7/18/08 – I had a great time celebrating the 4^th in the mountains of Salt Lake City and hope everyone didn’t blow off any fingers from fireworks.  Lucas Cookus has indeed kept me busy and I’d like to thank all the locals for giving me so much support in this new scene.  To Have Heroes was back in the studio yesterday working on new tracks and they all sound great.  An upcoming EP should be out later this summer and will be worth the wait.  Make sure to keep checking in for more info on the release.  I am also excited about a last minute fill in gig that I will be doing with the Toby Walter’s Band in Temple, TX at the end of the month for the Christian Life Church.  Toby plays around the area and it will be good to branch out a little.  Check him out at www.tobywalters.com

5/19/08 – Spring is in the air it seems and the weather down in Austin is fantastic.  Make sure to get out and enjoy the fresh air is possible. 

I have been playing with a new to the scene Austin band called Lucas Cookus lately and am excited to start playing around some of the regular local rooms in Austin.  The band is made up of great people and so far we have had a lot of fun together.  There are a lot of upcoming shows in the next couple of weeks so I am sure to be busy.  Check them out at www.lucascookus.com.

4/17/08 – I just finished the Phil Marshall tour and want to thank everyone in OK and TX for making the shows such a success.  There are plans to do some more shows in the states this summer and possibly some UK dates in the fall.  I’ll keep you posted. 

Although I’ve already said it, it is worth saying again.  I’m super proud of David Cook and his accomplishments with American Idol.  He is now in the top 6 so everyone show some support and help him move up the ladder.  “Analog Heart,” David’s first solo album has reached No. 1 in mp3 downloads on amazon.com recently and I’m stoked to know that more people are being exposed to his music.  I may be a little biased but I think the album is great and I am proud to say that I was a part of it.  If you don’t have this album already you should get it quick before it is pulled from the shelves.

I hope everyone is enjoying the coming of spring and will check back in next month.

3/18/08 – So just in case you don’t know out there, Austin has an extreme amount of music available any day of the week and at any time.  I’m simply amazed at the choices and often have a hard time deciding where to go and whom to see.  Awesome! 

Yellowdog studio from Tulsa finally relocated to Austin and Dave Percefull and I have been hard at work getting it ready for operation.  It is located on 33 acres southwest of the city and is a short drive to downtown.  Dave has unofficially named it the “rock ranch” and it is pretty appropriate since it looks out on the western hills and there is a horse farm next door.  All in all it is going to be great and a pretty inspiring place to create music.

Speaking of music, the SXSW music festival was pretty crazy this year.  The city reported that there was an extra 150,000 people in the area over the six day period so you can imagine all the chaos involved.  I got to see a lot of friends that I’ve made over the years and a great time was had by all. 

Neil and Andy of MWK came down for a few days and we finished up the remaining tracks for the new EP that is going to be released pretty soon.  Derek Taylor from Milo Studios in Dallas handled the mixing duties and it is going to sound great.  More details on the release date as I get them. 

Toward the end of the month I’m excited to welcome Englishman Phil Marshall back to the states for some dates in Oklahoma and Texas…and have even heard rumors about recording new material.  We’ll see…and last but not least…Andy Skib has started working on his first solo project entitled “To Have Heroes” and it is going to great.  We are going into Rosewater Studio in Tulsa to work on the first track which will be released sometime soon.  Check it out at www.myspace.com/tohaveheroes

2/1/08 – I simply cannot believe that another year has passed us by and hope that the start of everyone’s 2008 has been great so far.  I’m looking forward to another exciting year of music and all the new friends that I will make along the way. 

I’d like to give a heartfelt congratulation to singer/songwriter David Cook on his acceptance to the Hollywood round for the 2008 American Idol.  For those of you who aren’t familiar with his work you should definitely watch the program and see for yourself how talented David is as a singer.  I’ve never actually watched an entire episode of the TV program in the past, but have a feeling I will be watching this season to see how he progresses through the ranks.  Good luck my friend!   

The independent horror film entitled “The Fun Park” that I worked on last year will be nationally released on March 4^th.  It will be available at all the major retailers (WalMart, Blockbuster, etc.) around the country so check it out. 

Phil Marshall’s song “It’s Not My Fault” was selected as one of the top 25 songs of 2007 by Indie-Music.com.  Thanks for everyone’s support! 

I just finished working with two new exciting artists in the studio and expect big things for them in the future.  The first was Christian contemporary artist Whitney Finemore and the second is Brandon Autry, grandson of the late Gene Autry.  Both are going to be great and I look forward to working on more of their tunes. 

