#63 The Down and Out on 6-15-11

When we got back from tour we started to book a bunch of shows to keep the momentum going. We quickly withdrew from this plan, looking at the fact we still have an album to finish, the biggest priority. However we had one show booked with the Hangout Group, who had booked our Mezz show.

The Down and Out apparently used to be called Charlie O's, and is on the bottom floor of the Alexandria Hotel. It is very spacious and has pool tables in the middle and booths all along the side. There was a nice amount of people who seemed to just be there for the bar, a 'built-in crowd' if you will.

Bell Ringer opened the show, but it took us forever to get there, so we missed them. We walked in while Backdrifter played. They were an alternative rock trio. Cruz and Wright followed, who were dressed half glitz/half street. playing dirty rock and roll. I met the singer, who was Cruz. He informed me that Wright was no longer with the band, so they would probably be changing their name soon.

Our set was enjoyable, with extra song requests and even some dancing audience members. It felt like a good performance, and for having been a little uncertain about playing again right away, it was worth it and then some. Everyone was on their game.

Now we break for a bit, to finish the record and write some new stuff. And get ready for a video release...

#55 Ruby Room on 5-18-11

This show had been planned but then accidentally booked on the 17th, so we had to switch dates and I think the show suffered for it. Ruby Room is a great club in San Diego, tucked in behind a bar and grill. The neighborhood is very commercial and reminded some of us of Pasadena.

As opposed to Doll Hut, this had a very nice sound system, and a lot of space. There were quite a few people there as well. I'm pretty sure this is a college town, so this is "where the kids hang."

We missed Elephant Project, but Arms Entwined were a rock trio who at times had touches of 90s alternative/postpunk. Up next were Maul Shoppe. College students(?) (looked 16!) who were a blend of different musical styles, poppy and had a bit of a No Doubt informality to them. The singer constantly referenced drinking and being drunk, but looked like a sad lush rather than a cool party girl.

After they played the place cleared out, just in time for our set. We had a lot of fun as Bell Ringer watched us. So we stayed and watched them, and even started and Active Set mosh pit.

And we still got paid.

#54 Doll Hut 0n 5-17-11

This was the first show of our tour. Doll Hut used to be Linda's Doll Hut and is a bit legendary, particularly for punk rock bands. I'm trying to think if this is the first time we've actually played Orange County.

This is a small place with access to the stage from front and side, so you could have a very nice packed 'surround sound' audience. We did not unfortunately, as there were no local bands put on the bill. (LA, LA and SF) The men's bathroom had a toilet seat hanging from the wall instead of on the toilet, which was amusing.

Tonight we played with Bell Ringer, who are 3 members of the defunct Cola Cola. They are nice people, and we actually get to play 3 tour shows with them. We also played with Speedgoat, who are a bluesy/metallish power trio from SF. They had a giant stuffed bear 'mascot' (not a goat) who sat in front of the stage during their set. 

The performance was a decent start to this tour.