Donna

Well now, I sleep better at night, having had that night. But it means very little w/out friends to share it with. A singular gig...this one'll be remembered always. If interested, some cool person has a great photoalbum of that night, really shows its flavor. Including pics of two beloved famous callers, both elderly, Paulie (w/ the neck brace) and Sam Hawk, our Native American hero (w/ cap): Here baby

Photos by Kayla Peterson Drumming/vox TD Mischke & Donna Dahl Dahl singing Mischke's Hiding Time Hiding Time Drumming/vox

Very odd postscript: the day after the CD release bash at O'Gara's, Tommy was fired by am 1500 KSTP. No-compete clause means no work in radio locally for some time - Merry Christmas! The local Mischke cult has been up in arms, yet an Atlantic Monthly writer is also publicly mourning. Long time advertisers have pulled their accounts from KSTP am. "Good ol' St. Paul" as Mischke used to daily say - but it's true. I saw Tommy last week, after he'd run to RF Moeller Jewler to "drop off a box of CD's." That's where they're for sale (so far) - at the jewler's! And the Spectacle Shop. God knows where else. You can just tell...the people devoted to Tommy will never buy their jewelry or glasses or mortgages from anyone else other than these ex-KSTP businesses. Then they'll make their heirs abide by the same decree. It's like a modern day Christmas-spirit story cause these businesses are going to take a hit by pulling their accounts (KSTP will too of course) in the economy, right before Christmas. But the accounts were pulled because of the way it went down - no farewell, no nothing. Gads, I ended up being one of the last callers of the last show, creepy in retrospect. I called cause they were discussing O'Gara's which we'd just played some 12 hours previous. There are businesses who honor friendship and loyalty above...what, the bottom line? For these advertisers, money is not the bottom line. Tommy was at KSTP for some 18 years. Yeah, he'll get the CD online, too, or someone else will for him. There's a hilarious video he and Moeller put out yesterday - I suggest you check it out before Rules are invoked and it's pulled Mark Moeller and Tommy did a lot of radio ads, they'd be yelling at each other and it was funny plus RF Moeller sold a lot of jewelry. I think more gigs will be coming because now Mischke's gotta make a (new) living. Guess who else does, too? We shall see.

Little Queen - Heart

Listen to Finn! Colbat, once your boy gets on the stage you'll have a hard time getting him off.