I decided to start the New Year off by taking some time to visit family and friends around the country and look forward to settling into my new home in Austin throughout the month of February.  Staying in one place has been harder for me than expected so we’ll see how I fare when March comes.  I’m sure it will be all right…and if not I’m sure I can find somewhere to go!  Until next time…

12/8/07 – I just finished two great projects in the studio and am looking forward to hearing the final mixes.  The first was long time Tulsa metal favorites Bait and the second was a new project call The Revival.  Both turned out great.  Check out their sites for more info.  www.baitrocks.com and www.therevivalmusic.com

I also performed in a video for Calling Mathew at the Oklatravel.net site which can be seen at www.callingmatthew.com and finished up some tracks at Yellow Dog Studios for country music artist Johnny Omara. 

I have some shows lined up with Travis Kidd toward the end of the month and will finish off 2007 at a New Year’s Eve show with Midwest Kings.  The show will be a The Blank Slate in Tulsa and should be a blast.  Come and make the count down with us! 

10/12/07 – I’m currently enjoying some last of the season mountain biking in Salt Lake City, UT and preparing for the arrival of Yorkshire, England recording artist Phil Marshall to arrive for some dates throughout Texas and Oklahoma.  There has been quite a buzz on the airwaves about the current single “It’s Not My Fault” from Phil’s latest disc “Magnolia” in the Dallas, San Antonio, and Austin markets so thanks to everyone that keeps requesting the song. 

Midwest Kings will be back in the studio tracking some new stuff for an upcoming EP and I’m really excited about it.  It has been a while since we last released anything and this stuff is going to be good.  Check out www.midwestkings.com for more info. 

I’d like to congratulate Travis Kidd for winning Best Country Act at the Tulsa Spotnik awards.  He is certainly deserving of the award and I can’t wait to perform with him again. 

I BOUGHT A HOUSE…so the adventure will begin!  I get the keys the day before the Phil tour starts.  Everyone is welcome to stop by for a visit, just bring your own chair since I won’t have any at the moment! J 

9/13/07 – Well it seems that it is that time of the year again and Tulsa’s 9^th annual Spotnik awards are just around the corner.  I would like to say congratulations to all the bands that I have worked with over the past year who were nominated. 

Best Country Act – Travis Kidd

Best Pop Act – Phil Marshall

Best R&B/Blues Act – Dustin Pittsley

Best Singer-Songwriter – TJ McFarland, Phil Zoellner

Show your support for these great artists and head to www.tulsaworld.com/spotniks to learn more about the bands and cast your vote.  Deadline for voting is October 5^th at midnight. 

This has been and will be a great month of music for me with music to be performed with Calling Mathew, Bryan Jewett, MWK, Jon Malone, and Tranny.  In fact, the latest release from Tranny entitled “In Winter” will be available at their cd release party being held on the 21^st at Exit6C.  This disc is a departure from the band’s last effort but really shows their maturity in songwriting.  It is going to be hit.  For more info check out www.trannymusic.com

Other exciting news is that I have decided to settle down in my own twisted way and buy a house in Austin, TX.  This won’t change my schedule at all, but will hopefully allow more opportunities for the future.  I’m meeting with my realtor in a week or so and starting the house hunting process.  I’ll keep you posted…

08/23/07 – Time really flies when you are having fun…..or extremely busy.  Phil Marshall ’s album was finished toward the end of June and I can’t wait to get it back from duplication.  The band hit a series of shows that took us North to Wisconsin and all the way West to Utah before returning home.  I’d like to thank everyone along the way that we met and supported us.  I know that we will see you soon. 

  I finished off July in grand style by performing at Tulsa ’s Diversafest with both Tranny and Bryan Jewett .  D-fest was a hit and the best so far.  Congratulations to TJ and Angie Green for the festival….and good luck next year making it even better! 

  David Cook received a well earned award for “Best Indie Album” from the Urban Tulsa Music Awards.  If you haven’t listened to the his album “Analog Heart” yet, you owe yourself the treat.  Check out David’s myspace for a preview of the songs at www.myspace.com/drcook.  

  A congratulations to Calling Mathew as well for landing a spot on the soundtrack for the horror film “The Stitcher,” which will be released this fall.  This is another great album to check out.  For more info go to www.callingmatthew.com

  The month of August has seen me on the road tying up the last dates of Phil Marshall ’s summer tour and have all been a complete success.  Phil will return to the states in October for another go around and then there are rumors that the band will be flying across the pond in November to support the new album on his home turf.  More details to follow, but in the mean time check out Phil’s new album “Magnolia” which can be purchased at CD Baby or through his site www.philmarshall.biz.  

  As you can see there have been a lot of great developments happening to projects that I’m working with.  Thanks goes out to all the artists that allow me to perform with them.  I couldn’t do any of this without you. 

