Persevere, and the song actually works.

Check it out...after playing Stairway to Heaven for over 9 straight hours, the sky ruptured open and the song's mystic qualities actually came to life. So I took the stairs. There was a really, really heavy woman in her early 50s at the top. That's all there was. Sorry Led Zeppelin fans.

Just a groovy, contented little hippie...

Scratch

itch

Doug Martsch & Brett Netson street performance

I've been checking out live Built To Spill shows in small venues since somewhere around 1994. Doug Martsch, the mastermind front man of the band, is what a "rock star" is meant to be - incredible instrumental/vocal talent, zero faux attitude, creative, and no bullshit posturing.

BTS shows have consistently been the most driving, sincere live performances I've seen over the years. My first BTS show was at The Metro in Chicago where I watched/listened to Martsch get lost in a guitar solo that lasted well over 20 minutes. The less than faithful and patient walked out. Two months ago I saw them at The Fox Theatre in Boulder. It was a sold out show, so Martsch and Brett Netson gave an impromptu 30 minute street performance for those that didn't have tickets. And I was lucky enough to have walked up at the right time. This is one of my favorite live music moments ever.

The Everest Summit, 29,028'

It was really nice. They had a gift shop. And a cafeteria that served chili.

Taking In the Riches of the European Riviere

Drunk jerk on a carousel in the middle of Marseille, France....what better place to rest my feet and take in the labyrinth of streets, bustling city center and stench of fermented French assholes.

Go out in public and display your wonderful offering to potential mates..

She was slight in stature, but volcanic in fashion and hair choices...

Where are the big, reckless monkeys?