exposed

Nels’s shadow on the Temple Bar stage backdrop

I was thrilled that my good friend Phebbie accepted the last minute invitation to go see Nels play solo along with Norton Wisdom. It will be the first time she meets him, and I think –  to see this type of music I’m into. We got there too early, I guess. We weren’t allowed to hang around when Nels was setting up. This never happened! Usually I’d make a huge fuss, but I had to be on my reasonable behavior. Phebbie and I decided then to run across the street and get our drinking started in a sports bar. 

Nels and Norton opened for Kneebody. But by the time they were playing, we had to leave. I was happy that I finally get to introduce my 2 favorite people.

Nels sings into his pickup

Nels Cline screaming

Norton Wisdom

Nels and Norton

Nels recording

I barely made it!!! Nels had been in the studios daily since the 15th. Am I getting jaded, or starting to take Nels for granted? I heard about this concept of Coward, the solo album since January. I honestly can’t really keep up with What Nels is up to at all time. Only later I’d find out that this was his first solo project (right?). I dragged myself there at Catasonic Studios in Echo Park and barely keeping myself awake (as usual.) I had a lot of ‘cuties’, the California’s version of clementines. What’s the story with clementines anyway? Aren’t they oranges? But I digress.

Again, regretfully, this night was the only time I made it to see Nels’s recording. I usually am more diligent than this in following his projects. I was running low on energy and budget. I did my best at what’s I had. 

Nels's corner

Nels showing me the toys

Nels listening to playback

Nels recording

Nels

Nels at the board with Mark Wheaton

Nels and Mark Wheaton of Catasonic

Nels with the drum buddy