Tour Update, Ryan Adams, and Polyphonic Spree

The warm up tour is going well. we've been tweaking the set and figuring out all of the logistics for the big tour coming up. We've made a lot of new friends this time around and have really appreciated all the enthusiasm for the new songs. The bus has been great. WiFi is the best luxury you could ever have on tour, cause even though you're stuck on a bus or in some part of town that doesn't have much to do, you always have full access to the world just like home. We've also been watching lots of TV (something i hardly ever do at home). We have a newly-found appreciation for America's Funniest Home Videos.We also watched the bonus DVD that comes with the new Polyphonic Spree album that documents the making of the album. That guy seems pretty cool and it was great to see the process with such a big collective of musicians. you should definitely check it out.I've pretty much been going between that Polyphonic Spree album and the new Ryan Adams. It's interesting to try to get to know two albums at the same time. The Polyphonic Spree is an IMMEDIATE record for me. Loved it the first time i listened. the opening track is pretty much the bees knees. i love how there's a real rocking band at the core of all the songs, but then still has all the cool elements we know and love with the band.I'm a huge Ryan Adams fan and really stoked that he's finally feeling comfortable playing live and putting on good shows and really putting out some good music. Definitely feels like he's hitting is stride. I don't connect with these songs right away, but it's really pleasant. reminds me somewhat of Gold, more than Heartbreaker (which a lot of people seem to compare it to). I think the more i listen to it the more i like it.Anyway, it's time for soundcheck so i'll leave you with this photo taken by my good friend Parry Gripp from Nerf Herder (who has just finished their new record). This was in San Luis Obispo a couple of nights ago.