Maine - always a trip

It was a bit of a stressful day heading up to Maine for the wedding this past weekend. Didn't expect the traffic to be so intense (what should've taken 3 hours instead took over 4). But we all made it with plenty of time to spare and were well into some swingin' jazz when the guests finally arrived.
We were immediately thrown a curve ball when the venue told us the bartenders here are instructed not to serve alcohol to band members. "Wha-wha-what?!" Not that we drink a lot, but it's certainly nice to have a beer with the guests, loosen up a bit, and feel like part of the party. It was no fault of the bride and groom, I'm sure they knew nothing of it, and of course we didn't say anything to them on their big day. Some places, especially in Maine, have really weird rules about musicians and alcohol, as if we're not responsible enough to handle it. Many places tell you that they see the band as an employee of the venue, and they don't allow their employees to drink. Well, I can see why you wouldn't want a waitress drinking on the job, but a drummer? And technically we were not employees of the venue, we were hired by the bride and groom. But hey, I'll stop ranting. Really not a huge deal. We still had fun and we all left very well hydrated with plenty of Maine's finest tap water (with ice of course).
None of that stopped the band from delivering a great night of music. It always amazes me when I first evaluate the crowd and decide "hmm, I don't think their the dancing type" and then three songs into it, after dinner and a few drinks, the dancefloor is packed. What can I say? We get 'em excited.
The reception hall was carpeted, with a circular dancefloor of hardwoods in the middle. That circle must have been 30 feet across. I kept monitoring the dancers, waiting for the time when the dancefloor would be so packed that people would spill over onto the carpet. I think it was about 10.30pm when this happened, and it made me smile. That's when I knew we had them.
Back at the hotel we had a nice little after hours (Diamond D found a gas station that sold beer). We were tossing the frisbee at 1am (who knew Alec could throw so well?) and watching Hendrix on the DVD. It was surprisingly cold that night (I could see my breath). Next thing I knew it was 11am and Diamond D was knocking on my door, trying to wake me to get on the road, another successful show completed and the long ride home ahead of us.

Random Kudos

Hey, just me checkin' in - as the newest member of Slacks Nation, I feel it is necessary to point out that I have truly enjoyed my role in this band and look forward to many more musical experiences with this group of talented, focused, organized - yes, organized - and funny people. Also looking forward to another sojourn to Maine this weekend! Wagons ho!!!

Brandi

All I got to say is:

Brandi, you're a fine girl

Old State House Wedding

Hey Guys,
Great wedding Saturday @ the Old State House (especially under adverse conditions). Being as I was under the weather, I commend you guys for doing a stellar job. This band runs like a well-oiled machine, and it's good to know that when one (or more) isn't up to par or missing, that the rest of the team can pick it up a notch & carry the show. It's an honor to play with such professional musicians. With that being said, It was AWESOME to play in such a historic place. That was my first time in there, and I must say, it was an overwhelming AND educational experience. To see the actual clothes worn by John Hancock (such a little guy) & see actual artifacts from Bunker Hill was amazing. I didn't even know Boston had a West End till I'd seen the black & whites of the neighborhood. We actually rocked a place where it all started. That was pretty cool. PLUS I got to meet some COOL people too. I WILL be going back real soon, when I can spend more time. Think the ghosts of past enjoyed the show?

Diamond D