Hello people and welcome to the last blog installment for 2010. And what a great year it has been! With the completion of Saturday’s show up to the Central Hotel, the Short Change Band once again played over 80 shows for the 2010 season. (Pretty amazing huh?) We owe it all to you - the people who come out each week to party with us and support us. We thank you.
Also in 2010 we managed to release two new pieces of music as well. "The Full Circle" CD and now the compilation CD titled "5 years of Change”. Appropriately titled huh? And, as we end out the 2010 year we continue to work on our newest piece of music called "Back to Basics"…
So now that you're all amazed at our accomplishments for the year, we still didn't purchase a tour bus or chart a single yet - but there's always next year! It's what we love and what we do almost every weekend of the year. (Now that's some dedication for ya)
On to the shows, Friday Night at Davy's was a fun night for the band and a decent show. Pak Rat stopped by and picked a bit. The full moon Friday night sent the place off in its own Ore. Crazy people enjoying a crazy night! We'll be back in January.
Saturday night was the first annual Christmas Party at the Central Hotel. If you missed this one - you missed one sweet show, and a perfect ending to a perfect season of music.
The food was once again second to none, people wanted to party and the band was feeling it too.
Special thanks once again to our hosts - Chopper and Bobby for helping to put on a fantastic spread. You the fans for all the great dishes to pass that were brought to the party and not to mention all the of the musical guests of the evening too.
Special Guests included Herbie, Steven B. Cook, Johnny Brown on Keys and Jeff and Patty Moat too. It’s quite a list in all. The Highlight of the show of musical guests in my eyes was Patty's awesome rendition of the Sugarland song "Stuck on You" - Nice job Patty, Jennifer Nettles would be proud of you for sure.
In closing, once again thanks again for a great 2010 and remember to say a pray for all of our service people still in active tours all over the world and also for our departed friends that we also lost in 2010. Their memories will always be with us.
Have a safe and Merry Christmas from the Short Change Band - We will see you again in 2011.
Peace and Love,
Mikee^Dee
Monday, December 20, 2010
Sunday, December 12, 2010
Short Change Band - December, 2010
Greetings people, just two short weeks is all that separates the time before Christmas and the time past it. Another great year has basically come and gone. This week is another quick installment for the blog as we didn't play any shows over the weekend, but that's not to say we weren't busy.
Saturday morning we were at Goble Studio's in Candor NY. We once again continued to work on the "Back to Basic's" CD. And it can now be said that it will contain 11 brand new cuts. The primary tracks are complete and now we await phase two as we enter into the new year. The CD is probably some of our best work to date. KW has written some very sweet tunes for this album, not to mention some of the awesome Bass work DD has put down as well not to mention I even had a couple of good moments here myself. This is our most commercial mainstream stuff to date. There is truly a song for everyone on this album. I will keep you posted.
Saturday night was movie night up to the ranch as we took in a show entitled “Caveman” with none other than Ringo Starr from the Beatles as the lead role along with John Cossack, and Barbara Bock.
Alright, so it took me about twenty years to catch up, but I did. The Barbequed steaks on the grill weren't too shabby either, along with a spot of Jack… priceless evening! Oh, did I mention the spiked hot cider too?
Sunday came and we headed up to the Silo for our 5th annual Band Christmas Brunch. Gary and the crew up there always make us feel right at home and the food is fantastic. As you can see by the picture we got to tell Santa all of our wishes we had for Christmas as well as the bands intentions for 2011. What a great weekend!
So on to this week’s shows:
Friday Night 12/17 is our last show of the year up to Davy's in Chenango Forks. The show starts at 9pm. Come on out to see us one last time at Davy's in 2010.
Saturday Night is the Big Christmas Party at the CENTRAL HOTEL. The show starts at 5pm. If you come, please bring a simple dish to pass. It’s always a lot of fun. Stop and take just a few minutes out of your busy weekend and say hello to your old friends and have a bite to eat too. Not to mention listening to the band. I'm sure if you ask the boys, they will play some of those new album cuts just for you.
Be well, be good and talk at you all real soon.
Peace and Love,
Mikee^^Dee
Saturday morning we were at Goble Studio's in Candor NY. We once again continued to work on the "Back to Basic's" CD. And it can now be said that it will contain 11 brand new cuts. The primary tracks are complete and now we await phase two as we enter into the new year. The CD is probably some of our best work to date. KW has written some very sweet tunes for this album, not to mention some of the awesome Bass work DD has put down as well not to mention I even had a couple of good moments here myself. This is our most commercial mainstream stuff to date. There is truly a song for everyone on this album. I will keep you posted.
Saturday night was movie night up to the ranch as we took in a show entitled “Caveman” with none other than Ringo Starr from the Beatles as the lead role along with John Cossack, and Barbara Bock.
Alright, so it took me about twenty years to catch up, but I did. The Barbequed steaks on the grill weren't too shabby either, along with a spot of Jack… priceless evening! Oh, did I mention the spiked hot cider too?
Sunday came and we headed up to the Silo for our 5th annual Band Christmas Brunch. Gary and the crew up there always make us feel right at home and the food is fantastic. As you can see by the picture we got to tell Santa all of our wishes we had for Christmas as well as the bands intentions for 2011. What a great weekend!
So on to this week’s shows:
Friday Night 12/17 is our last show of the year up to Davy's in Chenango Forks. The show starts at 9pm. Come on out to see us one last time at Davy's in 2010.
Saturday Night is the Big Christmas Party at the CENTRAL HOTEL. The show starts at 5pm. If you come, please bring a simple dish to pass. It’s always a lot of fun. Stop and take just a few minutes out of your busy weekend and say hello to your old friends and have a bite to eat too. Not to mention listening to the band. I'm sure if you ask the boys, they will play some of those new album cuts just for you.
Be well, be good and talk at you all real soon.
Peace and Love,
Mikee^^Dee
Wednesday, December 8, 2010
Short Change Band - Mid-December 2010
Greetings all, I hope you all had a fine week last week as I can say we sure did. This endorsement will be a short and sweet one as the last few have been extensive too say the least. (Be positive)
First, as we start to wrap up the 2010 season I'd like to mention what a great ride it has been. Last weekend we tried to cram a month’s worth of shows in a single weekend. KW was ill last week and we had our doubts about how the shows were going to turnout. And once again, everything was good.
We would like to thank DJ at the Hitchin' Post for having us again on Friday night, the Moose Club in Susquehanna for having us Saturday night as we paid a very special homage to Joe Skiba from the Stinky Boys - You will be missed my brother, but “Mustang Sally” will live on. (Ride Sally Ride)
And finally we would like to Thank Annie for having us play Sunday in remembrance of Beannie. It was a tough weekend for a lot of people. Sometimes the holidays are not always merry for all.
On to this weekend, we have no shows scheduled, but we will be back in the recording studio to try and finish up laying down the basic tracks for album number six. {Back to Basics} So far some really good stuff has come out of the last few sessions. Even Dean (the sound engineer) has commented on how much we have grown as musicians. How many other bands in this area have enough material to release a “Greatest Hits” package and then on to the next installment. You can't say that we don't give KW enough shit to right about, as every week with me, Darrell is always a saga in itself. What a blast!
This Sunday is the bands 5th annual Christmas Brunch, just like a family we are.....
So in closing (see I kept it short and sweet) Make sure you wish a HAPPY BIRTHDAY to D.D. as he too now enters cycle three of life.
Peace and love (and like it's three weeks till Christmas)so grin and bear it – “Get ‘r Done”,
Mikee^Dee
First, as we start to wrap up the 2010 season I'd like to mention what a great ride it has been. Last weekend we tried to cram a month’s worth of shows in a single weekend. KW was ill last week and we had our doubts about how the shows were going to turnout. And once again, everything was good.
We would like to thank DJ at the Hitchin' Post for having us again on Friday night, the Moose Club in Susquehanna for having us Saturday night as we paid a very special homage to Joe Skiba from the Stinky Boys - You will be missed my brother, but “Mustang Sally” will live on. (Ride Sally Ride)
And finally we would like to Thank Annie for having us play Sunday in remembrance of Beannie. It was a tough weekend for a lot of people. Sometimes the holidays are not always merry for all.
On to this weekend, we have no shows scheduled, but we will be back in the recording studio to try and finish up laying down the basic tracks for album number six. {Back to Basics} So far some really good stuff has come out of the last few sessions. Even Dean (the sound engineer) has commented on how much we have grown as musicians. How many other bands in this area have enough material to release a “Greatest Hits” package and then on to the next installment. You can't say that we don't give KW enough shit to right about, as every week with me, Darrell is always a saga in itself. What a blast!
This Sunday is the bands 5th annual Christmas Brunch, just like a family we are.....
So in closing (see I kept it short and sweet) Make sure you wish a HAPPY BIRTHDAY to D.D. as he too now enters cycle three of life.
Peace and love (and like it's three weeks till Christmas)so grin and bear it – “Get ‘r Done”,
Mikee^Dee
Sunday, November 28, 2010
Short Change Band - Last week of November, 2010
Greetings people, I hope your Turkey Day was a great one. If you think about all that we have, not to mention all who help every day, to make your day the success it is, you would be amazed at just what you have achieved over the past year yourself.
On that note I have a few events that took place in 2010 that I would like to reflect on in place of the PPOTW. This will be just a bit more positive as we just came off one of my favorite holidays of the year. This is what I have to be thankful for in 2010:
My first positive event for 2010 is the Short Change Band and the 80+ shows we pulled off this year is nothing short of incredible. The music we make and the time we spend together is nothing short of priceless. (My brothers of creation) We make the music we play /we don't play it (only in between sets… hahah)
Second, our band’s 4th CD release – “Full Circle” This baby took over a year to produce and fifteen musicians to get it done. What a great piece of music. Thank you for the experience Dean!
Third, The Myrtle Beach annual Short Change Band Field trip to the south. The tour wouldn't be complete without some Black Crown Royal and a trip to “Crabby Mike's” Wow!
Fourth, we had the Last “DeBetto Fest” (aka weddings) three weddings from one family in two weeks – priceless! And an experience in walking down the aisle that no one there will ever forget. Thank you my Andrea for letting me be “That Guy".
Fifth, the trip to “Sturgis Bike Week” and 3,500 miles of pure fun in the sun. And, if you weren't there I could never explain it to ya. Thanks to my Fire Fighter/EMT brother Chucky and his charming wife Teresa for such a memory maker. And thanks to all of our new friends across the U.S.
Sixth, the annual road trip to Atlantic City with Cadillac Chris, Pat and Markie Mark. Four guys on their way to the House of Blues to take in a Billy Idol show – priceless!
Then I could go on with the “Winters Fest weekend”, the Tom Petty/Crosby, Stills & Nash Concert, The Watkins Glen Yacht Club Show, The Afton Sportsmen Club party... we could talk for an hour! All I can say is WE ARE ALL BLESSED, so be sure to realize just how well you have it my friends, and respect it. Enough, and on to the shows as we have tons to talk about..
On that note I have a few events that took place in 2010 that I would like to reflect on in place of the PPOTW. This will be just a bit more positive as we just came off one of my favorite holidays of the year. This is what I have to be thankful for in 2010:
My first positive event for 2010 is the Short Change Band and the 80+ shows we pulled off this year is nothing short of incredible. The music we make and the time we spend together is nothing short of priceless. (My brothers of creation) We make the music we play /we don't play it (only in between sets… hahah)
Second, our band’s 4th CD release – “Full Circle” This baby took over a year to produce and fifteen musicians to get it done. What a great piece of music. Thank you for the experience Dean!
Third, The Myrtle Beach annual Short Change Band Field trip to the south. The tour wouldn't be complete without some Black Crown Royal and a trip to “Crabby Mike's” Wow!
Fourth, we had the Last “DeBetto Fest” (aka weddings) three weddings from one family in two weeks – priceless! And an experience in walking down the aisle that no one there will ever forget. Thank you my Andrea for letting me be “That Guy".
Fifth, the trip to “Sturgis Bike Week” and 3,500 miles of pure fun in the sun. And, if you weren't there I could never explain it to ya. Thanks to my Fire Fighter/EMT brother Chucky and his charming wife Teresa for such a memory maker. And thanks to all of our new friends across the U.S.
Sixth, the annual road trip to Atlantic City with Cadillac Chris, Pat and Markie Mark. Four guys on their way to the House of Blues to take in a Billy Idol show – priceless!
Then I could go on with the “Winters Fest weekend”, the Tom Petty/Crosby, Stills & Nash Concert, The Watkins Glen Yacht Club Show, The Afton Sportsmen Club party... we could talk for an hour! All I can say is WE ARE ALL BLESSED, so be sure to realize just how well you have it my friends, and respect it. Enough, and on to the shows as we have tons to talk about..
Friday Night 12/3 at the Hitchin' Post - 8:30pm start. It’s the last show up to the Post for 2010.- Saturday Night 12/4 we’re at the Susquehanna Moose Club in PA. (Open to the public) 9:00pm start.
- Sunday afternoon 12/5 we’re at Annie's with a memorial show for Beenie.
Three days, three great shows! We hope to see you at some or all.
Reviews: Wednesday night at the Hitchin' Post on Fat Wednesday: The crowd was great, the show was as close to a “10” as I think we could rate it. We were firing on all eight cylinders that night. If you missed this show - this was the one! Good people, Great music, Good guests (Thanks Phil) and some great Coyote Ugly - yeah they were dancin' on the bar having a better time than probably should have been allowed, but it was fun just the same. It was a true “Bikers” evening as clothes were hanging off the ceiling fans that night. I thought for a minute I was at the Boot Hill Saloon in Daytona Beach. The things we do on Fat Wednesday! (Film at 11 - Thanks DJ)
Friday Night we were up to Davy's for another hot show. The only problem was the crowd forgot to show up. So we did our thing and packed up a bit early and that was it. (That’s the first time this year we went home early but none the less, this was not a typical year at any venue)
So that was our weekend of “Thanks”. We hope you all arrived to your destinations safe and sound and got back home the same way. Wish us luck with our Triple Venue weekend coming up, and (oh, I almost forgot to mention that I’m cooking breakfast up to the Afton Fire House on Saturday morning, complete with Santa for 100+ people. The cost is $6 a head for Pancakes, eggs and all the fixins', at the Afton Fire House Saturday morning at 8am. (Spring St., behind the Afton Inn)
Peace and Love,
Mikee Dee^^
Monday, November 22, 2010
Short Change Band - Thanksgiving Week
Well hello once again to you as we enter the week of Thanksgiving. We have two shows this week - FAT WEDNESDAY 11/24 - LIVE AT THE HITCHIN' POST BELDEN HILL- 8PM start and BLACK FRIDAY 11/26 AT DAVY'S LAST CHANCE SALOON - CHENANGO FORKS - 9PM.
What a great way to help celebrate the season of giving. Giving the Short Change Band a listen...
On to my PPOTW: This is an upcoming peeve of sorts, as I don't think it has happened just yet. Harley Davidson over the last two years have closed two of it's U.S. manufacturing plants only to hear now they may open a brand new one in India.
This is why Americans try to purchase the closest facsimile of the American concept at least up to this point. I will put this in very simple terms. If this does indeed happen MY next motorcycle will be a Victory or something similar that is still made and manufactured in America by Americans. That would be like taking GM and moving operations to China or even Korea. It’s not a good thing, people. I will keep you all posted as this story takes shape.
On to last week’s shows. Friday night at Dino's in Binghamton. It was a great show and a great crowd. KW had to handle the vocals on his own as I was out of town on assignment. I’d like to give special thanks to Kip for filling the shoes while I was out.
Saturday Night was Hunters Appreciation night up to the Central Hotel. It was another good show along with some fantastic fixings for all the hunters that came out. Once again, great job and Kudos's to Bobby, Chopper, Rob and Ollie for all the hard work putting this event together. Free of charge are always the toughest ones. Also we would like to thank Herb for coming out and playing guitars for the evening as well as the infamous Steven B. Cook. Ah, It felt so good "to be back home again".
So as we head into Thanksgiving week and the first full week of hunting season, please be careful and be safe and think about what you're doing before you do it. You sure as hell do not want one of those portable blow tubes installed on your car as a memento of your intoxication. Also have a great Black Friday experience and make sure you remember the less fortunate while you're shopping, ‘til you drop...
And don't forget to say a prayer for our Service men and women abroad for all they give, so you can eat your dinner in your home safely.
Peace and Love. Happy Thanks to you all,
Mikee^^Dee
What a great way to help celebrate the season of giving. Giving the Short Change Band a listen...
On to my PPOTW: This is an upcoming peeve of sorts, as I don't think it has happened just yet. Harley Davidson over the last two years have closed two of it's U.S. manufacturing plants only to hear now they may open a brand new one in India.
This is why Americans try to purchase the closest facsimile of the American concept at least up to this point. I will put this in very simple terms. If this does indeed happen MY next motorcycle will be a Victory or something similar that is still made and manufactured in America by Americans. That would be like taking GM and moving operations to China or even Korea. It’s not a good thing, people. I will keep you all posted as this story takes shape.