06/20/07 – The summer tour for Englishman Phil Marshall officially kicked off on the first and everything has been going great.  We headed back to Yellow Dog Studios to work on a new album and expect its release sometime in August.  Couple working on that with all the “welcome back” shows and it has made for a very busy month.  I wouldn’t know what to do if I wasn’t busy, however, so I’m enjoying every bit of it.  I’d like to thank Scoop at KSYM in San Antonio and Lynn at 101X in Austin for all the support. 

Tomorrow night I’m playing with Travis Kidd and opening a show with legendary banjo player Roy Clark and am extremely excited about it.  I’m taking a few days off afterwards to enjoy some motorcycle races in Salt Lake City before returning for a few shows with Phil Marshall , Tranny, David Cook , and new to the Tulsa scene Soda Pop.  Next month I’ll be back on the road with Phil Marshall and preparing for Tulsa ’s Diversafest.  Check it out at www.dfest.com for more info. 

 05/22/07 – 80’s metal is not dead………or at least that is what I was told when given the invitation to play with Spand-X, a 80’s cover band for a private party.  It was a last minute affair and turned out great.  Everyone involved had a great time and there has been talk about playing another show.  Pull out your concert t’s and ripped up jeans just in case. 

  Tulsa ’s annual Mayfest celebration took place last weekend and I was honored to play with three bands.  All three (Calling Mathew, MWK, and Phil Zoellner) happened on the same night which made for an interesting evening.  I’d like to thank all my support crew for getting me on and off the various stages and keeping everything in check. 

  Yorkshire , England artist Phil Marshall is flying in toward the end of the month so I will be preparing for a summer tour with him and it has been rumored that a new album is in the works as well.  Stay tuned for more information. 

  04/18/07 – Calling Mathew played their first show since hitting the studio for an Urban Tulsa showcase and I couldn’t be more pleased with the turnout.  Make sure to keep an eye on this band because the new cd is going to sound fantastic.  Speaking of fantastic cd’s, long time friend Brian Jewett is finally releasing his solo disc this month and it should be a party.  At the end of the month I’ll be hitting the road with Phil Zoellner through Louisiana and Texas as he opens up some shows for red dirt artist Jason Boland and the Stragglers.  I’m excited to see some familiar faces, meet new ones, and play some great music.  See you there…

  02/26/07 – It seems that spring is right around the corner and I cannot personally wait.  I typically fill the winter months with snowboarding trips and mountain excavations but unfortunately my schedule this year didn’t offer any opportunities.  I plan to make up for it the best way I can……with plenty of outdoor spring and summer activities! 

Yorkshire , England artist Phil Marshall was in the states for a few weeks and kept me busy with a radio promotions tour and some regional dates.  His latest single “Energy” is doing well on the charts and I am looking forward to more touring in the next couple of months while we are working on his next album.  For news and events check out www.philmarshall.biz  

I just finished recording the band Treaty As Allies from Fayetteville , AR next studio project at Yellow Dog Studios and am extremely excited to hear the final product.  These guys are heavy and pulled me out of my comfort zone in the studio…….which is a great thing and I couldn’t be happier about my parts.  Check out some of there older stuff and gig listings at www.myspace.com/treatyasallies and I’ll post the new stuff as soon as I get it. 

Jenny Labow’s latest album was released a couple of weeks ago and is already making a big hit with local fans.  Copies are limited so make sure you grab one quick.  Check out www.jennylabow.com for more information. 

And speaking of releases, rumor has it that Bryan Jewett’s solo album will be released in early April.  This is a disc you won’t want to miss and features some of Tulsa ’s finest players.  I’ll keep you posted. 

And last but not least I have to give a “happy birthday” to long time friend Bobby Mathis today.  It seems that he has left his twenties and is moving on to bigger and better things.  I wish you all the best with all of your future endeavors.   

01/29/07 – First off I must say better late than never……….so…….Happy New Year! 

It has been a while since I last updated my news column so I decided to take a look at some of the previous posts and see what I have been up too.  I was shocked to discover that all my friends seem to be getting married.  Something must be in the local water supply around here so I’ll be sure to continue drinking the bottled stuff!  Actually, I think that it is great that everyone has found there perfect mate so I must announce once again the union of long time friends Erik and Somer a few weeks ago and most recently Phil and April from Dallas.  I heard that I was directly responsible for Erik and Somer pairing up and know that they’re happiness will endure for a long time to come.  Congratulations to both couples! 

As usual there have been a lot of people responsible for keeping me busy over the past few months.  Some of the highlights include:

- Touring with The Vanished from Dallas , TX while on tour with Blue October…www.thevanished.com

- The release of “Incoherent with a Desire to Move On” by the Midwest Kings…www.midwestkings.com

- Recording the new Calling Mathew record…www.myspace.com/callingmatthew

- Recording the new Tranny EP entitled “In Winter” with Paul Johnson …www.trannymusic.com

- Recently starting preproduction on Phil Marshall ’s latest album in London and then playing some dates around England and France .

