Busy
I’ve been insanely busy lately—burning the candle at both ends. The dual reality of making music and paying bills is extremely time consuming. Last night I played with the 802 musician’s union big band, followed by a session with Tom, who’s now an up and coming producer/multi-instrumentalist working with the biggest names in rap and hip-hop. Tonight I just finished a little session with Matt and Max—just playing a few tunes.
I’m looking forward to doing a few shows soon to promote The Last Leaves. I keep putting it off for some reason but it’s really time to play. The way I’ve been playing the songs lately is a lot different than the album, but I guess that’s a good thing. It’s also nice that the songs are flexible enough that they can be played a few different ways and still sound allright. I’ve been playing way more piano than ever, and the nice new upright in the apartment is life-saving. It has a great practice pedal feature so I can play at 2am and not disturb the neighbors—unreal.
Finally, I’ve been reading like mad on the subway rides. Ever since finishing The Old Man and the Sea, I’ve been on a bit of a classics kick. I re-read Brave New World, and confirmed it to be an all-time favorite. Living in New York City, the social commentary offered in that book seems particularly fitting today. I’m currently reading The Grapes of Wrath for the first time and I’m blown away by the unique style. I’m still not very far into it, but I’m awed by the vivid landscapes John Steinbeck describes and the depth of the characters he’s developing.
I know the busy-ness comes and goes, so I’m trying to just ride the tide and enjoy it for what it’s worth. I’m in constant amazement of how fast time goes by. But the other day, for the first time in a few years—I just stopped in the street, stared straight up at the sky, and watched the clouds roll by.
September 24th, 2005 at 12:42 pm
I totally feel you on being insanely busy. Part of me likes the fact that I haven’t had a chance to “worry” about anything, but on the other hand I fear that I might be missing something by taking on so much at once.
My equivalent of your watching the clouds is staring out the window at the most amazing thunderstorms I’ve ever seen. A few nights ago the power was down but it looked almost like early dawn outside because of the moonlight. Truly breathtaking…
Anyway, Champaign, IL is impatiently awaiting the arrival of the Neil Shah tour…let’s hit the road, man!
September 24th, 2005 at 5:47 pm
Even if you’re missin stuff—when things are more relaxed you’ll realize if there’s anything you need to take care of and get to it then. When things are nuts, all we can do is enjoy the ride, right?
I can’t wait to come out there. I’m sure it’s totally different than the northeast, west coast, te-has, or any other place I’ve been.