I recently returned from a two week trip to California and thought I would share a few memories here with you.  Maybe I'll regret it, I don't know.  Oh well!  I guess in retrospect the theme of the journey should have been "Recapturing Lost Youth"  or  perhaps more accurately  "Perpetuating My Youth."   We were also out there back in May when the temperatures were sweltering.  Many homes and even some hotels in southern California don't have air conditioning because they often don't need it; but this past summer was very hot indeed.  Thankfully, this time around, we encountered consistently mild days in the 65º to 70º range.  In fact, our friends and family who live out there were saying it was rather cool for this time of year.   Of course, none of it was as chilly to me as it felt in San Francisco in July a number of years ago.  Mark Twain's famous saying "The coldest winter I ever spent was a summer in San Francisco," is totally valid in my book!   Enough weather reports.....

This trip was particularly enjoyable for me because not only were we visiting folks out there, my bandmates from The Help and their significant others joined us for what turned out to be a great vacation.  We spent the first few nights in San Diego with family before a rendezvous with my friends up in Los Angeles.  All of us attended the opening day of the winter NAMM show in Anaheim followed by the requisite day at Disneyland.  After that, we headed back down to San Diego for  a few more days of leisure.

As for the NAMM show, I know that some of you have been asking for a Steelbender report; but unlike previous visits to the summer sessions, I did not prioritize this musical meeting as the centerpiece of my travels.  A NAMM convention, especially the larger winter event, is rather overwhelming from a size and content perspective.  It's almost impossible to document everything over a four-day period, let alone the one day that I spent there.   However, I did get to see a lot of interesting things and meet some good people.  My account of the NAMM show will be relatively brief this time around; though I hope you will enjoy some of the following photos and commentary from my swing westward.  There are a number of sites around the Internet with fairly comprehensive coverage of the happenings from the Anaheim Convention Center.  I will take more of the travelogue approach here  ( for our readers residing in California, thanks for your patience) :
 
 

( roll the film projector...)

The state of California, third largest in the United States and named from a romance book published in 1510, was founded in........STOP!!!!!    NO!   I'm going to spare you that kind of lecture.    That could be hazardous to the health of this article!   Actually, it would probably only be hazardous in California, as they have seemed to discover lots of things that are carcinogenic within their state boundaries.  I've always chuckled at the countless warning signs that are seemingly everywhere out there.   On the doors of buildings, on coffee mugs for sale.....even in electronics stores which chide those who would dare touch audio cables made from....well...what they're always made of!    You know, living probably causes cancer ultimately.  It's already been known to cause death.  I don't mean to diminish the serious nature of environmental risk factors; but sometimes it's downright hilarious where these little warning stickers showed up on our trip.  By the way...don't flush the toilets in California.  You guessed it...the handles could make one sick . 

The state also warns citizens who enter bars or carry alcohol onto airplanes that consumption of such products could cause cancer, etc.   Looks to me that a lot of the people we saw did not get the memo.  On a side note, our home state of North Carolina has yet to discover any harmful consequences of tobacco, so perhaps they should confer with California researchers to figure out what is going on.  Those people in California are truly ahead of their time.  They obviously have access to something we don't!  (such as the availability of liquor in drug stores, grocery stores, etc. unlike here in the Bible Belt.  And no, this is not going to be an endorsement for over-indulgence; but it is important to note that any trip to the southwestern U.S. would not be complete without sampling the fine tequilas and abundance of Mexican cuisine that is evident in that part of the country.  More on that later. ).

Let's talk music:   I've been to a handful of NAMM shows and have seen it from both the exhibiting and visiting perspectives.  Don't be fooled by the notion that hanging out in a booth for four days talking with people about products isn't a tough job!   There is a dulling, sensory overload from the continual din of noise. Countless people with name badges barrage you with questions that have been heard before all day. The physical fatigue of standing on foot seems to emphasize everything else.  Not only that, the exhibitors have to make exhaustive plans months in advance for the logistics of their displays, the production of their demonstrated goods, and the transportation of themselves, staffs, and all the gear to and from the show.  People, both exhibitors and visitors alike, come from all around the world and swarm into the facility to see the newest in musical company offerings.

