To Thread - Forum Home

The Mudcat Café TM
https://mudcat.org/thread.cfm?threadid=44109
79 messages

Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too

11 Feb 02 - 12:25 PM (#647345)
Subject: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Duckboots

Note: This is Jed, not Duckboots!

Following up on the Fielding/Beef Brothers tour thread:

It's a pretty cold cold (bloody cold) day in Toronto. Rick, Mick and I are about to head out to visit a music shop or two. We sat and picked and talked 'til all hours last night, but have a few more songs to sing and stories to tell for the next few days; the Toronto adventure begins!

I had a great visit with the Good Folk people in Fayetteville AR. Great venue, nice folks ... we sat and picked 'til all hours, then I visited the Pea Ridge civil war battlefield - under a fresh coat of snow ... beautiful park and one I want to visit again in the Spring. I stopped over in St Louis on my way to Grand Rapids and Mick's house. I didn't make it in time to catch the sessions on Wed night, but I did get to visit a wonderful music shop enroute - played all their Santa Cruz, Collings and Martins ... tried a few banjos and mandos ... then moved on to Mick's.

It has been non-stop with Mick! He had a busy schedule for us, and we moved through the days with laughter, never ending stories and lots of music! A radio show at the Grand Rapids PBS station, a session with the Conklin Ceili band (punctuated with venison jerky, cheese olives and sardines - apparently typical Grand Rapids fare). Mick had arranged a show for me at a popular local pub called Pete Brown's Office ... we had a great crowd and it was fine room to play, good sound, plenty of room. I closed the night with a long set of ad-libbed songs with the Conklin Ceili band.

The trip to Toronto with Mick is worthy of a thread of its own! You might imagine that there was a bit politics discussed. But - now it's time to leave. I hope to get back to this thread in a bit, to pass on some more ....


11 Feb 02 - 12:37 PM (#647350)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Duckboots

Mick here.

My fellow Beef Brother is a master of understatement, to say the least. I loaded up the CD player with 10 CD's so we would have plenty to listen to on the long drive. Eight hours later we arrived at Rick and Heathers house with the CD's unplayed, but all the major problems of the world solved. Jed is a great guy, he is just wrong on most political things, but I will work on him. Course, he says the same things about me. We would have arrived sooner but our beloved Jeri called and we had to stop for two hours or so to chat with her ....... LOL. At any rate, that's our story as to why we were late. We don't want to say what really held us up, but if any of you hear from the Canadian Mounted Police, please say that you haven't heard from us and that we don't even like leprechan's arse anyway!! Tell 'em that you know for a fact that we are vegetarian. That way our alibi's will match. It's based on the old Irish axiom "We tell the yarn, you swear to it".

We arrived last night to a wonderful feed, great stories, lovely cats and music to the wee hours. I have a feeling I will be tired when this is done.

All the best and more later,

Mick


11 Feb 02 - 12:41 PM (#647351)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Duckboots

Rick here.

The boys have left the computer and are now putting on their muckluks for a little "sightseeing trip" I have planned for them......the Dreaded 12th Fret! Hope their VISA cards are operational.

A wonderful visit so far. Thanks you so much Max, for making stuff like this possible.

Cheers

Rick


11 Feb 02 - 12:42 PM (#647352)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Peter T.

What? Rick didn't bring out his new breezleblot and ask you to play it? Nor the tenor mahoozits? Nor the autobodyharp? Nor the Cajun carpetcleaner? Rick's House of Mysterious Instruments seems to be slipping....

yours, Peter T.


11 Feb 02 - 01:43 PM (#647378)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

If I'd seen the fortune teller a few years ago, and she'd said "From New Hampshire, you will call two friends, one from Texas and one from Michigan traveling together to visit another friend in Toronto," I probably would have wanted my money back.

What I remember from the phone conversation was that it was pretty cold, there had been a lot of peeing occurring on the way, and the trip to Toronto shouldn't include going to Buffalo after reaching Niagara Falls.


11 Feb 02 - 01:48 PM (#647382)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: John Hardly

Mick,

I've never been more envious of a mudcat gathering!

safe travels, friend!

John


11 Feb 02 - 02:55 PM (#647426)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: catspaw49

Flywheel, Shyster, and Flywheel
Very Large Attorneys
1-800-UCANSUE

I am posting yet another in the chain of letters which I have forwarded without response from Mr. Marum or Mr. Lane. I have had less than satisfactory results from my latest dealings with catspaw49. At first he was quite helpful and readily sold you out, but now it seems he has "no further knowledge."

An attack on another of our members in Buffalo when combined with a police report of two large men exposing themselves nearby leads us at Flywheel, Shyster, and Flywheel, to believe that Mssrs. Marum and Lane may have been involved. We cannot confirm the incident of indecent exposure since the police failed to follow through on the charges. Their report states:

We found two very large men parked by the roadway and explained that a report had come in regarding public urination and indecent exposure. We checked both individuals and unless someone was 3 feet away with binoculars, they could not possibly have seen anything. Regarding the public urination, the slushy conditions made it impossible to detect any signs in the area where it was reported and the only thing we did find was a large potato. Both were released with a warning and told to move on. .......Officer Ben Dover, BPD

I am again warning Mssrs. Marum and Lane that you are under watch by this office on behalf of the North American Leprechaun and Little Green Fuckers Guild. If we can support any of the allegations, litigation will be forthcoming.