- Attending the Sundance Film Festival a week ago while hanging out with great friends. 

  In the next few weeks I’ll be finishing up local artist Johnny Omara’s newest release and continuing preproduction on Phil Marshall ’s work while playing some dates throughout the region with him.  I will be working on some great projects over the next couple of months and will keep you up to date.  I hope 2007 is treating everyone well. 

10/24/06 – I’d like to start off congratulating Steve Liddell for winning the Tulsa Worls Spot Music Award in the Best Singer-Songwriter category.  It is always a pleasure to work with Steve and I can personally attest to how hard he works for it.  Congrats! 

Zac Maloy has been keeping me busy at Rosewater Studio with a new project called The Pearls, which features an all-star line-up of some of the areas finest players.  Some local gigs are set in the upcoming months to showcase some of the songs.  I can’t wait and know that every one will love it.  Long time friend Matt Middleton has also started a new studio project and given me the driver seat for both drums and production.  I’ll be working along side Ace at The Hideaway studio in Broken Arrow , OK .  Ace has a great ear for details so I’m excited to collaborate and see what happens. 

I decided to tour some of my favorite wine vineyards in Sonoma, CA and then hang out in San Francisco for a couple of days before heading off to Salt Lake City to watch some good friends getting married.  A heart felt congratulations go out to both Craig and Melinda.  I know you two will be happy forever. 

Next month I’m excited to welcome recording artist Phil Marshall back to the states from his home in Yorkshire , England .  He will only be here for a limited time so we are trying to cram in some live dates and some studio work before he heads out to his next destination.  Check out the itinerary page and mark your calendars.  Phil is an amazing person who writes great songs and is someone that needs to be heard. 

9/11/06 – Where to begin… It seems my schedule has been a little crazy as of late, but some really good music has been made in the process so I can’t complain.  I started working on Jenny Labow’s new album with Dave Percefull and it is going to be great when it gets done.  Zac Maloy has also been keeping me busy at Rosewater Studio, while the boys from MWK,  Jon Malone, and TJ McFarland have kept me going on the live side of things.   

I had a great opportunity to play with a new band called Tranny at a New Orleans festival celebrating the one year anniversary of hurricane Katrina.  It was good to see how the city has pulled together and began rebuilding.  Check them out at www.trannymusic.com for more information. 

Long time friend Jason Gilardi recently got married so I’d like to congratulate him and his new wife Lisa.  I wish them both all the luck, although I know that they won’t need it.

The annual Tulsa World “Spot” music awards are also right around the corner so I’d like to thank all the great artists that I’ve worked with over the past year.  Cast your vote at  http://www.tulsaworld.com/Multimedia/2006/Spotniks/spotniksform.asp by September 29th.

The artists that I have worked for and their nominations:

Best Rock Act – MWK

Best R&B/Blues – Dustin Pittsley  

Best Singer Songwriter – Phillip Zoellner

Best Singer Songwriter – Steve Liddell

Best Album – Steve Liddell “Good Love”

 Last but not least, I just finished up working with Dallas based band “The Vanished” at Rosewater studio.  They were working on material for a new EP to be released this fall.  The content is great and so was working with the guys.  You should definitely check them out.  Go to www.thevanished.com for more info. 

  Until next time…

 8/02/06 – I took some time off from the studio in July to go mountain biking in Salt Lake City and then on to Lake Powell , UT to wakeboard and soak up some sun.  Besides getting a sun burn and breaking my little finger I had a great time and look forward to repeating the trip (minus the finger) next year. 

  I’d like to thank the crew responsible for making Dfest so successful this year and TJ McFarland and MWK for the great shows during the festival.  It is nice to see so much regional talent and industry people in one place sharing their music and knowledge together. 

  Another interesting note was my unplanned extended stay in Kansas City this past weekend due to engine problems in the van.  I’d like to thank Mark and Emily Jewett, Journey from The Buzz 96.5, and all the rest for taking care of us and showing us a good time during a down time. 

  Stay cool in the heat, but enjoy it because fall is approaching. 

  6/15/06 – So I must apologize for not updating my news column on a regular basis.  A certain someone in my life was giving me static about it the other day so this if for you, and I’ll try to be more consistent in the future.  I seriously doubt that I can, but I will try.  As for the rest of you, please bare with me. 

  The last week of May into the second week of June I worked with Bowling For Soup at Rosewater Studio.  “Let’s get the party started” was the theme for the week and it is amazing to note how much endurance the body has if you constantly push it.  And when I say that I mean I’m still recovering from the whole thing.  It was a great experience filled with great guys and I can’t wait to hear the final product.  For more info on the release date check out www.bowlingforsoup.com. 

