. It was home to Sting, Mark Knopfler of Dire Straits, the skinny guy from Laurel & Hardy and Jimi Hendrix lived there with the Animals band.
19 August 2009
Berlin. Just read the news that Les Paul died last week at the age of 94. Rest in peace buddy. Thats a drag. The inventor of multi-track recording and the Les Paul electric guitar, my fave guitar, is gone. In other news, Steven Tyler fell of a stage in Sturgis during a Aerosmith gig and broke his shoulder. They weren't even playing. It happened between songs while the sound system was having problems. Did not get to hear about this stuff until I got back down to earth. • Here's another good film: Death Proof directed by Quentin Tarantino. Kurt Russell plays a much different character then in his old "Disney days".
18 August 2009
Berlin, Germany. Happiness is a peaceful flat, home cooked food and solid internet connection. I've been entertaining myself with these films: Bolt, Juno, Ramones End of the Century, Outlaw Josey Wales, Bring It On and The Darjeeling Express. Also, strumming guitar, chatting with friends on Skype and watching cool old Kinks performances on Youtube. I've been having strange dreams like about the earth falling apart or waking up thinking I'm on a rumbling cruise ship. But the sleep is generally good. I'm working on new song titles also.
17 August 2009
Stockholm, Sweden. Feeling like I'm closer to earth. I've decided that Finland is good. I like the ship, the people, the nation. But it's also good to be back in Sweden. This Finnish passenger guy on the ship yesterday was telling me that the Swedes and Finns are not so fond of each other's nation. And that the Finns don't care much for the Russians. Then the Danes don't like the Germans and the Germans don't care for the English, etc. This goes on and on. It's interesting to me because living in USA is different. We don't share close space with other nations. Except for Canada (American Lite) which is so high up there, doesn't really bother. Mexico is the only real neighbor, but there are so many Mexicans in the states, it's sometimes like we are connected anyway. After all, California was once part of Mexico. Slowly waking up here in the Centralen waiting for a plane ride back to Berlin. My plans for a week in Stockholm have changed. I'm peopled out. Answering questions, shaking hands, kissing babies, downing vodka, laughing and singing. Was fun but taxing. Need to chill at my flat for a few days. I will be playing in Berlin this weekend.
12 August 2009
Turku, Finland. Listening to Sigur Ros right now from the Vanilla Sky soundtrack, trippy ambient rock from I think Norway, the chord changes remind me of old Pink Floyd with the vibe of Julie Cruz. While watching Speedway with the volume off. The cool thing about Scandinavia, this type of racing is maintream, in Sweden it's on TV daily. Brings me back to the days in Costa Mesa, hanging out at Orange County fairgrounds. I am working on this cruise ship, yes it's work. Playing five sets a day, broken up throughout the day. Entertaining mostly Finns, some Russians and a few Swedes. Finland is home to Him, Children of Bodum, Hanoi Rocks and Smack. Finland is a Rock 'n Roll nation, lots of hard rock, bikers, skinny white long hair rocker guys that drink too much. A bit primitive and cheeky but most of the guys are cool. The women can be expressionless and cold, but after a few beers and a little chatting, they warm up. • On the ship the TV plays great films, I'm a new fan of this flick Juno with a good soundtrack.
28 July 2009
Berlin, Germany. Why are there boring pics of buildings next to the Heroes album? Because I'm still on a Bowie kick this month. But this time it was the "Bowie walking tour" thanks to Dirk. David Bowie lived in Berlin for a couple years in the late 70s. He recorded two great albums here, Heroes and Low. Also producing Iggy Pop's Idiot. So, the pics on the left are of the Hansa by the Wall Recording Studio, his former residence and cafe where he was drinking coffee with Iggy Pop during these days. The studio was an old ballroom in the 1920s and during WWII a party hang-out for Nazi officers. Berlin has always been a city of decadence. Bowie's apartment was in the former west Berlin, which at the time was the cool alternative area Schoneberg. But now the hood is quite normal. • I am playing solo acoustic originals/covers this Saturday night at Louisiana Kid in Berlin Mitte. Free entrance.
11 July 2009
Berlin, Germany. I'm playing tonight at Intersoup. Hamburg was fun but now it's back to business. Holidays are over. I feel the need to mention something about a great art exhibit at Rathaus Hamburg. There's a show that I stumbled into about American modern artists after the turn of the 20th century featuring Edward Hopper and Georgia O'keefe. It was especially interesting because the theme stressed the important relationship between American and European modern artists at the time. It was great, I love looking at art. So romantic, I get lost in a dreamy state. I was an art student in college so seeing this stuff is a flash back to the good ol' days. Actually, the days are still good, I'm having so much fun in life. Every day is exciting. Thats must sound corny but it's true despite the 3 hour bus ride. But about the art, I'm glad I took the time to study this stuff back in the day, cause the pay off is visiting the actual works and knowing all about it.
9 July 2009
Hamburg, Germany. Back in the Fatherland. Was really excited about this article I was reading in Record Collector Magazine. It was a description of the recordings of Bowie's Hunky Dory album. So cool, I'm inspired. Hopefully will be getting some music work done here in town with Kate, AKA the German Avril Lavigne. Really haven't spent much time here since Maroza gigs with Matthias. I've been listening to Velvet Underground, thanks to Ditte, burned a copy. What a great CD. Oh ya, Ditte says my guitar is an aphrodisiac. Like at the immigration office when the guy at the info counter asked me why I want to live in Sweden. I almost said, "cause when I play guitar, some Swedish girls in short skirts sit down in front but don't cross their legs". But I did not want to cause any weirdness, so I did not joke around.
7 July 2009
Malmö, Sweden. Not a really a "music" town, but a nice place to visit. Lots of street busking going on here. The Migrationsverket was not so scary either. Mostly Arabs, some Africans an a few Asians. The waiting room was full but took only bout 15 mins to get my first questions answered. I guess Sweden is nice to immigrants in peril or looking for sanctuary. They need new generation here so there are many benefits for couples wishing to procreate. I heard a mother can a take a year off paid work to raise each new baby. The other day at a little party, I ate goose liver, but was not so curious about the fish paste crackers.
2 July 2009
Stockholm, Sweden. So we were hanging out at this beautiful old park Vanadis Lunden on Sveavagen, me and singer-songwriter Kate, just strumming guitar enjoying great weather when I spotted this big brown rat. It had been running around for a few days so I was not so freaked out when I saw it again. It ran to a tree and was eating something about 100 feet away. I was all excited and pointed it out to Kate then picked up a rock and threw it at the rat. Poor little guy got knocked right in the head and flipped over kicking it's feet in the air. I was like. And she was like. And together we were like, aaagh! End of story. I hope the rat gods don't come and get me. But seriously, I have some intelligent info to write about but its been too hot and I'm all burned out. Really not missing California heat wave weather at all. Oh ya, I'm like the music pimp daddy of Vasterlanggatan in the old town (got the ladies working for me), been meeting nice musician people, enjoying some cultural things and getting lots of R&R. By the way homies, Sweden is next to Norway in Scandinavia (Northern Europe). I can hear some American friends now: "Oh Dave, don't be such a smart ass!". Peace out.
28 June 2009
Gothenburg, Sweden. Thanks to some good friends here in town, we are having a great time. Some TV programs in sweden are pretty good. I was watching a music show with Lou Reed and Elvis Costello. Elvis was interviewing Lou about song writing and The Velvet Underground. The weather is warm and sunny. It's good to be back here. We were at Branno Island celebrating a tradition involving music, boats and a party. Then I heard the news about Michael Jackson, such a pitty. What a talented guy and so many hits.
23 June 2009
Helsingborg, Sweden. Ya, just crusing through on the train. Lots of blonde birds, Mike Petrus would be so happy. The midsummer thing was not as exciting as I was expecting but I did learn about that tall pole with the flowers and the girls with streamers running around it with flowers in their hair. The event comes from the viking days. And the pole with 2 rings at the top is a symbol for a giant penis fertilizing the earth for a good harvest year. It's a sort of good luck charm celebration.