The show can be a bit tiring for those not working it.....bring some comfortable shoes and some patience because the place is big and there is a lot to see.  Even after only one day at NAMM, a good dinner and comfortable bed are most welcome.  Most attendees get back up the next morning and do it all over again.

[Ok, I'm exhausted just talking about it.   Time for a margarita break.]

As usual, I was happy to reconnect with some good friends at the show, and also to meet some fine new acquaintances.  I ran into builders, dealers and a lot of musicians I know.   There were some people I was hoping to see who were not displaying this time, or whom I simply did not have time to visit.  (Maybe this summer in Austin, TX will be different if I decide to attend).  I knew beforehand that I would not be able to see all of the gear that I wanted to; yet recognizing that in advance allowed me to relax and take in what I could without pressure.  I also got a lot of enjoyment out of seeing my traveling companions' interest level in the scene.  Most of them were making their first trip to NAMM, and seemed to happily absorb the sights and sounds of the day.

Whenever I travel away from home for an extensive period of time, especially if it's not a gig-related journey, I think about whether or not it is feasible for me to carry a guitar to keep my hands in shape.  Often times, if the trip is less than a week, I'll use the time away as a break from music to clear my mind and recharge the creative batteries.   However, too much time away makes my callouses suffer a bit and the rust might start to settle in.  With the post-9/11 airline restrictions in place, it has become more difficult to conveniently transport instruments when flying.  I've rectified that situation with my Erlewine Chiquita Travel Guitar and a Korg Pandora PX4-D, which help me to remain connected to the guitar when traveling.   I was certainly interested in the products exhibited by Traveler Guitar at the NAMM show because of my appreciation of portable gear.   They seem to be attending to the needs of a variety of players:  everything from six-string electrics, to nylon and steel-string piezo-equipped guitars were represented.
 

The main emphasis of Traveler's products is on being able to take a good-feeling and good-sounding stringed instrument to places where a more "standard size" guitar or bass might not be convenient.  About the only discouraging thing I could note is that one of the representatives indicated that their bass guitar exceeded most airline's maximum length requirements, thus the instrument would likely need to be checked.  I never like to check my instruments nor trust them into the sometimes rough hands of baggage handlers.   Neither do I want them exposed to the dramatic temperature changes which can occur in a plane's cargo area.  I asked a company representative if they had any plans to produce a shorter scale bass guitar to which he replied "No."   Nevertheless, the compact nature and flexibility of these products struck me in a very positive fashion overall. Visit:   http://www.travelerguitar.com/   for more information.

Bassists.  Blah.   They'll drive you to drink.

I've always had a high degree of respect for the solid feel and aura of quality surrounding Matchless Amplifiers.  While I've leaned more toward American/Fender-y sounding rigs over the years, lately I've been enjoying the prototypical "glassy and chime-laden" tones that are generally associated with the Matchless brand.  Yes, I'll say it again....tone is subjective....in my opinion, Phil Jamison is making the best sounding Matchless amps I've ever heard.  There have been a few glowing  references in publications by Kirk Hammett of Metallica to using a smallbox Spitfire on some recent recordings.  Phil informed me that I have had that exact amplifier in my possession as used by producer Bob Rock and Hammett.   It's always interesting to talk to the people with the inside story!
 

One amp, in particular, that impressed me immensely is the new Avenger series.  The Matchless Avenger Reverb head (it is also available in combo and non-reverb formats) knocked me out with it's sonic presence and three-dimensional tonality.  I am pleased to see that the company is moving forward with some new designs!  There are so many things I'd like to have in my gear future, and the Avenger is definitely something I am considering.  The bypassable master volume is another nice feature on this great amplifier.   See them all at http://www.matchlessamplifiers.com.
 