Regards,
Rufus T. Flywheel


11 Feb 02 - 02:55 PM (#647428)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: catspaw49

Well, I hope y'all are having a good time! For myself, I've been barraged with calls from that damn Flywheel character! I don't know what he expects from me, but I keep telling him I don't know anything! So now what happens?........He calls with a lot of crap about another leprechaun ass-eating in Buffalo and I chew HIS ass out over the phone for being stupid because any fool knows that you guys weren't going through Buffalo!! NOW I find out that you HAVE been in Buffalo and I expect that Flywheel will be on the horn again.

Look, try to control yourselves........There are a string of little green guys missing their assholes from Texas to Toronto through Michigan and Flywheel is ready to get real litigious........so have a doughnut or somethin' huh? Geeziz..............

Spaw


11 Feb 02 - 02:56 PM (#647430)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: catspaw49

I received the above just after I posted and wanted you to see it........Now stop it!!!!

Spaw


11 Feb 02 - 04:07 PM (#647507)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

I just dozed off at the computer and had the damndest dream. Rick introduced Jed to a lady with an hourglass figure. She had some sort of an accent I couldn't quite place. One large, callused hand caressed her delicate, but somewhat aged neck, and I can't say where the other hand was. He left with her, and then I woke up.

Gosh. I hope he's not in trouble...


11 Feb 02 - 04:44 PM (#647529)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Steve Latimer

Welcome to Canada fellas. You have a heck of a tour guide there.

Will you be here long enought to go to the Irish session on Sunday at Dora Keogh's?

Steve


11 Feb 02 - 05:45 PM (#647589)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

Well, maybe I shouldn't have posted that bit about the dream - It sounds terribly personal. It wasn't that I thought Jed had literally picked up a new love while hanging around with Rick and Mick - that would be ridiculous! It was just that the symbolic possibilities were a little scary. Sorry for getting all weird about it - I shouldn't have shared this dream. Oh yeah, there was also a part where Jed gave some guy a bunch of money in order to leave with her, but that part probably wasn't important either.


11 Feb 02 - 05:59 PM (#647600)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: catspaw49

Anything about eating out the ass of a little green guy Jeri?

Steve, I'm tellin' you, I'd keep them away from anyplace they might encounter leprechauns. I mean, it your choice and all, but if one of your friends ends up with his asshole eaten out................

Spaw


11 Feb 02 - 06:35 PM (#647630)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

I don't remember any little green guys in the dream, Spaw. I wonder if they aren't all in hiding at the moment. They ought to be safe until the radio show's over, though. Speaking of which, I have visions of Rick driving to the studio with he and Duckboots in the front seats, and two large, hyperactive kids misbehaving in the back.


11 Feb 02 - 10:54 PM (#647799)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Steve Latimer

'Spaw, sorry, what was I thinking. Although, Dora Keogh's is a pretty authentic Irish Pub. If you were going to get an order of Leprechaun Assholes and Chips anywhere in Toronto, it would be the place. They do pull a nice pint of the dark stuff that Mick has expressed a passing interest in. And there is this Harp player who sits in. Flaming red curly hair that goes all the way down her back who plays as beautifully she looks.

Well guys, staying 'til Sunday? Steve


12 Feb 02 - 12:32 AM (#647834)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Duckboots

Note: This is Jed, not Duckboots!

Steve; the Irish session on Sunday at Dora Keogh's? No, not this time. Rick has us scheduled for two recording sessions, the second of whish is on Wed AM. We'll head out after that either Wed PM or Thu AM. Maybe next trip we can catch the session.

Jeri; your telepathic powers may well be showing you the Valentine's gift I am considering for my wife. I think she really really wants a fine mid-19th century guitar ... you know for her Civil War era music!

We had a great radio show tonight, met quite a few Toronto Mudcatters, played some music at a local pub with all and now we're back at Rick and Heather's. Justa is definately a fine Picker! Mick and I really enjoyed sharing songs around the circle with all the Mudcat folks, here.

A few more days, more focus on the recording tasks at hand ... then it's time to journey home. But, now i hear a guitar in the other room. It's time to sign off ...


12 Feb 02 - 03:46 AM (#647895)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeremiah McCaw

I thoroughly enjoyed the evening. Public thanks to Rick & Heather for allowing me to partake (& man the phones in the studio - even talked to Katlaughing in Wyoming). 'Twas wonderful to see Jed again and a delight to meet Mick. Dynamite evening folks. Slainte!

PS: will be chuckling for a long time over the image of "two large, hyperactive kids misbehaving in the back (of the car)". Thank you for that, Jeri.


12 Feb 02 - 08:21 AM (#648038)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Steve Latimer

Jed & Mick,

Sorry that your stay will be so short. I was hoping to get out to see you guys last night, but I wasn't sure where you were going after the show and I was busy from 8:00 until 9:00, so I couldn't just pop down to the studio. It sounds like a wonderful time.

