Got My Mo Jo Working

Subject: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: GUEST,Smoker-Toker-Midnight Joker
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 07:17 PM

How many of you do/have/will partake/partaken to improve attention span/creative thought/stage jitters?

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 07:22 PM

Tell ya' what motherfucker, I think that narcotic has made your shit null and void.

Spaw

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: Tweed
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 07:28 PM

Dammit Spaw, that was short and to the point!

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 07:33 PM

Yeah Tweed........Just wanted to remind our Guest that "speed kills."

Spaw

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: MMario
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 07:33 PM

so unlike 'spaw!

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: Sorcha
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 07:37 PM

It is indeed, and no, I never have. Just makes it worse. You idiot.

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: Rolfyboy6
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 08:36 PM

All the ones who partake die young. Check out the real musicians, they are drinking soft drinks or water, and they go outside and stay away from the hustlers and talk to fans on the breaks. They drive too much, and the hours are tough, especially with a day job.

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: John Hardly
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 10:02 PM

I found this part of an interview with Dave Carter in the newest issue of Dirty Linen magazine. It brings up a rather interesting discussion------the place of mind-altering substances in the creative process. This is especially interesting because Dave Carter is probably the best writer in music today.

We've already discussed here the fact that most of us would agree that mind-altering substances generally hinder our performances as guitar players (musicians). But holy cow, how much of our favorite music would we not have without mind altered states? I mean, I hate to have to admit it because I'm aware of both the insidious problem of addiction and the ensuing downhill slide. In fact, a friend and I were talking about this and we were saying how much drugs played in the lives of some of our musical heroes (Hartford, Blake, Rice, etc.).....and wondering if they would have ever been what they became without the mind-altering...though they are dying off like flies from the abuses.

Would James Taylor have written any better (could he?), or any differently if he had not been a junkie?

From "Dirty Linen" magazine---interview by Pamela Murray Winters: Curious about the emphasis on altered consciousness in Dave Carter's comments, I asked him: "What do you think about the use of mind-altering substances or methods—meditation, marijuana, peyote, prayer, prolonged periods of staying awake, etc.—in relationship to your songwriting?"

He address the topic readily, and with his usual blend of spiritual reaching and common sense.

"It's important to say something about addictions at this point. I'll just say this, and rational people can criticize me all they want. Still, I stand by the truth of the following irrationally words: A substance like peyote or hemp is the doorway to the house of a particular spirit. This spirit can show you many visions and truths. But if you enter his house too often, or with few defenses, he will make you a prisoner there. He may also wound you during your stay." He noted he was using male pronouns for convenience's sake.

"Visions you find on your own are harder won, but they are equally potent and they are yours. Shamanic work (and this includes deep songwriting) is perilous enough as it is. I would add that, if one does choose to traffic with these spirits, one should approach the substance involved with reverence. A lot of people would say that casually lighting up a joint every few hours is like walking in and out of the spirit's house without knocking, much less calling to say you're coming. You can have every expectation that he will take umbrage at this.

"So, I don't use any mind-altering substances at all. That includes alcohol and tobacco. However, let me add that for very few people, the ritual use of some of these substances may be appropriate, and the idea of someone's being incarcerated because they're in possession of the "wrong" plant (particularly hemp) is abominable to me. That said, I personally don't want to play around with my brain cells or my ability to focus. I have found myself perfectly capable of vision without using substances. I do meditate and pray. I keep a dream journal sometimes, and I often go without sleep. There are a number of methods for achieving different states of consciousness, and I practice many of those."

I should have made it more clear---the interview is with Dave Carter. The interviewer/writer of the article is Pamela Murray Winters (in my desire to properly credit her I made it look as though she was the one being interviewed. Sorry)

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 10:13 PM

If Carter takes that same mindset into sex, I doubt that he can get it up anymore 'cause he's probably also completely wrapped up in "Thinkery-Fuckery"...to borrow a term from the late Allen Sherman.

And.....just out of curiosity.....Is "Deep Songwriting" in any way related to "Deep Throat?"

Spaw

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: John Hardly
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 10:39 PM

oh spaw, you're just so.....so....you know, like, shallow. Y'know?

Hey, I'm more inclined to put up with Carter's BS because Ive heard his songwriting. If the above had been a quote from Garth Brooks I wouldn't have taken the time to long-hand it into my 'puter.

