Hello Friends-

Been awhile. This ol' Goat has kicked out Winter finally & has been enjoying Spring. I have been writing a lot too, so make sure to come on out Thursday, June 7 @ 8pm when I play for FREE @ unWINEd on the Upper West Side. For more info, click here.. I can't wait to see you all!!!

Also, if you happen to be around THIS COMING Monday, May 28 @ 9pm, Lifetime will be using "Monsters" in a movie called "My Name is Sarah", which stars the one & only Jennifer Beals! I'm thrilled, so please tune in if you're home!

This past weekend I was fortunate enough to be a part of WaveFest down in Asbury Park, NJ. I just feel SO at home in Asbury...it's like Cleveland on a good day back in the day....only ALL the time. Much love to Scott from The Saint for putting together SUCH a wonderful festival, major rock to Jeff from WBJB who came on out...all smiles...it's ALWAYS good to see you. I also wanted to thank the lovely folks at Twisted Tree Cafe, especially Marnie, where I had some of the VERY best vegetarian food I have EVER eaten (& you know i love food). It was a pleasure rockin' out for all of you.

That's about it. I'm busy gearing up for my big Midwest Tour which starts June 14 in Philly. It will be great to see all of my Midwest friends again, so check out the "tour" section of my site. & see if I'm headed your way. Looking forward to it!

Much Love & Major Rock-
G

Bass Hall is turned into laid-back jazz club
By MARK LOWRY
STAR-TELEGRAM STAFF WRITER
SPECIAL TO THE STAR-TELEGRAM/ RICHARD W. RODRIGUEZ

FORT WORTH -- You can't beat Bass Hall as a large venue capable of evoking an intimate atmosphere. It's a warm setting for intimate vocalists such as Madeleine Peyroux and her opening solo act, Goat, both of whom are inspired by jazz-loving singers of yesteryear. The only thing that could enhance this kind of laid-back, cozy performance is for the audience to sit at tables and swirl some kind of smooth liquor around rocks.

Nicely setting the mood was Goat, who played jazz piano with the intense focus of Peanuts' Schroeder, only occasionally looking at the audience. Among his funnier musings: "I know somebody's having a great time -- and it's me," which sounded downright ironic coming from such a focused performer.

His calming vocals are like a human version of a muted trumpet, dropping the consonants at the end of each line. And just when you think things couldn't sound any more old-fashioned, he whistles. Surprisingly, it works for him.

Bartender, where's that drink?

Saturday, March 10, 2007
East Midwood Jewish Center, Brooklyn, NY

It was another cold winter night, but I was treated to a sincerely warm crowd here. You guys have a GORGEOUS temple! I got to play on a beautiful baby grand piano & even got to chat with the audience some. I played a more jazzy set and was even treated to a fantastic rhythm section. After chatting with lots of folks and enjoying some oatmeal cookies, we headed back to Manhattan. Many thanks to all who came out, especially Tom; and special thanks to Michael for arranging such an amazing evening!!!

----------------------------
The next portion of my blog was submitted by Whitney, who was my road manager for my trip to Vermont. Thanks again Whitney for EVERYTHING! You ROCK!!!

Thursday, March 15, 2007
Goat and I hit the road at 6 am, headed for the Acme Recording Studio in Mamaroneck, NY. We luckily beat all the maniacal morning traffic and witnessed a sparkling dawn as we crossed the bridge out of Manhattan. The studio looks out on a port whose waters seemed destined to welcome to the morning sun. Goat recorded a session that aired on Chris Bro’s radio show, NEXT, on 107.1/WXPK. We grabbed the breakfast of champions - chocolate croissants - with Mr. Chris Bro and his adorable son before hitting the road to Vermont.

Around five hours later, we rolled in Burlington and found ourselves at Radio Bean. This is a great little coffee shop with an 80-year-old grand piano. Some folks that were smitten with Goat last year at Higher Ground tracked him down and provided a great audience.

After the show, we hit up a place called American Flatbread and had incredible pizza (but you aren’t supposed to call it that) on flatbread, of course, with all natural ingredients. It was awesome. With bellies full, we ventured off to find the Bolton Valley Ski Resort somewhere off in the snowy hills.

