March 7, 2004

What a wonderful trip to Tokyo and Okinawa.  So much music, so many wonderful people, and I even found a couple new adventurous things to eat!

Highlights of the trip include:

Okinawa:  I recorded a new solo guitar CD to be released in May on Rinken's label, details as they arise; many days of touring Okinawa with Rinken learning his favorite people and places, as well as his MANY projects (his band, his label, developing new young Okinawan talent, his theatre, his restaurant, his internet retail biz, his affinity for taking pictures of EVERYTHING); jamming with David Ralston and Gachapine a couple times; meeting Bokunen; plans for the next recording as a duo with Tomoko...

I had my own "Live Show" in Tokyo with a great backup band: Takeshi, Shinichi, and Masa - with a VERY special guest appearance by Chiakara Tsuzuki on harmonica.  Thanks to all who came out!

I was able to meet and play with Kazu Minamisawa, as well as the famous band at Alfie's in Rippongi with Armin and Jay and the Boyzz.  One night we went to hear Chancon and I was invited to play with Carmen and (??).

A most memorable night was when Al DiMarco had me join him at Xex in Daikanyama.  He's traveling in the States now... safe travels, buddy!

One day on the way to Saitama there was a small concert in front of the train station.  They were nice enough to invite me to play...

Oh, and I drove a car in Tokyo.  That's an experience to remember! (Otousan - kuruma wa arigatou gozaimashita!)

Please enjoy the new picture pages (4, 5, and6), and feel free to share your thoughts!