On to last week’s shows. Friday night at Dino's in Binghamton. It was a great show and a great crowd. KW had to handle the vocals on his own as I was out of town on assignment. I’d like to give special thanks to Kip for filling the shoes while I was out.
Saturday Night was Hunters Appreciation night up to the Central Hotel. It was another good show along with some fantastic fixings for all the hunters that came out. Once again, great job and Kudos's to Bobby, Chopper, Rob and Ollie for all the hard work putting this event together. Free of charge are always the toughest ones. Also we would like to thank Herb for coming out and playing guitars for the evening as well as the infamous Steven B. Cook. Ah, It felt so good "to be back home again".
So as we head into Thanksgiving week and the first full week of hunting season, please be careful and be safe and think about what you're doing before you do it. You sure as hell do not want one of those portable blow tubes installed on your car as a memento of your intoxication. Also have a great Black Friday experience and make sure you remember the less fortunate while you're shopping, ‘til you drop...
And don't forget to say a prayer for our Service men and women abroad for all they give, so you can eat your dinner in your home safely.
Peace and Love. Happy Thanks to you all,
Mikee^^Dee
Monday, November 15, 2010
Short Change Band - Mid-November, 2010
Well hello to my friends. I hope your weekend was a fine one and you got to go out and enjoy some of that great late-fall weather. Some of you even got the scoots out this weekend for one last run with the sun. Sweet!
Let's get right to it.
PPOTW: This week’s pet peeve deals with gasoline. I like when a barrel of oil climbs to $87 like it did last week. Keep in mind - they say this price is slated for January delivery, and the price at the pump today goes up 15 cents in a matter of hours. Damn that pisses me off. And don't tell me what a bargain our gasoline at home is as compared to Europe's. I don't live in freakin' Europe and I don't have passenger train service or buses where I live. So that's my pet peeve of the week. If I'm missing something here e-mail me back. Meanwhile it's just one more thing Pennsylvania has over us. Cigarette prices, clothes without tax and gas that's 15 cents a gallon cheaper - maybe more.
Hey, my new Italian Governor- are you listening here? You have a couple more things to fix while you're rebuilding New York, that our last Governor didn't see.
THIS WEEK’S SHOWS: DINO'S IN BINGHAMTON FRIDAY NIGHT- 11/19- 8:30 START: and SATURDAY EVENING 11/20 - AT THE CENTRAL HOTEL in NINEVEH. FOR HUNTERS APPRECIATION NIGHT- SHOW STARTS 5PM/ FOOD PROVIDED.
Last Friday night’s show at the Hitchin' Post. My goodness what a fun night that was. We had guests come all the way from Windsor way and from points west as well.
And once again we changed up the P.A. format. This time we tried the powered tops over the conventional Peavey's. It’s just one more consideration. Each system has their “good” and “bad” about them.
We did incorporate a full rock and roll sound which was a first at the Hitchin’ Post for us. We've come an long ways since the days of the Ovation and Congas, complete with acoustic percussion for the blues bar sound.
We also changed our location in the bar as well as we pointed due-north for this show. Anyway, we played for three plus hours and had a smokin’ show with only one fifteen minute break the entire evening. The bar had a great crowd and I think both young and old liked what we we’re doing as the dance floor was full for the last few tunes. This show I give a rating of about an 8. The equipment kept it from being higher I think.
On to Sunday, we we’re back to Dean’s in studio's one and two as we continued to work on album #6. I forgot about the greatest hits collection, yep album #6 and “Back to Basics”. We have two more dates for the year as we hope to finish the "foundation" of the album by year’s end.
So that's about it for this week boys and girls.
Remember gun season officially opens next Saturday morning at sunrise. So, beware of both and deer and hunter at this point. Be well and be good, I hope to see you for a couple of great shows this next week.
Be safe/drive safe. Peace and love,
Mikee^Dee
Let's get right to it.
PPOTW: This week’s pet peeve deals with gasoline. I like when a barrel of oil climbs to $87 like it did last week. Keep in mind - they say this price is slated for January delivery, and the price at the pump today goes up 15 cents in a matter of hours. Damn that pisses me off. And don't tell me what a bargain our gasoline at home is as compared to Europe's. I don't live in freakin' Europe and I don't have passenger train service or buses where I live. So that's my pet peeve of the week. If I'm missing something here e-mail me back. Meanwhile it's just one more thing Pennsylvania has over us. Cigarette prices, clothes without tax and gas that's 15 cents a gallon cheaper - maybe more.
Hey, my new Italian Governor- are you listening here? You have a couple more things to fix while you're rebuilding New York, that our last Governor didn't see.
THIS WEEK’S SHOWS: DINO'S IN BINGHAMTON FRIDAY NIGHT- 11/19- 8:30 START: and SATURDAY EVENING 11/20 - AT THE CENTRAL HOTEL in NINEVEH. FOR HUNTERS APPRECIATION NIGHT- SHOW STARTS 5PM/ FOOD PROVIDED.
Last Friday night’s show at the Hitchin' Post. My goodness what a fun night that was. We had guests come all the way from Windsor way and from points west as well.
And once again we changed up the P.A. format. This time we tried the powered tops over the conventional Peavey's. It’s just one more consideration. Each system has their “good” and “bad” about them.
We did incorporate a full rock and roll sound which was a first at the Hitchin’ Post for us. We've come an long ways since the days of the Ovation and Congas, complete with acoustic percussion for the blues bar sound.
We also changed our location in the bar as well as we pointed due-north for this show. Anyway, we played for three plus hours and had a smokin’ show with only one fifteen minute break the entire evening. The bar had a great crowd and I think both young and old liked what we we’re doing as the dance floor was full for the last few tunes. This show I give a rating of about an 8. The equipment kept it from being higher I think.
On to Sunday, we we’re back to Dean’s in studio's one and two as we continued to work on album #6. I forgot about the greatest hits collection, yep album #6 and “Back to Basics”. We have two more dates for the year as we hope to finish the "foundation" of the album by year’s end.
So that's about it for this week boys and girls.
Remember gun season officially opens next Saturday morning at sunrise. So, beware of both and deer and hunter at this point. Be well and be good, I hope to see you for a couple of great shows this next week.
Be safe/drive safe. Peace and love,
Mikee^Dee
Sunday, November 7, 2010
Short Change Band - Week Two of November, 2010
Well hello to you all, I hope you put to use that extra hour of sleep you got this weekend. I did, that's why I'm writing the blog so early. Anyway, let’s get right to it.
This week’s show: [The Hitchin' Post - 8:30pm to 11:30pm Friday Night 11-12-10] I hope to see you all there!
Next: On to the PPOTW. This week’s Pet Peeve goes out to all of the continuing negative press being given to Loud Pipes on Motorcycles. My take on it is - I've been riding scoots now for over 35 years (Harleys for about 20 years) Jap Bikes can be loud and Harley's can be louder. I personally would like to have a dime for every time I personally cracked that throttle open and some dumb ass opened their eyes at me long enough and spared my life to live another day. But not like any other annoyance, this one goes away in about 10 seconds – so get over it already.
On to Saturdays show review. We were at Gordy's in Damascus. It was like being back home again for the band. And of course we had to partake in some of those "finger lickin’ good chicken wings". Priceless! Let me say this - so many of the venues that we play have food available and a menu (a few still don't) but I personally like my Gordy's wings the best. And they are still very reasonably priced. Thanks Pat for making us feel "Right to home" again!
The show kicked off at exactly at 8pm. The crowd was light for the first set but by 10pm the place was full. It always makes you wonder if you suck or not when your crowd doesn't show up to watch ya. Fortunately we proved the latter.
We still are making adjustments to the sound system and we finally feel comfortable with a sound between the "big guns and the little guns" sort of right in the middle. The only thing we have not modified is DD's sound as he uses the same rig for any venue. The bigger gigs we still do kick it up a notch and will continue to do so. KW does have a stacker and a Les Paul he does like to still play it from time to time.
So by the third set we had a visitor come up and set in. It was none other than our very own Susie from the now infamous Blue J's. And just like the days of old, we sounded sweet. Ahh you gotta love that Susie, we had to twist her arm but we did talk her into doing four tunes with us. Nice job Susie, and once again, our thanks you.
See, if you missed the show this week - you missed history being made once again. That was the first time in almost four years that I got to do some live stage music with Ms. Susie. (Ahh ya gotta love her)
The overall night's performance rating for the show was in the high 8's for sure.
So in Closing have a great week and remember this next week as it will include Veterans Day on Thursday. Do something nice for our Veterans as they give their lives every day to help protect yours.
Next Saturday it's back up to Dean's in Studio's 1 and 2. Wish us luck as we continue work on the next album – “Back to Basics”
Have Great Week, be safe, peace and love,
Mikee^^Dee
This week’s show: [The Hitchin' Post - 8:30pm to 11:30pm Friday Night 11-12-10] I hope to see you all there!
Next: On to the PPOTW. This week’s Pet Peeve goes out to all of the continuing negative press being given to Loud Pipes on Motorcycles. My take on it is - I've been riding scoots now for over 35 years (Harleys for about 20 years) Jap Bikes can be loud and Harley's can be louder. I personally would like to have a dime for every time I personally cracked that throttle open and some dumb ass opened their eyes at me long enough and spared my life to live another day. But not like any other annoyance, this one goes away in about 10 seconds – so get over it already.
On to Saturdays show review. We were at Gordy's in Damascus. It was like being back home again for the band. And of course we had to partake in some of those "finger lickin’ good chicken wings". Priceless! Let me say this - so many of the venues that we play have food available and a menu (a few still don't) but I personally like my Gordy's wings the best. And they are still very reasonably priced. Thanks Pat for making us feel "Right to home" again!
The show kicked off at exactly at 8pm. The crowd was light for the first set but by 10pm the place was full. It always makes you wonder if you suck or not when your crowd doesn't show up to watch ya. Fortunately we proved the latter.
We still are making adjustments to the sound system and we finally feel comfortable with a sound between the "big guns and the little guns" sort of right in the middle. The only thing we have not modified is DD's sound as he uses the same rig for any venue. The bigger gigs we still do kick it up a notch and will continue to do so. KW does have a stacker and a Les Paul he does like to still play it from time to time.
So by the third set we had a visitor come up and set in. It was none other than our very own Susie from the now infamous Blue J's. And just like the days of old, we sounded sweet. Ahh you gotta love that Susie, we had to twist her arm but we did talk her into doing four tunes with us. Nice job Susie, and once again, our thanks you.
See, if you missed the show this week - you missed history being made once again. That was the first time in almost four years that I got to do some live stage music with Ms. Susie. (Ahh ya gotta love her)
The overall night's performance rating for the show was in the high 8's for sure.
So in Closing have a great week and remember this next week as it will include Veterans Day on Thursday. Do something nice for our Veterans as they give their lives every day to help protect yours.
Next Saturday it's back up to Dean's in Studio's 1 and 2. Wish us luck as we continue work on the next album – “Back to Basics”
Have Great Week, be safe, peace and love,
Mikee^^Dee
Wednesday, November 3, 2010
The Short Change Band - Beginning of November, 2010
Well hello to you all. Sorry for the late entry this week as I really wanted to wait for the much anticipated midterm election results. And just as I figured, the American People have spoken again as they all waited two years for a change that never seemed to happen. So, they went back to what they know. If it sounds too good -it probably isn't so good after all.
New York on the other hand sent a different message all together. They liked their weak leadership, high taxes, loss of personal freedom and late budgets, so much so, they signed on for another term of it. I guess only time will tell. It's not the journey that worries me as much as the ride. Does the word "term limit" mean anything to anyone?
Anyway back to business, Friday night we were at Davy's and it was a great show. We also had a great group of people and players that all showed up for the party. Also, special thanks to Val our bar hostess, as well as all our guest musicians, Jamie, Johnny, Joey and Stacey. I rated this show an 8.5 on the performance / delivery scale.
Saturday night was band appreciation night. I took in shows from “String of Pearls" (nice job Pearl) as well as “Pawn Shop”. This is the first time in a while since I’ve seen Patty, Jeff and the gang. If you like “Sublime” type music, this is your band. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to sit in a bit as I truly enjoyed it.
Unfortunately we did not go into the studio this last week as Dean was working on some new digital equipment for the board. We will return on November 13th to continue work on the "Back to Basics " CD.
This Week One Show - SATURDAY 11/06 at Gordy's on old Rt.17 in Windsor/Damascus. The start time is 8:00pm. (Remember, you gain an hour of sleep Sunday at 2:00AM) Come down early like we do and order up some of those delicious wings and fries that separate these folks from the rest.
Have a great week, and I hope to see you all this weekend.
Peace and love,
Mikee^^Dee
New York on the other hand sent a different message all together. They liked their weak leadership, high taxes, loss of personal freedom and late budgets, so much so, they signed on for another term of it. I guess only time will tell. It's not the journey that worries me as much as the ride. Does the word "term limit" mean anything to anyone?
Anyway back to business, Friday night we were at Davy's and it was a great show. We also had a great group of people and players that all showed up for the party. Also, special thanks to Val our bar hostess, as well as all our guest musicians, Jamie, Johnny, Joey and Stacey. I rated this show an 8.5 on the performance / delivery scale.
Saturday night was band appreciation night. I took in shows from “String of Pearls" (nice job Pearl) as well as “Pawn Shop”. This is the first time in a while since I’ve seen Patty, Jeff and the gang. If you like “Sublime” type music, this is your band. Thanks for giving me the opportunity to sit in a bit as I truly enjoyed it.
Unfortunately we did not go into the studio this last week as Dean was working on some new digital equipment for the board. We will return on November 13th to continue work on the "Back to Basics " CD.
This Week One Show - SATURDAY 11/06 at Gordy's on old Rt.17 in Windsor/Damascus. The start time is 8:00pm. (Remember, you gain an hour of sleep Sunday at 2:00AM) Come down early like we do and order up some of those delicious wings and fries that separate these folks from the rest.
Have a great week, and I hope to see you all this weekend.
Peace and love,
Mikee^^Dee
Sunday, October 24, 2010
Short Change Band - Last week of October, 2010
Well hello people, I hope all is well in your world this week. Last week was a most powerful week and I will explain it all to you here in a minute.
My first note here was this being a particularly sad week as this was the anniversary of the Lynyrd Skynyrd Plane crash that went down 33 years ago (last week) in that swamp in Mississippi. I can remember the event like it was just yesterday. I bought that newly released “Street Survivors” Album the day it was released {with the flamed cover and all}. I even attended that tour as they were still the openers at the time. (Imagine that) That night they opened for the Doobie Brothers and let me tell you this - they smoked the Doobies - so bad that after two songs played by the Doobies, we left. No comparison there! Three weeks later the fame was over. It was so sad as that was the third time in four years I seen the boys and they had come such a long way up the ladder. Free Bird {three years later after the release was just becoming the icon song it grew to be}
So, eighteen years later I got to meet the drummer from Skynyrd {Artie} at Bike Week at the Infamous Iron Horse Saloon. He just formed a brand new Band by the name of "Those Guys". As bizarre as this was my buddies Grant and Bobby were doing security that day and asked if I'd like to meet Artie in between shows. Big decision there huh? Anyway, Artie was an interesting person to say the least. He was pissed at the time that the band was reforming and beginning a tour and a new album and he was politely being replaced. I remember him telling me how his arm still bothered him from the crash all those years later and the one thing he did mention was how on the day of the crash he was stuck in that swamp busted all up along with everybody else and they called out for help for what seemed like hours before they were rescued. That kinda creeped me out it did- he was so vivid. The show went back on and within what seemed like minutes later Artie had words with the owner’s son at the Iron Horse and a mêlée broke out. The band grabbed their gear and the show was over. What a day that was. I still have the photo of me and Artie at my desk at work. So enough said here.
On to the PPOTW...This weeks pet peeve is musical censorship. Short and sweet, I've been listening to "Money" by Pink Floyd for about for about 38 years now. I've always liked the part that went "Goodie Good Bullshit".. Well guess what? They took away the "Bullshit". Now don't you wish someone would do that for you in everyday life? Until that happens, give me back my "Bullshit" please!
We had one show this weekend. We were back to one of our original stomping grounds - The Afton Inn. The crowd was surprisingly good and we just enjoyed ourselves to death. It was a night with god people, good music, and good whiskey. The people there are "True" people' and they are getting harder and harder to find in our industry. So we appreciate the ones that really do take care of the band. Deb, thanks for being upright for the SCB. I rated this show about an 8.
This Friday night we're back up to Davy's in Chenango Forks for the 10th annual Halloween party. Come in costume and win a prize. Come listen to us too! Because we will be there, so don't miss this one. You can check out the pictures from last year on our website. It will truly be a good time there.
And finally, you see that picture of K.W. from the studio last week. We will return this Saturday back to Gobel Studios once again pick up work on the "Back to Basics" CD.