Friday, March 16, 2007
Goat and I, bright & early, tumbled down the windy road from Bolton Valley to Montpelier, the capitol of Vermont. He did an interview and song for WNCS/The Point radio show at the crack of dawn with Charlie, but all went well. After a wonderful nap, we headed back to the Tavern at the Bolton Valley Lodge and Goat played a set complimenting another Point radio broadcast and prize giveaway with Jamie. The audience was receptive, people loved Goat – we sold some CD’s and gave some autographs (not me, duh). My friend KJ from Rock for a Remedy came out to visit and we ate a complimentary dinner at the Tavern (sweet potato fries) and hit the sack.

Saturday, March 17, 2007
Finally, we get some sleep. After digging the car out of inches of snow and getting the ice off the windshield with the plastic coffee sign from the hotel, I got the car to the front of the lodge. Once we got to Burlington again, I directed Goat to a place very close to my heart, Henry’s Diner. Henry’s has been there since 1925 and has these amazingly yellow and silver puffy cloud leather benches. It’s the best. They also have great food served in 10 minutes or less. I found this place last summer when I was on the Guster/Ray LaMontagne tour and we had three days off in this lovely city. I believe Goat & I ate there for about 2 hours and only spent 25 bucks. Gorged, we headed to Border’s for Goat’s in-store performance. Lots of people were in the café or wandering around looking at books. We had a fairly good turn-out and people seemed to enjoy the show.

Soon after the show, we packed up and hit the road for New York. 6.5 hours later we were at Goat’s house, unloading after a very fun journey. Til next time…-Whitney
-----------------------------------

Saturday March 31, 2007
Stain Bar, Brooklyn, NY

What an enchanted space…and an even more enchanted piano. I did another jazzy set and enjoyed some amazing red wine. If you’re looking for wine in Williamsburg, this is your place. Lots of cool vibes tonight. Shout out to Eric our bartender, Chris & Liz for showing up, Joanne Juskus for inviting me on to the bill & a major rock to Porter Block for such a great set. It’s always good to see you guys!


One last shout out before I go: Dan Casio, you ROCK brother!!! Thanks for always reading my blogs!!!

OH...and if you are in Mobile, Alabama, I'm on my way for ZEWTopia this weekend. I can't wait!!!

Much Love & Major Rock-
G

Hi Friends-

Quick note: I recorded a set for our new friend Chris Bro up in White Plains this past week. It can be heard at www.1071thepeak.com TONIGHT (Wednesday) at 11pm on NEXT and it repeats on Sunday night at 8pm. And if you're fortunate enough to be IN White Plains, check it out at 107.1FM. Major Rock!

-G

The Santa Fe Performing Arts Theatre was just beautiful. Around 800 or more friendly Santa Fe-ans. The St.Francais Hotel was a New Orleans kinda vibe and had a huge fireplace in the lobby. I took pleasure warming by the fire lounging in the big comfortable couches. Little diner across from the theatre had the best scrambled egg enchilada. I ate three! Special thanks to Ira & the rest of the Aquarians out at KBAC, such a friendly vibe!!! Also, thanks to “Migs” & Geronimo for the amazing sound, Karen & Jamie who were just so cool & such beautiful people…and especially Karim: Happy Bdays FOREVER!


Fort Worth, Texas, Bass Hall.
Tops on my list as for performances. I love Madeleine Peyroux and just seeing and hearing her is a treat. Opening for Madeleine is just wonderful. She is a friend and my favorite musical artist. There is always a grand piano and full house of warm Madeleine fans and family waiting at her shows. I love ‘em all and the whole Madeleine experience. The crews were cool and on top of their games. Thankyou falls short. Thankyou again. Love to Madeleine always and forever. OH & special thanks to Terese DeVries for the ride n rescue at the Fort Worth airport. I wouldn’t have even MADE it to the show without you!


Montana, Part One

From there I went to play shows in Missoula & Helena, Montana. The Other Side in Missoula was a real good time. I had no idea such beautiful places existed! Then Helena…oh my goodness! I played two separate shows out there, one in a venue called Miller's Crossing and the other for Carroll College. Major Rock for both! Shout outs to: Big Al (told you I wouldn’t forget), to Dan who is known to many & loved by all...especially me! To the Carroll College men, Jay & Culu the black labradors & "the sound professor": much love, less wine &...More doggies!!! And also Brahms, Gregory from MI, Matt from WA… Thanks for a great evening & the support!


