Off Handedly - August 26, 2010
Well I had this empty space in my music schedule and the Docs have been telling me for several years that I need to have carpal tunnel surgery. So August is my month for taking care of this. While I've been putting it off, my hand has gone from moderate to severe. Both the tests and my hand agree.
So a couple of weeks ago, I let them have at it, and it went pretty well. Recovery has been slow but steady, and I can do a lot of things without pain. But I can't turn door knobs, open jars or bottles, or wash dishes yet. I just tried to play the banjo and it kinda hurts, but I did get to play a bit of one song. What song was waiting for my fingers? "Music Tree." Now that it is in my head, my hands are thinking about playing it. Hmmm... frustrating to not be able to play. Another week or two and I think I'll be strumming again.
So for the moment, the calendar is a bit empty.
If you can't PLAY a show, might as well HEAR a show, right? I caught David Francey and Craig Werth in Portsmouth. An amazing show. These two never fail to leave me slack-jawed. And finally Murray got to hear them live, after nearly wearing out their CDs when we drove all through NZ last year.
Craig's new CD, "Spokes Man" deserves special notice. His songwriting has developed so deeply over the years and his playing...... Depth is the word that keeps coming to mind. I listened on the way to work today. And I remember popping the CD into the player on Rt 5 in Saco... then the next thing I knew, I was on Forest Ave in Portland. "Spokes Man" carried me to the radio station. Floating. This is the kind of recording one can get lost in. Riveting stories, eloquent melodies and stunning instrumental execution. And Craig's smooth but expressive voice conveys his songs as though you were having a conversation over tea.
If you don't know Craig Werth, I recommend a little visit to his website. www.craigwerth.com
Oh yeah... my CD is still available at my website, and I'd love it if you will buy one. And I hope you will recommend me to your friends and your local coffeehouses, libraries and other venues. But before you do any of that, give Craig a listen.
I'll be back with a stronger, more accurate left hand in a few weeks. In the meantime, I wish you a delightful end of summer.
Signing off for now,
Dale Robin