Generally, as we get close to recording, I pull together quite a lot of gear in order to have as many tonal options as possible. Joe lent me his Tore-Vibe tube reverb & tremolo unit in case I want some of those sweet California sounds.
Actually, it’s sounding a bit sickly and I’m hoping to revive it a bit. Probably just needs new tubes, since I cracked it open and the inside is really immaculate–looks like it did the day Joe built it.

I like to play old material a little bit every time I practice. It’s relaxing, even comfortable; when I’m using new equipment, I find myself playing “Only Thing” more than any other GN,S song. I have noticed this recently, and I have no real idea why.

There’s an abandoned orchard near the house where Trevor spent his childhood. The landscape of Birch Hill Road struck me this winter - the gnarled chaos of the trees, unpruned for years, yet still growing in orderly rows, waiting quietly for the right time.

We’ve been quite intentional about the musical landscape of this album, but its wholeness still feels elusive to me. I think these new songs are in the same state of orderly-wildness as the winter orchard; bleak, on the verge of beautiful, a bit untamed. Which, come to think of it, probably describes us rather well.

In today’s “Image of the day,” you’ll find that effects pedals are not just for guitar players anymore! Megan has been experimenting with adding different pedals in the effects loop of her CP-70 electric piano, which has opened up some new textures to create with. Ninja Cat!

If you’re aware of Draw Us Lines and feeling a little deja vu, have no fear - we did indeed speak of them here.  Not only were they kind enough to interview us, but they came to the big show last month and did a very cool review.

Also, Hugh took some great pics.

Congrats to Meeting of Important People on a great record release - we’re proud of you guys!