Colorado

I played the Mercury in Denver which was a real treat. Anywhere there is a piano is welcome to this Goat. Major Rock to G Brown and the whole KCUV crew. You guys truly blew me away with your support. Looking forward to coming back!!! From there I drove to Carbondale through blizzards and buster bars for Steve Skinner's radio show performance on KDNK. Truly lovely town, you guys. From there to Avon with Tony and Weez on The Zephyr for a radio spot and show. Weez, you are the magic man, nothing but love…and Rock to Tony. Start havin’ a Great Life…I coulda stayed a long time for the beautiful scene. Loaded Joe’s was very cool and Weez’s guitar playing friend from Orlando sat in and played beautifully. It was GREAT jammin’ with you. The last song “Far” was a trip on guitar. Thanks!!!


Montana, Part 2

Back to Bozeman, Montana, my home in the West. I had pizza with Bozone Glen, his birthday, and Elle who is a fine DJ from The Moose KMMS radio station. Elle likes “Twisted Heart” from the CD. The next morning Michele Wolfe, my sister and friend and more than words can say came and got me for her morning show on The Moose. I guest DJed!!! Serious Rock!!! Then we played pool under the watchful eyes of many. I dogged it so as not to get in trouble with the local hustlers. Michelle would say I just sucked. Hehe I played the Zebra that night and met some really good people: a guru, a feirier, Mick and his brother and sister in law to be and a lovely couple of friends at the bar. Cody, too cool for school, ran sound and helped with the equipment and helped me rock the house. John from Music Villa made things right and well and he is healing from a mis-hap and all love to John. Also much love to Wayne, are you feeling better? Did your girl get the job??? From there Glen Bozone took me to the airport at 5:00 am after a ride up the mountain to his home and ... breakfast at Perkins and…

Now I’m back in NYC playing tonight in Brooklyn. I’m getting ready for Vermont next week and I hope to be out West again very soon! Chris Hacker booked the tour and Engine Room Wes talked me through a snowstorm and all is good in Goatworld! Just ask Notorious. Listen for the next single on radio, "Find Somebody"…

Much Love & Major Rock-
G

Wednesday Jan. 24th Philadephia, PA10! on NBC.
Watch Here:


We rose with the sun to make it to the TV station in Philly. I performed and talked with the hosts about the album. It was truly great to see you guys again! We were afraid that President Bush was going to cut the show short with a speech but that didn't happen so I got to play “Two Sides” and then even played “Find Somebody” as the credits rolled!! Backstage we met Taniya who has a design show on HGTV who was really nice. Gabriel handled the sound and was a great guy & a musician as well! And EXTRA bonus the PA pub Kildares’ were on site making delicious chicken pot pies, so you KNOW this Goat enjoyed. A MUST EAT for next time around too!!!

We left there and drove to my dear friend Joey Nicolo's office and then went out to lunch with him.

Milkboy Coffee
Played here at night which is in a beautiful suburb of Philly called Ardmore. The owner Tommy is a super nice guy and runs a recording studio down the street. Stef at Devious and Tommy of Milkboy both worked on press for this show and we got a ton. You guys really know how to humble a Goat. We got a “Music Pick”, a full page feature etc. My friend Joe & his crew came out as well. It is ALWAYS great to see you guys! Label Street Team member Willard Dickerson also came out. Thanks for your support, Willard! All in all this Goat had a great time in Philly. City of Brotherly Love!!! And don't forget those amazing Milkboy muffins...I'm still smiling thinking of them...



February 6, 2007
Cutting Room, NYC

It's ALWAYS nice to play a hometown show, and I LOVE playing The Cutting Room. It truly is my favorite place to play in New York. The room was packed with all sorts of friends, family & folks. Joe & his crew turned out again as did one lovely Valentine. We're still looking for your bag & coat...haha. I played a "Twisted Heart"-heavy set. It may have been subzero outside, but The Cutting Room was...oh nevermind. You get the idea. Major Rock to all who came out in the frigid temps!!!


February 13, 2007
Asbury Park, NJ

The weather held for Mine & Kevin’s journey to Asbury Park. We stopped first at WBJB for a live on-air…and a LONG look at the Wall of Fame. Just to be included in that sort of company is always an honor for this Goat. Host Leo & I talked & I played “Valium & Sodapop” and “Star” and they were all some of the nicest people I’ve met so far. "Tits on a bull" indeed. Jeff: you & I will have to talk more. We know TOO many of the same people!!!

The show went well at The Saint. Thanks to all the souls who braved the weather to see this Goat play. Means a lot! Thanks to Scott @ The Saint as well for putting together such a great nights’ music. And a shout out to the Asbury Park Little League...Major Rock!