Enjoyed hearing you all last night.

Enjoy the rest of your stay.

Steve


12 Feb 02 - 12:49 PM (#648227)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: DougR

Well Jeri, I don't know whether Jed is really in trouble in Toronto or not, but he might have some 'splainin' to do when he gets back to Dallas.

DougR


12 Feb 02 - 01:26 PM (#648269)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: katlaughing

some pix were sent to Jeff about an hour ago, to be put up on the events page...more will be sent later, today. Ya'll looked just great; canna believe how much Mick and Jed look alike! Definitely look like they could be bro's!

Jeremiah, it was great to visit with you and Marion, too! Ya'll know we had a three-way going, didn't cha? Jenellen was on there, too, as she had called me, then I called you folks and clicked her in!**BG**

kat


12 Feb 02 - 02:04 PM (#648312)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

Jed, I didn't know your wife played guitar. Perhaps she didn't either?

Can't wait for the photos. It's nice to know the boys finially got out of bed, kat! Speaking of which, who wound up with the guest bed, and who got the couch?


12 Feb 02 - 02:33 PM (#648347)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: JenEllen

The pictures are lovely, thanks Justa (and kat). Y'all look good for a bleary-eyed bunch of folkies. It was also a real treat to speak with Marion and Jeremiah, although I'm not really sure about this 'three-way' business..*g*..I thought it was more like those slumber parties where you sit around with your girlfriends and call all the 'cute boys' you know. Luckily for us, they were almost all in the same place. Enjoy the rest of your visit.
~J


12 Feb 02 - 03:38 PM (#648405)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Fortunato

Mghfmugit. Jealous, me? How absurd. Well, maybe just a little. Have a pint for me my friends, and sing an Ian Tyson song for me, or maybe Ernest Tubb? Wishing I was there withall. Have a grand time. Chance.


12 Feb 02 - 04:10 PM (#648423)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: catspaw49

HEY!! Great pix!!! What's that in the corner of your mouth Jed? Somebody get Jed a napkin.........

Looks like a fine time....and some tired folks...........Thanks kat and JP!!

Spaw


12 Feb 02 - 04:16 PM (#648434)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

What am I doing wrong? I've looked on the Events page, and can't find the photos at all. Did one of you hide 'em?


12 Feb 02 - 05:32 PM (#648508)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Steve Latimer

Jeri,

You're doing better than I am. I couldn't find the events page.

Steve


12 Feb 02 - 05:35 PM (#648510)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

Steve, go to the "Quick links" box, select "Member photos and info" and click "Go." Click "Photos" on the next page, and look for "Events."


12 Feb 02 - 05:54 PM (#648522)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Steve Latimer

Jeri,

I just didn't scroll down enough the first time. Thanks.

I couldn't find the ones referred to above either.

Steve


12 Feb 02 - 06:25 PM (#648553)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: catspaw49

Hey Guys, the pix are up now on the Events page. Sorry for the confusion but I had some copies sent e-mail......And I sold the ones I had sent to me to Flywheel for a few bucks. Hated to do it, but money's short and there are a lot of little guys running around without assholes......Soooo.............

Spaw


12 Feb 02 - 06:43 PM (#648578)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

Oh sure, YOU guys are special, I'm chopped liver, nobody loves me, and there aren't any worms to eat this time of year, so PHOOOIE! (Just kidding - I'd still be downloading them because I don't have a cable connection like SPECIAL people, and..damn - I'm doing it again.)

Thanks, Justa and Jeff! Cute hats, guys.


12 Feb 02 - 06:51 PM (#648591)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: catspaw49

Yeah the hats are real special ain't they? Now I know it looks like they bought two so they could look alike, but with a hat like that, you have to buy two...........one to shit in and one to cover it up.

......and you really do need a cable modem Jeri...What a difference!

Spaw


12 Feb 02 - 07:07 PM (#648609)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Amos

Hey, Pene: We've had a year since February 2001. Aincha used to the change yet?

I can sympathize!! :>))

Best regards,

A


12 Feb 02 - 07:58 PM (#648661)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: GUEST

Mick here. What can I tell you? One more thing to be forever greatful to Max for.

Steve, I am really disappointed that we couldn't hook up. I would love to share the odd jar of the vile dark stuff with you. They pull a pretty good pint at the Tranzac. I guess I will just have to come back.

The session last night was a hoot. Some real talent in these parts folks. Jeremiah did a parody of 16 Tons that I almost wet myself listening to. It ranks right up there with Micca's parody of "The Stash My Father Scored". Marion is a wonderful person and I am pleased that we met..

Justa Picker's name is an example of understatement to the extreme. I strongly advise listening next week. You won't be sorry. I am absolutely envious of his talent. And one helluva nice person. I am very glad to have him as my friend. Now................let's see if I can talk him out of that '47 Martin he was playing...................LOL. It is great to know you, my friend.

I would be remiss if I didn't mention my friend, Peter T. It is so good to see him again and be reaffirmed of why I think so highly of him.

Today we visited Grit Laskin's studio and looked at his works in progress. Now I can die. It is no wonder that the low end models start at $8,000 US. And the tone balance of these instruments is fantastic. You have not lived until you have heard Jed, Rick, and Grit play them.