Edit Dec 8 - Hiding Time - end of 3rd verse on Someone you tubed us ~ _______________________________ Though I've heard no tape yet (which will for me decide the truth of the gig) victorious is the word I use, and a word I don't often use. It seemed that kind of night, in multiple ways, for many people, for reasons not musical as well as for the music made. It's a night of stories to tell one's grandchildren. LENGTHIEST entry ever...and likely to remain so. Mischke began the night out in the crowd, ended up w/ about 10 audience members onstage. He is a genius of an enter- tainer, has a devoted cult, and O'Gara's proved in a slamming way why this is. When he finally sat behind the piano Mischke told the audience he'd been nervous to play, needed that 15-20 minutes w/ the people thank 'ee, am fine now. He played Where've All The Boys Gone solo. Great tune! Must say a word about Tommy's harp playing, it's fantastic and he has that Dylan wear it on your neck apparatus so will be playing piano while soloing harp, then back to singing. He also played harp standing center stage, great fun (wish I could've heard it better - that and other things). The 2nd tune Janey - er Hiding Time - is the one he gave me to sing. My lower register was hard to gage at both rehearsal and the gig. We'd done it only night before O'Gara's. It was hiding time for me, other drummers feel that way w/out their mountain. So I borrowed Loo's dark shades. This was a variety show, not a concert. Several acts, talking and interaction w/ audience. I stood next his boarded-up keys, in Mike Loonan's spot. Hiding Time is especially beautifully haunting w/ just piano. I was so happy to have part in it. Tommy got a 2nd guy to run sound onstage, yea. Jared had to spend hours night before fixing something internal I believe w/ the B3. That car front he had round his hammond, it's headlights worked! Our new 5th member (Joe Beier "Buy-er") stood front but off to the side of me. Young cat, same as the violinist Brian, who sat in. Very clean looking gentlemen, very accomplished players. Full band came out 3rd song Down Here which is my favorite. Boy I was raring to go, barely heard Loo and them intro- duced. When we got to the chorus I felt like I'd pogo-stick off the drum throne, just shoot out there toward the ceiling at an angle. During that song, "all I've been through" manifested itself into an intense state of freedom, victory, joy. It was a dream fulfilled, a concert moment. I could not have imagined once this moment came, how well earned, how unlooked for it would be. Brian was great to have onstage. He broke a string pretty soon into things. Can't wait to hear that audio. Mischke wrote a v. good song about his mom's dad "Grandpa", and there's others he's written with strings on them, that old Midwest USA fiddle playing on the prarie. Jeff F What would life be w/out Jeff F? He'd sit in sax w/ Krystal, been in cool bands w/ other neighborhood cats and just full of glee, talking mile o' minute. Jeff F has been videoing everything forever. Once I's on drums for Down Here, he's right at my elbow filming close-up Mischke. Then he'd run away. Then he'd come back. Once after a drum solo, Jeff F burst out Donna, I think I love you! giggled, and ran away again. What fun!! Him exploding onto the stage then running off happened all night long, and he hopped up there to sing, too. Other Acts John Heidt (am 1500 newsman) w/ Jim Souhan (Star Trib sports writer + KSTP guy) had their band on and it was Jim Souhan's 1st time on a stage!I am very sorry I don't recall bass player's name. Paul was a whopping singing drummer. Those guys I didn't get to hear much but good cover list, Otis Redding and Credence, the folk began dancing when they got on. John Heidt resembled John Clegg aka JC (RIP) very much and I apologized for staring backstage, explaining myself. Even that was a source of support, cause JC was around when I first began making transition to singing/songwriting and EXPECTED it to come to fruition. J. Clegg didn't begin even playing til he was 26 years old, what an example of courage and perseverence as he went out of this life as a revered saxaphonist and music teacher. There was angels all round, so to speak. Lauren Redpath is one of the Redpath Sisters and Joe Beier is her guitarist. Very good act, but again I couldn't pay much attention, am looking fwd to some audio so I can take in the gig! I believe the Redpath Sisters are writers, have at least one CD out. The Callers and Neighborhood Pals OK so TD Mischke has a talk radio show. Over the years certain callers have beome famous. At one point, Tommy's out in the crowd and Sam Hawk is sage-ing away. Tommy has a lot of elderly callers and friends. So there's real slow-down wisdom, and Sam has taught Mischke many Native American words. I got the sense Sam Hawk was sitting Indian-style (as they used to say) on the floor, speaking to the crowd. Last CD release Fred The Undertaker (I'm serious) was ill long term, he almost fell off the stage. Fred would call always w/ a song, and often preach, trying to convert Tommy. Everyone loved Fred, RIP. Dylan and Kayla were there for the whole thing and I was happy to hear that they spent time w/ Sam Hawk out in the freezing cold. Dylan repeated the Indian word Sam had uttered in beholding Kayla. I thought, '"the word is beautiful". Then Dylan said the word meant "beautiful" (time gooddess predictions strike again!). Sam told the children he wasn't cold because I was born in Canada - on a wooden floor. He told them of his mother being killed by a bear and I said Dylan that's so heavy I cannot even register that information. Sam's father was a Scot w/ a brogue which Mr. Hawk imitates to perfection. He told them jokes and stories. So that's the kind of night it was. All these people, probably little in common w/ one another, but they love Mischke. My cousin, the fox-in-her-fifties (FIHF) was there (yay!) w/ her cool man Brent. I regret not seeing them but Rosie (Mischke's wife) gave me the news they'd arrived, were there quite awhile and digging the show. Krystal's drummer Martin, my friendly rival from age 13 came in solidarity. He had that clear blue double bass drum kit - the one who nailed the 2112 album at age 14. Dear and great to see Martin! With him was Tommy Skinner, Uncle Skins. That Tommy and I used to have some uproarious times, + he sings! Lotta friends I've had. Tommy gushed, "I've got a 5 year old girl, and she's got red hair just like you! I love her so much and her name is Sophie!" Loo's wife Kelly was there and did I appreciate her support that night, and thru these dark months. Then I turned and saw this light-colored hair kinda sharp featured cat. It was Gerry Mischke, and emotion took me o'er. Why is that at these old home gatherings? Always one person's presence who brings the walls tumbling down, I don't know why. Gerry and I'd hung out for a time. There was a mutual sympathy there born of what I don't know or care. It didn't matter what was talked about or anything like that, I recall Gerry's outrageous, stunning creativity and a lot of laughs. Gerry was wild! I think wilder than his older brother Tommy. That's saying quite a bit. Mrs. Mischke MUST be a saint, there are 6 Mischke boys and two Mischke girls. Gerry is avant-garde type of wild. Fini (vain part totally about myself) My song went well. I decided not to play guitar - one reason being I'd already played that afternoon a cameo at the Black Sheep and had nothing more to prove to myself, just wanted to sing. Tommy's introduction astounded me - it was lengthy and he kind of implored the audience to listen . (I think they obeyed). I sat on my drum throne in Loonan's spot, and Mike played Tommy's keyboard + sang with me. I'm so glad we got to do it. I love that song, one of the very few I've written that is in my true range. I wrote most of it in the backyard, up to my eyeballs in children, pregnancies and Mom-ing, on a beautiful morning, expansive sky, whistling back to the birdsong which responded to me... Because of singing mic'd, singing higher than the lead, because of playing loud (boy did those hundreds of bodies soak up the sound)...I ended up having to play quite hard, which makes one 1/2 the drummer they are, plus a lot of brusing on the "snare leg"... because of all these factors & having to push the vocals, I don't so much like the sound of "that" voice. It works, but that's about it imo. The monitors also in this kind of situation tend to be more of a shadow than confirmation so who knows (the audio does) how much was on, or off. I can pretty much correctly discern how others sound in the moment, though.. 2nd set I was tired. Didn't have a sure read, but thought I'd mismanaged timing. We had some very fast tempo's, then him spring- ing around in the crowd a loong time, us bringing it down - good luck, man! I felt it wobbly, all over the place, you name it. To me, the more Mischke the gig was, THAT was the most worthy. Ya know, //Onward Local Songwriters// . Weirdly, I don't have a lot to say about Mike and Jared (or Joe) - maybe because there was just fine, fine enjoyment playing with them, gratitude to have my buddy a-dancing w/ his borrowed bass cause he's not a bass player. And Jared - I did tell him afterward that it was special, so cool to have played with him. I just look over to my left the whole night, and see them all; Jared's awesome soloing and support, his 'The Band' groove and his Rufus/Chaka Kahn/Stevie Wonder sound. On Drumming My high hat was a piece of shit! Don't know what happened, this was an issue - both my pedals in fact, action quite sluggish. The most poignant to me were comments made from musicians on my drumming. Relatively speaking it seems like I've lost little or nothing from a very long hiatus, but actually have gained (though again, the audio recording is pretty much the final word). Who counts stamnia needed to pull off 3 sets? That (usually) has to be worked up to when you're 18 and at peak physically, much less being older/absent. Talk about a Christmas present! Signed, sealed, delivered... Victory.

