Yes, No, Maybe

For those of you (family, friends, and Ukrainian spider bots) who check in here now and again, Do you sense a trend in development?

For those of us who keep a part of our lives set aside for the intentional making of, or listening to, or thinking about Music, the worldwide health crisis begat by COVID-19 has been both boon and bane: more time to practice, or rummage through the collections, or beseech the Muse, but fewer live gigs, those irreplaceable opportunities to test one's ability to sync with other players and to feel the energy that can flow when a live audience attends.

Every now and then I run into a fellow music maker who is more booked up than ever. Are they fearless? Foolhardy? Or just fully vaccinated and calmly weighing their risks and benefits while the rest of us cower?

Come to think of it, I don't think any of the few people I'm thinking of have children. That makes a big difference. Even when your children are grown, care and concern can't help but color decisions.

All my 2021 gigs have been outside, with only a handful of exceptions and those were in very large, well-ventilated halls. The several indoor gigs scheduled for fall (didn't we all think we'd be home free by now?) have dropped away. Another one just bit the dust: Faux Fawn, the band that showcases the singing and songwriting of Paul Otteson, will NOT be performing at Bos Meadery on September 23rd. Alas. Three band members have young children and I understand and respect and their caution.

Which leaves us with...

The McMusical Calendar
Friday, September 17
Stalwart scions of Chess-era Chicago Blues The Cashbox Kings perform outdoors at Tyranena Brewing in Lake Mills. Note to appreciaters of guitar players; both Billy Flynn and Mel Ford are on the bill. 6 to 9 pm

Saturday, October 2
The Birddog Blues Band (Mel Ford on guitar) opens up for contemporary Blues greats Larry McCray and Wayne Baker Brooks at BAM Fest in downtown Belleville, WI. Noon to 8 (or so), and FREE admission!

After that? Well, we'll see. Check back.
Or take advantage of any glorious fall day by bringing in BIG WES Turner's Trio or Mel Ford & Fairlane for your backyard party. We'll all be glad you did.