19 June 2009
Malmö, Sweden. It's the "Midsummer Holiday" here. Longest day of the year. The air smells sweet because of the summer flower blossoms. I think its the Swedish jasmine. Yes, that must sound gay but it's true. Very nice to be back in Sweden.
16 June 2009
Berlin, Germany. I'm listening to old bands again. But it's OK cause I get my share of new music from these open stages and local cafes that I visit. Now its Dinosaur Jr. (USA), Heiko got me listening to them with a new video release. I saw them play in Madrid in the mid 90s, did not know they were back making music. Maybe they are playing again just for work/money. It's cool that these video games like Guitar Hero and Garage Band come with old music and opening to a new generation of new music listeners who might not have heard these old songs before. • Since my world has been about calm acoustic singer/songwriter these days, I needed a dose of some hard rockin' classics. These bands were also know to produce a fun loving hippie diddy as well. Some troubadours are playing Peter Frampton songs. I need to mention that before he went solo and recorded the classic Frampton Comes Alive! album, he was in a great bluesy rock band called Humble Pie (UK). Then listening to Rod Stewart/Faces (UK) and of course a band that adapted this style in great way, Black Crowes (USA). Some of their best music was made when Marc was in the band. Hey Marc, lets jam! Get Jerry King and Kirsten, I'll call the Petrus brothers and Joe Simon. • Busking tour 09 will lead the way to København, Malmö, Göteborg, Stockholm and Sverige adventure land. "Our doubts are traitors, and make us lose the good we oft might win, by fearing to attempt." -William Shakespeare
8 June 2009
Berlin, Germany. I am playing Friday at Fabisch (don't ask me how they came up with that name), it's a nice bar in the Circus Hotel, center of Berlin. • During WWII, German guy Hugo Jaeger was assigned as personal photographer for Adolph Hitler. He kept his transperencies secret until 1965, then sold them to Life Magazine. To comemorate D Day, Life has posted many of his pics online this month. • Am a bit restless. Did what was needed here, music work, gigs, promotion. Think it's time to head up Sverige for a few. • Here's my new video: Easy To Love. Youtube rocks!
4 June 2009
Berlin, Germany. Ok, been a few days here so I might ramble a bit. First off, I uploaded to Youtube some video footage from last month working on Flying Back To Oslo. It's rough camera work but fun and I don't look fat. I'm bringing attention to this small film, The Story of Stuff. It's what I've been talking about for years, now this lady has finally put it to video. Bassically, its about de-evolution and the destruction of our planet by over consumerism. Checki it out. It's nice to find a music community, other songwriters and creative people. The gig this week for Fourtrack on Stage at Madame Claude was great. The people organizing are cool. The German artist makes cool flyers. Elegant, interesting, attractive. And the flyers are nice also. Let's see... the songwriter night this Saturday will be at The Crow student cafe at the Uni in Berlin. Featuring me, Matthias Blaske, Anouschka, Heiko B HorrorMe and others. It's a kinda "open stage" by invite.
25 May 2009
Berlin, Germany. Here's a FREE Mp3 demo of my new song, Flying Back To Oslo. Also, we made a video for this. Right click it, hope the link works, hope you likey.
Mp3 clicky here: Flying Back To Oslo
20 May 2009
Berlin, Germany. My new video is done and posted for now on YouTube. "Easy to Love", was produced by 2 prominent Indonesian film makers, Upie and Ujo. The actress is Alice Grinda. It's fun.
14 May 2009
Berlin, Germany. I found a cool cafe to play in Kreuzberg. Next gig:
May 19, Tuesday 8-10pm. Die Fabrik
Schlesische Straße 18
10997 Berlin
Tel.: +49 (0)30-611 71 16
frier eintritt
11 May 2009
Berlin, Germany. This place in Kreuzberg has a cool open stage for songwirters on Sundays, it's called Madame Claude. The guys running it are fun, quirky and play Velvet Underground kinda stuff. Interesting. The last night I was off to Zapata to see Eric Penny (US) and his crew for songwriter's night that will be regular starting in September. He is a crafted liedermacher, worth checking out.
28 April 2009
Berlin. Been discovering some good venues and checking out some good artists in town. Including this guy, Seanin. Now I'm working on Germany gigs. More news on that later. Jetzt ich mus nach die auslanderbehorde gehen. Und kaffe trinken und vanilla kirsche plunder essen.
23 April 2009
Berlin, Germany . There are so many bands and acts I find every week, but I will highlight one fun sounding group from Melbourne, Australia called The Cat Empire. Like rock, ska with cuban jazz mix (thanks singer-songwriter Matthias). Soon, I will have some new video stuff to upload, been working with the Photobooth Princess. We will produce stories and new song films. "Life is either a daring adventure or nothing. Security is mostly a superstition. It does not exist in nature." - Helen Keller. Nachste monate, ich wird spielen in Berlin akousitk konzerte. Ich wunsch mit meine Berliner freunde treffen fur viel spass und wein trinken!
18 April 2009
Deutschland. As I get older, realising that life is getting shorter, I have less patience for bullshit and stupid things. So I'm into space travel and watching for people's aura. That's what brings me to my new song Flying back to Oslo, about a trip that's out of this world, hanging out with aliens. Inspired by Marc: "I'll call you thing just when the moon sings and place your face in stone upon the hill of stars. And gripped in the arms of the changeless madman, we'll dance our lives away in the Ballrooms of Mars". On another note, boozing it up all night is just not fun anymore. Now that I'm in one place for an extended time, getting into shape is easier. Haven't made a commitment to regular Bikram but running early in the morning is getting easier. I know, thats not very Rock 'n' Roll but just feels good. The most important point of this entry is production for my new video, "Easy to Love". We just finished a long day of shooting, now off to editing. Should be out in a few weeks. So nice to work with enthusiastically talented people. There was a crew with lots of big equipment, cameras, make-up and a actress half naked for one shot.
14 April 2009
Berlin, Germany . Green is the new black. I am back at my flat and decided to clean up a bit. So I went to the store and bought some ecological cleaning stuff. Whats the point of this? I'm losing track of what I was going to write. Anyways, we should all do our part to care for the planet. I'm tired, had to wake early for a flight into town this morning. I got a short haircut. The weather is so nice, like in California. I was wearning shorts and flipflops while eating fresh fruit in the sunshine. Thats all I can think of right now. Tired, brain not working. More news coming soon. Oh ya, I'm supposed to write more about my feelings/intimate stuff on this page: I miss my family, I get a happy warm feeling when old friends find me at facebook, my favorite animal is the unicorn, sometimes I cry.
8 April 2009
Oslo, Norway. In the land of Turbonegro watching Kurt Blir Grusom. They make for good photo shoots, some of the guitar sounds are nice, a strong following. But I don't get the tunes, not my thing I guess. Once when I was in Switzerland (Zürich Chainsaw Massacre), Josef played for me Oslo Motherfuckers. An offshoot of Turbo, I like this project much better. Great recordings. Anyone know if these guys are playing around?
3 April 2009
Fredericia, Denmark. Thanks Engelske! The other night was guy's night. Not stick grabbing, we drank beer, played with helicopters and watched an old Michael Jackson video. After Denmark beat Albania 3-0, Ken took me to Fatter Eskil for the open jam. I was really impressed by all the talent in Aarhus. Really inspired. I think most of the musicians were there for the Royal Academy of Music. It was a good session. But not anywhere as special as my music session at the Musikhuset Aarhus. I could write funny stuff about angry roommate guy, but it's better to spend words on positive things. "You can't stay in your corner of the forest waiting for others to come to you. You have to go to them sometimes." - Winnie the Pooh
1 April 2009
Århus, Denmark. I would like to announce that this is my last week to play live, forever. Just kidding...April fools! Seriously, come see me play live while you can. Cause when I start headlining the arenas, won't have enough VIP passes to go around. Today I am playing at the music store, this weekend in Fredericia. I have some promo CDs to give away free.
