And so was July. It may sound redundant, but everything is flying by so fast, that it’s hard to keep track of everything. I have to say that I’m enjoying it though!
July started with a lot of drinking, no wonder I’m having a hard time remembering it. All I can say is talk to Al Klemick. He might be able to tell you more than I can.
On the 10th, Al, his roommate Thalo, and my good self jaunted down to see The Cult and Monster Magnet in Worsceter. I had arranged a room at the Crowne Plaza, so we could chill down there, and journey to Six flags the following day.
The Cult is probably my number #2 favorite band in the world, and I’ve never seen them, so this was more to me than just a concert. It was to be a holy, sacred experience. Even better, Matt Sorum is drumming for them again. Many of you may remember him from being the angry looking blond dude in Guns N’ Roses. I have an infinite amount of respect for him, and he is one my favorite drummers. It’s funny, every time I go into a studio to record, I normally play the engineer some of his work and tell them that.”This is how I want my drums to sound!” So, as you can imagine, I was giddy.
I had spoken with my pals John Van Ness and Garrison at DW drums, and they arranged for us to get VIP passes and get backstage to meet the band. It was great to meet and hang with Matt for a while, I really appreciate him taking the time to talk drums with me for a while. We had a picture taken together, I’ll post it once I get off my ass and have them developed. And, I can’t forget, super thanks to everyone at DW drums for hooking a Yamaha player up.
Yeah, the concert and six flags were awesome. I won’t bore you with the details.
Broken Clown finished at #3 at garageband.com, which is still better than I expected, and believe or not, some big labels have come knocking. We’ll see what happens. I’m far too jaded to have lofty expectations. I’m happier about a new tune we’re writing, entitled “The Moth.” If you’re a fan of the band and our humor, you’re going to love this one. We’ll probably play it at The Shady Lady in Portland on the 18th of August.
I had a string of great comedy shows this month, my favorite being a hick bar in Belgrade with my friends Kelly MacFarland and the feared Reverend Tim McIntire. We had an absolute blast, and the show was great. Another one was in Sanford at The falls. There was a band, Sun Dog, slated to play after the comedy show, and all of their gear was set up prior to the show. I spoke with the drummer, Kevin, who I knew prior to the show, and asked him if I could play his kit during my set. He was more than gracious to allow me to....... so at the end of an already good set, I asked the audience if they minded if I tap on the tubs for a moment. They encouraged me, and a I went back, and hit a couple thing like I didn’t know what the hell I was doing, then stood up and took a bow. Amazingly, they applauded. So I sat down and started pulling out some chops and pounded away. For all of you out there who think I was burning it up, let me assure that I sucked. It just sounded O.K. The audience loved it, but as a drummer, I was embarrassed. I got up went to the mic out front to thank them, and got one of the biggest ovations I’ve ever had in comedy. I was on cloud nine for a few days.
The worst show............Fanueil Hall. I had to go up first in front of about 300+, and I struggled the whole time. I nearly cried once I got to my car. This is a tough business, kids.
I did get some great news though........ I’ve been picked up by a worldwide magazine called Tyrade, who is going to pay me money to write like I am now. The first issue hits stores September first, so check it out! Pretty nifty for an asshole from the sticks. August looks good..........hope to see you all soon!
-Shane