So in closing, be well, be good, and be careful and don’t let the Goblins getcha. And, if you see Andrea this week wish her a Happy Birthday-Halloween wish. Special people are born on that day, I can truly testify to that!
Peace and love,
Mikee^^Dee
My first note here was this being a particularly sad week as this was the anniversary of the Lynyrd Skynyrd Plane crash that went down 33 years ago (last week) in that swamp in Mississippi. I can remember the event like it was just yesterday. I bought that newly released “Street Survivors” Album the day it was released {with the flamed cover and all}. I even attended that tour as they were still the openers at the time. (Imagine that) That night they opened for the Doobie Brothers and let me tell you this - they smoked the Doobies - so bad that after two songs played by the Doobies, we left. No comparison there! Three weeks later the fame was over. It was so sad as that was the third time in four years I seen the boys and they had come such a long way up the ladder. Free Bird {three years later after the release was just becoming the icon song it grew to be}
So, eighteen years later I got to meet the drummer from Skynyrd {Artie} at Bike Week at the Infamous Iron Horse Saloon. He just formed a brand new Band by the name of "Those Guys". As bizarre as this was my buddies Grant and Bobby were doing security that day and asked if I'd like to meet Artie in between shows. Big decision there huh? Anyway, Artie was an interesting person to say the least. He was pissed at the time that the band was reforming and beginning a tour and a new album and he was politely being replaced. I remember him telling me how his arm still bothered him from the crash all those years later and the one thing he did mention was how on the day of the crash he was stuck in that swamp busted all up along with everybody else and they called out for help for what seemed like hours before they were rescued. That kinda creeped me out it did- he was so vivid. The show went back on and within what seemed like minutes later Artie had words with the owner’s son at the Iron Horse and a mêlée broke out. The band grabbed their gear and the show was over. What a day that was. I still have the photo of me and Artie at my desk at work. So enough said here.
On to the PPOTW...This weeks pet peeve is musical censorship. Short and sweet, I've been listening to "Money" by Pink Floyd for about for about 38 years now. I've always liked the part that went "Goodie Good Bullshit".. Well guess what? They took away the "Bullshit". Now don't you wish someone would do that for you in everyday life? Until that happens, give me back my "Bullshit" please!
We had one show this weekend. We were back to one of our original stomping grounds - The Afton Inn. The crowd was surprisingly good and we just enjoyed ourselves to death. It was a night with god people, good music, and good whiskey. The people there are "True" people' and they are getting harder and harder to find in our industry. So we appreciate the ones that really do take care of the band. Deb, thanks for being upright for the SCB. I rated this show about an 8.
This Friday night we're back up to Davy's in Chenango Forks for the 10th annual Halloween party. Come in costume and win a prize. Come listen to us too! Because we will be there, so don't miss this one. You can check out the pictures from last year on our website. It will truly be a good time there.
And finally, you see that picture of K.W. from the studio last week. We will return this Saturday back to Gobel Studios once again pick up work on the "Back to Basics" CD.
So in closing, be well, be good, and be careful and don’t let the Goblins getcha. And, if you see Andrea this week wish her a Happy Birthday-Halloween wish. Special people are born on that day, I can truly testify to that!
Peace and love,
Mikee^^Dee
Sunday, October 17, 2010
Short Change Band - Late October, 2010
Well hello to you all as another weekend is now history in 2010. Let's head right to Shows this upcoming week:
Saturday October 23rd we’re at The Afton Inn. The show begins at 6PM
We had a big week (last week) so I’ll get right to the reviews in a minute. But first I am going to add a new feature to the weekly Blog. I will call it "my pet peeve of the week" section.
This week’s pet peeve is (and trust me, if you know me- I gotta million of ‘em) Cell Phone plans. Short and sweet. A few years back I remember simple monthly phone plans that started at $29.99 a month for coverage. Now that cell phones are all the rage, last week’s paper plans were being offered at an entry level of $69.99! Now, one would think with the volume of customers with cell phones in use, the prices would go down. (Good luck there) That's my PPOTW for 10/17/2010. And, you may now get more in your plan these days, but is it all worth another $500 more a year? What happened to the days of Rotary dial phones and phone booths? Wow, don't get me started...
Friday night at the Hitchin' Post. What started out as a somewhat mellow evening became quite the party by the time of the last set. We made some new friends from Trout Creek and entertained some of our regulars for what became an awesome night of music. I rate this show a 7.
Saturday night we were at the VFW in Endicott. It was a new venue for the SCB and once again what started out mellow turned into one hell of a party by the third set. We would like to thank all of our friends who came up to party with us from Frito Lay, as well as quite a few of our regulars and even some people from out of state as well. I've come to the conclusion that we play for the crowd and when the crowd is not into it, we aren't either. We feel like Dee Jays – Yuk!
Also some good times were had when Patty and Jeff from “Pawn Shop” came up and jammed a few tunes with us too. Nice job (Jeff) on the awesome dance song we played. Double D tagged it right on. A special thanks to Mike (Manager at the VFW) for making us feel very welcome at the club. We will be back in the New Year. I rated this show a 9 - mostly on quality and enthusiasm, we rocked good.
In closing, anytime you can bring home a group of drunks and you have to stop so they can puke on the side of the road, now that's a party! I’m glad I volunteered to be the DD - and it had nothing to do with Darrell either. Coca cola cowboy I was....
On to Sunday. After arriving home at almost 3am, it's back in the studio and time to begin album number five. So appropriately titled "Back to Basics". We had a 9:30 am start and we were off to the races once more. I will keep you all in the loop to where our progress takes in the upcoming months as this will surely be a spring 2011 release date at best.
Well, have a great week and enjoy whatever sunshine you can grab as it will become harder to find now in the upcoming weeks and also wishing my son Mikee a Happy Birthday wish as well Zack my step grandson. Ahh, to be 20 again!
Peace,
Mikee^^Dee
Saturday October 23rd we’re at The Afton Inn. The show begins at 6PM
We had a big week (last week) so I’ll get right to the reviews in a minute. But first I am going to add a new feature to the weekly Blog. I will call it "my pet peeve of the week" section.
This week’s pet peeve is (and trust me, if you know me- I gotta million of ‘em) Cell Phone plans. Short and sweet. A few years back I remember simple monthly phone plans that started at $29.99 a month for coverage. Now that cell phones are all the rage, last week’s paper plans were being offered at an entry level of $69.99! Now, one would think with the volume of customers with cell phones in use, the prices would go down. (Good luck there) That's my PPOTW for 10/17/2010. And, you may now get more in your plan these days, but is it all worth another $500 more a year? What happened to the days of Rotary dial phones and phone booths? Wow, don't get me started...
Friday night at the Hitchin' Post. What started out as a somewhat mellow evening became quite the party by the time of the last set. We made some new friends from Trout Creek and entertained some of our regulars for what became an awesome night of music. I rate this show a 7.
Saturday night we were at the VFW in Endicott. It was a new venue for the SCB and once again what started out mellow turned into one hell of a party by the third set. We would like to thank all of our friends who came up to party with us from Frito Lay, as well as quite a few of our regulars and even some people from out of state as well. I've come to the conclusion that we play for the crowd and when the crowd is not into it, we aren't either. We feel like Dee Jays – Yuk!
Also some good times were had when Patty and Jeff from “Pawn Shop” came up and jammed a few tunes with us too. Nice job (Jeff) on the awesome dance song we played. Double D tagged it right on. A special thanks to Mike (Manager at the VFW) for making us feel very welcome at the club. We will be back in the New Year. I rated this show a 9 - mostly on quality and enthusiasm, we rocked good.
In closing, anytime you can bring home a group of drunks and you have to stop so they can puke on the side of the road, now that's a party! I’m glad I volunteered to be the DD - and it had nothing to do with Darrell either. Coca cola cowboy I was....
On to Sunday. After arriving home at almost 3am, it's back in the studio and time to begin album number five. So appropriately titled "Back to Basics". We had a 9:30 am start and we were off to the races once more. I will keep you all in the loop to where our progress takes in the upcoming months as this will surely be a spring 2011 release date at best.
Well, have a great week and enjoy whatever sunshine you can grab as it will become harder to find now in the upcoming weeks and also wishing my son Mikee a Happy Birthday wish as well Zack my step grandson. Ahh, to be 20 again!
Peace,
Mikee^^Dee
Monday, October 11, 2010
Short Change Band - October Weekend
Shows Friday Night- The Hitchin' Post, Belden Hill - 8:30pm – 11:30pm
Saturday Night- VFW Endicott (Open to the Public) - 9pm- to 1am
Well hello to all. Friday night (10/08) we were at Dino's in Binghamton. It was our first show indoors at Dino’s and it went over quite well. There were quite a few people who ventured in an out the entire evening as we brought out the “stripped down” acoustic show one more time. I think at this point we pretty much have perfected the "acoustic show' concept. We originally had all the instruments wired directly to the board. That was just a bit too hot for the board, so now we're back to the amps, but ever so gentle.
Saturday was also a great day as we finished out our golf season for what will most likely be the last showing of the clubs for this year. And it's good thing, I really hate the game and I do suck at it. I still don't rightly understand the concept of whacking a ball a couple hundred yards at a time and then tapping it into a hole ever so gently. Easier said than done. Maybe it's just the whiskey that makes it fun. DD and I did enjoy that, and the good weather.
So as the day progressed between golf and music. There is always time for a scoot ride. Yeah, me and the bride took a little bike ride through the back roads of Chenango County.
I am so sadden by all of the little businesses that are no longer open as well as the repair shops, markets, and deli's. That is just some of the signs of people in a small town that are no longer there. It would be a welcome site too. So sad of what New York has become. A simple landfill with Malls, Wall-Mart’s and Price Choppers. But the 80 mile back roads ride was fun.
So then came Sunday and the infamous 10/10/10 date! And the “Alan and Bonnie Knapp” wedding. Once again we pulled the acoustic set out and brought it to the hall in Sidney for over 100 guests. I was amazed at all the people present for a Sunday indoor wedding. Check out the photo of us with our Bartender for the event. Nice Job Heather! So for the next four hours we played, we greeted and played some more. Not too much whiskey, but just enough. Thank you Alan and Bonnie for being so thoughtful. It's those special little touches that really count.
And as soon as it started it was over. It was the end of the weekend.
We hope you all enjoyed your Columbus Day weekend as we all surely did. Next Sunday we're back in the studio to begin work on our next album appropriately titled "Back to Basics”.
We’ll see you all down the road.
Short, Sweet, & Simple. Peace,
Mikee^^Dee
Saturday Night- VFW Endicott (Open to the Public) - 9pm- to 1am
Well hello to all. Friday night (10/08) we were at Dino's in Binghamton. It was our first show indoors at Dino’s and it went over quite well. There were quite a few people who ventured in an out the entire evening as we brought out the “stripped down” acoustic show one more time. I think at this point we pretty much have perfected the "acoustic show' concept. We originally had all the instruments wired directly to the board. That was just a bit too hot for the board, so now we're back to the amps, but ever so gentle.
Saturday was also a great day as we finished out our golf season for what will most likely be the last showing of the clubs for this year. And it's good thing, I really hate the game and I do suck at it. I still don't rightly understand the concept of whacking a ball a couple hundred yards at a time and then tapping it into a hole ever so gently. Easier said than done. Maybe it's just the whiskey that makes it fun. DD and I did enjoy that, and the good weather.
So as the day progressed between golf and music. There is always time for a scoot ride. Yeah, me and the bride took a little bike ride through the back roads of Chenango County.
I am so sadden by all of the little businesses that are no longer open as well as the repair shops, markets, and deli's. That is just some of the signs of people in a small town that are no longer there. It would be a welcome site too. So sad of what New York has become. A simple landfill with Malls, Wall-Mart’s and Price Choppers. But the 80 mile back roads ride was fun.
So then came Sunday and the infamous 10/10/10 date! And the “Alan and Bonnie Knapp” wedding. Once again we pulled the acoustic set out and brought it to the hall in Sidney for over 100 guests. I was amazed at all the people present for a Sunday indoor wedding. Check out the photo of us with our Bartender for the event. Nice Job Heather! So for the next four hours we played, we greeted and played some more. Not too much whiskey, but just enough. Thank you Alan and Bonnie for being so thoughtful. It's those special little touches that really count.
And as soon as it started it was over. It was the end of the weekend.
We hope you all enjoyed your Columbus Day weekend as we all surely did. Next Sunday we're back in the studio to begin work on our next album appropriately titled "Back to Basics”.
We’ll see you all down the road.
Short, Sweet, & Simple. Peace,
Mikee^^Dee
Thursday, October 7, 2010
Short Change Band - The Start of October, 2010
Hello to you all, another week in the year 2010 has come and gone. Where do the weeks go? This week’s shows are as follows:
FRIDAY - 10/8- DINO'S BAR AND GRILL- BINGHAMTON NY- SHOW STARTS 8:30 PM.
SATURDAY NIGHT- OFF
SUNDAY- BONNIE AND ALAN'S BIG WEDDING- PRIVATE PARTY*
Last Saturday afternoon at 1pm we all met up to the ranch for a great seasons- end barbeque, complete with some cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. We also conducted our third quarter business meeting and discussed itineraries of the band for the present as well as futures in 2011. You can't know where you’re going if you don't know where you've been.
We also kicked out some new tunes in the music room for some of our upcoming events and shows. So, we do practice once in a while.
We headed out at 5pm to the "No-Tell" hotel. It was an interesting evening at the Hotel. Sometimes we pack the joint and sometimes we do not. When you don't serve food on a regular basis or even advertise, your chances of having a good crowd is a crap shoot. Lord only knows what type of night your gonna have crowd-wise.
Fortunately for us, many of the people "we know " and contacted - showed up and saved the day.
The evening (musically) was OK. It was not one of the best, but by no means a poor one either. We had musical guests “The Cardboard Cutouts” come up and play a few tunes for us. They came all the way from Walton. Now let me tell you this, you will not find a more fun group of guys then the “Cutouts”. Their new wave-punk jam style of music is always fun to watch and great to listen to... Danny we love ya bud- keep up with those powerful vocals.
And not to mention our buddy Dominic, who also came by to jam a bit on the drum kit. It was a fun night for all. It’s a shame the crowd was not more plentiful for the evening. Now I had another thought here. I don't know if it's since the Hotel now has hired more bands to play every couple of weeks or maybe everybody's broke or playing it cool with the drinking and driving. Anyway we are feeling it "crowd and attendance" wise.
Now I may be a funny duck, where I can go out and listen to a band and have a good time and just drink Coke. But that's me and I don't see the big deal with it all.
So as questionable as the weekend was - it was then over. Maybe in the future, band bookings should go by the hour and booked accordingly. Because I gotta tell ya, the last hour is murder on a band in an empty bar. (Wow, there’s a great album title - "Murder on a band in an empty Bar") Hey I like it...
So in closing, we have nice weather for the weekend coming up, so get out on those scoots a couple more times before you put them all to sleep next month. That's why I love living in the north, we replace riding with hunting and football. Oh well ride safe, be safe and hope to see you all out for Friday's show at Dino's in Binghamton.
P.S. The wings are good here too!
Peace,
Mikee^^Dee
FRIDAY - 10/8- DINO'S BAR AND GRILL- BINGHAMTON NY- SHOW STARTS 8:30 PM.
SATURDAY NIGHT- OFF
SUNDAY- BONNIE AND ALAN'S BIG WEDDING- PRIVATE PARTY*
Last Saturday afternoon at 1pm we all met up to the ranch for a great seasons- end barbeque, complete with some cocktails and hors d'oeuvres. We also conducted our third quarter business meeting and discussed itineraries of the band for the present as well as futures in 2011. You can't know where you’re going if you don't know where you've been.
We also kicked out some new tunes in the music room for some of our upcoming events and shows. So, we do practice once in a while.
We headed out at 5pm to the "No-Tell" hotel. It was an interesting evening at the Hotel. Sometimes we pack the joint and sometimes we do not. When you don't serve food on a regular basis or even advertise, your chances of having a good crowd is a crap shoot. Lord only knows what type of night your gonna have crowd-wise.
Fortunately for us, many of the people "we know " and contacted - showed up and saved the day.
The evening (musically) was OK. It was not one of the best, but by no means a poor one either. We had musical guests “The Cardboard Cutouts” come up and play a few tunes for us. They came all the way from Walton. Now let me tell you this, you will not find a more fun group of guys then the “Cutouts”. Their new wave-punk jam style of music is always fun to watch and great to listen to... Danny we love ya bud- keep up with those powerful vocals.
And not to mention our buddy Dominic, who also came by to jam a bit on the drum kit. It was a fun night for all. It’s a shame the crowd was not more plentiful for the evening. Now I had another thought here. I don't know if it's since the Hotel now has hired more bands to play every couple of weeks or maybe everybody's broke or playing it cool with the drinking and driving. Anyway we are feeling it "crowd and attendance" wise.