31 March 2009
Århus, Denmark. Wada ya know, the sun is shinning. It's a nice day here in Aarhus. But my stomach is grumbling, so better go get a bite to eat. Just wanna say hi to all my friends in town. What I'm listening to: Chicks on Speed. Fun, artsy techno stuff like Peaches but more gumball. They are in town at Voxhall tomorrow, maybe will see them. Hey man, don't ask so many questions!
27 March 2009
I'm playing live this Wednesday, 1 April in Århus, Stereo Studio at 4 p.m. It's a record shop on the walking street (Ryesgade 8), one set of original songs.
23 March 2009
Copenhagen, Denmark. Playing live, this Friday at Pinden from 9:30-1:00am. City center by the main train station. Reventlowsgade 4, 1651 København V, Tlf. 33315035. No entrance fee.
Berlin, March 6
I wanna send out a greetings to all the nice people I met on the cruise ship gig (King of Scandinavia). Was really a nice opportunity to sit and talk with all the English, Dutch, Scottish, Irish, Czech, Slovakia, German, American, Russian and Thai travelers. Thanks very much for all the clapping, tips, drinks, kisses, chocolate, compliments, invitations, etc. And props to the crew, you guys rock. Was great that we made it through a entire exciting month without any problems. Wish I could collect all you people, put you in a room for a party and play some sing-along songs.
6 March 2009
Berlin, Germany. Update. Shit, I was adding a new entry and accedentally deleted this info about The Psychedelic Furs. This is what I am listening to today. Old but great music from England. I was having an online music jam with friend Alice from Vicenza at the time.
Sitting around waiting for the meter reader guy to show up is not what I was planning for today but maybe this time can be used wisely. (But thanks to Sandy). Like, cooking a nice homemade plate of spaghetti and watching cool rock videos on youtube. But I will wear a black shirt if I cook this cause last time I had that happy "just got home" feeling and made spaghetti, I got stains on the new H&M shirt I had just put on. Oh, by the way, the new songs from "Imitation Sunlight" are on this streaming internet radio site: last.fm, the sounds is reasonable, and it's for free! It's a radio type thing so you people at work can put on my music in the background and work on your computer at the same time or play video games or read the news. Whatever you folks working in offices do these days. It's been so long since I was working in an office with cubicles, lunch rooms, watercoolers, beverage machines, etc. Last time I was working in that environment, I got very scared and lonely and left without looking back. Or all you stay-at-home dads can play my music at the house while the baby sleeps and you clean the kitchen. Or maybe all the housewives who are in need of nice tunes of romance and passion to listen while waiting for Mac Daddy to arrive.
Ida Maria, I recomend this girl singer from Norway. Great music. Yes, there are many cool punk rock singer-songwriter girls in Europe, but this one is special. Plus, the text is in English.
http://www.myspace.com/idamaria
2 March 2009
Berlin, Germany. I am listening to The Libertines. He! Berliner freunde, rufen mich an, las uns bier trinken!
1 March 2009
Berlin, Germany. New song news and show dates to follow. Some exciting ideas coming next. But I'm tired, burned out. Nice to meet all you English and Dutch people and the crew from Bulgaria, Philipines, made the gigs even that much better.
25 February 2009
Amsterdam, Holland. Today the line to enter the Van Gogh museum was way too long so I walked over to the Rijks Museum of national Dutch art and culture. The highlight of the exhibit was Rembrandt's Night Watch, Kitchen Maid, and the Syndics (Sampling Officials), oil paintings from the 17th century. During the time of these paintings, Holland was going through it's "Golden Period". After the 80 years war around 1648, the spanish rulers were ousted and the official state of The Netherlands was established. Shipping, trading and the economy was at a peak. It's evident in the portrait oil paintings of wealthy people during this time. Actually, there are many items from the Golden Period in this museum, like weapons, armour, cannons, furniture, fashions, house wares. I also learned that Frans Hals the great painter was from Haarlem, a Dutch city I visited with Val the pirate last week. But this city is too expensive. 18 euros for a short cab ride, 11 euros for museum entrance, 4.50 for a coffee.
16 February 2009
Newcastle, England. My new CD EP is out now. Available at iTunes or from www.cdbaby.com. The release is Imitation Sunlight, six songs of pure enjoyment. Hey, Eva and John from Praha, write me. I can't read the email.
3 February 2009
Amsterdam, Holland. An opportunity to visit an old haunt with Valentin from the ship's band, Royal Alligators. Pot cafes, prostitution window shopping and live porn shows. But the highlight was the Rembrandt House museum. The Dutch I've met seem to be pretty cool, but sorry people, not as impressed by your city. Actually, Amsterdam does not have that nice Dutch feel. It's a rather dodgie tourist trap.
23 January 2009
Newcastle, England. Surprisingly, the weather is quite nice and there are some birds worth watching. In the 60s, Jimi Hendrix first came here to play small gigs and busk on the streets. If I was permitted to taste the Brown Ale at the brewery tour (no alcohol drinking allowed on the ship), the experience might even be better. I did find one recent treasure that England has to offer, Joy Division rockumentary on DVD. It's a brilliant story about the great Manchester gloom band. These guys were a big inspiration to me and partly responsible for pioneering the music genre now known as "alternative rock".
18 January 2009
Hamburg, Germany. On the train with my PowerBook watching this film of the legendary Cheap Trick concert, live at Budokan. Who is Seneca? This person wrote this: "Luck is what happens when preparation meets opportunity."
13 January 2009
Århus, Denmark. The in-store live set this Saturday will be at the Stereo Studio. It's a record shop on the walking street in Århus (Ryesgade 8) at 2 p.m.
6 January 2009
Malmö, Sweden. This town is just like the people, sweet and delightful to watch. I really don't feel like leaving today. But, hey guys, I'll be back! Here's some facts: Malmö is first mentioned as a town in the year 1275 and became Swedish for good in 1658. The population is 266,00. One in four residence here have foriegn roots, which makes this place a multinational city. The climate is coastal temperate with cool summers and mild winters. What I've been listening to: Blink 182, various single downloads. Next stop: Aarhus, Denmark for Sherlock Holmes shows.
3 January 2009
Malmö, Sweden. I was watching a good film and discovered it's soundtrack online including a band, The Jesus and the Mary Chain. Which happens to be a band that wrote about candy 20 years (ya, I know, been listening to music for a long-ass time) before The Raveonettes another good band I've been listening to lately. They are from Denmark but I guess they live in LA now. Many people ask me, "Why Denmark?". I came here years ago by invitation to visit a radio station and interview with a DJ who is still a friend of mine in Århus. Been coming back to Denmark ever since. Which brings me to another topic, live Denmark shows. Next week I will be the house troubadour "late musician" for my first live shows in Århus at the Sherlock Holmes Pub. For the next couple of weeks, playing Tuesday-Saturday 'till 4am or something crazy like that.
23 December
I'm playing Fagans Irish Pub on Thursday night. It's in Malmö city center. What I'm listening to this week: Thrid Eye Blind, first album. Good band from San Francisco, great songs.
19 December
Copenhagen. The new year will bring a new CD EP release, Imitation Sunlight, songs written throughout 2008 and a couple fresh tunes. Should be out in Jan. or Feb. 2009. The gigs at McJoys have been fun, thanks to the good folks coming by for a visit.
3 December
McJoy's Pub, København. I have promo CDs at the gig with me, if you wanna a copy, just ask. What I've been listening to: The Gun Club's Fire of Love album. This very original band with all it's fiery passion, went on to influence acts like the Pixies and White Stripes. Taking me back the days as volatile and angry teenager.