I have never kept track or written about rehearsals leading up to a gig, except for this one. I don't expect to in the future. __________ Last rehearsal was today at O'Gara's mixed in w/ sound check (which was rather complicated or extensive). The drum riser on O'Gara's stage will remain unused - Mischke built a wall using huge pallets to go in front of it. It's fun how he (and Jared!) are doing the stage. In the 1st case, Tommy has put wooden doors and boards round his keyboard. Stuff like really old looking axe, tools are propped before it center front. In the 2nd case, Jared has an entire front of a real car 'round his B3. The cat showed up @ dress rehearsal all in black w/ a beret. Tommy had a flourescent orange stocking cap on, the lumberjack look. Mike came in looking like some aero-space engineer (I didn't know he wore spectacles - these great, black, horn rimmed glasses), well scrubbed and this crisp walk, chewing gum. I found out right away we now have a 5th member, and soon after met Joe Bier (sp) - yes, a guitarist. A very tasteful player! We are set up in a line, next to Mischke of course center stage. It's so funny - we MUST be able to see Mischke; it's like he's naughty so to keep an eye on him - but we know he cannot help it. Seriously, I've not had the mind-meld experience of players including Tommy requiring eye contact, close proximity and other things harder to pin down or explain. It felt good, playing full, hearing the mighty kick mic'ed and all. Jimmy the soundman took out a bit of carpet in the kick drum and to my surprise it sounded very good without. The old bed linens or whatever's in there remain. I tuned my toms in an octave. Remember Pete whom I bought one green guitar pick from about 18 months ago? Last week I got a drum key and 2 dozen picks from him. Tangent of Path as a Writer Oh - and I found something dear at the bottom of my cymbal case and the name excapes me, that's how long it's been. Pitch pipe that's its name. I either pinched it w/out meaning to, or was given it by my conductor in college (playing timpani). One of those big sensory- memory items. At that time in life didn't have a clue as to why I was playing timpani, my heart was far away from drums but frustrated I'd little melodic training. I remember a percussion teacher telling me it is logical that percussionists end up composing. Even conducting. I did do a score for independent study, a long work with string section, horns, rhythym section. Fantastic experience - loved the artistic part of writing the music by hand. This was in my keyboard days, where snippets and songs were exclusively written via keyboard. I'd tape to tape layers and melodic lines. Those bizarre recordings have always been some of my fav. stuff, maybe for the potential I glean in them. Had a nice detachment, it was as if I was critiquing someone else's work. Gave me a sense of maybe how Bob Byrnes my childhood angel of a drum teacher fed off of perceiving raw potential. It's very exciting and mysterious. It is so personal in that even unformed dabblers, if they are artists, can have something to say, something worth listening to. Something that gives back. I forced myself to become a songwriter in that, I knew if I possessed drums I'd fall back on the familiar when the new ground going got rough. So I sold my drums and bought a sequencer. It was the right way for me, and when it was time I bought drums again. _____________ I tried to be actively grateful today after the contrast of how 2008 began and is ending, hit me, I'd have fallen on my knees if time and knees permitted. Even hauling in gear, recalled the grumblings; this one time I wasn't into it but rather happy for the reason to be grumbling. Stage sound was working alright, feeling alright. I do need earplugs. Dynamics were better today. If you can believe it, I have a cameo tomorrow before the gig, solo/guitar/singing at the Black Sheep. Not the best timing, but that's what it came down to thru circumstance. I'm not afraid. I don't know why.