I also happened to read it just after having read an account of just how much of a junkie James Taylor really was. (and even as I type this I'm listening to "Hello In There".......another testament to the dissipated life.....and wonderin'. Just wonderin')

...y'know that old trees just grow stronger...

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: katlaughing
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 10:47 PM

Sheesh, Spaw, maybe he's into tantric sex, mind-meld, ya know! Thanks, John, for posting that. I like the way Dave Carter puts it!

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: GUEST,.gargoyle
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 11:39 PM

Thank You Mr. Hardly

................................Lead Me On Oh Jehovah!!!!

The vehemenant out-poor-ing (sic).... of the un-enlightend ....have made me poor-in-spirit.

For O' too long this forum/magazine/lyrics has been playing to those with more plebian destinies.

They lie....complascent in their illiteracy!

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: GUEST,gargoyle
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 11:45 PM

Thank you again....Mr. Hardley,

I had forgotten about the wonderful area of the "WEB's"....dirty linens.....

I will rejoice there, and rest for a calming day, within their shade...... for a day.

Sincerely,
Gargoyle

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: catspaw49
Date: 04 Jan 02 - 11:57 PM

...and even as I type this I'm listening to "Hello In There".......another testament to the dissipated life.....and wonderin'. Just wonderin'

Ya know, if John Prine never wrote another song, that one was enough.

I saw Prine the a few weeks back on a replay of "Sessions at W54th" on PBS. He told the interviewer, John Hiatt, about going down the the Olde Town School while he was still a postman and taking various course things. He mentioned then about going to a club across the street on open mic night and singing three songs he had written. After hearing him, they hired him as a regular of sorts. The three songs were "Paradise," "Sam Stone," & "Hello In There." No wonder they hired him. I'd guess all three would qualify as "deep songwriting." Spaw

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: GUEST,.gargoyle
Date: 05 Jan 02 - 12:26 AM

So...Mr. Spaw49/59/69....where do YOU feel fine?

.....Beneath a surgeon loose,

.......................... beneath a gallow's noose?

........................... ..........or in a field of briar?

Sincerely, Gargoyle

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: GUEST,Smoker-Toker-Midnight Joker
Date: 05 Jan 02 - 12:30 AM

What tha Fuck is goin on here? I feel like fell thro the rabbit hole. Where's Jehovah and who the fuck is she? What the shit are you people?

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: rangeroger
Date: 05 Jan 02 - 01:35 AM

Looks like Greg's been huffing the Pam again.

rr

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: Lyrical Lady
Date: 05 Jan 02 - 02:45 AM

roger... well the hell have you been?? I've been lookin' for you! Pam or no Spam...I've missed you!

LL

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: Lyrical Lady
Date: 05 Jan 02 - 03:01 AM

roger... where the hell have you been?? I've been lookin' for you! Pam or no Spam...I've missed you!

LL ( I stand corrected)

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: Arbuthnot
Date: 05 Jan 02 - 09:22 PM

So some people feel the need to improve their performances by the use of drugs, etc. I've seen it happen. Jefferson Whatsit, they used to disappear and return talking very loudly and playing like demons. Lots of other people worked the same way. Me, I know I work better after a pint of beer -but I've got to say that the best inducement I've found to a good performance is to get through the first three numbers without mishap.

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: Amos
Date: 05 Jan 02 - 09:45 PM

I think this the most disjointed and unglued thread I've ever read.

Maybe the subject brings out the worst in people? Interesting theory.

I hope the rest of the month is a lot clearer for you than the first few days! Spaw, you recuperating, man?

A.

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: GUEST
Date: 05 Jan 02 - 10:53 PM

In National Guard Vietnam War era I played sax, turned it into a career with my day job being teaching; now retired. We were in Alaska. Another sax player, (now a big name) could not fly. He was frightened beyond understanding about flying. But, by military orders we were commanded to fly. We were also commanded not to do drugs. So we would eat special coco butter brownies. There were some good sessions, some mighty good sessions! But, I believe that Mr. Toker is misinformed about MoJo, the referce in Leadbitter and Muddy's work is to magic.

Subject: RE: Got My Mo Jo Working
From: GUEST,.gargoyle
Date: 07 Jan 02 - 01:10 PM

Smoker-Joker-Toker .... don't run away ....not everyone is up-tight .... there ARE some mellow fellows here .... stick around awhile ....you probably have something to contribute.