  Other than that I have been traveling regionally with TJ McFarland and the Midwest Kings, as well as playing locally with Jon Malone and Steve Liddell.  Rosewater Studio has been keeping me busy with some Sony Industry Samplers and I just finished working on a song with Graham Colton.  David Cook’s solo album has finally been released and sounds amazing.  Check out his album entitled “Analog Heart” available now at www.davidcookmusic.net.

  05/03/06 – Wow is all that I can say.  April was an extremely busy month for me filled with great music, and more importantly great friends.  Over the past month I have worked on two new projects at Yellow Dog Studio.  The first is called “The Revival” from Tulsa and the second is an emerging artist named Mary Jane Claire out of Stillwater , OK .  I’ll be working with both projects until their albums are completed filling the roles of both engineer and session drummer.  I also spent some time down at Rosewater Studio working with some amazing artists to complete some industry samplers for Epic and Columbia Records.  Besides studio work, TJ McFarland and MWK kept me busy traveling throughout the region. 

  During May I’ll be playing with Liddell for Tulsa ’s “Mayfest” and another great artist Phillip Zoellner at a Tulsa Transit Event while traveling around the region with TJ McFarland and MWK.  Long time friend and sound engineer Paul Johnson will be tying the knot towards the end of the month so I wish him all the success he can handle. 

03/22/06 – Spring break.  What else can you say?  I just got back from Moab, UT where I had a delightful time hiking, white water river rafting, and mountain biking.  The warm weather was just enough to take the chill out of the remaining bits of winter.  Spring forward as they say.  March has been keeping me busy with studio work from TJ McFarland, Liddell, and David Cook.  David’s album is finally completed and ready to go.  It should be out in the next couple of months, and is going to be a great album.  I’m really excited about this one as I’ve seen it develop over the past year.  Another exciting adventure was working with The Digital Underground tracking vocal parts for a new song to be released while they were passing through town.  It, too, should be out in a couple of months.  Other than that I have some shows with Liddell, MWK, and TJ to finish off the month.  Next month I’ll be working on the set of a new movie being produced by Blade Walker Entertainment and am excited to be a part of the process.  I’ll keep you posted how it develops.  Enjoy the sunshine.    

02/24/06 – Time really seems to be flying by.  It is hard to believe that spring is just around the corner.  I truly enjoy the winter festivities but am looking forward to some warmer weather and the activities that come with it.  MWK has been keeping me busy working on some new songs, while Liddell and I have been playing some acoustic shows.  I also selfishly took a week off to celebrate my birthday and hung out in the mountains with friends.  Before the month ends I’ll be working in the studio with long time friend Brian McCarty from LaCrosse, WI trying to finish his album, playing some live shows with MWK and Liddell, and start tracking Soul Rider from Cleveland, OK.  Next month TJ McFarland will be back in town so I’m excited to start playing some shows with him again, as well as Liddell’s CD release party, and another show with Jon Malone .  Hope everyone partook in a special Valentine’s celebration, whether by yourself or with another.  Until next time. 

01/16/06 – Hopefully this post finds all of you stronger than I, for I haven’t kept my New Year’s resolutions.  Although, to be honest, I never do.  I figure there is always next year.  The Midwest Kings have been keeping me busy traveling around the region and the shows have been great.  We recently recorded three new songs in Zac Maloy’s new studio entitled “Rosewater Studios” (www.rosewaterstudios.com) and I am excited to hear the final product.  Brian Jewett’s solo work is working up nicely and I’ll be finishing his tracks this evening before flying out to Park City , UT to enjoy the Sundance Film Festival and a little snowboarding.  I’ll fly back to Tulsa in time to play with Jon Malone and MWK before the month ends.     

    12/27/05 – First and foremost, happy Hanukah, Kwanzaa, Christmas…or whatever you want to call it to everyone.  Everything usually speeds up at this time of the year but I’ve been able to take it easy for once and hang out in the studio.  I finished up the TJ McFarlin shows and couldn’t be happier with the performances and good times.  Rumor has it that his next project will take him to Nashville so hopefully I’ll have a place to rest my head while visiting him.  I have been playing some percussion with Steve Liddell and Jon Malone lately and even had the opportunity to track a couple of songs for Jon’s new album expected out this spring.  Zac Maloy has also been keeping me busier with some industry samplers that he is doing and I also completed a series of commercials for local electric company PSO that featured John Lennon’s “Power to the People” song.  Other than that, I have been rehearsing and playing out with the Midwest Kings and I will be celebrating the New Year with them at The Venue in Tulsa . I’m inviting everyone out for the occasion.  If I don’t see you, have a safe and happy New Year. 