 

I have to say that I was particularly happy to run into old friend Robert Keeley of Keeley Electronics at this show (not that I don't always enjoy it).  In the past year, the guy has managed to have one of his hands paralyzed due to a freak accident (that'll teach you to fall asleep on the job Robert!), and a couple of teeth knocked out in a Jet Ski calamity.  He's been telling me for awhile how ugly he's been looking these days; but I wanted to see the humanity firsthand.  Well, don't worry...Robert's no uglier than he's ever been.  In fact, he's looking downright dapper and professional with his new haircut and expanding line of guitar effects.  I don't know if I'm ever going to see my Keeley Echo pedal in the flesh....but I was very happy to get a look at the new Tone Workstation pedal pictured above.  I could tell that Keeley and staff are very proud of it.  Robert had his sharp new Divided By Thirteen amp onhand that he got from their company, which made his fantastic pedals sound even better!
 

Surf on over to the Keeley Electronics website at:  http://www.rkfx.com
 

Is it that time again ALREADY?

California:  It's a tough job but somebody's got to do it.

---

Suhr Guitars
 
 

The new Suhr Badger 18w amplifier (l).   Jason Barker and John Suhr (r)

John Suhr is one of the most respected builders of fine guitars in the music business.  From his days at  Pensa-Suhr, to being a master builder for the Fender Custom Shop, he has set a lofty standard of excellence with his work for many legendary artists.  For the past several years, he has pursued his design ambitions at his own company:  Suhr Guitars.  As an owner of a number of John's guitars, I can say without reservation that his company knows how to produce instruments with wonderful feel, tone and vibe.  Now he has finally gotten his amplifier production in order for the general public.  Aside from the resumption of making the Custom Audio Amplifiers (the OD-100 and OD-150), his long-awaited 18 watt design called the Badger 18, bowed at winter NAMM.  I did not get to play through this model at the show; but it is on my list of things to check out when the timing is convenient.  John knows tone...and that is the bottom line!

Visit Suhr Guitars at:   http://www.suhrguitars.com

Whether it's for procuring website content, documenting song ideas or band rehearsals, etc...I've long had a love and need for portable field recorders.  I've used everything from analog tape decks to MiniDisc recorders for getting my ideas down.   Last year, after some research, I bought an Edirol R-1 MP3/WAV recorder to use in place of my MD.  My primary reason for going this route is because such a device makes it very simple to transfer the data to a computer via USB without the need for data conversion.   It is so easy to use!   Nevertheless, as much as I like my R-1 (and I DO like my R-1 a lot) I have found some things with it that I would change if possible.   Well, it looks like my wishes are being addressed with the unveiling of the new EDIROL R-09 recorder that is pictured above.   For the sake of brevity, I'll quote what I posted not too long ago over on the Steelbender Forum when discussing things I would change about the R-1:

My primary complaints with the R1 are:

1- Doesn't fit very well in palm of hand because it's kind of big. A small gripe since the unit will be used in a stationary position most of the time, but it would feel better and more secure with improved ergonomics which the new R-09 seems to address with its smaller size.

2- Another tactile issue: the R1 feels "plasticky"...because that's what it is. It's made of the same type of material BOSS uses on their little multitrackers. It doesn't inspire confidence for heavy duty use or perhaps the inevitable time one will accidentally drop the unit. Speaking of which, it's nice that the R1 comes with its own little case but it has no padding at all and is basically negligible in terms of protection in my opinion. I think the 09 will feel more solid.

3- My biggest complaint is that the R1 does not put a time stamp code on the recorded files. Everything is read as recorded on 1/1/2002. The EDIROL rep told me that the 09 solves this and will time/date stamp the recorded files. I like to know, especially when I go back into my recorded archives, when something was recorded. Of course, I kind of get around the R1's deficiency by referring to the date when I re-title the file names. Still, it would be better to time stamp like a lot of electronic/USB things do such as digital cameras, etc.

4- The onboard COSM effects are nice but the truth is I don't really have any use for them especially since they can't be added post-recording. So...my suggestion to EDIROL would be to take them out and lower the cost of the unit to make it a much better value. I don't think most folks would use the onboard effects. If you're going to have them, at least make it possible to add them post-recording. I'd rather use my outboard editing software anyway. I believe the rep told me the new 09 has fewer effects and perhaps that lower price point...but I'm not sure I'm recalling that correctly.