Since we have a Shel Silverstein thread running - this should be added to the collection. For the moment....You can hear it here - http://home.att.net/~morgo5/Songs.htm

SMOKE OFF
By Shel Silverstein

In the laid back California town of sunny San Rafael
Lived a girl named Pearly Sweetcake, you prob'ly knew her well.
She'd been stoned fifteen of her eighteen years and the story was widely told
That she could smoke 'em faster than anyone could roll.
Her legend finally reached New York, that Grove Street walk-up flat
Where dwelt The Calistoga Kid, a beatnik from the past
With long browned lightnin' fingers he takes a cultured toke
And says, "Hell, I can roll 'em faster, Jim, than any chick can smoke!

So a note gets sent to San Rafael, "For the Championship of the World
The Kid demands a smoke off!" "Well, bring him on!" says Pearl,
"I'll grind his fingers off his hands, he'll roll until he drops!"
Says Calistog, "I'll smoke that twist till she blows up and pops!
So they rent out Yankee Stadium and the word is quickly spread
"Come one, come all, who walk or crawl, price – just two lids a head
And from every town and hamlet, over land and sea they speed
The world's greatest dopers, with the Worlds greatest weed
Hashishers from Morocco, hemp smokers from Peru
And the Shamnicks from Bagun who puff the deadly Pugaroo
And those who call it Light of Life and those that call it boo.

See the dealers and their ladies wearing turquoise, lace, and leather
See the narcos and the closet smokers puffin' all together
From the teenies who smoke legal to the ones who've done some time
To the old man who smoked "reefer" back before it was a crime
And the grand old house that Ruth built is filled with the smoke and cries
Of fifty thousand screaming heads all stoned out of their minds.
And they play the national anthem and the crowd lets out a roar
As the spotlight hits The Kid and Pearl, ready for their smokin' war
At a table piled up high with grass, as high as a mountain peak
Just tops and buds of the rarest flowers, not one stem, branch or seed.

Maui Wowie, Panama Red and Acapulco Gold.
Kif from East Afghanistan and rare Alaskan Cold.
Sticks from Thailand, Ganja from the Islands, and Bangkok's Bloomin' Best.
And some of that wet imported shit that capsized off Key West.
Oaxacan tops and Kenya Bhang and Riviera Fleurs.
And that rare Manhatten Silver that grows down in the New York sewers.
And there's bubblin' ice cold lemonade and sweet grapes by the bunches.
And there's Hershey's bars, and Oreos, 'case anybody gets the munchies.
And the Calistoga Kid, he sneers, and Pearley, she just grins.
And the drums roll low and the crowd yells "GO!" and the world's first Smoke Off begins.

Kid flicks his magic fingers once and ZAP! that first joint's rolled.
Pearl takes one drag with her mighty lungs and WOOSH! that roach is cold.
Then The Kid he rolls his Super Bomb that'd paralyze a moose.
And Pearley takes one super hit and SLURP! that bomb' defused.
Then he rolls three in just ten seconds and she smokes 'em up in nine,
And everybody sits back and says, "This just might take some time."
See the blur of flyin' fingers, see the red coal burnin' bright
As the night turns into mornin' and the mornin' fades to night
And the autumn turns to summer and a whole damn year is gone
But the two still sit on that roach-filled stage, smokin' and rollin' on
With tremblin' hands he rolls his jays with fingers blue and stiff
She coughs and stares with bloodshot gaze, and puffs through blistered lips.
And as she reaches out her hand for another stick of gold
The Kid he gasps, "Goddamn it, bitch, there's nothin' left to roll!"
"Nothin' left to roll?", screams Pearl, "Is this some twisted joke?
"I didn't come here to fuck around, man, I come here to SMOKE!"
And she reaches 'cross the table And grabs his bony sleeves
And she crumbles his body between her hands like dried and brittle leaves Flickin' out his teeth and bones like useless stems and seeds
And then she rolls him in a Zig Zag and lights him like a roach.
And the fastest man with the fastest hands goes up in a puff of smoke.

In the laid-back California town of sunny San Rafael
Lives a girl named Pearly Sweetcake, you prob'ly know her well.
She's been stoned twenty-one of her twenty-four years, and the story's widely told.
How she still can smoke them faster than anyone can roll
While off in New York City on a street that has no name.
There's the hands of the Calistoga Kid in the Viper Hall of Fame
And underneath his fingers there's a little golden scroll
That says, Beware of Bein' the Roller When There's Nothin' Left to Roll.