Now I may be a funny duck, where I can go out and listen to a band and have a good time and just drink Coke. But that's me and I don't see the big deal with it all.
So as questionable as the weekend was - it was then over. Maybe in the future, band bookings should go by the hour and booked accordingly. Because I gotta tell ya, the last hour is murder on a band in an empty bar. (Wow, there’s a great album title - "Murder on a band in an empty Bar") Hey I like it...
So in closing, we have nice weather for the weekend coming up, so get out on those scoots a couple more times before you put them all to sleep next month. That's why I love living in the north, we replace riding with hunting and football. Oh well ride safe, be safe and hope to see you all out for Friday's show at Dino's in Binghamton.
P.S. The wings are good here too!
Peace,
Mikee^^Dee
Wednesday, September 29, 2010
Short Change Band - Last Weekend of September, 2010
Well hello to you all, I have much to tell you, so let's get right to it.
Friday night we were at Davy's in downtown Chenango Forks. It was our first show we played in a couple weeks so we needed to get the cobwebs out. By the second set we were rolling once again. We had guest vocalist “Pretty Patty Patterson Moat” come up and take the stage for a couple of great tunes and we even had Richie from the infamous “Jason Wicks Band” come up and play a few tunes on the skins. Richie, you smoked - nice job! Other guest appearances were by none other than our own Andrea and Cindy {sure to cause an early snowstorm there}
All in all it was a good show Friday night, and once again the bar was packed at 1pm. I'm still trying to figure this out - everyone must just stop here for "one more" before they get home. Yeah that's it...
Sunday’s show was a benefit for a friend of ours “Louis” who is having some serious health issues. We were glad we could help out. he event was held up to the Honky Tonk Saloon in Sherburne, NY and was hosted by some old friends of ours the “Sundown Band”.
Along with the performances from the Short Change Band and the Sundown Band were some relatively new comers “Shawn and Hailey”. Now if you haven't seen this band you are in for quite the treat. The entire band is made up of High School kids. And the enthusiasm they put forth is just priceless. The Bass player is 13 and his guitar is as big as he is. The drummer “Cody” is 13 as well and plays like a trooper and between these two guys they give the rest of the band the opportunity to play mandolins and 12 sting acoustic guitar as well and some nice vocals. Great job Shawn and Hailey! I can't wait to see where these guys are in ten years.
It is so memorable to see these young kids following the footsteps of the older bands and putting their own touch of magic along the way. Keep up the good work guys.
And Sundown, Rick French - thanks for coming up and jammin' with us a bit and running some great sound for us while we took the stage.
My only regret of the day was not being able to watch Sundown perform. (being close to 50 miles from home on a Sunday night put a damper on that) [Next Time] And Finally, the owner of the Honky Tonk “Brenda”, thanks for treating us like kings the day of the benefit. We'll be back.We hope to see you all up to the Central Hotel on Saturday Evening, it’s been quite some time since the Hotel, so we will play with a vengeance for sure! There could even be a guest appearance by none other than the “Cardboard Cutouts” themselves. We'll see..
Come see a good show and cheer them on.
Be well, Be good, and be safe,
Mikee^Dee
Monday, September 20, 2010
The Short Change Band last full week of September, 2010
This week’s shows: Friday Night 9/24/10 - Davy's Last Chance Saloon in downtown Chenango Forks at 9:00pm. Saturday - No Shows. Sunday 9/26/10 - The Honky Tonk Saloon in Sherburne, NY (Abate Party open to the public from 2pm- 5pm. We hope to set you all this weekend at one or both of our shows. Both shows are on Rt. 12 (or just off it) ... amazing huh?
On to last Friday’s road trip to Atlantic City with Cadillac Chris. The Frump himself and our road crew -On Tap - Billy Idol live at the House of Blues. [See Dinner picture at Hooters]
Let me say this: “ if you ever travel to New Jersey, at least on the pay roads, the new one dollar bill is now the 10 dollar bill. A Whopper lunch is $10. A Car Valet is $10. A slice of pizza and a coke is $10. A glass of Jack (a bargain) at $9.75. That sets the table so to speak for Jersey.
So we arrive at the Tropicana Hotel and they bang us an additional $50 for a cot bed for 2 nights. Nice huh? Not to let the high price of American living diminish our MoJo (Gasoline on the other hand was a mere $2.34 a gallon) Figure that one out...
Anyway Friday night at the House of Blues was the place to be at 9pm as Billy Idol took the stage. The house was packed to the gills (standing room only) for all. Now I'm not a lover of General Admission shows but watching Billy Idol’s performance for the next 90 minutes was worth the sore feet.
The light show was awesome and the sound was good, but a bit loud. His band smoked too! They were all very accomplished musicians. His lead player “Steve” has been with him since the early days, and he just smoked that Blonde Les Paul.
After ninety minutes of “Flesh for Fantasy”, “Dancin' with myself” and some new selections, two of which were acoustic guitar selections that Billy played himself. He finished up with “White Wedding” a selection that Billy himself played a Strat on. No bad man - not bad. And then the last encore took us home with “Rebel Yell”. Wow, here's a guy in his 50's that when he ripped off his shirt was cut to the nines, with six pack abs and all. You go Billy! If you ever get a chance to see the boy, he's still got it all.
This girl standing next to me was saying it was the biggest crowd she has ever seen at a House of Blues show and she was a local, so she should know. Wow two record attendance setting concerts in a month. Cool huh?
Then on to Saturday, it was Steven B. Cook's Big Birthday Party. I felt bad being 400 miles away from home as I really wanted to be a part of the “Cookster’s” 60th bash. Well much like the weeks earlier show, I mentioned that of a Short Change Band reunion, and this was even a step closer to that rendition with Phil and Donnie playing too. Not to mention Johnny from the old “Harmony Road” days! The music played and Whiskey flowed. Damn I hate missing parties like that...
So in closing, the one thing you need to know is no grass ever grows under any of our feet. We live every minute to the fullest, the way life is meant to be.
Be good, be well, and see you all soon,
Mikee^Dee
On to last Friday’s road trip to Atlantic City with Cadillac Chris. The Frump himself and our road crew -On Tap - Billy Idol live at the House of Blues. [See Dinner picture at Hooters]
Let me say this: “ if you ever travel to New Jersey, at least on the pay roads, the new one dollar bill is now the 10 dollar bill. A Whopper lunch is $10. A Car Valet is $10. A slice of pizza and a coke is $10. A glass of Jack (a bargain) at $9.75. That sets the table so to speak for Jersey.So we arrive at the Tropicana Hotel and they bang us an additional $50 for a cot bed for 2 nights. Nice huh? Not to let the high price of American living diminish our MoJo (Gasoline on the other hand was a mere $2.34 a gallon) Figure that one out...
Anyway Friday night at the House of Blues was the place to be at 9pm as Billy Idol took the stage. The house was packed to the gills (standing room only) for all. Now I'm not a lover of General Admission shows but watching Billy Idol’s performance for the next 90 minutes was worth the sore feet.
The light show was awesome and the sound was good, but a bit loud. His band smoked too! They were all very accomplished musicians. His lead player “Steve” has been with him since the early days, and he just smoked that Blonde Les Paul.
After ninety minutes of “Flesh for Fantasy”, “Dancin' with myself” and some new selections, two of which were acoustic guitar selections that Billy played himself. He finished up with “White Wedding” a selection that Billy himself played a Strat on. No bad man - not bad. And then the last encore took us home with “Rebel Yell”. Wow, here's a guy in his 50's that when he ripped off his shirt was cut to the nines, with six pack abs and all. You go Billy! If you ever get a chance to see the boy, he's still got it all.
This girl standing next to me was saying it was the biggest crowd she has ever seen at a House of Blues show and she was a local, so she should know. Wow two record attendance setting concerts in a month. Cool huh?
Then on to Saturday, it was Steven B. Cook's Big Birthday Party. I felt bad being 400 miles away from home as I really wanted to be a part of the “Cookster’s” 60th bash. Well much like the weeks earlier show, I mentioned that of a Short Change Band reunion, and this was even a step closer to that rendition with Phil and Donnie playing too. Not to mention Johnny from the old “Harmony Road” days! The music played and Whiskey flowed. Damn I hate missing parties like that...
So in closing, the one thing you need to know is no grass ever grows under any of our feet. We live every minute to the fullest, the way life is meant to be.
Be good, be well, and see you all soon,
Mikee^Dee
Wednesday, September 15, 2010
Short Change Band - Beginning of September, 2010
Well hello to you all, the week is rapidly passing us by, and probably by now you have also noticed the days are getting shorter and the sunrises are becoming later as well. It’s a sure sign that fall is upon us. Next Thursday (for all of you calendar watchers) is the first official day of fall. We've had temperatures up to the ranch this week in the upper 30's - oh boy.
Anyway, this will be a pretty light passage this week as we really don't have much to report on. We are an interesting group. K.W. just assumes he’ll brew beer on his day off, DD went to see his Miami Dolphins play a live game in Buffalo, and myself - I'm heading off to see Billy Idol with Cadillac Chris and his road crew this weekend. But more of that later...
The only Show we had last week was at Jonathan’s in Endwell. It was a semi-acoustic show with some electric. The show was anything less than "inspirational". Let me say this “we play to the crowd and we live for our crowds”. I think many people these days just go to clubs to drink, play lotto, or watch sports. Gone are the days of “Dance and Hoopla”. It's a bit sad to say the least, but these days playing clubs are not like they were ten or twenty years ago. Maybe you need a good full moon or something these days to go out and raise some hell. I just haven't figured it out just yet.
Enough said, this weekend we are off as K.W. and DD help Steve Cook celebrate his birthday, and like I mentioned earlier - a group of us are heading down to the “House of Blues” to go see the infamous Billy Idol. This will be his last stop as he finishes up from a worldwide tour. The House of Blues in Atlantic City is a small venue that boasts a seating capacity of about 1200 people. I find that hard to believe as the size of the hall is a bit deceiving. They do have two levels and two bars located right inside the hall, if you don't mind laying out a five spot or better for a domestic beer, you're good to go.
So that about sums this week’s installment - oh if you see Ms. Cindy this week make sure you wish her a very Happy Birthday. As I'm sure she would like that!
Be well, be good, and if you do something just a wee-bit illegal - don't you get caught!
Love ya’s,
Mikee^Dee
Anyway, this will be a pretty light passage this week as we really don't have much to report on. We are an interesting group. K.W. just assumes he’ll brew beer on his day off, DD went to see his Miami Dolphins play a live game in Buffalo, and myself - I'm heading off to see Billy Idol with Cadillac Chris and his road crew this weekend. But more of that later...
The only Show we had last week was at Jonathan’s in Endwell. It was a semi-acoustic show with some electric. The show was anything less than "inspirational". Let me say this “we play to the crowd and we live for our crowds”. I think many people these days just go to clubs to drink, play lotto, or watch sports. Gone are the days of “Dance and Hoopla”. It's a bit sad to say the least, but these days playing clubs are not like they were ten or twenty years ago. Maybe you need a good full moon or something these days to go out and raise some hell. I just haven't figured it out just yet.
Enough said, this weekend we are off as K.W. and DD help Steve Cook celebrate his birthday, and like I mentioned earlier - a group of us are heading down to the “House of Blues” to go see the infamous Billy Idol. This will be his last stop as he finishes up from a worldwide tour. The House of Blues in Atlantic City is a small venue that boasts a seating capacity of about 1200 people. I find that hard to believe as the size of the hall is a bit deceiving. They do have two levels and two bars located right inside the hall, if you don't mind laying out a five spot or better for a domestic beer, you're good to go.
So that about sums this week’s installment - oh if you see Ms. Cindy this week make sure you wish her a very Happy Birthday. As I'm sure she would like that!
Be well, be good, and if you do something just a wee-bit illegal - don't you get caught!
Love ya’s,
Mikee^Dee
Tuesday, September 7, 2010
Short Change Band - Labor Day Weekend
Well hello once again to you all. What a weekend it was. We have so much to cover, so let's move right into it. Labor Day weekend was going to be a busy weekend with three shows and all for us. To make a long story short, the first two were cancelled leaving us with just one show for the whole weekend.
Now any other band would have been crying in their tears, but not us, we are a creative bunch and here's how it all panned out.
First, Friday’s show up to the Public House was cancelled as the owner who booked the show earlier in the year failed to let the band know what was going on when he sold the place to new owners. Poor excuse there but hey, you learn through your mistakes.
The pig roast scheduled for Saturday was cancelled due to a marriage breakup. Hey we all have been there before and Saturday’s weather for an outdoor show would have been a challenge once that front came through that afternoon. So what did we do you might ask?
Friday night we did a Mets game doubleheader no less up in Bingo town. The Mets got their asses kicked both games but the Fireworks were priceless.
Saturday morning we scheduled a SCB golf outing that took us from the golf course after completing 9 holes, right on down to the Central Hotel for an afternoon of beverage sampling. We did save a bit of sanity for that evening as we all gathered once again up to Applebee's for a band type dinner. See we make the best of any sour event. It's how we roll. Don't get mad and have more fun is our philosophy!
Special event deposits for our shows will be in the 2011 budget, you can count on that one. Oh and then we also found out this weekend that we did not get chosen for the head act up to BowBell's sportsman's club event next July. We thought after they finally fired Ellen and the boys that we would be the next up, but it didn't happen. But hey we went through this same thing with a club up in Endwell last year too. We are a very resilient group of lads and ya know other venues will come our way. You just gotta rethink your approach just in case they ever do call you, then it's on our' terms. That works for me.
Anyways, on to our Premiere Show at the Central. The tailgate party up to the ranch began at 2pm. Little did we know that the Short Change Band was going to playing a revival show that day. Yes, you heard it correctly – Revival, and it was featuring Steven B. Cook himself.
Gosh it's been probably fifteen years (at least) since Steve sat in and we couldn't wait for the magic to begin. And what a show it was, complete a with a whole bus load of Stinky Boys, fresh up from Susquehanna PA. We love these guys (and girls) as they always add a party flavor to everywhere they go. Thanks again guys for supporting the SCB! We enjoy the friendship and brotherhood. Great vocals too. I can still hear "Takin care of Business” in the back of my head!
And then about five hours (after it all began) it was over.
We would like to thank Steven B. for coming down and making a bit of magic with band. It’s been a long time bro... Don't make a stranger out of yourself cause we missed ya. Also I'm sure DD will be posting some great pictures from the evening as well on our website.
Nice job as always K.W. and D.D. as we smoked Sunday’s show!
And finally this week’s show. We have one show this Friday night at Jonathan's in Endwell NY. The show time is 9pm. We’ll see you there on Friday.
Have a great week and remember the kids are all back in school so drive carefully,
Mikee^^Dee
Now any other band would have been crying in their tears, but not us, we are a creative bunch and here's how it all panned out.
First, Friday’s show up to the Public House was cancelled as the owner who booked the show earlier in the year failed to let the band know what was going on when he sold the place to new owners. Poor excuse there but hey, you learn through your mistakes.
The pig roast scheduled for Saturday was cancelled due to a marriage breakup. Hey we all have been there before and Saturday’s weather for an outdoor show would have been a challenge once that front came through that afternoon. So what did we do you might ask?
Friday night we did a Mets game doubleheader no less up in Bingo town. The Mets got their asses kicked both games but the Fireworks were priceless.
Saturday morning we scheduled a SCB golf outing that took us from the golf course after completing 9 holes, right on down to the Central Hotel for an afternoon of beverage sampling. We did save a bit of sanity for that evening as we all gathered once again up to Applebee's for a band type dinner. See we make the best of any sour event. It's how we roll. Don't get mad and have more fun is our philosophy!
Special event deposits for our shows will be in the 2011 budget, you can count on that one. Oh and then we also found out this weekend that we did not get chosen for the head act up to BowBell's sportsman's club event next July. We thought after they finally fired Ellen and the boys that we would be the next up, but it didn't happen. But hey we went through this same thing with a club up in Endwell last year too. We are a very resilient group of lads and ya know other venues will come our way. You just gotta rethink your approach just in case they ever do call you, then it's on our' terms. That works for me.
Anyways, on to our Premiere Show at the Central. The tailgate party up to the ranch began at 2pm. Little did we know that the Short Change Band was going to playing a revival show that day. Yes, you heard it correctly – Revival, and it was featuring Steven B. Cook himself.
Gosh it's been probably fifteen years (at least) since Steve sat in and we couldn't wait for the magic to begin. And what a show it was, complete a with a whole bus load of Stinky Boys, fresh up from Susquehanna PA. We love these guys (and girls) as they always add a party flavor to everywhere they go. Thanks again guys for supporting the SCB! We enjoy the friendship and brotherhood. Great vocals too. I can still hear "Takin care of Business” in the back of my head!
And then about five hours (after it all began) it was over.
We would like to thank Steven B. for coming down and making a bit of magic with band. It’s been a long time bro... Don't make a stranger out of yourself cause we missed ya. Also I'm sure DD will be posting some great pictures from the evening as well on our website.