Hey All, Just wanted to update that we dropped the cover, and Loo is playing piano on my tune w/ the ripe observation that I hold back to meet him half-way in this new flavor-of-a-tune HE has created by putting those talented fingers to the keyboard. translation: riffs won't apply for the gig this week - plus it'll be enough to sing it. Quality before fumbling This is from my blog tonight, so I'm getting other views and it's good: After the cares of the day, seeing John Denver's smiling face [via TV] was lovely. Seeing him singing w/ others. His sound was fine and rounded, not a thing missing playing solo, usually only strumming.

Hey D, What everyone said. BUT- If you mean multiple meanings/layers, I'm not much help. However, if you mean depth as in more interesting, poetic, original, artistic then my 2 cents is you could fiddle w/ the words in this way...instead of "when you did this, it made me think of" maybe write "your soul tumbled out and that pain colored my day". Maybe concentrate on the verbs. It'd be a place to start any way. Not like you need a thesaurus either. John said FEEL, so if "pain" makes you think/feel "searing" or "red" or "black bottomed dung heap", or "ice hot" or "eternal ache" bringing that stuff in lyrically may be satisfying for you. I think you should try to follow your lights in this attraction to deeper meaning'd lyrics - if it doesn't work for you, no harm done.

Here's Granny w/ her cane saying young man, I been playing 145 years and my first pro band when I was 17, knew what they were about getting me who was 10 and up to 20 years younger than various band members. I was fresh outta high school. Their very mild manner of encouragment took me from drummer to lead singing drummer. That's quite a step, and I mention it to illustrate how a fertile musical enviornment can make a young musician to soar! There's just no way to get experience but by getting it. You'll be OK - unless maybe you remain not playing w/ others. That'd be a world of regret, over time. And not necessary at all! PS: the 1st band I was in, at 13 or 14 as an adjunct drummer/b/u singer, played the 2112 album in toto. I still very much like Yes, ELP, all of that. PPS: let us know how it goes when you begin jamming w/ others.

What a nice reality check. The memorial special I saw this eve had John Denver singing a song called This Old Guitar. He prefaced by saying his guitar has been his closest companion; that as great as it'd been playing w/ an orchestra backing him or "w/ a really hot band"...what he loved esp. was singing while playing that guitar. The lyric spoke of how that guitar "taught me to sing" - just as I'm finding out first hand that the best way for me to sing a song as in learning it, is to play the thing. (Which I did recently - guess what I learned? Superwoman by A. Keys. That came outta nowhere!) I think it's also getting to a point where to enjoy singing, let loose, or refine, is while playing. That has not been my experience so far in taking up this instrument, until last week- end. Maybe...maybe that wonderful next horizon is coming, past the initial beginner's struggle plateau. This old guitar (he sang) taught me to sing To laugh, to cry And made a sweet space "For me and you to meet" (his audience) And what a companion on a cold, lonely night! The tune ended w/ his bright face and beautiful voice: "I love to sing my songs for you." It wasn't schmaltzy. That guy (I think many would agree) was sincere. I like love songs about music. After the cares of the day, seeing John Denver's smiling face was lovely. Seeing him singing w/ others. His sound was fine and rounded, not a thing missing playing solo, usually only strumming. (Too cool - gig time very soon and looks like a couple of my cousins - the fox in her 50's and the medical beauty who would check in on Dylan while he was so ill - shall be there) And P.S. Part of me is still remembering in a vivid way, the sound of Tommy's piano and Jared's Leslie. I just don't know if I'll have the opp. past O'Gara's to be in among that enthralling sound.

