"I smell like a woman whose dream is so close she can TASTE it."

Time to talk about the MUSIC! The real reason I started this blog wasn't to gain followers (so far..success!) but to document these vivid moments of magic that occur so rapidly in my life, for fear they may otherwise disappear. Live music is so deeply engrained in my psyche, I cannot imagine a world without it. Easily, the most spiritual experiences I've had in my life have all been deeply rooted in music. It's really ethereal, out of body. Witnessing and the joys and heartbreaks that happen simultaneously when a musician really connects with their audience, it's perfect. I love the quirks.. reading the body language between band members, feeding on and to a performer's energy.. magic. I use the word magic often because certain things feel so unbelievable, so overwhelmingly beautiful.

Anyway, live music is an addiction I can never get enough of. I could see a new musician every day of my life and never grow tired of it. Assuming I have much life left to live, you'll be hearing a LOT about my show/festival life. So strap in, kiddos. This is the good part!

May I just start by saying that it feels so amazing to be back in my body? I feel like I can breathe again! I knew I was disconnected.. but this! The music, the passion, the way it ignites in those moments where it's on.. How did I lose touch with that? Regardless, I'm back. Last night was but a teeny taste of the joys that are to come.

Ah, Mr. Montbleau (the musician of my dreams)! I discovered Ryan much by accident, walking to a separate stage at High Sierra Music festival in July of 2008 (on the very day pictured below). To say he was the best treat of the weekend would be putting it mildly. He spoke to me! He's got the most calm and poetic demeanor, and his words... they're so real. He brings the sorrows and joys of life to the surface, raw, where they can be thoroughly felt. His wisdom and insight have brought me to tears many a time, and the delivery is just a spectacular bonus.

The Ryan Montbleau Band is currently touring with Martin Sexton. Not only are they his opening band, but they are also his backing musicians. What an honor! Christie, Frankie and I arrived frustratingly fashionably late last night, missing the better part of Ryan Montbleau Band's set. I'm still mourning this disappointment, but not so much that it ruined my evening. If anything, it made it all the sweeter. The boys played wonderfully, per usual. When they play parts 1-5 of "How Many Times," there is such an interesting serene that ripples among the crowd... one voice and a viola accompaniment telling such an enlightened and heartbreaking story of grief, loss, gratitude, acceptance and understanding. Such a bold and beautiful statement to be made by a performer. Love!

via: http://unityme.org/theater/ryanmontbleau.jpg

Martin Sexton, where to begin? Martin's vocal chords are some sort of other-worldly enigma. He has a vocal range that is, quite literally, unbelievable. I've said it before and I'll say it again, I'd marry that man if only he'd sing me to sleep and to rise each day and night. It does something to the body, hearing a voice like that. Ignites a fire in the soul. An eruption from the solar plexus traveling up and out the crown.. magic energy! Last night, I felt it as strong as ever. When the music takes hold, I can't help but lose myself in it. All else fades away, I stand alone in a crowded audience, just me and the musician(s). I can only imagine what it feels like to be up there, receiving all of that energy.

via: http://icecreamman.com/2009/07/rothbury-2009/

How do I describe it? Sometimes he uses an effect petal on his vocals, making them sound exactly like an electric guitar. He beatboxes, sounding like a full drum kit. His high notes have me beat by a longshot, the lows have me swooning instantly. He's such a fantastic entertainer, so interactive with the crowd.

via: http://www.soundunwound.com/sp/contributor/view/martin-sexton?contributorid=8983&ref=aadp

To say that I love him is an understatement. He's one of those musicians I am perfectly content with seeing again and again. Each time he's in town is it's own brand of special treat. Not only do I love his music, but I love his audience! What a great crowd! So fun. Ran into a couple of old favorites* that I haven't seen in ages, danced and ogled and dreamed... Oh, life. Thank you for reminding me who I am. For a moment there, I was beholden to believe it was shameful. I now know just how kind a place like this can be..

Next up: Desert Rocks. 8 days and we're there! Much to plan.. much to do. :o)

Dream big, my favorites. Tell me about some of your great passions and moments of magic!