    11/14/05 – Lots of news, lots of news.  Tulsa singer/song writer Brian Jewett has been added to my list of studio sessions for this month.  I have completed 3 tracks so far and will complete the rest of his album in the next couple of weeks.  The MWK shows have been a complete success and there is talk of recording new songs in the studio soon.  Andy Skibb (singer for MWK) turned a year older on the 9^th………so I’d like to wish him a happy birthday as well.  I finished up a cinema soundtrack for Revolution Studios today that is slated to be released in April of 2006.  I will reveal more details as they come to me.  Country station KZLA has recently picked up TJ McFarland’s “You Loved Me When” off of his new album “Rosenbum’s Gin” and has added it to their Sunday evening show “Altville.”  I will be playing with TJ at the end of November and select shows in December.  Last but not least, I will be recording with Oklahoma City artists Laura Wilhite over Thanksgiving weekend.  She is talented new artist that has been making a name for herself throughout the region.  Check out  www.laurawilhite.com for more information.  I hope everyone is able to spend time with their families and loved ones over the Thanksgiving holiday.  Until next time…    

    10/13/05 – I’d like to start out by congratulating local musician and long time friend, Grant Vespasian, on his recent marriage, and wish him and Haley the best for the rest of their lives.  Rehearsals with Midwest Kings will start again this week for some shows around the state and also in Wisconsin at the end of the month.  I will also start working with Rob Ward, a new artist from OKC, throughout the month and am excited to hear his music.  Happy Halloween to everyone.     

    9/14/05 – I took the first week of September off to spend some time at Lake Powell in Southern Utah with some friends and enjoyed the water and endless sunshine.  Since then I’ve done some session work for Broken Arrow artist Nick Graziano and another industry sampler disc for Disney Records.  It seems the only break I’ll get this month from the studio will be a much awaited gig with Liddell on the 17^th.  I also will be attending the Broken Arrow Academy Career Fair and consulting teens who want to pursue a career in the music industry.  I’m excited to have an opportunity helping kids start off on the right path. 

    8/30/05 – I can’t even believe that the last days of summer are upon us.  I truly enjoy the sunshine and warm weather, but am welcoming the fall and winter activities that come with it.  TJ McFarlin has kept me busy over the last month and I look forward to the release of his new disc and working with him again in the near future.  I just finished tracks for Oklahoma City artist Steve Franklin , and have been doing some preproduction work for some artists that I’ll record with in September.  Check out www.stevefranklinmusic.com for further details. 

The 7^th annual Tulsa Spot Music awards are also headed this way and I’d like to congratulate all the bands that I have worked with over the past year that were nominated for a category.  Here are the nominations and thanks for making me sound good. 

Phil Marshall, Midwest Kings – Best Local Album

Midwest Kings - Best Rock Act

Steve Liddell - Best Pop Act

Express your vote at www.tulsaworld.com.  Voting deadline is September 9^th, 2005 .

    7/04/05 – I wish everyone the best in their celebration of Independence Day, and I can’t believe that June has already come and gone.  Over the past month I finished up working with Dave Heibl of Traveler’s Dawn Music and Phil Marshall , then sent them to their respective homes.  I also worked on another industry sampler for Zac Maloy and started co-engineering for the band N.O.S from Skiatook , OK .  TJ McFarland came back to town for some shows and I’ll be working with him (and other local musicians) over the summer on a new project.  I’ll also be playing Tulsa’s annual D-fest again this year with Liddell and singer-song writer Bryan Jewett, working on some new material from David Cook, and then flying out to UT for some relaxation before hitting some dates with Tulsa’s best party band RPM.  It’s going to be a good month.  Hope everyone is enjoying their summer.     

    5/16/05 – I am pleased to announce that Phil Marshall ’s newest release entitled “Providence ?” has been a complete success.  A DVD from Phil is on the way, as well as a live cd containing sessions from the Abbey Road Studio in London .  Recent studio work includes some tracks for Los Angeles based artist Jenny Labow’s upcoming album, and also 11 Mile Climb from La Crosse , WI .  Traveler’s Dawn Music out of Madison , WI has recently signed me up to play on a record later this month.  All of the projects are sporting some great music and I’m excited to hear the finished products.  Other than that, listen for David Cook’s single “Porcelain” on Kansas City ’s 96.5 The Buzz. 

    4/18/05 – It seems that it was only yesterday since I sat here on my computer and gave an update to the news section.  Time really flies when your busy I guess. 