We were 4-piece tonight, first time. No guitars. Rather piano and Jared's "not B3" organ (he called it an A-something or other, "it's just like a B3"). The B3 sat in a different corner of the studio, being a stand for the large mixer. There were two other pianos in the room, one a baby grand I think. And Bill Evans' drummer's kit. (Lazz, it was Marty Morell's I finally found out). The drums were so very bright (and so very loud). I put dish towels over them. At Tommy's, I covered the very-ringing floor tom one day w/ the only thing available from their laundry room, a pair of jeans. On MM's kit, it was too much muffle with towels, and not bearable for volume without. Hmm, now I do have a word to say. If I didn't have to (my whole drumming life practically) muffle the drums I'd be a lot better. I think about this, and often it seems to me I should just practice with a wrinkled woven-fabric shirt, kinda folded and not smooth or taut at all, laid on top of carpet. THEN practice surface would approximate actual drums. It was a good night and I don't have much to say. Maybe "it" has all been spent for this evening, anyway. I'm changing...things are getting settled and I am, too. Never played modern music w/ no guitars, I don't think. I really like the sound. Certain pieces seem made for double keys, boy when it's on, it's on. We were loud tonight. At Jared's, so lotsa gear and full sound PA wise. Mike and I had full view of J. and many a delighted eyebrow raised between each other, hearing that organ. I loved the set up, I had full view of everyone! The Leslie took my attention away and I fell apart a couple times. Or was it Mischke a-hollering? Mike's melodic runs? Or was it the crash and stampede of playing full w/ great players? Tolkien and Lewis wrote books in part because of an absence of good books. This seems to me a good reason to write. Kinda feel like that w/ us four; if I had to wait til we're all growed up to be able to have this night, and that sound, well some good 1st drafts went down. I keep forgetting to mention that Mike's instruments are piano and guitar - not bass. Yet he's the bassist! I'd never know bass is not his main deal (well I would actually, cause I know him). We did my song again tonight...omg, it surely is a different and haunting piece now. I wanto say it sounds... celestial...which is what the song is about. Me oh my I love it anew. Mike may've done things to his purpose, as in the past I think he's favored my ballads. Sneaky Man I'm glad! We've taken at least one of Tommy's ballads, and from the first locked into something quite different - it's grand. We'd been discussing one other of his tunes, and Mischke said I have it: Donna, you sing the verses and I'll sing on choruses with you. Er um...are you sure? So that's one duet scrapped. Jared did not have a mic. Why aren't you singing, pal? I asked. I don't sing, said he. O comeon you can't be serious. Well I'll set up a litte mic at O'Gara's and stomp here and there. I did get to see Aunt Mary (J's auntie), who is very special. She did not hold my hands tonight and come close to me, but the dog was very cute and affectionate, and Aunt Mary gave me a spoon for my soup, and a banana. J's family homestead is gorgeous, w/ land and gardens and a little bridge. The stars were out really cold and deep midnight bluesky (which it gets this time of year by 6:00 pm).

This is a lengthy freak out! Can't help it, music is the only thing that is really mine, as in "mine alone". It's honeymoon time for me. Things are heating up yet settling in. Communication and rehearsals to me are like having a blast back on the playground (in my case going to the river, cruising on the rope swing). Everybody I think plays better than ever. Better than when we were in our twenties, or thirties. The best though isn't chops...it's like a whole-person-rounded kind of deal. The energy is the same, but better. See I never really got to play w/ these guys before. I wanted to, but it never happened. Just quick projects (like quick-breads, but now it's like we're preparing a menu for a month). I'm just so grateful for a goal, and work to be done, and friends to do it with. It's fabulous for me, this whole experience. Tommy and I as individuals have more time and we each are hitting the practicing (him quite a lot). Duet vocals coming on nice. Having had to learn and relearn his catalogue, my appreciation for his singing, writing and playing increases. It's just really cool. We kind of followed a similar timeline, in that Whistlestop came out around "post 7th baby" when in one month, saying not much at all, I set up the drums, took out the 4 track, found Songstuff, began making my way back. I knew Mischke was "ahead", ya know, more realized as an artist, but I also knew myself and my worth. Semed to me like he was coming back, too, at that time, just at a dif. levels. Ever since recording at Mike's, I was interested in where Mischke was headed. Ever since I re-met Mike at that high school party, I was interested in where HE was headed. I didn't forget about either of 'em. I always wanted them to bloom. It never surprised me the strides they each made, I expected them to. These two are special to me, cause we all grew up in the same neighborhood, even tho we didn't hang out. There's a neighborhood kinship that does exist. They're special also because they are bona fide writers. I personally know few writers. Nice to have company. Tommy seems now happy and settled - boy does it show in the playing. And singing! Gol that cat has it all over. Mike and I spent yesterday and this eve, getting a kick out of Tommy. We must look at him a lot, to know where the heck he's going, make sure he stays there - but also Mischke's so damn jolly when he sings. A friend asks "what'd you do at rehearsal?" I feel like answering, "Me and Loo looked at Mischke all night long, and just enjoyed doing that." I have never had so much fun playing music, ever! God bless John Moxey!! I mean it fierce; and Steve, and Rudi and Lazz and Hari and HH (RIP) and Alistair and Nick and Prometheus and a-wooo The Wolf - all you guys continually encouraging ppl like me. That is really all I needed. Well, and to flee the terrible situation. But that encouragement, that help to gain confidence, no money can procur such a gift. And now, I'm seeing fruit from the hard work. From the waiting. From the longing, you guys know how die hard I am for music, it's basically all I talk about in here, yeah it's my husband, sho 'nuff, since I was 7 years old. This'll sound vain, probably is, but last few rehearsals Mike was digging what I was doing. He had never heard me play drums to this extent. He made continued comments, and then asked when I'd stopped playing pretty much ("2nd baby"); when I picked it up again ("post 7th baby"). We did my song first time tonight, him on piano. Wow. Different flavor altogether, perhaps stunning. I was abashed because my buddy Loo really does like that song. He made it lush...wheras alone I gritted. He said man this needs to be recorded. Yep. They all do. I fear we kept the Mischke household up late this eve, but there I was relaxed (yes!) playing guitar, and then Loo jumped back on the drums and we did 2 others of mine. It's a curious, rare, unthreatening musical friendship we have...all of a sudden it seemed to me like he was the little brother again, exploring and enjoying the twinkly lights. Wondering all about them. Yet then he'll give me (always respectful) direction. And it happens 3-way, w/ Tommy, too. We three all give and accept musical direction from one another. No weirdness, and blessed be, a true and admirable respect for one another. We just get so much done as well, imo. I'd told them before years ago, it's rare the vibe going w/ us. I repeated this tonight...don't just forget about it...

