Most of the time, I walk around pretending to know as much about pop culture as anybody, but I was just recently reminded that it's simply not true. Derek Maus (pictured here with magnetic poetry pieces in his mouth) in Potsdam, New York knows more about art, music, literature, and obscure Cold-War era Russian satirists than me, you, or anybody you know. In addition to being a professor at SUNY Potsdam and Fullbright Schollar, he is also an excellent concert promoter who brings great bands to Potsdam solely to enhance its music scene, and an all-around good guy.

We are deeply appreciative of all of the good people of Potsdam for their gracious hospitality. We had a great time playing for you, and I might also mention that I really enjoyed getting wasted at the Open Mic night and singing a particularly sloppy rendition of David Bowie's "Space Oddity". Good Times.

Prior to Potsdam, we found ourselves in Cleveland, drinking toddies at the wonderful Barking Spider Tavern. The Barking Spider is one of the last few clubs that actually has live music seven nights a week, and hosts a slew of wonderfully kind and eccentric characters such as our new friend Miles. Miles has one eye and likes to hang out at the barking spider and build miniature buildings out of cardboard. He gave us one for the van. It is awesome. Not pictured here is Charlie James Brown, who somehow manages to embody both of his namesakes, is one hell of a picker, and rocks a decent amount of bling. Also not pictured is 'weird cat guy' who walks around with a cat that is too cool for anyone on his shoulder. Here's to you 'weird cat guy'.

In other news, we have both fully recovered from our H1N1, and are pleased to report that it's not such a big deal. Rocinante suffered a mild tragedy while we were driving briskly on a gorgeous Vermont highway. Apparently some air pressure differential high tech physics shit caused one of dear Rocinante's window to spontaneously explode. This happened to coincide
with a torrential downpour which lasted about 16 sleeping-bag drenching hours. Repairs will be underway shortly.


We've played quite a few shows that aren't mentioned here.. We had a great time at the Midpoint Music Festival in Cincinnati, saw an incredibly rocking blues singer in Burlington, and enjoyed a very nice evening at the Howe family farm in Gilford, New Hampshire. If you happen to be near Gilford, you simply must check out Beans and Greens. It's like coming home to a place you've never been to before. After leaving Gilford we connected with old friends in Portsmouth and are preparing for a great night at the Mon-tiki.

Thanks to everyone who has helped us in our journey thus far!

Cheers,
T.R.