2 December
Copenhagen. Tonight begins the McJoy's shows. The atmosphere is great, Christmas street fest with all the lights, booths for food and gifts. The pub is on a corner towards the end of the walking area. Free entrance, 10pm.
7 November
Berlin, Germany. Looks like I will have a few weeks off for rest and song writing before heading over to Denmark. Next stop: Huntington Beach, CA. Look out OC, here I come. Check out Dave's Fun Fans group at Face Book.
5 November, 2008
Berlin. Back in town working on some new music and promo. My next confirmed gigs are in Copenhagen. The Rosie O'Grady's gig in Roskilde is canceled for next month. Had a bit of trouble with the Arab owner man, he didn't want give me my full pay (troubadours take note). How do these foreign assholes end up in such a nice country like Denmark? We might be playing a full band show this month in Berlin, check back for news on that.
You gotta see this cool video. It's an artist Ida Maria from Norway. My new fave singer. It's a clip on her website.
27 October, 2008
Berlin. Thanks to all my dear Berliner friends, you guys rock. Nice to know some of you people are still coming around after about 3 years of playing here. Also, thanks fun party guy who bought me the hiefenweisen. Next stop: Denmark.
By the way, any travelers looking for rest, don't go to Wombats, they suck. Go to the Circus.
22 October, 2008
Berlin. So here's what my day is like: wake up about 13:00, make a coffee, hang out in my flat for a few hours, strum the guitar, check emails and update facebook. Then I make some calls to set up gigs, arrange music rehearsal, book flights, general music biz, etc. Then I might go for stroll to my fave cafe around the corner from my building on Alte Schoenhauser. I love this cafe 'cause they make great pancakes and serve breakfast untill 16:00. Then in the evening I strum the guitar a bit more, talk with friends on the phone, watch some CNN to find out what latest catastrophy my fellow Americans have produced. Today I was trying to read a letter in German from the Auslanderbehorde. Then it's off to a gig of the current touring band in town, promoting and meeting other music lovers.
What I've been listening to: Jennifer Rostock. This girl rocks! She's so cool, reminds me of old school Neue Deutsche Wella or Nena 99 Luft Ballons but hotter and with a kick. She is like the German version of Norway's Ida Maria. Also looks great in video.
The CD release gig is at Goldman's bar in the keller of Circus Hostel this Saturday. In Berlin Mitte at Rosenthaler Platz, 23:00 uhr. Will be fun: cheep drinks, free entrance and fun people from all over the world stay there. Come celebrate with us and sing along. If you show up, ask for a free copy of the CD.
21 Oct., 2008
Berlin, Germany. Back in town working on promo and some gigs. Check back for news on the CD release show in Berlin, we are working on it now. Mama und Papa Bartsch were the first ever to buy my new CD. Thanks
14 Oct., 2008
Haugesund, Norway.
Mack Kjelleren schedule
for this week:
Oslo, Norway. I just wasn't sure about this city until I gave it another try. My opinion has changed thanks to sweet Sonja, pasta dinner and a trip to Astrup Fearnley Museum of Modern Art for the Warhol Exhibit. Even saw the flick Factory Girl. I'm back to this nice country and having a good time. The gig in Denmark was great! Thanks Grenaa, troubadour Peter and puking lady.
6 Oct., 2008
Berlin. There are some new pics up on the photo page and there will be a couple new songs up at my myspace page. Headed for Copenhagen next week but will stop off in Hamburg for a couple days.
2 October, 2008
Berlin. I met an American guy tonight, his name was Stefan and he is a music critic. While I was standing out front of a Jason Mraz show at Huxelys Neue Welt, wondering if I should fork over 30 euros for entrance, this guy Stefan came up to me for an interview with his video camera. Then he gave me a free ticket for the concert. But my back was hurting because I have been sitting in my cheap office chair all day, so I came home early. Thanks music writer guy from Cape Cod.
1 October, 2008
Berlin. So I'm watching this new Speed Racer film on my laptop and notice the Bradenburg Tor in the final scene, a famous landmark in Berlin with a statue on top that was once stolen by Napoleon. I read the credits and discoverd that the flick was produced in Germany. Cool, but the film was not so great. Special effects and filming are nice but that's about it. My new CD is done and will be available for sale at gigs, CD Baby and through iTunes.
28 September, 2008
Berlin. The next gig in Norway is coming up: 13-19 October in Haugesund. Playing Mac Kjelleren nightly starting at 22:00 (I forgot to post this event). Hope to see some Norge friends and fans at the pub during that week. My new CD is scheduled to be released at this gig.
24 September, 2008
Berlin. So I'm still in town hammering out this new release, and happy to be working with the same guys as last time. But this endeavor has brought me new creative colleagues, like the famous German photographer, Falco Peters. If you are trying to get something done and it's frustrating, don't get mad. Benjamin Franklin said: "Anger is never without a reason, but seldom a good one." There are so many new bands and good music to learn about every week, but it's nice to get back to the classics. I've been listening to Strawberries, a great album released by The Damned that never got it's proper attention.
August 19, 2008
Berlin. I was just reading my last entry. Geez, what the hell was I on?!? You know what's cool? Watching the birds fly overhead. Know what's not cool? Getting shit on by a friggin' bird. Again, had a great time in Fredericia, you guys rock! I'm back in Berlin but busy recording new songs for the next platinum selling CD. Here's a good quote: "You can't build a reputation on what you're going to do." - Henry Ford
August 3, 2008
Berlin, Germany.You know what's cool? Watching the seagulls hover overhead on the outside deck of this ferry between Denmark and Germany while listening to Madeleine Peyroux (French-American jazz singer). So I will be in town for a couple weeks to work on music. Any of my Berliner friends wanna hang out? Call me, lets meet at the beer garden for bratwurst and weisbier. Sooo good to be back in Berlin, riding my bike and drinking mango shakes. That's happiness, so simple but so fun. By the way, the Koge gig was successful, thanks people, nice to meet you all, hope to be back there soon.
August 2, 2008
Copenhagen, Denmark. Tonight was special because I spent time with a talented and entertaining American friend, Luis Oliart from California. He was the bass player in my first band while we were at Walker Jr. High school. Now he is in town for all of August playing for Strecker's. He is a full-time musician/teacher/ producer in L.A. with good songs. I recommend that you check him out.
July 17, 2008
Copenhagen, Denmark.
Jane, stop this crazy thing! What a long train ride. But at least I didn't get hassled by German airport security for having my PA mixer in my suitcase. I am playing at The Scottish Pub tonight (21:00-1:00) and tomorrow night (20:00-24:00). Then I'm back here at the Scottish next week playing for a few days.
July 6, 2008
Berlin, Germany.
Next gigs are in Copenhagen starting July 16th. Had a great weekend at John Bull and Den Engelske. Thanks guys, looking forward the next gigs there. So I am working on new songs now. Got about 6 more tunes now for the next CD release later this year or January of '09. Next stop: Växjö
July 4, 2008.
Fredericia, Denmark.
It's Independence Day in the states, yoo hoo! It's interesting to see that some Danes celebrate it here in Jutland. Anyway's, tonight I am playing in a very nice town Fredericia, a couple hours away from Copenhagen. Tomorrow night, Saturday, I am back in Aalborg playing at John Bull Pub.
I have heard stories about Bruce Springsteen jammin' on the walking street in Copenhagen, so I guess it's true. Last night a Danish fan of Bruce's told me about the footage on Youtube. Check it out: Bruce playing on the street.
June 26, 2008.
Copenhagen, Denmark.
I'm playing tomorrow night in Grenå on Jutland, then Saturday night I am playing at the Scottish Pub Copenhagen city center near the Radhuspladsen.
June 16, 2008
Haugesund, Norway.
