Tuesday, February 17, 2009

Onward

Now that 'practice month' has drawn to a close I go about my usual gig preparations.

I have a unique gig this Thursday (Feb. 19) at the Chelsea Pub (http://www.chelseapub.ca/).
I will be in a duo setting with drummer Mark Rehder (http://www.drumbent.com/) and we shall be performing 'New Standards' as well as my own tunes.

Usually we have a sax player but there's no cash for a third so Mark and I will be on the spot to keep things interesting for 3 sets. I will be playing the Baliset with full gear and doo-dads, as well as singing. Mark will have some electronics to compliment his drum kit as well, so we anticipate a fun evening.

For those who are curious as to what qualifies as a 'New Standard' it is entirely subjective. I have mentioned before that I mine fake books for tunes but, I also listen to a wide range of music. When I hear something that strikes me I transcribe it, modify it and put it in my personal gig book. This has led to having songs such as "Don't Let It Bring You Down" (Neil Young), "Ordinary Miracle" (Sarah McLaughlan) and "Local Hero" (Mark Knopfler) in my repertoire.