Those of you who have not heard Jed play simply must do so.

Tonight we head off to the studio to work on some stuff for Rick, tomorrow we will be in Paul Mills studio to work on Jed's new effort. It is astounding to be included in this.

I took the lads and the Lovely Heather to dinner tonight. We had to walk through a line of protesters who heard we were coming. I couldn't figure out why they were mad at us. All we wanted to do was eat in this restaraunt that served an exotic dish that was deep fried. It looks a lot like calamari, you know, rings of meat, very chewable. These folks had signs that said something like "Save the Leprechauns". I told them I was just there for the little rings that were chewy and looked like calamari. Then some fecker named Flywheel kept trying to get to us but the Mounties hauled him off.

I think Jed might be a little strange. There are beautiful women in this city, but he keeps going up to small men and looking at their arses. Oh well..............takes all kinds, I guess. But the boy can play!

Off to the studio.

Mick


12 Feb 02 - 08:21 PM (#648679)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

Mick, calamari doesn't have puckers.


12 Feb 02 - 08:33 PM (#648686)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Justa Picker

It was a marvelous evening last night - a buzz in many respects that I haven't had in a very long time, and, sorely needed. *G*

It's very hard for me to put into words the range of emotions in experiencing these two gentlemen. Perhaps Mick has summed it up best with the so-eloquently-stated- on-more-than-one-occasion, "close friends that you just haven't met" - till now.

The two of them personify the word class.

There was enough musical electricity in the air last night both at the radio station and then later at the Transac, to heat my home for a year!

It was an honor and privilege to have not only met Mick and Jed, but also catter Marion as well as seeing Jeremiah, Davey and Peter once again, and to have been included in Jed's radio show. The man is an enormous talent both in his music, lyrics, soul, and that fine fine pickin' work, all wrapped up in that quiet, understated elegance.

The three of them (Mick, Jed and Rick) seem to have a monopoly on charisma. When these guys are in a room you just want to be near them.

I sincerely hope we can have get togethers like this more frequently, and again thank you so much for a wonderful evening and Mudcat event, and especially thanks to Max for having made situations like this possible.

(All the remaining photos have been sent, and should be posted to the event page, very soon.)


12 Feb 02 - 10:57 PM (#648812)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Steve Latimer

Ah Mick, you didn't need another big red headed guy with a goatee, you seemed to be doing just fine. I hope you at least had a Black one for me.

Actually, I almost dropped by Rick's today. I wasn't far from there, but I thought that you would all be at the studio. Great pics. I really enjoyed hearing everybody on the show.

Rick, I meant to ask you, what was the name of that instrumental that you did as a tribute to Dave Van Ronk?

Enjoy the rest of your trip guys. Toronto ain't such a bad place, is it?


12 Feb 02 - 11:34 PM (#648833)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeremiah McCaw

"A 3-way"? "Cute guy"? Damn! I didn't quite realize just how good a time I was having. Please forgive my inattention, dear ladies.

Photos: yep that is indeed meself. For a better pic of my little round self, pop over to www.spooky-moon.com and click on "Band".

Come to think of it, could I apply for status as an honourary Beef Brother, or mascot or something? I'm in the right weight class; I just have it more compactly distributed ove a shorter frame.

BTW, Mick, manymuch thanks for the kind words about my wee "16 Megs" satire. You done made my day.


13 Feb 02 - 03:03 AM (#648908)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: katlaughing

More pix are up now, thanks to Justa Picker for taking them and sending them out and to Jeff for putting them up. I forgot to tell Jeff there were a couple of duplicates in the second batch, so....until we get that sorted, ya just get ta see their charming mugs some more! Well done all round!

Jeremiah, sorry about your name spelling, and it was a pleasure to speak with you. You as well, Marion. Sounded as though it was a lot of fun!

luvya'll...kat


13 Feb 02 - 01:06 PM (#649211)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: GUEST,guinnesschik, cookies tossed....

Glad to hear Mr. Marum is having such a wonderful time. We've indeed missed him in Texas. Could some wonderful 'Catter ask if he's gonna make it home in time for his Friday night gig with EK? If not, I've got to get about 3 musicians to fill in for him!

Godspeed Jed, we hope to see you soon!


13 Feb 02 - 02:57 PM (#649288)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Rick Fielding

Fine session at Paul Mills' studio today. One of Jed's, one of mine. Mick gets to sing as well! We won't let him play his bouzouki yet, but it's only a matter of time.

Steve, it was pretty close to Van Ronk's wonderful arrangement to "come Back Baby".

The Beef Brothers are still in the studio, but I came home 'cause I gotta teach. SOMEONE'S gotta pay for Heather's Valentine's day gift!

Cheers

Rick


13 Feb 02 - 03:11 PM (#649297)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: DougR

I hope you buy her a smoker, Rick.

DougR


13 Feb 02 - 03:11 PM (#649299)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Fortunato

Well done, there, Rick, I was afraid in the midst of the large, beefy boys you'd forget VALENTINE'S DAY and foul your nest. Heather is, obviously, a saint, but you got to keep the home fires burning. Especially when your large, bovine, grunting, folk-singing, ale-sucking friends are buffalo-roaming your home.