Nice job as always K.W. and D.D. as we smoked Sunday’s show!
And finally this week’s show. We have one show this Friday night at Jonathan's in Endwell NY. The show time is 9pm. We’ll see you there on Friday.
Have a great week and remember the kids are all back in school so drive carefully,
Mikee^^Dee
Monday, August 30, 2010
Short Change Band - Last full week of August 2010
Well well well, by the time most of you get to your emails this week, the month of August will be just about a memory. And, of course I have some new memories to add to it as that's really what the blog is all about anyway (memory recollections) so, here we go with the latest. {This was a great weekend too}
Friday Night we loaded up the bus and headed to the SPAC in Saratoga Springs for one incredible concert. Crosby Stills and Nash along with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.
We got to the SPAC about 6pm and had to park a mile away from the event. It felt almost like a Woodstock installment of sorts. So not to admit defeat, we set the EZ-Up in the parking lot and proceeded like many of other concert goers did, we had our own “Tailgate Party”.
So now it's almost 7pm and as we finish up with some Quizno's Subs and a couple beers we were on our way. What we were about to see was absolutely unbelievable. Where we would wind up was the better part of a quarter mile from the stage on the very edge of the grass. There were almost 50,000 people that came to see CSN and Petty.
We met some people and partied together for the better part of the next four hours. You could not have asked for a better night of weather for a concert either. It was a star lit night, baby!
The sound at the SPAC is really very good for an inside/outside venue. CSN were first up and they covered all their hits and then some - Even a Rolling Stones tune “Ruby Tuesday” The boys are a bit older then the days when they started but they still rip it up pretty good for an AARP tour. Steven Stills played that Strat like a craftsman and Graham Nash did an exceptional piano solo on “Please come to Chicago” So, forty years after Woodstock, they still played quite well. Glad we came.
So then, all of a sudden (you thought you were asshole to belly button thick) with people for the CSN show, then Tom Petty starts his show, and the placed packed up tighter. There was standing room only for as far as you could see in any direction (awesome) Even the air around you started to take on an aroma of it's own. Let the show begin, and what a show it was. He did all the hits and everybody sang along to every song. There was dancing, clapping, swaying - it was all going on. Then four hours later it all ended just like it began. Oh, he finished with my favorite Petty tune right at the very last Encore – “American Girl” What a show!
So now 50,000 people had to leave and much like Cattle to market as we began the 45 minute trip back to the parking lot. Now the crowd heading to their seats were taking their cars to the gates, or trying to. We sat once again and decided another tailgate party just might be the thing. Anyway DD had us all back and home by about 3am. Wow, what a Friday that was. But hang on it gets better!
Saturday, we were at the Afton Sportsman’s Club (Ticket Party). All I can say is the weather was gorgeous and good weather always makes for a great outdoor party. By 1pm the cars starting pulling in, one after another they rolled in. (I’ve been up to the club for 25 years and I’ve never seen this many cars and people in my life in that lot. Wow!
There was an ora in the air too. The people came to party, eat and drink, and for the better part of almost eight hours they did just that. I don't know how the club buys food for an event that big and it all tasted so good and they never ran out of anything. My god you leave their hungry there's something wrong with ya.
We played what was probably one of the best shows we put on all summer. It felt great being back with my brothers on stage and we all felt the Mojo - DD was smokin on that Bass and KW was feeling it too. It's nice when you’re playing "your" show especially in an outside venue and people are lovin’ it. (Ya play for the crowd)
So anyway the show went on for over seven hours, maybe eight by the time the last song was played and as always SCB never repeats a single tune unless we are asked to do it- cause we just don't.
We had performances by Mark from the “Deuces Wild” band and Colleen who came up and finger picked a couple tunes with the band and sang some Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks songs. (nice)
There was some magic going on when Mark lit up the stage with a six minute rendition of Johnny B Goode. It doesn't get any better. I know you all seen it because I asked you all to come, and you certainly did.
We would personally like to thank Patrick and Donnie, Mike, Steve, Pete and all the staff up there at the Club. They treated us like gold and we appreciate it. (Other than some Green M&M's in bowl, we couldn’t ask for more)
You need to put the last Saturday in August on your 2011 calendar, because we're coming back and you'll wanna be there. A better party does not exist ANYWHERE, just ask the people who came and that's all you really have to do is just come. (Say no more)
Love ya's,
Mikee^^Dee
Friday Night we loaded up the bus and headed to the SPAC in Saratoga Springs for one incredible concert. Crosby Stills and Nash along with Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers.
We got to the SPAC about 6pm and had to park a mile away from the event. It felt almost like a Woodstock installment of sorts. So not to admit defeat, we set the EZ-Up in the parking lot and proceeded like many of other concert goers did, we had our own “Tailgate Party”.
So now it's almost 7pm and as we finish up with some Quizno's Subs and a couple beers we were on our way. What we were about to see was absolutely unbelievable. Where we would wind up was the better part of a quarter mile from the stage on the very edge of the grass. There were almost 50,000 people that came to see CSN and Petty.
We met some people and partied together for the better part of the next four hours. You could not have asked for a better night of weather for a concert either. It was a star lit night, baby!
The sound at the SPAC is really very good for an inside/outside venue. CSN were first up and they covered all their hits and then some - Even a Rolling Stones tune “Ruby Tuesday” The boys are a bit older then the days when they started but they still rip it up pretty good for an AARP tour. Steven Stills played that Strat like a craftsman and Graham Nash did an exceptional piano solo on “Please come to Chicago” So, forty years after Woodstock, they still played quite well. Glad we came.
So then, all of a sudden (you thought you were asshole to belly button thick) with people for the CSN show, then Tom Petty starts his show, and the placed packed up tighter. There was standing room only for as far as you could see in any direction (awesome) Even the air around you started to take on an aroma of it's own. Let the show begin, and what a show it was. He did all the hits and everybody sang along to every song. There was dancing, clapping, swaying - it was all going on. Then four hours later it all ended just like it began. Oh, he finished with my favorite Petty tune right at the very last Encore – “American Girl” What a show!
So now 50,000 people had to leave and much like Cattle to market as we began the 45 minute trip back to the parking lot. Now the crowd heading to their seats were taking their cars to the gates, or trying to. We sat once again and decided another tailgate party just might be the thing. Anyway DD had us all back and home by about 3am. Wow, what a Friday that was. But hang on it gets better!
Saturday, we were at the Afton Sportsman’s Club (Ticket Party). All I can say is the weather was gorgeous and good weather always makes for a great outdoor party. By 1pm the cars starting pulling in, one after another they rolled in. (I’ve been up to the club for 25 years and I’ve never seen this many cars and people in my life in that lot. Wow!
There was an ora in the air too. The people came to party, eat and drink, and for the better part of almost eight hours they did just that. I don't know how the club buys food for an event that big and it all tasted so good and they never ran out of anything. My god you leave their hungry there's something wrong with ya.
We played what was probably one of the best shows we put on all summer. It felt great being back with my brothers on stage and we all felt the Mojo - DD was smokin on that Bass and KW was feeling it too. It's nice when you’re playing "your" show especially in an outside venue and people are lovin’ it. (Ya play for the crowd)
So anyway the show went on for over seven hours, maybe eight by the time the last song was played and as always SCB never repeats a single tune unless we are asked to do it- cause we just don't.
We had performances by Mark from the “Deuces Wild” band and Colleen who came up and finger picked a couple tunes with the band and sang some Fleetwood Mac and Stevie Nicks songs. (nice)
There was some magic going on when Mark lit up the stage with a six minute rendition of Johnny B Goode. It doesn't get any better. I know you all seen it because I asked you all to come, and you certainly did.
We would personally like to thank Patrick and Donnie, Mike, Steve, Pete and all the staff up there at the Club. They treated us like gold and we appreciate it. (Other than some Green M&M's in bowl, we couldn’t ask for more)
You need to put the last Saturday in August on your 2011 calendar, because we're coming back and you'll wanna be there. A better party does not exist ANYWHERE, just ask the people who came and that's all you really have to do is just come. (Say no more)
Next Weekend is Labor Day Weekend: 3 days - 3 shows:
- Friday Night- Nathianael Greene’s Publik House in Greene - 9pm show
- Saturday – Evan’s Pig Roast - private party*
- Sunday- the “No Tell Central Hotel Show” show time starts between 3pm and 4pm
{Outdoors - bring a chair}
Love ya's,
Mikee^^Dee
Tuesday, August 24, 2010
Short Change Band - Late August 2010
Well hello to you all as we continue on through the final weeks of summer 2010. For the most part you could not have asked for a better summer if you ordered it up from scratch. Enjoy what's left of it in the next couple of weeks as we are sure to have frost on the pumpkin one morning before you know it.
Last week marked my return to the band after being out of town for the last two weeks. It felt good to get back to the "egg" so to speak. Saturday was our “almost Annual Yacht Club” show that takes place in the awesome town of Watkins Glen. We originally had plans to bring out the camper and set up shop at the resort for the weekend, but the weather kinda put a damper on that. We were able to salvage the Saturday afternoon part as you can see our little "tailgate central' that we set up in the back forty of the club. 
And as always we like to include the trademark “whiskey bottle” at all of our overnight events and this one was no exception. We were able to partake in a new product by the name of Crown Royal (Black). It was quite tasty with much less bite than the Jack... Maybe a change in the wind for the future - ya never know? Nice job Canada.
Anyway on to the show. We brought along the upscale acoustic show for this venue and I think for the most part it was just what the doctor ordered. Not to loud, not to soft, perfect. Our crowd stayed packed till we took our first break nearly two hours into the show (it was a smokin' set) We commenced the night at about 12:30 to a remaining few hard core dancers. We did play our hearts out and it showed. Nice job guys, it felt good to be back with my brothers - like I never left! (Priceless)
We spent the night indoors at the club and then back on the road home Sunday morning. (185 miles later) the trip ended much as it began. Another priceless weekend and this one was out of town, but none the less we rocked em'... and then the rain came.
So now this week we are on to the Afton Sportsman's Club annual ticket raffle party. This is one of the most enjoyable events of the summer and we are hoping for some awesome weather to send it out to as well. Still some tickets available with some big high ticket prizes associated with it. Get a few people to split that $100 ticket if you can't swing it on your own. It's to support the club and helps pay the bills up there too.
If you haven't seen the club lately - you gotta check it out. Donnie and Patrick and few of the other members up there really dialed in the old club and made some really nice improvements and updates to it too. Hope to see you all there on Saturday. We will be rolling in around noon, so come spend the day.
How about some history in rock and roll linage.
1. Ringo Starr quits the Beatles this week in 1968 only to be talked back in by Paul to finish work on the White Album.
2. Billy Joel Divorces Christie Brinkley this week in 1994
3. Gene Simmons od KISS is 61
Be well- be good - be safe,
- Mikee^^Dee
Monday, August 16, 2010
Mike's Trip to Sturgis
Well hello once again to you all.
After returning from an incredible 10 day adventure across the western part of the United States, I need to share some of the adventure with you - the viewers. By now you have probably figured out - we went to Sturgis S.D. Now Sturgis Bike week is noted as the biggest organized motorcycle event in the World. With attendees this year numbering almost 800,000 bikers. And i have to tell you this - it was not easy to get around to any one place without very heavy biker traffic.
We departed with three bikes and a Toy Hauler last Thursday night. Now let me tell you this, if you have never traveled across country for any length of time, this trip to Sturgis is a tough one. Even driving it is almost 1800 miles one way. The roads (Interstate) suck big time and one has to wonder what they do with almost $200 worth of toll money we denoted just to "bounce" around and break shit on for the better part of thirty hours and three days. The ToY Hauler experience is really very cool. It is a 35ft. camper with a back door that opens up and you drive and stow your scoots inside - it's that simple. Add a full kitchen and a couple of overhead queen beds and you're camping. This year we were guests of Chucky and Theresa as neither had ever been to Sturgis before. Basically you travel about six or seven hundred miles each day and as you fuel up at Travel Stops. You set up your table and chairs in the parking lot out back under a tree and have some beverages and a sandwich and back on the road you go. Some nights we pulled into Wal-mart parking lots to sleep and some nights campgrounds. All in all you save alot of cash when your not putting down $25 a meal for every time you stop. Camping for 4 people runs about about $10 each person per night on the road. This was all a new concept for me. I was amazed as I seen hotel specials of $79 to $99 dollars a night on Highway Billboards. Big bargains there huh?
So Finally Sunday afternoon we arrive at The Wild Bills Campground in Deadwood S.D. We spent the next 5 days there doing 100 miles trips all across the Black Hills of S.D. We met and partied with some incredible people from all over the nation, Seattle, San Francisco, Kansas, Oklahoma, Colorado, Minnesota. This list goes on... Bikers are such a cool group of people- They are who they are for the most part - no fluff- and no plastic - real americans. We hit as many big time locations as I could bring our guests too in 5 days - Mount Rushmore - Main Street Sturgis - Deadwood, Hill City, The Full Throttle Saloon, and Finally our longest grueling trip Devils Tower in Wyoming.
Take a look at the picture I provided - very pretty. That day we drove almost 250 miles - double up in over 100 degree heat and you want to ride all the way the way to Sturgis on your scoot ya say - I'll meet you there. So in closing we had a trip that we will remember for many years to come. It was Sturgis' 70th annual party and it was a keeper. And while i was gone the boys plugged on. We had subs for both weeks and special thanks go out to the boys from Hat's Off {Nick and Lance} as they helped fill the void on the 7th up to Wild Bills- {wow that's were I was only 1800 miles away} and also to Kip who filled the void up to the Ahners Annual Pig Roast.
Thanks Guys for helping to make my cross country trip that took 14 months to plan - the success it was... and thanks to my brothers for their patience as well while I was gone - I never doubted you guys.
This week we once again head West to our almost Annual Yacht Club' event show.
We will be trying a new approach for this venue and that will be an acoustic SCB show. We keep playing them as long as the popularity is there.So now as we head into the final weeks of August - wow that summer went quick- have a safe remaining August and hope to you all again in the upcoming weeks.
Check our website for shows near you.
Peace and Love
-Mikee^^Dee
Short Change Band - Middle Two Weeks of August, 2010
Hi everyone, this is KW filling in for Mikee Dee.
Wow, the weekends continue to be awesome as summer is winding down and we’re headed into Labor Day.
Let’s get to it and start with August 7th where we were at none other than “Wild Bill Hare’s” party. This is one of our favorites. How can you not like a party where the host says “Okay guys, take a break – it’s time for some whiskey”. Bill is one of those who likes Jack as much as we do. So much, he left half a suitcase of clothes in Aruba so he could bring back the biggest bottle of Jack I’ve ever seen. (Awesome!) We had Nick Allen from the “Hats Off Band” help us on the drums and Lance Trotter played a couple songs on the bass and helped with the vocals. Great Job Guys! After the show we went down to the fire pit for more beer, whiskey, marshmallows and some good conversation. Unfortunately, I wasn’t feeling too well – I took a microphone to the face earlier, and didn’t stay too long. (Sorry Bill – Next time brother)
Moving on to August 14th and Ahner’s Pig Roast. It’s always a good time. We’ve been playing this party for over 20 Years. You know we have a good time here! Once again it was a gorgeous day. DD and I started the afternoon with a golf tournament at Belden Hill. We finished the golf tournament and went straight to the party (we didn’t have time to stay for dinner or the door prizes – We hope Herb got us some good prizes) Filling in for Mike this time was Kip Kettle. We’re glad to call him a friend. That’s the way it is in the music business, it brings people together close that fast. What a great job Kip did for never even hearing us before. It was like he had been playing with us for years. Thanks again Kip!
As always, the food was excellent; our hosts (Butch and Cindy) have the absolute best fireworks show. What can I tell you? This is one of the premiere parties of the summer. Thanks to Tim Whalen for singing a couple songs too!
We’re glad Mike is back and hope he and his lovely wife Andrea had a great time at Sturgis. Although we had fun, we missed him. The three of us just have great chemistry when we play. So now it’s off to Watkins Glen and the Yacht Party.
Our Greatest Hits CD is out and you can get one at any of our shows. We’re back in the studio for the recording of the next album this fall. The title of the next album is “Back to Basics” We hope you’ll love it as we once again cover all styles of music, including sarcasm.
So, as Mike would say – “Peace Out” and enjoy life. Remember the words of “The Welfare Song” – “Why work when you can get it for free!”
See you at the next show,
KW
Wow, the weekends continue to be awesome as summer is winding down and we’re headed into Labor Day.