Mac Kjelleren schedule for this week:
Monday 22:00-1:00
Tuesday 22:00-1:00
Wednesday 22:00-1:00
Thursday 22:00-1:00
Friday 22:00-1:00
Saturday 22:00-1:00
Sunday 21:30-12:30
June 11, 2008
Haugesund, Norway. So I just read that price of gas is $4.50 per gallon in California. I could imagine that most of my friends there are complaining. Well, I got news, maybe this will make you guys feel better. In Norway, drivers pay $9.90 per gallon of gas. So my prediction was correct. About three years ago when I sold my gas guzzlin' SUV, I was saying prices will go up to five bucks within a few years. I'm not sure how long it will be before Americans are paying ten bucks a gallon, but I can offer this idea: it's time to seriously start thinking about other means of transportation.
June 10, 2008
Haugesund, Norway. My next show is at Mac Kjelleren here on the coast of Norway. But some years ago, Denmark was first brought to my attention by Jette O who was working at a radio station in Aarhus. I was playing in a band called Supernaturals, she was playing our music at that station. We stayed in contact, was great opportunity to see the Jutland area. I've been back many times since then for holidays, gigs and Dansktop parties. But last year my computer died and I lost most of my numbers, so Jette, please drop me a line.
May 28, 2008
Odense, Denmark. You know what's nice? Listening to The Black Crowes' Amorica with a headset while riding the train in the Danish countryside. And this springtime. But I don't know what it is, I must be a magnet for "interesting characters". Seems that only the odd ones come up to me in public, singing at me or asking a bunch personal questions. So I'm back in Odense. Things just seem to go in the right direction whenever I'm here. So I don't bitch about taking planes, trains, busses with two guitars and a heavy suitcase to get here. This time its to hang out at the Bob Dylan concert and for two more dates at Eydes Kaelder. Hey, thanks Danish guy for the free Dylan ticket.
May 15, 2008
Berlin, Germany. I have added a new show date for next week. It's at the John Bull Pub in Aalborg. So for any people in Denmark who have friends there, please tell them to go see me play. I don't have much to write about today 'cause I've been laying around with an awful head cold for 2 days. Except that I wish I had time and energy and money to go help those people in Asia because of that earthquake and cyclone. On TV, breaks my heart to see dead kids floating in the water or to see Chinese pulling their children out of the rubble.
May 12, 2008
Karmøy, Norway. I'm recuperating, been a long weekend. Hey thanks Tysnes Bladet and Os og Fusaposten! It's nice arriving at a city to see my pics in the newspapers. The gigs at Mandelhuset and Bar2Be were fun. Friendly and happy party people, the sunshine really makes a difference. I guess it's exciting 'cause you never know what's going to happen for the first gigs in a new town. Work can be quite unpredictable traveling around working as a troubadour. So it's a relief when the show goes well, the people inviting to the nach spill, offering me food and a couch to sleep on, handing me beers, shouting for encores, singing along, dancing, getting paid, haha! Without any fights or arguments, so nice. Making all this happen with just a guitar, voice and some promo CDs. Hey by the way, for the people I gave CDs to, please feel free to burn copies for you friends and call you local radio station to play it. OK, this will be a long news plug today 'cause I'm high on strong coffee. The place where I'm at is important 'cause it has been the main shipping area for Norway since the last 3000 years when King Harald united the 29 counties into one country. I was able to visit the little Island where he was living, learned about the viking laws, important battles and saw the Norway History Center at Avaldsnes where a famous church was built. I read cool stories like the time when King Harald's son Oden fought with local sorcerers and drowned them in the bay. I guess these wizards tried to put a hex on the King for bringing in Christianity but the spell backfired and blinded the wizards. I also learned a major misconception about vikings, they were not just barbaric primitives. They were crafty, good soldiers, ship builders, merchants and sailors with organized communities. I get so excited about this history and culture stuff.
May 9, 2008
Haugesund, Norway. Just as I was about to throw in the towel on this place, the good folks down at Radio Haugaland invited me in for an interview and shout-out for the Cafe Moody gig, with some In Love With The Moon radio play. I met a few guys with Blå Russ who suggested a lunch time performance at their Vardafje Skole. That worked out well, thanks blue suits and Asbjørn! Cheers to Helge & Monika and friends/students at the Cafe gig. I collected enough crowns to get me to Os tonight.
May 6, 2008
Haugesund, Norway. Ok just added a new date here in town. For anyone on the Southwest coast of Norway, please try to see one of these gigs: May 8 at Cafe Moody in Haugesund, May 9 at Mandlehuset on Tysnes Island and May 10 at Bar2Be in Os. I will have free promo CDs to give away at the shows. I need to mention this pretty little town called Halden in Norway on the train ride from Sweden. An absolutely charming "storybook" place, with small surrounding mountains, green forest, water ways and cute little wooden houses. Well, better stop now, I'm sounding kinda'...
May 4, 2008
Gothenburg, Sweden. Gawd, I'm poppin' major wood over this place. So much fun! Really, it's pick number one and won my heart. Was so nice that everyone went out of their way to make me feel welcome. I gotta give thanks to all especially, Ingela, Helena, Fredrik, Bob, Jenny, Nicolina, Martin, Mikael, Nöjesguiden, Tina n' staff at Joy for putting my CD on repeat.
April 29, 2008
Gothenburg, Sweden. Ahhh it's so nice to cruise through Swedish countryside by train. I knew there was a reason why I needed to get back here. A beautiful country, and the people watching is intoxicating. Hey these Swedish artists I met on the way to their gallery opening are cool, Fienden, thanks for the swag guys. Just saw the news, USA is in a recession. Sorry to read that friends. Glad I got outa' there while the gettin' was good. Like Keith Richards says: "I'm gonna walk before they make me run". Music I've been listening to: Mando Diao, Tom Petty's Greatest Hits, The Cars Greatest Hits. It's good to explore new sounds but it's good to get back to the classics once in a while. DVDs I've been watching: The Big Lebowski, Team America World Police.
April 21, 2008
Helsinki , Finland. A long time ago in LA, I hung out a bit with a guy who played bass once for Hanoi Rocks. We also spent time with other Finnish guys in a band called Smack. Nice guys. They loved to drink. That's pretty much all I ever knew about Finland until today, got to visit their capitol. Helsinki is a pretty city. It's got that ol' classic feelin in a newish clean way. It's a port town. Oh, I ate something funky and greasy last night so I don't feel like writing anymore 'bout this place.
I have my first Sweden gig (May 1) booked on Brännö, Southern Göteborg Archipelago Island. Wow, that's a mouth full. Things are looking good already. Thanks Helena and Ingela! The other night at Karaoke, a Swedish passenger turned to me and said, "Wonderwall?!, what a boring and depressing song". Uh, hello?, that's what I've been trying to tell everyone. Yes, cute Swedish girl. Can't believe it's the number 1 troubadour request 'round Scandinavia. See, like Leon says, the Swedes know what's up.
April 19, 2008
Rostock, Germany. We pulled in last night, with a warm n' fuzzy feeling to be back in Deutschland. At least I had time to install my German sim and talk with Sandy. Meine Deutschen freude: I miss all you guys and think about everyone often, especially in Berlin. After all, its the place that officially invited me to Europe. Sorry I have not had a chance to email and text everyone. I love you all. Kusse.
April 18, 2008
Baltic Sea , North Europe. Took 2 weeks to get to know the Estonians then it was time to switch ships. Too bad, was having a good time with the staff, entertainers and Estonian/Swedish punters. Hey guys, gotta bad connection on this new ship, was trying to reply emails and facebook adds without luck. Nice to meet you all! It's good to spend time with people and find out what's up beyond stereotypes. Oh ya, had a chance for some busking in Stockholm with Dave Stewart, that was fun.
April 4, 2008
Stockholm, Sweden. My new favorite city is: (drum roll, please) Stockholm! I was here years ago on holiday but it's great to be back and working here. Nice buildings, good music, pretty people walking around, beautiful nature near by. And it's cheaper than Copenhagen. My fave exports from Sweden are The Hives, H&M, Pippi Longstocking and Viking history.