As much as I use field recorders in my daily life...from taping guitar instructional sessions with my students to writing songs, I feel fairly certain that the R-09 is going to get a very serious look from me when it hits the market in the next month or two.  The R-1 has served me very well and is a great product.  I'm looking forward to getting my hands on its successor.
 

Roland's official website is:   http://www.roland.com

It's Briggs time again!   Yes...our friend, Jack Briggs, exhibited at this year's winter NAMM and wowed the folks with several stunning set-neck guitars.  As many of you are aware of, I've been doing the majority of my "steelbending" on Jack's guitars for the better part of the past couple of years (and I have two more on order!).  There are so many wonderful luthiers doing great things in the craft arena (and many of them were at the show)....I'd rank Briggs Guitars up there with anyone.  You can see much more of Jack's work in the Steelbender Spotlight article from last year.   Having personally seen the blood, sweat and tears that Jack put into these beauties in order to have them ready on time for the convention, I knew they would be nothing less than spectacular.   The new single-cutaway Apollo model made its debut...and believe me, it sounds as unique as it looks. Jason Lollar provided a special set of low-wind Imperial humbuckers for the one-of-a-kind instrument.   I've watched that guitar evolve from a slab of wood into its present form over the last two years and must say that it is one amazing player!
 

Of course, there were other notable productions from Jack, including the new Guthrie Govan 24-fret Signature Model, and a gorgeous redwood top instrument pictured above.  Aside from his instruments, Jack, along with Larry Wysocki ( a purveyor of extremely high grade tonewoods), had some terrific high-end gear on display such as a Two-Rock Custom Reverb Signature amp with matching Signature 2x12 cabinet, a Bob Reinhardt 18w. head, and a couple of exquisite cabinets and customized reverb unit from builder-extraordinaire Bob Burt.  Larry was also the recipient of a brilliant custom-ordered Briggs guitar (not pictured).
 
 

As always, you can find more about Briggs at:  http://www.briggsguitars.com

Here are some more miscellaneous sights from NAMM.   Anybody who has been there knows it's a great occasion for catching up with old friends and networking with new ones.  Aside from the serious business at hand for manufacturers and their dealers, it's also a good photo opportunity.
 
 

For some reason, that last photo of Tony Colon had me thinking about band personnel alternatives.  I'm starting to think that this video shows the perfect band.
 
 

Even drummists like to have fun:

At this point in time, let me say a few words about my buddy David Markham.  It's true....he's a drummer....but he's still important.   He's been recovering from major back surgery over the past year and was a real trouper throughout our trip.  No matter that his feet were going numb, or that we made him lift all of the heavy luggage...he's earned our respect.  I hate to admit it, but we did indeed visit the hall of drum exhibits at NAMM (ssshhhh!).   And yes, the interesting phenomenon of a reduced female population in said hall was noticeable by several people in our group....but still, we gave him time to look at all of the sparkly kits with people banging on them left and right.    So David Markham....here's to you and all you do!   Now get the hell on.
 
 

Ok, with the NAMM show behind us, we pursued some other activities of note.   Can you say "Dis-ney-land?"   Yes boys and girls,  we had to hit the Magic Kingdom once again and let me say that it is a truly evil place .  Go to the entrance of Frontierland and look closely back at the statue of Walt Disney and Mickey Mouse in front of the castle.   Aside from that, there all of these "hidden Mickeys" throughout the place.  Believe me...these people are messing with us.  I went with a former employee once who filled me in on some of this stuff.  You should hear the subliminal messages in "It's A Small World"...which by the way is the most played song in the world.
 
 

We also encountered some music at Disneyland. Check out a video of this acoustic duo, featuring a guitarist and percussionist, playing "Layla".   By the way, the device that the percussionist is sitting on and playing is called a cajon.  It is neat to watch players who know how to use them.
 