Let’s get to it and start with August 7th where we were at none other than “Wild Bill Hare’s” party. This is one of our favorites. How can you not like a party where the host says “Okay guys, take a break – it’s time for some whiskey”. Bill is one of those who likes Jack as much as we do. So much, he left half a suitcase of clothes in Aruba so he could bring back the biggest bottle of Jack I’ve ever seen. (Awesome!) We had Nick Allen from the “Hats Off Band” help us on the drums and Lance Trotter played a couple songs on the bass and helped with the vocals. Great Job Guys! After the show we went down to the fire pit for more beer, whiskey, marshmallows and some good conversation. Unfortunately, I wasn’t feeling too well – I took a microphone to the face earlier, and didn’t stay too long. (Sorry Bill – Next time brother)
Moving on to August 14th and Ahner’s Pig Roast. It’s always a good time. We’ve been playing this party for over 20 Years. You know we have a good time here! Once again it was a gorgeous day. DD and I started the afternoon with a golf tournament at Belden Hill. We finished the golf tournament and went straight to the party (we didn’t have time to stay for dinner or the door prizes – We hope Herb got us some good prizes) Filling in for Mike this time was Kip Kettle. We’re glad to call him a friend. That’s the way it is in the music business, it brings people together close that fast. What a great job Kip did for never even hearing us before. It was like he had been playing with us for years. Thanks again Kip!
As always, the food was excellent; our hosts (Butch and Cindy) have the absolute best fireworks show. What can I tell you? This is one of the premiere parties of the summer. Thanks to Tim Whalen for singing a couple songs too!
We’re glad Mike is back and hope he and his lovely wife Andrea had a great time at Sturgis. Although we had fun, we missed him. The three of us just have great chemistry when we play. So now it’s off to Watkins Glen and the Yacht Party.
Our Greatest Hits CD is out and you can get one at any of our shows. We’re back in the studio for the recording of the next album this fall. The title of the next album is “Back to Basics” We hope you’ll love it as we once again cover all styles of music, including sarcasm.
So, as Mike would say – “Peace Out” and enjoy life. Remember the words of “The Welfare Song” – “Why work when you can get it for free!”
See you at the next show,
KW
Monday, August 2, 2010
Short Change Band - Beginning of August, 2010
The summer is ever evaporating away right before our eyes as it is August. (wow) Slow down summer because you have been an exceptional one this year. We had 22 days of July over 80 degrees – priceless (especially for the southern tier)
This week will be short and sweet. This week is also an exceptional one as it is the week that Sturgis begins. I've got friends packing up and heading out as we speak. I'm envious for sure - the 70th anniversary to boot. Guns and Roses announced a reunion show and the Buffalo Chip has them.
Anyway, last Friday evening was another in the series of Davy's signature shows. Everybody there enjoyed the evening as the jams once again continued on. We had a visit once again from our buddy Dominick who sat in for a set and even the infamous Donnie Gillette graced us with his presence as well. Truly another Hallmark weekend for sure.
Saturday came and KW and myself have begun work on a new song together - this time around I wrote the music and KW wrote the lyrics. Something different for sure and actually I can hardly wait till the fall to begin work on our 5th album. Tentatively titled "Back to Basics". This could be our best one yet. But then I always say that and they are all good anyway. Each album is like a kid in the family and all growing up with every addition.
So back to Saturday, we had another outdoor pig roast up to Harry and Melissa's. Once again the weather was picture perfect, the food fantastic and the people were marvelous. And once again we even received our signature bottle of Jack for the show, that we proudly displayed on our speaker collumn. Thanks Harry for remembering us and our unusual customs. We are "True Americans"Oh I almost forgot to mention our buddy “Vanillia”. Vanilla was a giant goat that took a liking to D.D. and she was determined to fight anyone or anything that tried to get between them. Oh DD does that really stand for Doctor Doolittle because the animals do love him.
So now the next 2 weeks are all home parties (Pig Roasts) so you may not get too much in the way of a blogs from them. But, if something exciting happens - trust me you will be the first to know.
As we close, enjoy the last few weeks of summer and make every day count. Keep the shiny side up and the rubber down.
Peace to you all see you soon
-Mikee^Dee
This week will be short and sweet. This week is also an exceptional one as it is the week that Sturgis begins. I've got friends packing up and heading out as we speak. I'm envious for sure - the 70th anniversary to boot. Guns and Roses announced a reunion show and the Buffalo Chip has them.
Anyway, last Friday evening was another in the series of Davy's signature shows. Everybody there enjoyed the evening as the jams once again continued on. We had a visit once again from our buddy Dominick who sat in for a set and even the infamous Donnie Gillette graced us with his presence as well. Truly another Hallmark weekend for sure.
Saturday came and KW and myself have begun work on a new song together - this time around I wrote the music and KW wrote the lyrics. Something different for sure and actually I can hardly wait till the fall to begin work on our 5th album. Tentatively titled "Back to Basics". This could be our best one yet. But then I always say that and they are all good anyway. Each album is like a kid in the family and all growing up with every addition.
So back to Saturday, we had another outdoor pig roast up to Harry and Melissa's. Once again the weather was picture perfect, the food fantastic and the people were marvelous. And once again we even received our signature bottle of Jack for the show, that we proudly displayed on our speaker collumn. Thanks Harry for remembering us and our unusual customs. We are "True Americans"Oh I almost forgot to mention our buddy “Vanillia”. Vanilla was a giant goat that took a liking to D.D. and she was determined to fight anyone or anything that tried to get between them. Oh DD does that really stand for Doctor Doolittle because the animals do love him.
So now the next 2 weeks are all home parties (Pig Roasts) so you may not get too much in the way of a blogs from them. But, if something exciting happens - trust me you will be the first to know.
As we close, enjoy the last few weeks of summer and make every day count. Keep the shiny side up and the rubber down.
Peace to you all see you soon
-Mikee^Dee
Monday, July 26, 2010
The Short Change Band last week of July 2010
Well hello once again my friends. Our summer is passing by at an incredible rate of speed isn't it? And I have to tell you, having some down time over the last couple weeks with the band has become very addictive. Even playing outdoors these last few shows have been incredibly uncomfortable with the heat and humidity but it sure beats fighting off a foot of snow now doesn't it? So, I'm over it now, so let’s move on.
Friday night we decided to go out and grab a beer and some wings- So we headed up to Binghamton for both. We found ourselves at a cute little Pub called McGirk’s. What a great place to do both and take in a band as well. Friday night’s show was none other than our friends, “Bad Weather Blues” band. What a great group of folks in this line up. For the better part of the next two hours I sat on a chair ride of some fantastic blues work that you would hardly hear anywhere else. The talent in this band is second to none. What I thought was cool was five musicians all playing in their own little world, creating like an orchestra, and it all came together. I loved Tom's 6 string Bass, Mike on the key boards, Steve on the Drums, Deb on vocals and Sonny Boy Bob on guitar. All I can say is you need to see them if you have not. Now I can see why they have done shows as far south as Key West.
I try to tell you folks this before, we have some of the best musical talent anywhere in the country right here in Binghamton. If you don't believe me, go see these guys and let me know what you all think. Their CD titled “BWBB” is very notable as well. Deb, you are quite the songwriter.
On to Saturday, we spent part the day helping KW up to the lake with the boys. Again, 95 degrees and soggy. Saturday night was a great night to chill on the couch with a movie and some popcorn.
On to Sunday and the Tony and Doris reunion up to the Afton Sportsman's Club. Once again there were great people, great food, and good times prevailed. I can't think of a more finer establishment to have an outdoor event. The people are great and the grounds are always well groomed. Don't miss the annual ticket party on August 29th. Sunday all-day. As yours truly the SCB will once again take the stage.
On to this weekend’s events calendar:
Friday Night, 7/27 at 9pm we’re at Davy's in downtown Chenango Forks - Our only public show left in July - don't miss it.
Saturday afternoon we’re at a private party up to Harry and Melissa's.
We hope to see you all out an about this Friday, and as always be safe and have a great week!
Mikee^^ Dee
Friday night we decided to go out and grab a beer and some wings- So we headed up to Binghamton for both. We found ourselves at a cute little Pub called McGirk’s. What a great place to do both and take in a band as well. Friday night’s show was none other than our friends, “Bad Weather Blues” band. What a great group of folks in this line up. For the better part of the next two hours I sat on a chair ride of some fantastic blues work that you would hardly hear anywhere else. The talent in this band is second to none. What I thought was cool was five musicians all playing in their own little world, creating like an orchestra, and it all came together. I loved Tom's 6 string Bass, Mike on the key boards, Steve on the Drums, Deb on vocals and Sonny Boy Bob on guitar. All I can say is you need to see them if you have not. Now I can see why they have done shows as far south as Key West.
I try to tell you folks this before, we have some of the best musical talent anywhere in the country right here in Binghamton. If you don't believe me, go see these guys and let me know what you all think. Their CD titled “BWBB” is very notable as well. Deb, you are quite the songwriter.
On to Saturday, we spent part the day helping KW up to the lake with the boys. Again, 95 degrees and soggy. Saturday night was a great night to chill on the couch with a movie and some popcorn.
On to Sunday and the Tony and Doris reunion up to the Afton Sportsman's Club. Once again there were great people, great food, and good times prevailed. I can't think of a more finer establishment to have an outdoor event. The people are great and the grounds are always well groomed. Don't miss the annual ticket party on August 29th. Sunday all-day. As yours truly the SCB will once again take the stage.
On to this weekend’s events calendar:
Friday Night, 7/27 at 9pm we’re at Davy's in downtown Chenango Forks - Our only public show left in July - don't miss it.
Saturday afternoon we’re at a private party up to Harry and Melissa's.
We hope to see you all out an about this Friday, and as always be safe and have a great week!
Mikee^^ Dee
Monday, July 19, 2010
Short Change Band - Fourth week in July
Hello people, once again we had another virtually rain free weekend that made the “Great Outdoors” the place you wanted to be. It was hazy, hot, and humid. But, hey it is mid-summer now isn't it?On to our weekend.
Friday night was our premiere at Dino's. The weather didn’t look good early in the afternoon for an outdoor show that night but, the weather did it's thing early and so did we later - outdoors. The first two sets were weird, because it was a new place and we had new acoustics, and we were outdoors, so we were not in our home element. But, by the time the last set came around we were smokin'. Nice job boys! We can't wait to try Dino's out again in October!
I think overall we put on a great show and I want to thank you all for coming out and showing your support for our first show in the Binghamton area in quite some time.
So we wrap up the show and by the time we get home it's 2am and four hours later we're up for golf. (Yes, the Short Change boys and crew went out and hacked away for the better part of four hours on Saturday morning with temperatures in the 90's, it made the green label Jack go down all the more smoother over some good ole ice cubes. (Thanks Herbie) Some of us shot under 100 and some of us didn't but ya can't say it was for a lack of trying.
It was nice just to have a "non Committed Saturday" in the middle of the summer. I'm not looking a gift horse in the mouth as they are very few and far between.
Sunday was a very interesting day to say the least. One of local country crooners celebrated his 80th birthday - The infamous "Bucky Moon". So me and momma jumped on the scoots and took a nice ride out to Candor and back.There were over 200 people gathered up to the Fire House in Candor for a Sunday show as well as a guest vocal appearance by none other than Bucky himself. Let me tell you a bit about Bucky. He and his band have been playing in the Tioga County area for the better part of forty years. He has been a musician since the late 1940's after he got out of the service.
So for the better part of all Musical Time Bucky has been there till his retirement just this past December 2009. His failing health is finally making him put his cowboy hat up, but what a musicianhe was. He played in Nashville when country music was "real country” music - not this stuff you hear today (as he put it) He has played with many notable pickers in his time as recently as last year with Tracy Bird right in Owego. The day was complete with a standing ovation from the crowd for Bucky!
So many people over those years came out to see Bucky and his band and yesterday we were honored to see what may be one of his last shows. Bucky was on his motorized cart yesterday along with his oxygen bottle. But the boy could still sing! God Bless You Bucky for all the people through the years you and your band have touched. A better more caring mancould not be found. My mom would have loved this guy. He plays that type of music that just makes you feel Good.
On to this week: Friday night no show***Saturday night no show***It's KW and Cindy’s Anniversary weekend. (So we're all taking off) And it's DD’s High School reunion too.. and I guess if I have to celebrate something too. This is the week I rode scoot all the way to Richmond non-stop back in 93 for the VA State Rally. Well, it meant something to me. It was a long trip and a long time ago too. I was riding an 89 bagger back then...Sunday we play a family reuinon up in Afton.. So a great week for all of us in the cards..So in closing, be well, be cool
and be good.
We’ll see all on the flipside.
Mikee^ Dee
Friday night was our premiere at Dino's. The weather didn’t look good early in the afternoon for an outdoor show that night but, the weather did it's thing early and so did we later - outdoors. The first two sets were weird, because it was a new place and we had new acoustics, and we were outdoors, so we were not in our home element. But, by the time the last set came around we were smokin'. Nice job boys! We can't wait to try Dino's out again in October!
I think overall we put on a great show and I want to thank you all for coming out and showing your support for our first show in the Binghamton area in quite some time.
So we wrap up the show and by the time we get home it's 2am and four hours later we're up for golf. (Yes, the Short Change boys and crew went out and hacked away for the better part of four hours on Saturday morning with temperatures in the 90's, it made the green label Jack go down all the more smoother over some good ole ice cubes. (Thanks Herbie) Some of us shot under 100 and some of us didn't but ya can't say it was for a lack of trying.
It was nice just to have a "non Committed Saturday" in the middle of the summer. I'm not looking a gift horse in the mouth as they are very few and far between.
Sunday was a very interesting day to say the least. One of local country crooners celebrated his 80th birthday - The infamous "Bucky Moon". So me and momma jumped on the scoots and took a nice ride out to Candor and back.There were over 200 people gathered up to the Fire House in Candor for a Sunday show as well as a guest vocal appearance by none other than Bucky himself. Let me tell you a bit about Bucky. He and his band have been playing in the Tioga County area for the better part of forty years. He has been a musician since the late 1940's after he got out of the service.
So for the better part of all Musical Time Bucky has been there till his retirement just this past December 2009. His failing health is finally making him put his cowboy hat up, but what a musicianhe was. He played in Nashville when country music was "real country” music - not this stuff you hear today (as he put it) He has played with many notable pickers in his time as recently as last year with Tracy Bird right in Owego. The day was complete with a standing ovation from the crowd for Bucky!
So many people over those years came out to see Bucky and his band and yesterday we were honored to see what may be one of his last shows. Bucky was on his motorized cart yesterday along with his oxygen bottle.
On to this week: Friday night no show***Saturday night no show***It's KW and Cindy’s Anniversary weekend. (So we're all taking off) And it's DD’s High School reunion too.. and I guess if I have to celebrate something too. This is the week I rode scoot all the way to Richmond non-stop back in 93 for the VA State Rally. Well, it meant something to me. It was a long trip and a long time ago too. I was riding an 89 bagger back then...Sunday we play a family reuinon up in Afton.. So a great week for all of us in the cards..So in closing, be well, be cool
and be good.
We’ll see all on the flipside.
Mikee^ Dee
Tuesday, July 13, 2010
Short Change Band - Mid July 2010
Greetings to you all and a Happy Mid-July. Wow, where is the year going? It's a mere 106 days ‘til Election Day. We must all remember the new taxes you will have to pay or are currently paying and the price we pay just to be a "New Yorker" is ridiculous. It's time to clean house and start over again. Remember, if you don't vote, you really can't complain when your smokes go up, your clothes are once again taxed, your Star Program is gone, and Your taxes all climb to the moon. You won't even be able to tan your ass anymore without a tax on that now too. Just putting the bug in your ear as we now enter into Mid-July without a completed New York State Budget - absolutely a disgrace. Enough said here...
Anyway, last weekend was a good weekend. We played 2 shows on Saturday that pretty much took up about 11 hours of the day between performances and travel time. But they were both a fun time. The Colesville Super Celebration was the gig that wasn't supposed to happened - and happened well. The show was a bit smaller this year than years past, but none the less it was well organized and you couldn't have asked for a better day of weather.
We played a hot 2-hour set with the only break for the Hottest Wing eating contest. There were actually several people who signed up for this contest - both male and females. Now when they serve these at Gramma's most people can only eat two or three of these fire wings, but the winner ate 21. Wow! You go A.J! I can't wait for next year’s competition. I even offered to help out with the next one. As a biker we have had our share of setting up and running various competitions under our belts. Nice Job Aaron and Amy. Patience is a virtue.
On to Lisa’s Party. All I can say here is - the crowd was good - the food was good - and the beer never stopped flowing. As the band would sing "we had a real good time". Thanks Lisa and Robin for having us again. Happy Anniversary goes out to Chuck and your charming wife.
On to this weekend... New Location - Dino's Bar and Grill on Conklin Road in Binghamton N.Y. The Show begins at 8:30 p.m. Ride up on your scoot, drive your car - but come up. Help us make our first show up here a memorable one. We don't want to be asked into the first set by the owner- "Don't ya got no friends" (Famous quote there)
Be Well, Be Safe and hope to see you all the show Friday night - Indoors or outdoors, we will be ready to rock!