My condolences, Duckboots.

cheers, chance.


13 Feb 02 - 03:48 PM (#649332)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

Rick, thanks for posting - I was worried. You hadn't posted recently, and I thought maybe the boys needed a midnight snack, and...oh well. My advice is not to get Heather a guitar for Valentine's day.

Rick? They're loose in Toronto with no "minder?" You might want to keep the TV tuned CNN just to find out what they're up to...


13 Feb 02 - 03:57 PM (#649338)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Steve Latimer

Thanks Rick, that was one of the nicest things I've ever heard you play.

The first time I heard Dave Van Ronk was the first time was in the CIUT studio with Sue. You played a couple of his tracks that night and I became a fan. You then picked a Reverend Gary tune on Woody and I ran out and bought Some Reverend Gary stuff.

I have to stop listening to you. It always ends up costing me money (not to mention strange looks from CD store clerks when I ask them to order these artists for me).


13 Feb 02 - 04:31 PM (#649368)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: catspaw49

Rick, you incredible dumbass! You left them alone? With Flywheel in Toronto? If Jed goes on a hunting spree, it could be real bad if Flywheel is close by to nail him!!! How could you do it!!! The asshole of some little green dude may be on your head!!!

Spaw


13 Feb 02 - 05:44 PM (#649431)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Steve in Idaho

For ease of navigation click here to see the group!

My dear sister Kat usually does this but I'm assisting her - I suspect she is still ogling them herself *BSEG*. And they are some superb pictures!!

Steve


13 Feb 02 - 07:50 PM (#649533)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Willie-O

Rats, I guess I went to Toronto the wrong week.

Ah well, you does what you can. At least I had the run of the 12th Fret.

sorry I missed you guys. quite the motley crew to take a busman's holiday with in Toronto in February...you guys are CRAZY!

STARK RAVING you-know-what.

although where I am is even colder.

W-O


13 Feb 02 - 08:28 PM (#649575)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: guinnesschik

Thanks to whomever sent the message along. Scrambling madly for replacement musicians, even as we speak.

Gee, will he be home Saturday for OUR recording session....

Stay tuned.


13 Feb 02 - 08:30 PM (#649580)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: catspaw49

Hey Chikkie.....I think it depends on whether or not he decides to keep supping on leprechaun's assholes!

Spaw


13 Feb 02 - 08:35 PM (#649587)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

Rick does this to people. I wonder if he convinced Jed & Mick that today was Tuesday.


13 Feb 02 - 08:43 PM (#649595)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: guinnesschik

Well, trust me. Jed doesn't need any help forgetting which day it is.

The man NEEDS a secretary. We got him a date book for Christmas. Then, we had to explain that you've got to write in it for it to work.


13 Feb 02 - 09:20 PM (#649616)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: GUEST,Big Mick

Mick here.

Well GuinneyGal, m'love (I feel like I know you after all the talking Jed does about you and Eammon (Ed)), he is screaming at the top of his lungs, with his mouth full of some Godforsaken meat, that he didn't know anything about the gig..............I asked him to check his Franklin Planner and he said that there was nothing on the page. I looked and there was nothing on ANY page. I asked him why he didn't write the dates in. He asked why he would ruin a perfectly good book by writing in it. Go figure. We made it back safe from Paul Mills studio, but he kept grabbing the wheel and trying to pull over to the curb to chase the wee folk down the avenue. LOL.

The session at Paul Mills studio was one of those rare times. Rick, Jed and I got down one helluva great song. I will let Jed tell you about it later, but I will say that he absolutely captivated all of us with the imagery he creates in it with his lyrics. A wonderful effort that I will brag about being a part of for a very long time. We also recorded one of Rick's songs for his new album and it is a hoot. Once again, I will leave it to Rick to fill you all in at the time of his choosing. One of the highlights was having Paul play bass on it. For those that don't know who Paul Mills is, he was Stan Rogers best friend and producer. He took an instant interest in Jed (go figure, eh?) and loved his lyrics and his style. The work done was nothing short of wonderful.

At the end of the session,, Jed was noodling on Paul's Lasking guitar. Paul and I were talking 12 strings and I told him about my mid 60's Guild. He told me he had a Laskin 12 string. "I have a Laskin 12 string...............it was Stan's ................... want to play it?" Jed broke out in an ear to ear grin and immediately responded, "YES". You ought to see that axe. A square rigged ship on the head and see creatures for fret markers. And inlaid at the end of the fretboard were the initials "S.R.". Balanced sound, great action..........just don't git no better, Pa.

We hit the road in the morning headed back to Michigan, and then Jed is on the long road home. What a trip!

All the best,

Mick


13 Feb 02 - 10:02 PM (#649639)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: GUEST,Jed

After we finished up the session and got back to Rick and Heather's home I was suddenly worn out. It's been a whirlwind trip, with plenty to do, see and play - culminating in the recording of "Desolation Island" at Millstream. It was a treat to work with my friends Rick and Mick - and to wind up with such a fine result. I have to say that Rick put down some really inspired mandolin tracks! And Mick and I got a full BEEF BROTHERS sort of vocal track for the chorus.