The Mad Verb show at the beginning of March went excellent.  It was great to play music with the old boys again and see so many familiar faces singing along in the crowd.  Thanks to everyone who drove from out of state to hang out with us that night.  Maybe we’ll do another show in the future.  Other than that, I spent some time in the studio with MWK and played on an industry sampler for Zac Maloy.  Chris Clark’s album seems almost complete and the first couple of shows with Englishman Phil Marshall have been a success.  I’m gearing up to see everyone in WI, KS, IL, CO, and UT in the next couple of weeks while promoting Phil Marshall ’s newest release entitled “Providence?.”  Advance copies of the disc can be found at www.bonetonerecords.net .  Check out my Itinerary for a listing of show dates or go to www.philmarshall.biz for more information. 

    3/07/05 – A change in the season is happening with the arrival of spring, and hopefully a lot of new music as well.  I took some time off in the mountains to enjoy my birthday and have been working on some exciting projects since I’ve been back.  On top of rehearsing, the promotions for the Mad Verb reunion show have kept me busy lately with radio interviews and photo shoots.  I also just finished some tracks for David Cook out of Kansas City for his up and coming solo project.  He has written some great music and I am looking forward to hearing the completed project.  Other than that, I’ll start rehearsing with Phil Marshall at the end of the month to prepare for the upcoming April/May tour and the release of his live cd.

      2/01/05 – My travels “across the pond” were a success and I had a great time while meeting some amazing players and new friends.  I’d like to thank everyone who lent me gear, pints, and showed me a proper English good time while keeping me out of too much trouble.  (I know that we will do it again very soon.)  Since I’ve been back I have been working with Mad Verb on a reunion show in Tulsa that will hopefully work out the first week of March. I’ve also been playing with some of Jeff Martinson’s solo material, and working on some production on Chris Clark’s solo album that should be out in the spring.  Other than that, check out Jim Newquist’s latest release entitled “Bump” that features me on some of the tracks and is now available in select stores or through his site 7thkid.com. 

I’d also like to say a special thanks to The Landaus band for playing shows with us in England .  Check them out at www.thelandausrock.co.uk

    1/07/05 – I just got back from Salt Lake City , UT where I spent New Year’s Eve with some friends and played in the snow while snowboarding.  ( Utah really does have the best snow in the country and I can’t wait to get back there.)  It’s amazing to think how time slips away from me and then suddenly hits me in the face with a new year.  Reflecting on it gives me insight, and yet inspires me to see what challenges I’ll face in 2005.    I’m off to Chicago tomorrow and then flying out to London to record at Abbey Road Studio with Phil Marshall .  We will then be playing some clubs throughout England for a couple of weeks to support some of his new recordings.  I’d like to thank everyone who I worked with over the past year and the great friends that I’ve made in the process.  I look forward to working with and seeing you all very soon.  Happy New Year!    

    11/30/04 - What can I say, the leaves are all changing and the weather is getting colder...winter has finally arrived.  I've spent the first and last of the month traveling with Phil Marshall, and the middle working as a facilitator at the opening ceremonies for the "Presidential Clinton Library" in Little Rock, Arkansas.  Both were exciting and I was able to meet and hang out with some great people like Bono and The Edge from U2.  Quite an experience...  Other than that I have some session work lined up with Yellow Dog Studio before spending Christmas with the family, and then will be taking some time off for New Year's before flying out to London to continue working with Phil Marshall.  Happy holidays to everyone.  

    10/18/04 – I have been very fortunate to play with so many great musicians lately and would like to say “thank you” for working with me.  The Midwest King’s, Steve Liddell, and Phil Marshall have all been nominated for Tulsa ’s Spotnik music awards and I’m proud to work with them.   I had a great time with TJ McFarland after he flew in from Los Angeles and am currently working in the studio with Phil Marshall on some of his new material.  The upcoming tour with Phil Marshall during November and December will be great and I’m really looking forward to playing with such talented musicians. 

   09/02/04 – Barring a short trip to Utah to spend time with friends, the month of August was spent working on new material at home.  This month I’ll be working on two projects in the studio.  The first is an experimental session with the band “Blue.” (which will include keyboard player Corey Mauser from Big Head Todd and the Monsters) and the second is a solo project for Chris Clark.  Both look to be a lot of fun and challenging at the same time.   

On an educational note:  A friend and fantastic instructor in the Tulsa area by the name of Jeffrey Jones has released a double bass instructional book entitled “Groovology:  The Study of Double Bass Drum Grooves.” It is a fantastic book for all levels of players and I highly recommend it to anyone looking to expand their double bass abilities.  Check it out online at www.drumbooks.net.  

   07/30/04 – I haven’t had much time to look up and it appears that August is already upon us.  Where has the month gone?  Over the past couple of weeks I’ve been out with the Midwest Kings on their tour to support Axium’s newest release and also playing around town with Liddell and a new band called Blue.  Everything seems to be going well and I’m looking forward to upcoming shows in August and a little bit of travel. 