Peace and Love,
Mikee^^ Dee
Anyway, last weekend was a good weekend. We played 2 shows on Saturday that pretty much took up about 11 hours of the day between performances and travel time. But they were both a fun time. The Colesville Super Celebration was the gig that wasn't supposed to happened - and happened well. The show was a bit smaller this year than years past, but none the less it was well organized and you couldn't have asked for a better day of weather.
We played a hot 2-hour set with the only break for the Hottest Wing eating contest. There were actually several people who signed up for this contest - both male and females. Now when they serve these at Gramma's most people can only eat two or three of these fire wings, but the winner ate 21. Wow! You go A.J! I can't wait for next year’s competition. I even offered to help out with the next one. As a biker we have had our share of setting up and running various competitions under our belts. Nice Job Aaron and Amy. Patience is a virtue.
On to Lisa’s Party. All I can say here is - the crowd was good - the food was good - and the beer never stopped flowing. As the band would sing "we had a real good time". Thanks Lisa and Robin for having us again. Happy Anniversary goes out to Chuck and your charming wife.
On to this weekend... New Location - Dino's Bar and Grill on Conklin Road in Binghamton N.Y. The Show begins at 8:30 p.m. Ride up on your scoot, drive your car - but come up. Help us make our first show up here a memorable one. We don't want to be asked into the first set by the owner- "Don't ya got no friends" (Famous quote there)
Be Well, Be Safe and hope to see you all the show Friday night - Indoors or outdoors, we will be ready to rock!
Peace and Love,
Mikee^^ Dee
Wednesday, July 7, 2010
Short Change Band - Hot Early July 2010
My goodness, July snuck right up on us didn't it? It's July and it's hot and it's dry, but it’s my kind of summer shaping up here. There’s a big difference from last summer’s monsoon type weather.
Anyway let’s get on to last week’s review. We only did one show last weekend and it was on America’s Birthday no less. We started the morning out with the band playing some golf and then an awesome cookout complete with beers and then on to a great show down to the Central Hotel. Priceless*
We had four-piece that day as the infamous Jeffery “A” was in town and decided to jam a bit with us. Outside shows are always a blast too and the weather was perfect and the crowd was good and the beers and whiskey were cold. Hey Lynn, thanks for the round of Jacks for us! The band always appreciates some good iced whiskey on a hot summer day.
The show went well and we also want to thank Lil' Stevie for coming up and sitting in for a few tunes as well. (Just like one big happy family)
So on to this weekend: Saturday we have two shows planned and both are outdoors. The Colesville Super Celebration in Harpursville is first as the show begins at 2:00 p.m. Then we’re on to a private party up to Lisa Gibson’s house. (Do you remember Lisa? She was the winner of our free show - winner of 2009) So this weekend we are paying up (so to speak)
And real quick note as we close here. We have been selling numerous copies of the new album and now we are setting our sites on to a couple of new venues. We began putting together a "Greatest Hits" type of a compilation for the next release and we hope to call this collection simply “5 Years of Change”. It kind of says it all doesn't it? We hope to have this all put together by early fall. We really have to go through all of the material selected and remember to give credits to all of the musicians and people involved (and there were many) The album will also track about 70 minutes as it will contain at least 20 songs. Even if you have all four of our albums you will still like to have a copy of this bad boy, it flows really nice, and it's mostly all up tempo selections.
And then as we move into the later fall as we had talked about doing another completely new album that we would release for early spring of 2011. KW has been writing up a storm this year and we all have so much to say. KW really has his “A” game going on this next set of tunes, but I don't want to let the cat out the bag so to speak so soon.
So that's what's new in our Crib. We hope all is well and we are hoping to see you all this weekend.
Peace- be well- be safe-
Mikee^^Dee P.S. - Happy Birthday FRUMPY-- from the whole SCB
Anyway let’s get on to last week’s review. We only did one show last weekend and it was on America’s Birthday no less. We started the morning out with the band playing some golf and then an awesome cookout complete with beers and then on to a great show down to the Central Hotel. Priceless*
We had four-piece that day as the infamous Jeffery “A” was in town and decided to jam a bit with us. Outside shows are always a blast too and the weather was perfect and the crowd was good and the beers and whiskey were cold. Hey Lynn, thanks for the round of Jacks for us! The band always appreciates some good iced whiskey on a hot summer day.
The show went well and we also want to thank Lil' Stevie for coming up and sitting in for a few tunes as well. (Just like one big happy family)
So on to this weekend: Saturday we have two shows planned and both are outdoors. The Colesville Super Celebration in Harpursville is first as the show begins at 2:00 p.m. Then we’re on to a private party up to Lisa Gibson’s house. (Do you remember Lisa? She was the winner of our free show - winner of 2009) So this weekend we are paying up (so to speak)
And real quick note as we close here. We have been selling numerous copies of the new album and now we are setting our sites on to a couple of new venues. We began putting together a "Greatest Hits" type of a compilation for the next release and we hope to call this collection simply “5 Years of Change”. It kind of says it all doesn't it? We hope to have this all put together by early fall. We really have to go through all of the material selected and remember to give credits to all of the musicians and people involved (and there were many) The album will also track about 70 minutes as it will contain at least 20 songs. Even if you have all four of our albums you will still like to have a copy of this bad boy, it flows really nice, and it's mostly all up tempo selections.
And then as we move into the later fall as we had talked about doing another completely new album that we would release for early spring of 2011. KW has been writing up a storm this year and we all have so much to say. KW really has his “A” game going on this next set of tunes, but I don't want to let the cat out the bag so to speak so soon.
So that's what's new in our Crib. We hope all is well and we are hoping to see you all this weekend.
Peace- be well- be safe-
Mikee^^Dee P.S. - Happy Birthday FRUMPY-- from the whole SCB
Wednesday, June 30, 2010
4th of July Holiday Weekend
Hello to you all, another crazy week has evolved so this week’s Blog entry will be short and sweet. Last Weekend’s gigs were fun- anything less than packed shows but both shows rocked and were a lot of fun for the band.
Friday night at Davy's was what I would call a musically digital evening. Pak Rat stopped by and jammed a bit with us and that that was all the incentive DD needed. The boy smoked that Bass the entire night to follow. KW pulled out 4 or 5 new tunes either we never played before or we had not played in about 5 years but either way they were all exceptional. We had our share of compliments from the crowd that night as well.
On to Gordy's Saturday evening. We all met for some of those incredible wings I told you about before the show. Then on to the first set- again we took a step back in time and pulled off some old tunes from many years ago. When you have 300 song repertoire, one never knows what might pop up on any given night.
The second set brought out our Buddy Bob the Barber, as he captured a bit of Charlie Daniels and some Alabama.. cool. The highlight of the evening was Bob's son - Bob Jr. aka “Bad Weather Blues Band” What a smokin' rendition of Mustang Sally along with a couple of Blues tunes. Nice job from both Father and Son.
The night was good. Pat and Jim treat us like gold down there and we simply like Gordy's and it kinda sets a stage for other owners to follow. We love you guys!
On to the Independence Holiday weekend. We only have one show this weekend –The Central Hotel- Sunday- July 4th- We're all meeting up there about 3pm - show to follow.. It’s supposed to be 85 and sunny - C'mon summer.. Bring along a lawn chair as we will most likely be under the pavilion.. We hope to see you all there, and remember Monday’s the holiday, so live on the edge and come out Sunday. We promise to have you out of there before DARK.
And in closing, go ahead and spend a little time with yourself this weekend and try doing something patriotic or maybe even try helping someone, It's truly the American way. Or, just sit back and listen to a bit of Skynyrd’s Red White and Blue single - Americas true answer to the Workin' Man.
God Bless and have a safe holiday weekend in whatever you do,
Mikee^^Dee
Friday night at Davy's was what I would call a musically digital evening. Pak Rat stopped by and jammed a bit with us and that that was all the incentive DD needed. The boy smoked that Bass the entire night to follow. KW pulled out 4 or 5 new tunes either we never played before or we had not played in about 5 years but either way they were all exceptional. We had our share of compliments from the crowd that night as well.
On to Gordy's Saturday evening. We all met for some of those incredible wings I told you about before the show. Then on to the first set- again we took a step back in time and pulled off some old tunes from many years ago. When you have 300 song repertoire, one never knows what might pop up on any given night.
The second set brought out our Buddy Bob the Barber, as he captured a bit of Charlie Daniels and some Alabama.. cool. The highlight of the evening was Bob's son - Bob Jr. aka “Bad Weather Blues Band” What a smokin' rendition of Mustang Sally along with a couple of Blues tunes. Nice job from both Father and Son.
The night was good. Pat and Jim treat us like gold down there and we simply like Gordy's and it kinda sets a stage for other owners to follow. We love you guys!
On to the Independence Holiday weekend. We only have one show this weekend –The Central Hotel- Sunday- July 4th- We're all meeting up there about 3pm - show to follow.. It’s supposed to be 85 and sunny - C'mon summer.. Bring along a lawn chair as we will most likely be under the pavilion.. We hope to see you all there, and remember Monday’s the holiday, so live on the edge and come out Sunday. We promise to have you out of there before DARK.
And in closing, go ahead and spend a little time with yourself this weekend and try doing something patriotic or maybe even try helping someone, It's truly the American way. Or, just sit back and listen to a bit of Skynyrd’s Red White and Blue single - Americas true answer to the Workin' Man.
God Bless and have a safe holiday weekend in whatever you do,
Mikee^^Dee
Tuesday, June 22, 2010
DeBetto Fest and shows this week
Well hello to you all. What a fantastic weekend it was, and now as we all sit back and reflect about (one would ask) “how do we top that one?” Frumpy suggested possibly a 100 foot Ferris wheel and Johnny suggested a petting zoo.
So if you missed the last DeBetto Fest, you missed a lot. Let me give you all a few of the highlights. Friday night was the 5th annual Staff party. We had some of the best steaks on the grill that money could buy, (Thanks Pete) not to mention some of the best whiskey money could buy as well. Needless to say for me, it was a 22-hour day (after putting in a half day at work starting at 2AM) we called it a night. I guess you could say it was a bachelor party in a sense for um-wha too. Thanks KW, Uncle Richie and DD!
Then came Saturday. We had so much to do in preparation for (not one) but two Weddings that day - yeah you heard it right - that's my big size 16 down below here in case you're wondering who's hand that is. Pat brought up the catering wagon just for this special day. I supplied the burgers and hot dogs for the first round and by Saturday night Pat was making some awesome funnel cakes, onion rings and meatball subs. Wow, now Frumpy put together an Automatic Slushy machine compete with piña colada’s and some other frozen concoctions at 190 proof.
But let's back up a minute here. 11AM came and it's Bobby and Jobi's turn first to tie the knot. Bobby dressed in complete military attire and Jobi looked stunning in her dress. A military wedding – sweet! Then, 2PM came and it was our turn. "Red Neck Yacht Club" was the best way to describe me and Andrea's outfits. Not many people I know ever get married in a bathing suit and a black tux shirt, but you just gotta know me.And thanks HT for making it short and sweet – Priceless! If you witnessed this ceremony you definitely got an earful here.
So then the party began. All in all we had about a hundred guests pass though the ranch over the 2 day event. We had four different bands pick some music and when it was all over and done the dozen or so campers pulled out. We had three 60" bags full of empty cans and bottles - now that's a party! Thanks to perfect weather - Thank you god! (After last year I knew you would hook us up one more time)
What a great weekend as we all enter into the next phases of our lives. How can you describe it any better than that? So as we close, I want to thank all of my staff helpers - KW, Cindy, DD, Pat, Frumpy, Pak Rat - what can I say? Without you all we would be nothing ... oops I stole that line sorry.
Anyway, thank you again. Not to mention all of my brothers and sisters that traveled the ends of the earth to be up on god's knob for such a special event.
On to this weekend: Friday Night at 9PM we’re at Davy's. C'mon down that country road and set a spell. And a very special show this Saturday as we're back down to Gordy's Place in Damascus - right outside of the village of Windsor on old Rt. 17. The Show starts at 8PM. You remember this place - this is the one I told you all about the fantastic wings they serve. Yum!
So what else can I say? We’ll see you all soon, be safe and God Bless
Mikee^^Dee
So if you missed the last DeBetto Fest, you missed a lot. Let me give you all a few of the highlights. Friday night was the 5th annual Staff party. We had some of the best steaks on the grill that money could buy, (Thanks Pete) not to mention some of the best whiskey money could buy as well. Needless to say for me, it was a 22-hour day (after putting in a half day at work starting at 2AM) we called it a night. I guess you could say it was a bachelor party in a sense for um-wha too. Thanks KW, Uncle Richie and DD!
Then came Saturday. We had so much to do in preparation for (not one) but two Weddings that day - yeah you heard it right - that's my big size 16 down below here in case you're wondering who's hand that is. Pat brought up the catering wagon just for this special day. I supplied the burgers and hot dogs for the first round and by Saturday night Pat was making some awesome funnel cakes, onion rings and meatball subs. Wow, now Frumpy put together an Automatic Slushy machine compete with piña colada’s and some other frozen concoctions at 190 proof.
But let's back up a minute here. 11AM came and it's Bobby and Jobi's turn first to tie the knot. Bobby dressed in complete military attire and Jobi looked stunning in her dress. A military wedding – sweet! Then, 2PM came and it was our turn. "Red Neck Yacht Club" was the best way to describe me and Andrea's outfits. Not many people I know ever get married in a bathing suit and a black tux shirt, but you just gotta know me.And thanks HT for making it short and sweet – Priceless! If you witnessed this ceremony you definitely got an earful here.
So then the party began. All in all we had about a hundred guests pass though the ranch over the 2 day event. We had four different bands pick some music and when it was all over and done the dozen or so campers pulled out. We had three 60" bags full of empty cans and bottles - now that's a party! Thanks to perfect weather - Thank you god! (After last year I knew you would hook us up one more time)
What a great weekend as we all enter into the next phases of our lives. How can you describe it any better than that? So as we close, I want to thank all of my staff helpers - KW, Cindy, DD, Pat, Frumpy, Pak Rat - what can I say? Without you all we would be nothing ... oops I stole that line sorry.
Anyway, thank you again. Not to mention all of my brothers and sisters that traveled the ends of the earth to be up on god's knob for such a special event.
On to this weekend: Friday Night at 9PM we’re at Davy's. C'mon down that country road and set a spell. And a very special show this Saturday as we're back down to Gordy's Place in Damascus - right outside of the village of Windsor on old Rt. 17. The Show starts at 8PM. You remember this place - this is the one I told you all about the fantastic wings they serve. Yum!
So what else can I say? We’ll see you all soon, be safe and God Bless
Mikee^^Dee
Thursday, June 17, 2010
June - DeBetto Fest Week
Well hello to you all. Sorry for the mid-week lateness in the Blog, but it's been just one of those weeks. So this addition will be quite simple and easy and painless - all in one blog.
Wow, last weekend was the Jeff and Patty Wedding. From the picture below one can see it was one elegant exciting afternoon. What's to say? The wedding ceremony was a 5-star - 25 people in the wedding party how could it be anything less than elegant. The reception was a 5 star- location and a 5 star overall. The musicians jammed out at the end, it was priceless.
I think in the future we should start filming these events instead of just taking stills, because it just doesn't do it justice. And from the Band, we love you guys and wish you both all the good luck a future could ever bring. The best man said it best "May you both go to sleep every night of your lives with a smile on each of your faces - "Sweet"
So then Sunday came and we played a show for The Cortland Chapter of Abate. The last Stop was down to the Central Hotel. It was just like being home on a Saturday, except we were indoors 'cause of the rain. The show lasted about three hours and as well played the last tune of the night, the Bar filled up with tire burnout smoke. Now does it get any better then that?
Hats off too Bobby and Chopper for the food, it was fantastic.
This weekend is the Final installment of the DeBetto fest. The weather is supposed to be superb. The musical guests will be numerous as well and the show begins at 7pm. Come at 2pm and catch the starts of Horse shoes and Bocci, along with some burgers and dogs. (not to mention all the ceremonies going on during the day) What a great way to finalize a great 5- year running tradition. See you there. Oh, you need to bring your own chair and BYOB and leave the rest to us. Oh and don't forget the SPF 50 too, because you're gonna need it!
See you there,
Mikee^^
Monday, June 7, 2010
Short Change Band - First Week in June, 2010
Well hello again people, I hope your weekend served you well. Once again we were on the road (not once) but twice this weekend. Let's go right to it.
Friday Night we played an early show up to the Afton Inn located in Downtown Afton NY. It was a hot night and thank goodness for fans other than the two-legged types. The show began and crowd was a bit light for a Friday. (One reason we try to stay away from the Bar scene for the summer is because there are simply too many other venues going on at the same time. Races, camping, sports) because when it's nice, people want out and I can't blame them. We do want to thank Lil' Stevie for stopping by and adding some flavor to the evening, not to mention the smoking rendition of "24 hours at a time" tune he played with the band. Our special thanks to Dominick for some awesome drumming on "Can't You See" as well.
