2024 was quite the year. There were ups, and there were downs. There were solo shows, there were full band shows, (62/4, 66 total) and all sorts of things in between. They were shows in bars, restaurants, wineries, breweries, farms, music festivals, singer-songwriter showcases, etc. (A big thank you goes out to all of the venue owners, festival promoters, event organizers, etc that make these possible.) Any time I get to share my talents I color myself grateful, and I feel fortunate for the all the opportunities this year.
This year I was lucky enough to have the wonderfully talented Safrah join me on keys and vocals (along w/ Mick Hargreaves and Nick Balzano) for full band shows and it’s really added another layer that’s been missing for a while. I’ve already got one full band date on the calendar for 2025, and hope I can keep these types of performances rolling along, as I truly think we’ve got something special.
I also recently completed recording a cover version of Warren Zevon‘s, “Splendid Isolation“ over at the Lantern Sound Recording Rig that should be part of an upcoming release on Paradiddle records. I can’t wait for you all to get to hear that. Also, I’m hoping to finally wrap up some recordings I’d started years back and get those out and to your ears as well. I’ve had quite a few personal things happening within the last few years, and it seemed that this year wanted nothing more than to continue that trend. I’ve juggled what I could and have tried to only bite off that which I could chew, so some things have been put in waiting. I’m hoping the new year ahead will afford me a little more peace of mind and a little extra time.
As I sit here on 12/31/24, I’m tired, yet hopeful. There’s many seeds that I’ve planted over the years. Some have been growing for a while, and some are just sprouting. I must always remind myself to have patience, and to trust in the process. I’d be lying if I said that this journey hasn’t been difficult, but it’s a journey that I’m glad to be on. I’m going to stay the course, simply because I feel that it’s where I belong.
Be kind to yourself, and others.
Be well, and I’ll see ya in 2025.
-Bryan