Lazz, pardon for no pm on the teacher recommendations yet (consider this to be it). My word, but I think I know one of these teacher's students. Crazy! Thank you for doing my homework I think vol 42 is where it's at for me...er...yeah. Blues. Love the idea of playing w/ the cd. OK, it's been a week since those chord drills began, I see. I should be heartened. Have gotten from about minus 38 on the metronome to about 66. That's for the cover song, the unfamilar chords. Found out today Mike won't be playing guitars w/ me, he'll be on piano. Let's just keep upping the anty, no fair. I don't like the thought of me out front alone. But I guess providence does. It's just...hitting me finally, that there'll be an audience of hundreds and I've only played out several tunes, and that was about 15 months ago. Well, tomorrow I'll go shopping for slippers and parmesan! That'll give the correct perspective.

Bizarre! How'd this entry get here? It used to be, and does belong, on page 2 or 3... __________________________________________________________________________ I am exhausted. But did play drums for an hour, and guitar for an hour, this week. ..................................................................................... Dear All, Thanks for following Dylan's illness. It means a lot to him. He's received mail from Fargo [North Dakota in the US] to England! Either Thurs the 19th or Fri. the 20th, we were told he was having renal failure. After double checking the labs, an ultrasound was done and kidney specialist called in (Dr. Kim). Dylan was very tired a couple of those days understandably, and here and there, since. Dr. Kim said it was the contrast dyes used - which leeriness had been mentioned to the techs w/ the first scan weeks ago... Other than this setback, he continues slowly progressing with lung improvement. His appetite is coming back (sigh of relief), at least some period during the day, if not at all 3 mealtimes. This week was the first time an esitimated discharge was mentioned. It may happen early next week. There was some stress (?) testing he was to do today, breathing exercises and etc; but after each attempt to inhale deeply was accompanied by coughing, he was told he's not ready to do this testing. It will be something to see him put on the weight again; his wrists and forearms are looking pretty delicate. He is understandably feeble, weak, sometimes quite pale. But his spirits have been good when he's not being blasted by some symptom... Gratefully yours, Donna ................................................... ~July 24 Jokes~ Omigosh, tonight he had me in stitches. First, the child is quite tall (and now too skinny), with very dark, long-ish hair, and huge (but well shaped) feet. He's just so long, even in the hospital bed. So big and little, as it were. Dylan wears a smaller version of horn-rimmed glasses. When he jokes, often it's in a true Minnesotan rythym: he takes time in speaking the words, and there are full pauses between phrases. There's a mild quality in the tone of voice, almost apologetic. We were arguing about who was going to read the TV listings in the fast fading daylight, and during this exchange the Nurse came in, so I asked her "Where's the light?" Dylan always wants it darkened, and we've never had the light on! She turns a switch and all three of us jump from the florescent brutally bright. I say, "try that switch..." and she nods at me, but Dylan says weakly, holding up a finger: "No: there is to be No Light In My Room...I will read the listing." Then the nurse spies a wall scone right above my head and I say, "duh, how'd I miss that?" I turned on the wall lamp and purused the list. Dylan held the nurse control switch in his hand and observed, while running fingertips over each section of the remote, while he spoke of it: "There's Braille where the "Nurse" button is... "And there's Braille where the "TV" button is." He pauses til he sees me looking at him. "But," he concludes, "there is no Braille for the "Light" button...because...the blind...don't...need the light....because...they can't see." A special friend brought him a new stuffed puppy, which is small and sort of copper colored, very cute and cuddly. "You wanna know what I named my new dog?" Again, he pauses til he sees I'm looking at him. "What?" I ask. "Peanut Brittle." That's the exact color of the dog. Everytime a medication runs out, his IV monitor makes a loud BEEP. And continues BEEPing til the nurse comes in. But sometimes there a five point series of BEEPS, in two different tones. I don't think Dylan knows what that one is for (I sure don't). Tonight it began going off. After about the 4th series of BEEPS, Dylan slowly pushes the "Nurse" button. "Can I help you?" she asks crisply via the intercom Dylan speaks into the remote, in a serious, mild and bewildered voice: "I can't stop BEEPing..." They call again. "I can't stop BEEPing," he repeats in a sort of helpless voice, yet wanting to get to the bottom of it. Then two of them come in. They're unable to quiet the noise. "I can't stop BEEPing," Dylan explains, speaking to them, and into the Nurse remote at the same time. He pushes the Nurse button while they're in there, holding the remote up to his mouth: "I can't stop BEEPing.." I suggested this eve that we take a walk and he was amaible to the suggestion, even seemed eager to. So I pushed the IV monitor and we made our way around 1/2 the floor, about a block in all. As we ambled past patient rooms I asked, "have you talked to any of the other children here...?" and realized how dumb the question was before it came out. "No... there's not much fra..ternization here... it's not like we're bored... and so we knock at each other's rooms, to play Scrabble." (We both started cracking up) "No," I agreed, stifling a giggle, "y'all are too sick."