Then on to Saturday's show. Annie's Bar & Grill in Windsor was the place to be last Saturday evening. There was a golf tournament in town that day and Annie's was packed. It's nice even when it's hotter than all get out, and we can pack a Honky Tonk and keep them all there for the entire evening. The show was an (11) if that's possible and we sure needed that with crowds being kinda thin the last few weeks. The show stoppers of the evening in this venue was Annie (herself) with a kick-ass rendition of "Keep your hands yourself" as she came up to sing with the band and that was followed by none other than Bob "The Barber" himself - (Mr. Wooly Bully) Wow! Some great guest talent last weekend and did I forget to mention the smoke coming off the fret board of KW's Les Paul guitar. It was a Great evening for sure!
We also got to find out about one of the band members love for "snow cones". Now I'm an ice cream man myself but to each their own. One thing about Snow Cones, they're fun to look at!
Our third hero for the weekend was none other then DD himself. As the weather deteriorated yesterday we were all in Afton playing in a golf tournament. The weather was tough and it did cause us to retreat for a bit as the rain fell sideways along with hail and wind that accompanied it all. Finally, a couple Bloody Mary's later we were back on the course (soaking wet) but back. It was very difficult to reclaim the talent we once set out with that morning as everything including your golf shoes were filled with water. But DD proceeded to be the hero of the day with a series of drives well in excess of 275 yards. You go buddy...
We all got a lot of weekend last week for the money. The really good ones are hard to come by and when they do come along, you need to enjoy the ride. And we sure did!
This weekend is Jeff and Patty's wedding so we will not be doing anything public until Sunday. We will be up to the Central Hotel for a 2 hour ABATE motorcycle poker run, so stop up and check it out as the show begins at 4pm. (Weather permitting) we may even be outdoors once again. Yeah!
This week in Rock and Roll history
Nancy Sinatra - "These Boots Are Made For Walkin" She turns 70 this weekBrenda Lee - "little miss dynamite" graduates H.S. this week in 1963 after already scoring 12 top 10 singles (this week in 1963)Grand Funk Railroad releases "American Band" this week in 73
Finally in closing, two more weeks until the final installment of the infamous DeBetto Fest. Invites have been passed out and we are hoping once again to have the weather cooperate this year to close out another tradition of the times. Remember your are responsible for 3 things. Bring your own Beverage, bring your own chair to sit in and something to sleep in or on as by now you must know, this is an all-nighter for sure! Pickin' with the band starts at 7pm and the "Scariest Ghost Story" contest begins around the campfire at 10pm. {The staff reports Friday at 5pm for setup and debriefing}
Hope to see your there!
Peace and be well,
Mikee^^ Dee
Friday Night we played an early show up to the Afton Inn located in Downtown Afton NY. It was a hot night and thank goodness for fans other than the two-legged types. The show began and crowd was a bit light for a Friday. (One reason we try to stay away from the Bar scene for the summer is because there are simply too many other venues going on at the same time. Races, camping, sports) because when it's nice, people want out and I can't blame them. We do want to thank Lil' Stevie for stopping by and adding some flavor to the evening, not to mention the smoking rendition of "24 hours at a time" tune he played with the band. Our special thanks to Dominick for some awesome drumming on "Can't You See" as well.
Then on to Saturday's show. Annie's Bar & Grill in Windsor was the place to be last Saturday evening. There was a golf tournament in town that day and Annie's was packed. It's nice even when it's hotter than all get out, and we can pack a Honky Tonk and keep them all there for the entire evening. The show was an (11) if that's possible and we sure needed that with crowds being kinda thin the last few weeks. The show stoppers of the evening in this venue was Annie (herself) with a kick-ass rendition of "Keep your hands yourself" as she came up to sing with the band and that was followed by none other than Bob "The Barber" himself - (Mr. Wooly Bully) Wow! Some great guest talent last weekend and did I forget to mention the smoke coming off the fret board of KW's Les Paul guitar. It was a Great evening for sure!
We also got to find out about one of the band members love for "snow cones". Now I'm an ice cream man myself but to each their own. One thing about Snow Cones, they're fun to look at!
Our third hero for the weekend was none other then DD himself. As the weather deteriorated yesterday we were all in Afton playing in a golf tournament. The weather was tough and it did cause us to retreat for a bit as the rain fell sideways along with hail and wind that accompanied it all. Finally, a couple Bloody Mary's later we were back on the course (soaking wet) but back. It was very difficult to reclaim the talent we once set out with that morning as everything including your golf shoes were filled with water. But DD proceeded to be the hero of the day with a series of drives well in excess of 275 yards. You go buddy...
We all got a lot of weekend last week for the money. The really good ones are hard to come by and when they do come along, you need to enjoy the ride. And we sure did!
This weekend is Jeff and Patty's wedding so we will not be doing anything public until Sunday. We will be up to the Central Hotel for a 2 hour ABATE motorcycle poker run, so stop up and check it out as the show begins at 4pm. (Weather permitting) we may even be outdoors once again. Yeah!
This week in Rock and Roll history
Nancy Sinatra - "These Boots Are Made For Walkin" She turns 70 this weekBrenda Lee - "little miss dynamite" graduates H.S. this week in 1963 after already scoring 12 top 10 singles (this week in 1963)Grand Funk Railroad releases "American Band" this week in 73
Finally in closing, two more weeks until the final installment of the infamous DeBetto Fest. Invites have been passed out and we are hoping once again to have the weather cooperate this year to close out another tradition of the times. Remember your are responsible for 3 things. Bring your own Beverage, bring your own chair to sit in and something to sleep in or on as by now you must know, this is an all-nighter for sure! Pickin' with the band starts at 7pm and the "Scariest Ghost Story" contest begins around the campfire at 10pm. {The staff reports Friday at 5pm for setup and debriefing}
Hope to see your there!
Peace and be well,
Mikee^^ Dee
Tuesday, June 1, 2010
The Short Change Band, June 1st, 2010
Hello all, yes it was a great weekend to pay your respects to all of solders who served this great country past and present. It was also a time to catch up on a bit of R&R , so I hope you got to do a little of both.
The weather could not have been better for anything you had planned to do outdoors. Priceless!
It was also a pretty mellow weekend for the band,as well. We did one show on Sunday up to the Central Hotel and if you missed that one you missed a good one.
It was outdoors and you could not have asked for a nicer day to play out in the open air. The crowd was a bit lighter then in the past but holiday weekends tend to be like that. With the economy (the way it is) many people I think just got out of Dodge for the Holiday weekend.
That didn't stop the show from going on and we played our asses off to the ones that came to party. A special thanks once again for Jeff and Patty stepping up and doing a few tunes with us. "Life was good today". Upon conclusion of the Central Hotel Tour, we headed north up to Fosters and his outside party for a bit of Music Trivia around the campfire with a couple of cold ones. We're pretty good with those 50's and 60's tunes and titles, and little foot notes. Thanks goodness for DD's IPhone to help us with those hard to guess tunes. It helps keep your mind sharp, sometimes the whiskey just isn't enough.
So on to this weekend. On Friday Night were at the Afton Inn for a 8:30pm show and then on to Annie's Bar & Grill for another show Saturday that begins at 8:00 pm. Another busy weekend for the band. So, pick a show and come on out and see us, or better yet - try to do both! We'll see you there.
On to this weeks in "Rock and Roll History"
Gary Lewis and the Playboys release their follow up to this Diamond Ring' with "Save Your Heart For Me" this week in 1965
The Beatles begin to put down tracks for the infamous "White Album" this week in 1968.
Ray Davies flies back to England to re-record their newest single 'Lola.
The BBC refused to play the tune with the words "Coka-Cola" thus the "Sweet Cherry Cola" line was used as the substitute. {The Beatles had the same issue with their single a year earlier "Come Together" but they won their plea and the line remained} A far cry form some of the issues we share in tunes lyrics today.
In closing have a great week hope to see you all out to the shows this week.
Be well,
Mikee^^Dee
P.S. If you see Chopper this week, wish her a Happy Birthday!
And it's mere days now to the Final DeBetto' Fest - Block out the 19th on your calendars.....
The weather could not have been better for anything you had planned to do outdoors. Priceless!
It was also a pretty mellow weekend for the band,as well. We did one show on Sunday up to the Central Hotel and if you missed that one you missed a good one.
It was outdoors and you could not have asked for a nicer day to play out in the open air. The crowd was a bit lighter then in the past but holiday weekends tend to be like that. With the economy (the way it is) many people I think just got out of Dodge for the Holiday weekend.
That didn't stop the show from going on and we played our asses off to the ones that came to party. A special thanks once again for Jeff and Patty stepping up and doing a few tunes with us. "Life was good today". Upon conclusion of the Central Hotel Tour, we headed north up to Fosters and his outside party for a bit of Music Trivia around the campfire with a couple of cold ones. We're pretty good with those 50's and 60's tunes and titles, and little foot notes. Thanks goodness for DD's IPhone to help us with those hard to guess tunes. It helps keep your mind sharp, sometimes the whiskey just isn't enough.
So on to this weekend. On Friday Night were at the Afton Inn for a 8:30pm show and then on to Annie's Bar & Grill for another show Saturday that begins at 8:00 pm. Another busy weekend for the band. So, pick a show and come on out and see us, or better yet - try to do both! We'll see you there.
On to this weeks in "Rock and Roll History"
Gary Lewis and the Playboys release their follow up to this Diamond Ring' with "Save Your Heart For Me" this week in 1965
The Beatles begin to put down tracks for the infamous "White Album" this week in 1968.
Ray Davies flies back to England to re-record their newest single 'Lola.
The BBC refused to play the tune with the words "Coka-Cola" thus the "Sweet Cherry Cola" line was used as the substitute. {The Beatles had the same issue with their single a year earlier "Come Together" but they won their plea and the line remained} A far cry form some of the issues we share in tunes lyrics today.
In closing have a great week hope to see you all out to the shows this week.
Be well,
Mikee^^Dee
P.S. If you see Chopper this week, wish her a Happy Birthday!
And it's mere days now to the Final DeBetto' Fest - Block out the 19th on your calendars.....
Tuesday, May 25, 2010
Short Change Band - Memorial Weekend 2010
Hello all, Have I ever told you how much I hate Mondays? I think it's the toughest day of the week and it really taxes ones stamina. So because it's been a tough day and it's hot and sunny out, I'm making this this week's blog entry short and sweet.
Friday night's show up to Davy's was a lot of fun as they most always are. We had a good crowd, met up with some great friends, and played some good music. What more is there to say? Oh, I almost forgot the smokin' session from Pak-Rat. Damn that boy can play the blues.. Nice job Bro!
Saturday we played at Josh and Madonna's wedding in Nineveh. It was an outdoor show that went over quite well. The rainy weather even held off till the very end. Best of luck to you two and we hope you have a great time this week up to the Cape.
Well, we have a big holiday weekend coming this week, so I hope you all take advantage of the beautiful weather and get outdoors. We will be up to the Central Hotel, outside under the pavilion for a 3:00PM show.We really concentrate on outside shows as soon as the weather allows it and 80 degrees and sunny is always a plus for us. We hope to see you all there This Sunday, (5/30) bring your lawn chair along just in case, we tend to fill up fast for these outdoor shows.
And back to This week in Rock and Roll History: It's a Big week for birthdays: Bob Dylan turns 69, Stevie Nicks of Fleetwood Mac turns 62, and John Fogerty of Creedence Clearwater Revival is 65. Wow how time moves along....
So in closing, I hope you all have a safe and relaxing Memorial Day weekend, and remember what Memorial Day is truly all about - Support for our troops that have given their lives from years past up to today. They have done so much for our country in preserving the lifestyles that we all take for granted.
Peace, and I'll see you all soon,
Mikey Dee^^
Sunday, May 16, 2010
Monday, May 17, 2010
Greetings all, we are back from Bike Week 2010 in South Carolina. It was so nice just to get away even if it was only for a couple days. The weather in Myrtle Beach was fantastic (92 degrees, sunny and no rain) There's something to be said about the south, they got the weather over us. Anyway, on to Bike Week. The word was out that apparently Bikers are no longer welcome at Myrtle Beach. After all these years they've pulled the plug and this will probably be the last year for what its worth. Nobody wants to go to a place to get hassled and ticketed especially when you are on a vacation. Our hotel had about 6 bikes in the lot, down from the normal 50 or so. The "Dog House South" (famous biker bar) was closed. Murphy's Pub had two golfers and ourselves in it last Saturday. And even the "Suck, Bang and Blow" (maybe) had 100 bikes in both the front lot and all the rear combined. That's such a shame. I think the other thing you have to remember is it's now 2010 and there is a new type of Biker moving up into the foreground. The kids are all grown up and many just want to to do their own thing and not necessarily follow in the parents footsteps. Most of us now are second generation bikers, many of the founders of the late 60's 70's and 80's are just a bit too old to still be raising hell and sleeping in tent on the ground. So now 80's bikers are moving over for the new millennium bikers. So it's kinda sad in a way just like T. West used to say "Other than Corvettes every sport has about a 10-15 year cycle". How true that is. All I can say is "Ride it like you stole it" (at least for now anyway).
So with that, on to the last week's shows. Friday night we played our last winter show up to the HITCHIN' POST. Double D was out of town that night so I jumped up on the bass and had our buddy Wally Jo fill in once again on the drums. It was a great show, and KW and Wally can't wait to do it again sometime. The acoustic shows can be a lot of fun, they are what you make of them, mellow entertainment.
On to Saturday and the AFTON SPORTSMAN'S CLUB. It was the spring roast and the first outdoor show of the year and once again. Patrick, Donnie and the whole club put on a great party. The food here is always excellent. Saturday was no exception. Keep up the good work guys, we're looking forward to the August party.
So now it's still Saturday and on to show number two. The American Legion Post 1645 in Binghamton. Once again we played another stellar acoustic show. The people here just love the band and we try our best to do our best especially in an acoustic show setting, with no screaming guitars, no slamin' drums, just soft and gentle. So soft and gentle I almost wanted to "pop up some corn and just sit on the couch" after this show, so-good.
So now on to this coming Friday Night's show at DAVY'S in CHENANGO FORKS. Yep, were back again for a 9pm Friday night show. Don't miss this one, it should be fun.
Also in closing the new album is selling like hot cakes, so get your copy soon for the mere price of $10. This CD contains 9 songs written by KW himself, one by me and KW as well as a dedication tune for Vinny, our dear Bass brother of yesteryear... Not to mention performances by some of the best musicians throughout the Triple Cites, 15 players in all. So, hey what are you waiting for? (Buy one)
As I close this blog for the week of the 17th, Monday is the "Freedom Motorcycle Rally" in Albany. Basically, if you ride a motorcycle this is where you should be. Demand to be counted and let Albany know that what they write or don't write for your protection is what's in your Best interest. Once your rights are taken away, it's next to impossible to get them back. Ride safe my brothers and sisters and most of all just RIDE.
Peace,
Mikee^^ Dee.... (p.s. 4 more weeks till the 5th annual - and final -DeBetto' fest)
So with that, on to the last week's shows. Friday night we played our last winter show up to the HITCHIN' POST. Double D was out of town that night so I jumped up on the bass and had our buddy Wally Jo fill in once again on the drums. It was a great show, and KW and Wally can't wait to do it again sometime. The acoustic shows can be a lot of fun, they are what you make of them, mellow entertainment.
On to Saturday and the AFTON SPORTSMAN'S CLUB. It was the spring roast and the first outdoor show of the year and once again. Patrick, Donnie and the whole club put on a great party. The food here is always excellent. Saturday was no exception. Keep up the good work guys, we're looking forward to the August party.
So now it's still Saturday and on to show number two. The American Legion Post 1645 in Binghamton. Once again we played another stellar acoustic show. The people here just love the band and we try our best to do our best especially in an acoustic show setting, with no screaming guitars, no slamin' drums, just soft and gentle. So soft and gentle I almost wanted to "pop up some corn and just sit on the couch" after this show, so-good.
So now on to this coming Friday Night's show at DAVY'S in CHENANGO FORKS. Yep, were back again for a 9pm Friday night show. Don't miss this one, it should be fun.
Also in closing the new album is selling like hot cakes, so get your copy soon for the mere price of $10. This CD contains 9 songs written by KW himself, one by me and KW as well as a dedication tune for Vinny, our dear Bass brother of yesteryear... Not to mention performances by some of the best musicians throughout the Triple Cites, 15 players in all. So, hey what are you waiting for? (Buy one)
As I close this blog for the week of the 17th, Monday is the "Freedom Motorcycle Rally" in Albany. Basically, if you ride a motorcycle this is where you should be. Demand to be counted and let Albany know that what they write or don't write for your protection is what's in your Best interest. Once your rights are taken away, it's next to impossible to get them back. Ride safe my brothers and sisters and most of all just RIDE.
Peace,
Mikee^^ Dee.... (p.s. 4 more weeks till the 5th annual - and final -DeBetto' fest)
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