 

Southwestern cuisine is some of my favorite anywhere.  I rarely tire of Mexican food.  That's a good thing because we had lots of it on our excursion.  Last year when I played in Arizona, we would eat at places where girls would bring carts of avocados and make fresh guacamole right at the table.  We didn't see any "guacamole girls" this time around; but we still had entertainment at the table.  On one particular occasion in L.A., this fellow (pictured below) scored a pretty good cash tip from us which was intended for him and his playing partners (who is pictured above).  He immediately shoved it down into the soundhole of his guitar and looked away from his fellow band members.  He was gone in a hurry.  I'll have to remember that one.
 
 

We bid adieu to our vocalist Tony Colon in L.A. since he would not travel south with us for fears that he might run into some old girlfriends in San Diego.  That's right.....a city of over 1.2 million people, and Tony's going to accidentally cross paths with them!   Actually, Tony has a history of things like that happening  (I'm sure he'd be happy to tell you all about it, and name names too!  Stay tuned for his new website which will be accessible only with adult verification.  Until then, you'll have to remain content with enjoying his films from the '70s.   )
 
 

No offense to the fine folks of Los Angeles (and with apologies to Randy Newman), I've always liked going down to San Diego for the weather, food and scenery.   Aside from an abnormally hot time there last May, I think San Diego has some of the best climate conditions in the U.S.   It's usually sunny and around 75º  (oops...there I go with the weather thing again).

Whenever I think of San Diego, I automatically think of the Hotel Del Coronado.   I stayed there years ago and never forgot the experience.  It is one of the prettiest places to stay anywhere in my opinion.  If you remember the movie "Some Like It Hot" with Marilyn Monroe and Tony Curtis, you might recall that a good portion of it was filmed at the Hotel Del.  Presidents and heads of state have resided underneath its distinctive architecture.   Aside from Brennan's in New Orleans, the Hotel Del makes some of the best Bloody Marys I've ever had.   ( I feel like a host on the Travel Channel or something all of a sudden!).  Treat yourself to a lunch of $15 hamburgers near the picturesque swimming pool and watch as numerous old men walk through the place with their decidedly younger companions.  You're on vacation....you can afford it!
 
 

The Old Town district of San Diego is a lively and charming area of shops, restaurants and bars....."within staggering distance of your hotel" as one brochure says.   If you're going to stagger, you might as well enjoy dinner (hopefully only once, and that's on the way down ).   So we planted ourselves for awhile at the El Agave  (get it....planted) , which has been ranked as the number one tequila bar in America.  It is indeed impressive...a very rustic place with hundreds of beautiful old tequila and mescal bottles from seemingly about every maker in history.  The food is mighty fine too!   Take a virtual tour here.
 
 

What would a vacation be if some USELESS CRAP wasn't brought home from it?  I don't know why Mark insisted on buying this; but I guess that looking back, I'm kind of glad he did.   If you would like to waste a few seconds of your life, click here to watch Bobo the Dancing Monkey.   He sings "Tequila" by the way.

On a more serious note, lest you think all we did was act like a bunch of jackasses and swim in rotgut for the whole trip  (well...okay),  there were lots of beautiful and more somber things to contemplate.  San Diego sits on the San Diego Bay, which is separated from the Pacific Ocean only by a thin land mass called Point Loma.  One of the most striking sights on Point Loma is the Fort Rosecrans National Cemetery.  It reminds me of an Arlington on the ocean.  Some people say that a Motel 6 and a Ritz-Carlton Hotel look the same when your eyelids are closed in bed at night.   I can't help but think of this comparison when pondering how scenic this seaside burial ground is.  One side faces into the apparent endlessness of the sea, while the other side looks down on downtown San Diego.   It's quite lovely in a solemn kind of way.
 

If you're still reading this, I hope you have enjoyed this review of some of the "highlights" of our pleasurable vacation.   As you perhaps will see, life is too short not to have fun.  It's important to try and enjoy the camaraderie of friends.  I'm being very truthful when I say that I feel lucky to be able to mix my personal and professional endeavors with the friends that I have who are mentioned in this article.  I pray that they will still be my friends after they re-live our recent escapades.  Heck, some of them might be seeing them for the first time here.

Be safe everyone and let the inner child out to play once in awhile .   We need more of that in today's world.
 

Jason