   06/17/04 – I’m currently hanging out in the mountains of Park City , UT and recording some new tunes for Jimmy Newquist .  The tour is going great so far and I’ve been fortunate enough to have some time to meet new friends, while hanging out with old ones.  Next week we will be playing with Chevelle at Summerfest in Milwaukee , WI and I can’t wait.  Other than that, more shows and more shows to come. 

  05/08/04 – I’ve had a couple of weeks off to get back into the swing of things and am excited about upcoming work.  This week I’ll be working as a drum tech for the band
”Axium” out of Kansas City while they record at the Yellow Dog Studio.  They seem to be an up and coming band and recently completed shooting a video for AMC Studios that will be played at 18,000 different theatres across the U.S.    For more info on Axium, check out www.axiumrock.com.  Later this week, I’ll be back in the saddle with the Steven Liddell Band for the Tulsa “Mayfest,” and a couple of other shows. 

  04/24/04 – DRUM! Magazine selected me for their “New Blood” section in the April/ May 2004 # 97 issue.  I’d like to thank the magazine and also Waldo the Squid for writing such kind words about my work.  I would like to note that I’m not from Toledo , OH …but am now thinking about visiting there to check it out.  Maybe it could be my next home? 

  The tour with Jim Newquist has been quite successful and I’m having a great time, while meeting new players.  I’d like to mention Brian McCarty from La Crosse , WI who is playing bass on this tour, and also Phil Marshal from Yorkshire , England who is opening all the shows.  Both are incredible players and individuals.  I see big futures ahead of them both.   Check out Brian at www.11mileclimb.com and Phil at www.bonetonerecords.net.

  04/12/04 – Just got a phone call from Jim Newquist, and it looks like I’ll be back on the road for a couple of weeks to help him support a new acoustic EP.  I’m excited to learn his new material and can’t wait to see familiar faces on the road again.  See you soon. 

  03/14/04 – The color of green…….March is a good month.  Los Angeles was great, and I returned to Tulsa and headed immediately to Austin , TX to play with the Steven Liddell band during the South by Southwest Film and Music Festival.  A good time was had by all, and I met a lot of new friends.  I’ve got a few more shows with TJ McFarland and Steven Liddell this month and looking forward to them. 

  02/27/04 – Tonight I’m off to Stillwater , OK to play a little bit of western swing with TJ McFarland & the Revolvers.  I’ll be filling in for their drummer for a couple of shows throughout February and March.  Next week I’m flying out to Los Angeles , CA to seek out some business opportunities, and also spend some time relaxing with family and friends. 

  02/02/04 – There is a new band that has emerged in Tulsa , OK under the name of “Band Camp” that is making quite a name for themselves.  Apparently the drummer will be absent for the next three weeks so I’ll be filling in.  Check out www.bandcampgeeks.com for more information.  I’m looking forward to it. 

  01/12/04 – The Sundance Film Festival is set to begin in a couple of days and I’ll be there playing some shows with Jim Newquist.  The band will make a quick stop in Denver , CO along the way and then will play three shows over the weekend.  Afterwards, I will be playing with a new band out of Park City , UT called the “Make-shift Allstars” before relaxing for a couple of days on the slopes.  I hope everyone made it through 2003 and into 2004 with a bang.  See you soon. 

  12/25/03 – Jenny Labow from Los Angeles will be playing in Tulsa , OK on New Year’s Eve and I have been contracted to play along.  I’m really looking forward to the show since she is one of Tulsa ’s pop icons from the past.  Happy Holidays to everyone. 

  11/02/03 – Just finished up the first leg of Jim Newquist’s tour supporting his debut solo album “ Ashley Ave. ” and had a wonderful time meeting new friends.   I now have a couple of days off before hitting the road again and can’t wait.  I’m looking forward to seeing all the familiar faces again. 

  9/20/03 – Just got back from the “Whale Day” festivities in Claremore , OK where I performed with the band Liddell, who took top honors in the battle of the bands competition. I really enjoyed all the other bands and want to congratulate the guys from Liddell on their success. Thanks for the opportunity to play with you again.

9/16/03 – Jim Newquist’s solo debut album was released today. Check out his site at www.7thkid.com or go directly to www.bandmecca.com to buy your copy today. I’ll be touring with Jim for the next couple of months, and am really excited about his music.

8/27/03 – I’m leaving for Madison , WI for the weekend where I’ll tackle the role of tour manager for the Midwest Kings. They are a great up and coming band that you should look for in your area. Check out www.midwestkings.com for more information.

8/11/03 – Starting the recording process for the band Liddell. I’ll be laying down the drums/percussion and also handling some of the producing as well. I recorded Liddell’s EP over the winter and am excited to start on their full length album.