Now begins the journey back to Texas. Karen; what gig did we have? I do not have anything on the calendar??? I expect it is nearly impossible for me to make to Dallas by Fri evening, but I can give it a shot. Leave me some detail here, and I'll call from the road once I'm back in the US. Sorry if I've made a mess of it for you.

Anyway - it's tough to spend much time on Mudcat from someone else's home. I'll be pleased to follow up on this thread next week - but I do have to tell all the Mudcat world how humbled I've been by the hospitality and generosity of Rick and Heather. They've been gracious, kind and long suffering. I also have to tell the world how much I've appreciated Big Mick and his family. I've heard a thousand stories since we left Grand Rapids, and the guy never repeats himself! I also have to admit, I've enjoyed his damn stories! (and I think I've got Mick nearly ready to switch his voting practices - but don't tell him I let on).

See y'all soon ...


14 Feb 02 - 09:46 AM (#649898)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

Jed, your website says you're at the Tipperary Inn from 9 - 1 on Fri.

I can't wait to hear the songs...well, I guess I'll have to. I'd also love to hear more about the trip, but the way it works is you get home, you relax, and details start leaking out of your brain. Safe trip home.


14 Feb 02 - 09:55 AM (#649906)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: catspaw49

Jeri, I'm real pleased with what we've gotten so far.......It's tough to do..."reporting" so to speak, to all of us........But that's what makes this place isn't it?   Hearing from Jed, Mick, JP, Jeremiah, and Rick about what's happening and what they've done........A personal but vicarious trip. This one has sounded wonderful from the gitgo and I'm reminded of the Great Mudcat Adventure of Bill and Allan. My thanks to all for everything said so far, and also to Pene for getting the pix up for everyone to se so quickly....that guy does one helluva' job!

Jed and Mick.....Drive carefully! And JED........Try to get back on time. This will help you to overcome your "urges" and save the assholes of innumerable little guys between Texas and Michigan!

Spaw


14 Feb 02 - 09:59 AM (#649908)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: MMario

I can tell you from experience it can be done - even with a multiple hour stopover in AHIA.


14 Feb 02 - 10:05 AM (#649909)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: GUEST,Jed

Jeri - thanks for the calendar tip! I have been converting my calendar from format to another and apparently I missed this one.

I wound up staying in the library room at Rick's, Mick had the music room. We have one more stop here in Toronto before we head back. We will be visiting a local luthier/expert this AM in order to find out more info about the mid-nineteenth century guitar I bought.

Karen - once more, my apologies for putting you and Ed in a bind. I hope you can get help from Behan or Red or somebody. Can you contact Jaime and be sure he is there to do the sound? I'll let Lou know.


14 Feb 02 - 10:16 AM (#649919)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

Spaw, I'd like to hear more, but I'd also like to have had a guy with a live microphone and camera following them around, or have personally been there. I'm sane enough to know those things aren't realistic. I also know how hard it is to tear one's self away from music or conversation, or the afterglow of those things, to go report on the happenings or send photos. I appreciate the time the guys took to do that, and in a way, include us.

Thanks, guys.


14 Feb 02 - 10:22 AM (#649920)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: MMario

Having watched various combinations of these three guys at the Getaway weekend I can practically see and hear them from the descriptions we've been getting on this thread.

Jeri - I agree - a sound and video crew following them around would be ideal. Maybe we could work up a grant for a documentary? *grin*


14 Feb 02 - 10:32 AM (#649926)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: catspaw49

.....That one ain't so far out Mario......I've heard of a lot worse, and seen them!!

Spaw


14 Feb 02 - 10:40 AM (#649929)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: MMario

I know it's not an impossibility - wish I still had access to "my" grant person. (a women who pulled off getting funded for more crazy seeming grant schemes then anyone would think possible.)


14 Feb 02 - 11:50 AM (#649967)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: guinnesschik

Jed:

Don't sweat it, and above all things, BE SAFE! Those marvelous Behan Boys (Hurrah) are gonna cover. Jaime has work at 5:30 AM Saturday, so Barney's doing the sound.

Will we see ya' Saturday?

Have a beautiful drive, and we'll see you in time for (thread creep here) NTIF!

;-)


14 Feb 02 - 12:33 PM (#650004)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeremiah McCaw

So - Jed's leaving Thursday, for a gig he can't possibly get to in time because it's such a long, long way to Tipperary?!

Oh, come on - SOMEBODY'S gotta been thinking it!


14 Feb 02 - 12:38 PM (#650008)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: guinnesschik

Yes, we all were, but c'mon. It was just TOO obvious!


14 Feb 02 - 06:39 PM (#650342)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Rick Fielding

The Boys have left 1235 Kingston Road!