That's right! Plus the video shows...will and way of getting drums, w/out actually having drums, nma (no matter what)

Gentlemen, Also, I've looked at most of your links. Nick, I get it...have done this variation (carefully thought out as the article says) on the 8-parter song I've yet to record. Many versions/styles of that song, I like it so well I wanto do an EP of nothing but. There's versions of sections and whole song, too in somba, folk, 80's dance, kind of hip-hop and Donna Dahl. I love the idea of breaking small sections down, crafting a dif. but recognizeable version. I think that's a great way to expand on guitar, to find those melodies/riffs to sing. Oh Lazz that vol 3 and 42 look really good. What instrument (voice?) did you learn 'em on? The Baker page totally reminds me of a jazz player I once knew well. He recently passed away...I think of him and pray, ya know? That cat got to travel even to Asia w/ his community big band. He used to sit in w/ Husker Du at First Avenue, and loved playing bari sax. This man (John Clegg) didn't begin playing til he was 26 years old and ppl gave him a hard time for that. Went out as a music teacher, full roster of past and present students, played with just excellent players cause he became one. Wow. So he learned his ii v7 i's...

Lazz, yes, please find out. The cover, I realized, must be done a whole step down. Meaning I'm avoiding the finger breaking as we spe - er um presently taking a break from drilling chords I'm not well versed on. Yep, tis drills at this point. And yet another opportunity to grow. So I began taking this breather by playing my tune, and I 'sang' a couple bits, picking them out on guitar. Making every note count, putting soul into it. Lo and behold, other riffs began coming out as well. Comforting. Fun!

Hey~ Not sure what you mean by hearing it in your head , quickly record it, but then hear it "without" playing it... Do you mean you put it down too quickly/imprecisely? At any rate, have had mucho disappointments in being unable to capture (record) what I hear in my head. O well. I think most of us who've not constant resources/phenomenal talent, may always experience this trial to a certain degree. OTOH, time and persistence have taught me that I can get a decent amt of stuff down when I take my time to do it (learn it) right. -Donna PS: I was gone a long time, too. Welcome back!

