Back from several days in Portland, Oregon, to visit dear friend Tris and his milieu. The trip was full of obstacles, from a flight change on the way up to chilly, rainy weather and a persistent cold which dogged me from my second day there. But of course it was worth it, to see the many faces I hadn't seen in ages (Dr. Lass, Connor, Luke & family) and to have the chance to work again with Tris & Connor. Finally, after a grinding acoustic stint on 12-string guitar and hurried rehearsals for an impromptu full-band show, I started to feel some of that old magic come back--the energy that informed my old bass lines in the days of Neuman Rael and the more inspired moments of the first Dissident 27 CD. Rhythm started clicking, interactions with Connor's shifting beats became active, and space and percussiveness turned wet clay into percolating, punchy creativity. In the midst of feeling crummy & cold, this energizing force was another reminder of the value that music brings to my life.

My gratitude for Tris & Stephanie's hospitality. Other highlights: great food (from Thai to diner), a fruitful trip to magnificent Powell's bookstore (since 1971, just like me), the ultra-mercurial Dodge Dart (a sedan version of the old green van from high school, I tell you!), and season four of Curb Your Enthusiasm.

Labels: Life, Music