We went over to my personal repair Guru, Bruce Dowd, today and he decyphered a few things on the inside of jed's "New" 1870's guitar. Came back and had a bit of an emotional last couple of hours (Heather and I really LOVE these guys). She's still a bit discombobulated about how friggin' INTERESTING they are (no surprise to me natch). We've discussed everything under the sun...and Heather remarked time and again (to me) how, no matter how passionate a conversation got, nobody monopolizes, and everyone's thoughts are respected. But they are indeed (as I try to be) true "Adult/Children". The sense of wonder and fun will always be there...and the investment in music is HUGE with both of them. I certainly couldn't ask for more.

Oh....... and Mick:

Fixed (and I mean REALLY fixed) all our leaky faucets.

Did the dishes. (so do I, but he did them WELL) This is a big one to Heather...my last music friend to do dishes before we'd even noticed, was Tony Trischka...so she thought it might be a "banjo thing".

We've really lucked out with out of town Mudcat visitors over the years. Good place to meet class folks, this site.

Cheers

Rick


14 Feb 02 - 07:57 PM (#650413)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: katlaughing

Did he get union wages for the plumbing, Rick?**BG**

What a grand bit of fun it sounds!! Thank you all for posting and including us as much as possible. It's really been fun to read along!

Now, yew all have got to think

Western Colorado...Western Colorado...Western Colorado


for a great big Mudcat Gathering...vacation times are coming, right?!**BG**

luvyakat


14 Feb 02 - 10:39 PM (#650549)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Steve Latimer

I was at Bruce Dowd's this afternoon!!! Probably about 3:30. I was picking up the my "old" banjo, I had him put a new fifth string peg in it. When were you guys there?


15 Feb 02 - 11:03 AM (#650835)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Rick Fielding

Steve, we were there at about 1:30. Sorry we missed you.

I'm now in recovery mode. Trying to get to about 500 e-mails (fortunately 475 are quickly deletable spam) and gettin' ready to play the Newmarket Folk Festival tonight. Not the party animal I was years ago!

Cheers

Rick


15 Feb 02 - 11:07 AM (#650839)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Big Mick

It's Friday morning and I am sitting here as if I just woke up from a wonderful dream. Got my coffee, sitting at the computer.......guitar on my lap practicing the pro chords that Rick wants me to work on............just a minute! Rick wants me to work on?..................then it wasn't a dream!!

Got up and made breakfast and put Ciara on the school bus and Jed on the road to Texas. Just FYI for those that are interested, he left my home in Michigan this morning about 8:45 AM EDT. I expect he will make St. Louis tonight and Texas tomorrow.

I must tell you good folk that Rick and Heather are just as wonderful as they can be. They are my favorite type of hosts. "Here is the refrigerator, there is the food, make yourself at home. First one up starts breakfast" I made sure I slept in every morning, based on that last one. And then the conversation starts. The endless and fascinating discussions. Rick has a favorite trick of getting you deep into a subject and then slipping you a setup question. I think he is just trying to see if you are being genuine and thinking your way through.............or just spewing out inane shit. These are wonderful, thoughtful, interesting people, and I feel blessed to count them among my friends. I have always felt that kids are a pretty good judge of basic character. Ciara has loved these two almost from the beginning. She is seriously fond of Heather. I think the kid is an excellent judge of character. Thanks to you both for one of "those" rambles. I just don't know how this trip could have been any better.

Jed Marum..........boy, what can one say about him. He is one of those truly nice folks that you run into. No guile in this one, folks, what you see is what you get. And what you see is a nice person, a wonderful singer, a phenomenal player, and a songwriter of extraordinary talent. His politics are a little screwed up, but give me a break willya, I only had 5 days to undo a lifetime of teaching ***G***

Wait till you hear Desolation Island. That is the song we did. Paul Mills and Rick both really got into this song, in fact all of Jed's music. It is the telling of the events leading up to and including the sea battle between two ships in the book by the same name. The imagery in Jed's lyrics is nothing short of amazing. He uses the language of the times, but presents it in a thoroughly modern storytelling method that simply captures you. You will see what I mean when this one comes out.

Let me also take a moment to speak about the Toronto Mudcatters. I find myself wondering if their are any jerks in that town. I have yet to meet them. This time around was Marion, Justa Picker, Peter T.,Jeremiah McCaw, Davey and Missus, and I just enjoyed their company tremendously. Last time, it was Willie-O, Val, Tony, Bonnie and Peter T who is another of my dear friends. I have come to have a real appreciation for this group. In fact, I really like Canada. This is one Yank who thinks you folks are superb.

I guess I would end on this note. Really good friends are a rare thing. The things we did together in Toronto were very special. Many people never have the chance to experience these things and I am very greatful for my good fortune. But the memories that make my heart warm, even now before they blossom in the sunlight of time, are the times I spent with Rick and Heather, and Jed. They have been friends, are friends, and ever will be friends. They are genuine and they are interesting. I am lucky to have the experiences, but I am blessed by their friendship. Thanks, Max. It is just one more thing I owe you.

Now.................back to work on the friggin C, F, and B7.........the proper Fielding way.

Mick


15 Feb 02 - 11:37 AM (#650866)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Steve Latimer

Damn!!

I had planned to be there about that time. I got held up downtown when someting that should have been fairly routine all of a sudden wasn't.

When I said that I almost dropped in the other day but thought that you guys were probably at the studio I was dropping my banjo off to Bruce. I think you said that you guys were just down the road at the 12th Fret. I almost dropped in there to buy some strings, but felt I had better get back to the office.