This sucks - I lost my original post (no worries Mon Capitaine, twas moi not yoi). Hey! Where IS Didier anyway, that French Connection? Off puddle jumping wiff Finn in Norway, I suppose. Or maybe - off to some seedy graveyard with Prometheus (sniff I miss ya man) and his singing band-mate. Anyway, now I'll have to do shorthand, just overlook what may seem an abrupt tone. Believe-you-me gentlemen, I am tickled verily from the wealth of your answers! All I did was a-chop wood and mother these children last few days, and boy whatta night cap your replies is. Especially taking thy time and touting: SONG above all. Lazz: guitar I'm talking. Nick and Lazz: sing the solo/riff, very good this is confirmation, it's how my mind works anyway. Max, your experience does help. I've done some of the expolratory stuff you mention, more stuff to glean here from your post. I do agree w/ your ideas about self-teaching. (And I do run scales). Specifically, for this Dec 4 gig, I had wanted to do a BIT more guitar-wise. There'll be an interlude where I'm not drumming, 2 songs w/ Loo also on acoustic, me singing lead both, one cover, one original. On my tune I wanted to open up more. It may not be practical though - I'll know more once Mike and I actually play thru the thing. But for the future, too, an overall approach. (And, there is an open mic I've been eyeing, coming up soon). Anyone remotely knowing my situation knows I lack musicians and mostly can only count on playing alone. Which should at some point, I think, include a little more interest/craft than strum -n- sing. I hate that! Unless necessary, as a beginner, etc; But not to aspire to! Unless artistry somehow demanded it. I cannot however think HOW, not as a a one-person soloist. Don't misunderstand, not nec. saying playing lead "while" singing lead. Just that my attention shall be on 2 things. Well, I'm looking foward to playing again and letting the meandering melodies in my head jumpoutbymagic; then, not be imidated but get thee sharpened (chewed on, whittled down by many children o' mine) pencil and write them notes. That's as good as "Chevron 7 - LOCKED" - know what I mean? Once I write it down, it's pretty much there in memory for good. Thanks again! (PS: another good rehearsal, it's so good to know ONE instument anyway. Lazz, I think I should break the heads and the more, maybe, for the gig. Each rehearsal the drums/cymbals are increasingly screwed up worse, yet I play better each time this happens - and I've got the reahrsal tapes to prove it!)

Liking that acoustic thing!

Hey Joe, No magic words here; just wanto say your game plans in this and other entries help me feel like I don't walk alone. And have someone further on up to show what to do. As re: supporting a family, I am learning to take this a day at a time. Respect, Donna

Hey all, Maybe this came up before, but I'm seeking practical able-to-apply helps. Like Tom Hess' article spoke of, to apply what one's learned. Is there a formula any of you used, as a beginner, like go up the blues scale in time alotted, for whatever chord? Explicit, written out examples or links much appreciated! As are formulas which can be applied accross the board. t/y kindly~ Hey and PS! We in the States get an extra hour tonight. I thought about how to use that extra hour and chose to use it for playing guitar.

Firearms instruction? I would not have expected even an opinion for 30 bucks, M. Farrow, knowing that!

Though toned down in mood [er, me that is], I felt deeper satisfaction playing the 2nd time w/ Loonan and Mischke. Somehow this doesn't seem possible; however, taking any and all gifts, thank 'ee. (Edit to add...DOH! A big part due to Mike playing bass this rehearsal. And I could barely hear him! Thankfully, Tommy is percussive to no end. We'll have to switch those monitors next time. Don't say switch the cords - this is a situation like when we were 16...the cords cannot be switched, we'd blow somefinn out - cords ain't long enough anyway to switch. It's meatball mechanics ala The Red Green Show. Oh yeah, and I was down a high hat - or more precisely high-hat action, which I heavily rely upon. But took thee lemons, made lemonade. Another happy accident which made me a better player. I LOVE music! I LOVE MUSICILOVEITILOVEMUSIC). And a word about dynamics: thank you, all my teachers and conductors and bandmates and bar owners and mother, brothers and neighbors who'd all said at one point turn that shit down! Your plea has been answered! I know how to do it. I am very grateful for this. My rehearsing mates are grateful, too. I'd taped the 1st rehearsal, noticed a warp with my playing , sought to correct it. And I did. There is beauty in knowing how to do this! I love the maturity with a sweet tenderness. I love it in musicians, and esp. my friends. I am so happy drumming again, and being a singing-drummer. It is one area in which I feel uniquely suited, masterful even, to know 100% I can make something good. We played some standards - gosh that sounds boring, except Angel From Montgomery is like a part of my soul. I will layer Raitt upon Prime & Tommy Mischke. Tommy likes the idea of Mike and I playing acoustics alone for a couple songs; they want to showcase me, I am humbled by this. So it looks like we'll do a cover, then one of mine. I found a song suitable for that night, and played it for Tommy. Callouses are once again becoming a welcome part of life and am beginning to practice guitar again, which y'all know means so much to me. Took a break during rehearsal, listened to those two wailing thru the house walls while I drank Rosie's near beer, spoke to the children via phone and ate brocolli from the garden. Later, basking in the satisfaction/commradery of 2nd rehearsal, thoughts came to me of the experience of having to actually flee my home with my many children. I cried. In the midst of this I felt surrounded by love, the love of my children especially, and again I cried. It's been nearly seven months since fleeing. Seven months! I know what it is to lay down my life. Someone is giving me it back again.