April 3, 2008
Tallinn, Estonia. This country just joined the European Union recently but there are still signs of when Estonia was part of Russia. I went for a walk today in the "Old Town" which is my kinda interest, but I was surprised to see that the new modern shopping center was full with activity. A sign that this country has joined the modern world. The crew I'm working with is nice, it's fun getting to know them. A big departure from the drab expressionless Eastern Europeans I've met in the past.
April 2, 2008
Stockholm, Sweden. Lets see, what insightful information do I have to report today? Well, guys from the former Soviet Union have square heads, short hair and wear their pants hiked up. It was my first gig last night on this Estonia ship. I almost missed a Copenhagen flight and almost missed getting on board the boat. Now headed to Tallinn.
March 30, 2008
Odense, Denmark. Two lackluster gigs but it's always a treat to get back here. It's all about the people, my new statement. To pass the time I bought a DVD of A Place In The Sun staring Montgomery Clift and Liz Talyor. I love the bonus features. In 1951 Paramount Studios was releasing a movie per week (52 films per year). Their goal: entertain the people.
March 20, 2008
Haugesund, Norway. Ok, I understand that Easter is about Jesus and his flying up to heaven, etc. But, where does the bunnies and chicks come in? Guess if i was real curious, I would do a Google search about this but right now its more important to watch my new Little Britain DVD. Now that's something to worship. The Engish have done it again, great entertainment. My new CD is finally up on iTunes.
March 10, 2008
Odense, Denmark. Another media day in Fyn, the middle island. Thanks to all the helpful people at the publications. Lots of walking around and a trip to the flix. Love this town, will be back to play Eydes Kelder. I now have a video on youtube by Ulla. It's from a set at the Bredlunds Brewhouse in Slagelse last week.
March 8, 2008
Roskilde, Denmark. The gig was in a shopping center but the city has a nice port area with a Viking museum. The most famous aspect of this town is the annual Roskilde Festival. I stayed in an amazing hostel, built in 1950, an example of superb Scandinavian design. The building looks like it could have been built recently.
March 6, 2008
Copenhagen, Denmark. Baresso, Denmark's first and biggest coffee bar chain. My new CD can now be heard at their 20 locations nationwide. It's on regular rotation, so if you happen in one of the shops, please ask to hear a track. I wanna say thanks to Thomas and the Folkebladet (35000 circulation) for my story in their local newspaper.
Feb. 23, 2008
Haugesund, Norway. 3 songs from my new CD can be heard from start to finish at my Myspace page. I've been asked where the CD is for sale, only from online record stores, digital download sites and at my gigs. If you come to a show, please bring me money and buy a CD. Also, bring me clean underware (men's), clean socks and home cooked food. I miss these simple things so much when I am traveling.
Feb. 20 , 2008
Stavanger, Norway. Ok here's some thoughts: touch, actions, quality time, gifts, words. I'm learning to sleep on busses as well as learning to gather song concepts. Traveling 'round Scandinavia, one can run into some real ass holes but in Stavanger I had the opportunity to meet a couple very nice and competent guys. I've been listening to a CD by The National. My Sunday Sjøboden gig starts at 20:00.
Feb. 18, 2008
Bergen, Norway. I know I say it often when traveling to places but I really do mean it about this city, it's great! A beautiful and special place. It's been a busy media weekend. Got to visit radio and publications. Played a gig at a pub on the boardwalk called Sjøboden, means "the sea shed". I will be back there Sunday night to play. Props go out to Steve Morgan band, Roy and friends, Gunnhild, Grethe, Gunnar, Magnar, Petter at Radio 1, Ola at BT, Anne at Platekompaniet and Ann at my Thon Hotel. Nice to meet all you guys.
Feb. 14 , 2008
Haugesund, Norway. Hi. Happy Valentines day. It's really nice that Europe doesn't play into all the frivolous holidays that America does. One time a girlfriend broke up with me because I didn't bring her flowers on V-Day. I was on the air at Radio 102 here in Haugesund. We did an interview and played a track off my new CD. For people in this area who want to hear In Love With The Moon on the radio, call them for a request: 52 720 102
Feb. 4, 2008
Haugesund, Norway. On a plane ride so wobbly, I almost cried. It was one of those little propeller deals, holy shit! So I'm back in the land of Harald The Fair Haired. They have this interesting idea here, sort of a traditional concept, called "Jante Loven". An unwritten law that tells the citizens to chill, be humble and blend in, everyone should be on the same level. It's alien to me cause in the States we were brought up in just the opposite manner: exceed, compete, stand out and reach for the stars. The reasons why this fishing area is special are numerous but a few points are, that it's pretty, home of the Norwegian film festival and nearby is the burial place of Harald I, the 10th-century king who united Norway. Population 29,699
February 2, 2008
Copenhagen, Denmark. So there's this fun street musician guy playing around Copenhagen named Frederik, big hair and big personality. I've just seen him on Danish TV, a show called X Factor, a reality show about singers. After walking all over town visiting Fonas and El Giganten stores, I finnally found a webcan that works with my Mac, I love Skype, soooo cool. Free internet videophone service! It's great playing these gigs where they serve "draft tubes" (fadoelsroer), these tall buckets filled with beer. Cause by the end of the night, people who've been drinking out of these things are singing along with me. Skael!
Jan. 27, 2008
Odense, Denmark. What a fun gig, back entertaining the Danes. Can't go wrong singing Summer of '69 with the vikings. Great food, and the staff at the restaraunt was nice. Hope to be back in Odense this summer. In Berlin for the last 3 weeks been playing gigs then every morning on the M8 to the M4 to Greifswalder 9. Recording in Prenzlauerberg. We just finished my new 5 song CD EP entitled In Love With The Moon. I feel lucky to be working with such talented musicians and skilled engineers. That release will be available next month at gigs and at CD Baby or digital download stores like iTunes. The material covers a wide range of topics, inspiration from the last couple years: all the joy and excitement to the sorrow and heartache. Like Ian Hunter says, "you ain't gotta touch a man to make a man bleed". OK so whats going on over in the good ol' US? I just read in USAToday about the economy and ill-fated housing industry: "The most severe real estate recession in a generation and the median U.S. home price fell, probably for the first year since the Great Depression".
Monday, Jan. 7, 2008
Berlin, Germany. Hi. It's good to be back in Berlin, cold and strange but somehow comfortable. I will be recording a bunch of songs this month with new German musician friends at a cool studio called Lowswing where 2RaumWohnung and Maximilian Hecker made albums. Try to check out SoKo on youtube.com (I love this site), "My Wet Dreams". Who would of though this girl could write such nice lyrics. More info, gigs and new music coming your way.
November 12, 2007
Copenhagen, Denmark. I've been playing at Fisken, a bar in the doc area called Nyhavn. It's cool, H.C. Andersen once lived here. Will be playing nightly all month, Tuesday thru Sunday.
October 22, 2007
Haugesund, Norway. A long time ago, there was a famous Polish fashion designer named Moritz Rabinowitz, who set up shop in this city. But the Nazis killed him during WWII. There is a documentary about him called The Man Who Loved Haugesund. The space where his shop was is now a fun bar, where I'm playing this Saturday night. My 1st gig in Norway. Current music I'm looking for: Oslo Motherfuckers, on CD.
Saturday, October 13, 2007
Klofta, Norway. I've been traveling around extensively for about 2 years and I really miss my nephews, I have 6. So it's nice to spend time with friends Aina and Emanuel, pictured here checking out the forest. In the cup are 2 pollywogs (ass trolls) and dirty pond water. It's cold here but the people say its warm. Oh shit. Norway cities on the list: Jessheim, Haugesund, Stavanga, Bergen.
Tuesday, October 2, 2007
Copenhagen, Denmark. The Iceland gig got cancled so I'm chillin' in Brondby listening to John Mogensen, the "Johnny Cash" of Denmark. I will be playing in the city this weekend, Scottish Pub. I've been eating cinnamon snails and pizza snails. Next stop: Norway.