What did you find out about the Antique guitar?

And for what it's worth, I just want to say how impressed I was by Bruce Dowd. He was recommended to me as "The Banjo Guy" in Toronto. I found his pricing to be very fair, he delivered when he said he would and the work (although very minor) looked perfect. I'll certainly go there again if I need anything.

Rick, I assume that he is that good with guitars too if he is your "Guru".


15 Feb 02 - 12:38 PM (#650894)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Jeri

Yeah Mick, you leave their house and Toronto, and you feel like you left magic behind, only you didn't - you just stepped out for a while. The people and places are still there and still in your heart and so are the wonderful memories.

All this talking about music and Jed...I haven't tried to play my two favorite Jed songs because they have [hyphenated expletive deleted] F chords. I got 'em back out, and nailed 'em last night. I don't know if I'll be able to do it consistently, but I know I can do it. Funny thing is, I still love those songs as much as the first time I heard them...actually more. I love to hear Jed sing them, but I love to sing and play them too. I can't wait until I can hear Desolation Island and the whole CD.

They told me "first one up makes COFFEE." They must have heard about my culinary skills, or lack of them...


17 Feb 02 - 12:24 PM (#652135)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Art Thieme

Damn, I REALLY wish I was a fly on the wall o' wherever you are pickin', singin, and downing the suds. All the best.

Art


17 Feb 02 - 12:29 PM (#652141)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Big Mick

Art..................I wish the hell you would have been there too. Until you posted that, I figured it was damn near a perfect trip. But it would have been that much better with you there.

Mick


17 Feb 02 - 01:48 PM (#652202)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: JedMarum

Well the dust is settling ... a great trip, fine music, warm, new friends, lots and lotsa talk. Mick's Mrs (Mary Lou) very thoughtfully sent me off to Texas with a care package of water, fruit and bannana bread. I managed to stay just a few MPH over the spped limit all the way home and avoided any problems at the multiple speed traps in MI, IL, AR and TX. The sun shone for much of the drive, the winter brown fields rolled, and I alternated between hours of music on the CD or tape player - and hours of silence. I replayed converstaions and considered plans for future music. The drive passed quickly.

It was a treat to meet so many Mudcatters and get a chance to share a few songs. It's a bit of blur, meeting so many people at once during a busy few hours; but we definately "communed" through the music.

I did present the mid-nineteenth century, hand-made German guitar to Louisa as a Valnetine's Day gift - thankfully I also presented her with slice of delicious fudge and a couple of other gifts, just in case she didn't like the guitar. She says I can keep it.

I intended to crash quietly at home last night after the drive home ... but a friend's band had to cancel their show due to illness so I filled in for the Irish Rogues at the Emerald Mist. A four hour show, but it started at 8, so it was an early night. I had a great crowd and a lot of fun. Somehow I had plenty of energy.

Thanks again to Rick for his hospitality, his generosity and his wisdom. I am deeply grateful. Thanks to Mick for his companionship, his humor and his kind assistance in arranging a profitable show in Grand Rapids. Thanks to Mary Lou and Heather for their patience, there friendliness and wit.

Rick, I'm hoping to work on some dates for us down in this part of the world for next Sept/Oct. I think we could get a few shows in AR, LA, TX and maybe OK. It'd be musician's wages, but I think we can make a buck or two each, beyond expenses - and you can get Heather around the US South Central parts during a pretty time of year. I'm also pretty sure I'll be back to work with Paul this summer. I'll work with you on all of those dates. I could use some advice about the specific content of the record and will corespond with you on that too. I would really like to record Angus Frazer.

As Mick says ... we did have a ramble!


17 Feb 02 - 05:55 PM (#652313)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Rick Fielding

Angus Fraser? You bet! Finally it'll get sung in the key it was SUPPOSED to be sung in!

Cheers, and glad you made it home safe.

Rick and Heather.


18 Feb 02 - 01:57 AM (#652505)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: hesperis

Yo, Rick and Heather - I'm in Burlington for a few months, so if you've got any Toronto mudcatter events going on, please let me know about them!


18 Feb 02 - 10:48 AM (#652654)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: Rick Fielding

Duly noted hesperis. No out of towners coming to Toronto, on the horizon, but ya never know!

Cheers

Rick


09 Jan 17 - 12:18 PM (#3831450)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: GUEST,JedMarum

What a fun read ... almost 15 years to the day this adventure started and produced Desolation Island.

... by the way, that became the name by accident. I hadn't thought about a name for it, when we recorded it on this trip ... and so Paul Mills stored it as Desolation Island, which was the book that inspired the song. That name won by default because months later, when I came back to Toronto to finish the album, I never gave the title another thought.

But when Aengus Finnan sang the song he told me he called it Leopard's Run ... which of course is a much better name!!

Too late though - for me.


09 Jan 17 - 01:51 PM (#3831494)
Subject: RE: Jed Speaks from Toronto...maybe Mick too
From: JedMarum

and this link will take you to song we recorded on this first and most glorious of the Beef Brothers' Rambles!