we went to a pre-release party for fluttr effect last night, celebrating the release of their new cd, "Marking Time." they've a loft nearby, and we had a lovely evening on their patio. i spent most of my time talking to jim collins (bassist/ singer of The Buckners) about astronomy, the arctic circle and general international travel.

earlier in the day, we had a little brunch and then hit the local music store. i was in need of a new bass amp and was hoping to find something with enough pop to gig with but also with less heft to make for easier transport. picked up a behringer 1x15, and i'll be giving it the official test drive this weekend for the cathy show. sounding good, though, in the apartment. didn't move it past 1 on the master volume, and it was already shaking the place. also picked up a cheap acoustic guitar for banging around at home.

my red sox took 3 of 4 in yankee stadium this past weekend, though it very likely means little at this point. kind of a bummer. had much higher hopes for them this season, but what can you do when injuries pick your team apart? starting pitching was hollow, relievers had problems and then your starting catcher, the team captain, goes down with an injured knee. devastating. but it's still fun to watch baseball, and it's nice to win the series against the yankees.

this week should be busy. rehearsal tonight with cathy, more writing and recording for onlyone, plus a bowling adventure. the show saturday will be great. also found out that alex skolnick of Testament is on the bill with his jazz trio. pretty wild! i'm expecting to break out the 8-string bass for this show, which will be the first time in about 3 years that i gig with it.