Wednesday, September 5, 2007
There's a story about Rick Ruben with good info for songwriters in the New York Times Magazine. He's the new head at Columbia Records who's worked with acts like Red Hot Chili Peppers, Neil Diamond and Johnny Cash. A song in the works for me: "In Love with The Sun" about Roxy. (I miss you baby!) I've been listening to Matt Costa, folk music from Huntington Beach on Brushfire records.
Friday, August 31, 2007
There is no sacrifice that's too great for Rock. Soon I'll be headed all the way to Iceland to play for Vikings. While I was browsing around Myspace ('cause I got nothing better to do), I came across an old favorite band of mine from LA. The Freewheelers. It's a shame they never acquired commercial success. Great songs. It's too dark in your house too dark to see too dark for me/ran into your statues ran into a ghost ran into something that you stuck on your bed post/won't someone turn on the light I can't go nighty night/my knees are feeling so weak cause I fell down your staircase/quit playing hide and seek or else I'm packing my suitcase/they say love is blind baby this is a joke/if my love goes on like this baby my legs will be broke
Wednesday, August 29, 2007
Venlo, Holland (Netherlands actually). Land of windmills and wooden shoes. Quiet and clean, the food is good, the ice cream is great. Something like 80% of the country is below sea level. Cruising 'round the Horst countryside we drove through a farm town called California then we passed a place called America for a strip mall. I discovered a good new band from Italy, Kobenhavn Store, like ambient alternative rock.
Monday, August 20, 2007
Berlin. So I've been getting shit from a few friends in Germany for now staying in contact. Just want to say sorry. I often think about you guys. But I just don't have much time to send e-mails while I'm out traveling. Usually it's difficult for me to get online or to a propper international phone at a decent hour. What I've been listening to: David Bowie, Young Americans; Amy Winehouse, Back to Black; Jack Johnson, Curious George.
Wednesday, August 15, 2007
Oslo, Norway. Walking through the Norwegian forest eating wild berries, now that's living. Me so horny. The fauna just outside the city is lush and diverse. Can't say much for the center, have not spent much time there but I did notice that for the skinny pegged-legged girls at the mall, big hair is "in". Teased, ratted and pushed all over the place. Minnie mouse would be impressed by new trends: poka-dot dresses, wide belts and big bows.
Tuesday, August 14, 2007
It's amazing how such a small town gig week could turn out to be such a funky experience. Boyfriends crying on doorsteps, soccer dads with broken ribs, people going to the hospital, fighting, gossip, Czech girl band (Country Sisters) singing country. Never a dull moment. But Blavand is a beautiful beach town on the coast of Denmark. It's nice to be invited back next summer. Pictured here with Thorkild from the park & Leon's girl.
Monday, August 13, 2007
Malmo, Sweden. So I decided to see some other areas of Scandanavia. The weather was shit but the city was nice. There is only one real place for troubadour gigs (Fagan's) but it was closed for the summer. Me and Catharina (Sweden's premier rock photographer) had a baked potato, coffee and walk through the city center shopping mall. I don't know what this bronze statue is about. But it was big, pointy and solid, maybe like the Swedish people.
Thursday, August 2, 2007
I'll be playing next week with The King Lion. "Neon Leon", the musician who played Max's Kansas City and hung out with Sid & Nancy on that infamous day. In Blavand at the Camping Strand Buffet, a special place where many Germans make their holiday. On the Island Jutland, some people refer to this area as the "Texas of Denmark". And no, Denmark is not the capital of Sweden.
Monday, July 30, 2007
It's amazing how a place will magically pull you back. This time it's Denmark, rainy but magnificent. The work is falling in place, learning loads of new songs and finding foder for tunes. Just finishing up a month for Strecker then heading to Jutland. In countries where you don't speak the language, it's nice to have friends like Sabine who can help get a washing machine fixed. Special thanks goes out to Ulla, Cath, Leon, Simon, Tina, and Zenia for the help & info.
Friday, June 29, 2007
So I'm chillin' in sunny California, on a vulture hunt and searching for gear. I gave the guys at the house orders to shoot on sight. Thanks to the detectives for their help and ideas. More news to follow. Details about the reward coming soon.
Thursday, May 3, 2007
Back in Berlin after 30 nights straight, 4 sets per night. Thanks to Cath, she's got new video footage here from one of the nights: http://www.myspace.com/cath73
LATEST FINDINGS:
If you are interested in good indie music, beautiful nature scenery and snowboarding footage shot with high artistic quality then check out Volcom's Escramble flick. I just downloaded it from iTunes.
I discovered this girl from Paris, France while listening to local radio in Copenhagen. Her name is Soko, cute with a nice voice, singing an funny love song called "I'll kill her". See her myspace page.
Here's an interesting fact I heard the other day: The USA is only 5% of the world's population but as a country, uses 25% of the world's energy. I just read on USA Today's web site that Los Angeles made the top ten list of most polluted cities in America.
Monday, March 26, 2007
With a bit of a hangover, I will manage to tell you 'bout the big party in Berlin yesterday. So the European Union is 50 yrs old and there was a celebration at the Brandenburg Gates yesterday. Lots of food und bier trinken, Joe Cocker performing only 2 songs (what's up with that?), fireworks and cultural music. About the Gates, there's a nice statue of horses on the top. Napoleon stole the statue in the 1700's but the Germans took it back. The Gates sit at the end of a big street, Unter Den Linden, where Hitler used to drive tanks down the middle for military rallies during WWII.
Tuesday, March 20, 2007
OK, going back to Copenhagen in April. Not sure exactly what venue I'm playing but might be one of the secret locations. Check back here for more info later.
Friday, March 2, 2007
Looks like I'll be back playing Copenhagen in April. If you are in town, please stop by secret place to say hello. Had a great time last month, was really a blast to play for all the vikings and Europeans. A great chance to meet lots of interesting people. Now I'm in Berlin and will be playing around Germany this month.
Thursday, January 25, 2007
Hi, I'll be in Copenhagen all of Feb. in the city center playing every night at Streckers. Then back to Berlin in March for Maroza gigs. Stay tuned, I'll add dates when I get a chance.
Sunday, January 14, 2007
Happy new year, back in Berlin from my US holiday. It was great to see family and friends in Huntington Beach. On the flight back to Germany I noticed a couple interesting guys, Jaws (Richard Kiel) from The Spy Who Loved Me and Mini-Me (Verne Troyer) from The Spy Who Shagged Me. Maybe they are working together in Europe on some new film.
Thursday, December 7, 2006
Just added some pics from a trip to Budapest. Michelle came from California to visit and we went there this fall. Check out the photos.
Thursday, November 30, 2006
Heute ist eine gutes tag! Die auslanderbehorde meine aufenteitstitle fur zwei jahre machen. Jetzt ich am die berlinerdome weihnachtsmark feiern. Danke Deutschland, ich liebe dich.
Monday, November 27, 2006
Lately I've been listening to Cracker's new release, Greenland. A great album. I saw this California band here in Berlin a couple weeks ago and got a chance to greet Johnny the guitarist. There is a pseudo "Country-Punk" band in Berlin called Boss Hoss, a group of German guys that are actually pretty good but they shoulda been at the Cracker gig taking notes.
Sunday, November 26, 2006
I have to give a shout out to The Spits (pictured below). I saw them play last month at White Trash Fast Food in Berlin. They rock, a cross between The Ramones and Devo. This Friday night I will be playing acoustic solo at a cool pub called Bierkeller (in the university) address: Siegmunds Hof 17, 10555 Berlin Tiergarten. It's a fun place, free entrance and the bottle beer is only 1.50 euro.
Monday, November 6, 2006
Getting cold in Berlin, snowed a little the other day. The gigs are slowing down for the holidays. Me and Matthias will play a couple shows and I will play a solo gig in Berlin then taking a break for a while. By the way, the recent Maroza studio pics were made by Melanie and Jane.
Friday, October 13, 2006
News about digital music downlaods. My latest CD releases are now available on a cool online MP3 store called Emusic.com and at Apple iTunes. Here's links:
It's strange how life seems to sweep by so fast. It was twelve years ago when I first discovered Madrid but seemes like only a few years ago. Unfortunately the vibe is just not the same there anymore. So home base is now in Berlin where I can still find that low cost, creative charm and exciting liberal atmosphere that many times kept me going back to Spain. See new pics on the photos page.
Wednesday, September 27, 2006
There's new pics of my trip to Denmark on the photos page. Tomorrow I'm headed to Madrid for my gig at Honky Tonk. It's a fun bar and really the place to be. So if you ever visit Madrid, go there, tell them I sent you. They'll treat you like royalty. I'll be staying with my soul sisters of 12 years, Agueda y Mari Paz. Thanks to Robertez, Manolo, Gemma and Javier for helping with the dates.
Monday, September 25, 2006
The Goldman's Bar gig has been moved, will get back with a new date later. Just got back from Denmark. Going to Spain this week, will be playing at Honky Tonk Madrid next week with special guest spanish musician guys.
Thursday, September 7, 2006
I just book another gig at Goldman's Bar in the Circus Hostel. I would like to suggest this place to anyone visitng Berlin in need of sleeping accomodations.
Sunday, September 3, 2006
Thanks to everyone who came out to the Ostzone show. I'm very grateful that my new friends in Berlin are coming to the gigs. The venues we've played in Germany are asking for us to return and this is because of all the friends and fans coming to these shows. So really, thanks from the heart, it's a great buzz to play for you. But we need to see more FKK in the audience.
Friday, September 1, 2006
My next gig is at a dive called Ostzone in the center of Berlin (Mitte). It's a hidden place, below is a map for those of you interested. There is no entrance fee and I will play 3 sets from 9pm-12am. You gotta see this bar, gets real crazy in a fun way when the nightly pub crawls arrive.
Friday, August 25, 2006
Jette from Denmark is in town visiting Berlin. Last night we saw this guy from Australia named Xavier Rudd. Tripped out solo surfer dude playing acoustic and funny intruments with a kick drum. Looks awkward but it works and sounds good. My recomendation for this month. Pic by Nicole. His site.
Tuesday, August 22, 2006
During Christmas we will being playing at Bundespressestrand but the dates have not yet been set, check back for dates. Here's a link. That means snow, gluhwein and quaalkachen. Last night's gig there was fun, cheers to Daniel and all our friends who came there.
We will be hosting the open stage jam at Ostzone Wednesday and next Wednesday night from 9pm to 1am. If you feel like playing music, come join us. It's free and fun with the pub crawl tours.
Tuesday, August 15, 2006
New Starting time: 19:00 uhr. for the Monday concert at Bundespressestrand. We will play 2 sets. They changed the time because of sunlight and weather.
Just wanna say thanks to everyone who made it out to the Circus Hostel at the Goldman's Bar show. We had a delicious time. It's great that you German folk come see us play or else we would not get so many fun gigs. We will play there again next month.
It's relax week, Matthias is on holiday but we will be back in action next Monday for the Bundespressestrand night. If anyone has pics from our gigs, please send them in so i can post them: putonsmusic@earthlink.net
Wednesday, August 2, 2006
We had a fun time playing last weekend in Hamburg with all the Hamburgers and Furburgers. Looks like we will be going back. Check the list on the left or try the Finnegan's link.
Wednesday, July 19, 2006
We had a great time at our last Bundespresse gig, thanks to everyone who came to join the fun. It's nice to see our draw expanding. We will be back there August 21. Below is a pic by Melanie Handrick from last week at Krisitan Fjellstad's Wednesday night open stage, Ostzone bar in Mitte (Hackershemarkt).
Monday, July 10, 2006
Wow, can't believe the soccer match is finished, thought that would never end. Anyways, it was fun to be here for the events, etc. Now its time to book some shows. Check back for more concert dates.
Monday, May 15, 2006
Made it to Berlin, getting settled, nice weather and finally over the jet lag. I'll post some gig dates here soon, check back. Now I have go downstairs to get my new German car started. Going to the hardware store, the outside of my apartment needs some paint and fixin' up.
Monday, May 8, 2006
Ok so the newspaper ran a story about me leaving the USA and immigration problems. It was a fun well written piece. But some people got offended and equally some people applauded me for speaking my mind. Bassically I'm dissapointed that this country is being run to shit so I'm leaving. After all, this is the free world and we do acknowledge freedom of speech. My bags are packed and I'm leaving in the morning.
Thursday, April 6, 2006
Thanks Katja for the Berlin magazine. Looks like I might be back there this year I hope. So i finished 3 new CD releases and the should be available soon online. 2 CDs are form my old band Scarecrows, great recordings from years ago that are only being hear now for the first time on CD. Special thanks goes out to Paul, Jeff and Curt for helping to get the CD out.
These photos were taking at a party with my band called The Scarecrows. I started the band during the summer with Jeff Chandler and Curt Fike. The band lasted for about nine years with many line up changes including Marc Ford (Black Crowes, Ben Harper) on guitar and Joe Simon (Fiona Apple) on keyboards. Some shows we shared the bill with Johhny Thunders, 45 Grave, Violent Femmes, TSOL and Agent Orange. We recorded a full length album produced by Paul Santos (Outer Circle, Fontanelles) who was working for Important Distribution. The album never got release for various reasons. Recently I found Paul and acquired the original reels from him. Me, Jeff and Curt are planning on releasing the recordings on CD and playing some reunion shows.
Thursday, Jan. 26, 2005
Way back I released a solo CD called Call Me Crazy. It is available for sale online through CD Baby. Little bit of background info: I recorded it with my then band Supernaturals while I was living in Hollywood. Released on a little label called Spun, the brainchild of Keith Fisher (Loved Ones, Chesterfield Kings, Crawdaddys). I went to Spain with the guitar player Jack Rivera (Berry Pickers, Stains, Crawdaddys) to play some gigs and promote it. We had a crazy time. I toured around a bit, prototed some more, sold a few copies. Haven't done anything with it untill now. It's available!
Thursday, Dec. 22, 2005
I'm back in California. The air is mild, the sun is shining and the waves are huge. I'll be working on music and some graphic design stuff. Berlin was great, many thanks to all my friends for the help and great times. I'll post some pics of my trip in a day or so.
Saturday, Dec. 11, 2005
Here's a link to a new web page with some MP3 downloads:
Saturday, Dec. 10, 2005
Back in Berlin. Last week I picked up my freelance work permit from the foriegner's office. Then yesterday I got my. It's very frikin cold here. It's a chore puttin on all the thermo's, hats, scarves, gloves, etc. Not feeling too good but lookin' real well.
Friday, Nov. 25, 2005
Things are getting back to normal. I am now in Huntington Beach, California. I've been staying at my studio working on graphics and playing guitar. I just got, been trying it out. Bike riding, eating well, jogging, sleeping well, dreaming, drinking beer, listening to Elvis and enjoying life cause it just goes by too darn fast. Recently I was informed that the Auslaenderbehoerde is moving forward. Looks like my big Deutchland pay off is just around the corner. If you have any questions about the music, don't be afraid to send me an e-mail
Tuesday, Sept. 13, 2005
I am back in Berlin. Last night i played at the Circus Hostel bar. I will be there every monday night untill I leave for California in December.
Thursday, Sept. 8, 2005
Hi, just updated this temp site. Tomorrow I leave for Darmstadt. This city is near Frankfurt, west side of Germany. There is a music fest throughout the city. I will be checking out bands and handing out CDs of my music for connections and work with the pubs.
Trent, where you at bro? Did you give that package to Alex? Text me if you are in Germany, here's my German mobile number:
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