Millenium Music Conference Friday Feb 16th Radisson in Camp Hill, PA (near Harrisburg)
XPN Free at Noon:

We left at 6am. Ben Butler (guitar) & I rode in Derek James' car as the Kenny was not available. My drummer Steve Holley (played with Paul McCartney in Wings!!), bass player Mike Viseglia (bass player for Suzanne Vega among others) & back up singer Celia Chavez all drove separately. I-80, I- 81 were closed and I-78 was shut down for 50 miles just outside of Harrisburg so the only road in from the east was I-76. As we were coming close to Harrisburg and running real late for our load-in time a truck was on it's side in the opposite lane!! Turned out to be dangerous materials inside and they later stopped traffic in both lanes, but it couldn’t stop the rock!!!

We only had 45 minutes to set up and soundcheck for the noon start time, but turns out the soundman showed up late due to the traffic too and the scene was quite chaotic for the next hour! So, the '”Free at Noon" show became the "Free at 12:15" show, hosted by the lovely & talented Helen Licht. Band sounded great and people really liked it. You can catch a glimpse here as well. Major Rock to XPN for having us & working with us through the chaos. You guys are truly champions!

MMC11 conference show from the Radisson in Camp Hill, PA

I played a more acoustic set as Mike Viseglia had to leave for NYC right after the first gig. Thanks so much for your rock in the AM, Mike! We met Keaton Simons from Cali and Andy Laird from Brooklyn who were also playing that night. Also met Phil Roy who is a singer/songwriter and has also opened up for Madeleine Peyroux. We drove home that night. Much Love to Chris, Mark & everyone who came down with us. How’s that for a 22 hour day??? Major Rock!!!

Until next time...
-G

Hello Friends!

This is my last blog of the year. Many thanks to all of you, new friends & old, who have made this year such a special one for me. AND HUGE thanks to those of you in radio-land who have made my single, "Two Sides To Love" a Top 20 single!!! This Goat couldn't be happier. Here is the wrap-up of my last tour...enjoy!

DC- first stop, The Red & Black...nice club! It was Schwa and Tim’s gig and they were kind enough to have me. I also met some really nice Goatsters.


In Baltimore we hit the Wharf, went to a record store where they were playing my record (!), and played a restaurant called Louisiana with great food & a great vibe. Much love!


We did a recorded session on WTYD, Williamsburg, VA- major rock to Amy Miller, extraordinaire. Thanks again!


HUGE thanks to my Cousin in Greensboro Janie, Gary, and Ben who put Kevin & I up & gave us a much needed care package of road food, and let us play with the dogs & cats. VERY appreciated!


Decatur, Georgia was at Eddie's Attic, where Eddie has good food, great sound and an amazing vibe. I got a great recording of the performance recorded by the clubs genius sound person. I’m gonna offer it up as a free download in the New Year if it passes Notorious' (my managers) ears.


Auburn, Alabama started with Wildman Steve on WQNR who is the master. Annie Bond is the coolest DJ! We listened to her show after we did the Wild thing. Auburn was poetic from soup to nuts. Soup at dinner and some nuts, me included, after the show. BEST club: so gentle and kind to the artists, just remarkable. Beautiful stage like a film set. Good sound and really nice people. I made some friends like Lacy, amongst others. The Arlington Priests are my friends forever. They are so talented and rocked out and married its beyond reason. And HUGE thank you for the little rescue operation in the parking lot…


WZEW Xmas musical extravaganza in Mobile, AL at T.P. Crockmiers: our host Tim bluesed up and out the night singin and playin his piano which he was kind enough to bring to the club, so I helped him take it back home to he and Leanne’s house. He hit “Little Red Rooster” and the room was transported to a place with no time or requirement other than really great listenin. He has a cool style and telling vocal. MUCH respect. I learned how Mardi Gras originated in Mobile. dig it! Spanish moss and haunted neighborhoods. VERY cool to run into these musically talented radio peoples. Gene blew us all away with his beautiful singin and playin and endless shots of tequila. Hence we all had a blast with Dave and Dave and Paul and Christina and rest of the ZEW crew, especially Amanda who took us under her wing BIG time. What a fun Xmas party! I can’t wait for the big rock concert this Spring! Last years was fun in the sun.


Memphis was the best show of my life!! Too bad the eighteen degree weather kept everyone in. Even the first act couldn’t be found! Shout out to Brian Wilson, nice to meet you, man! We stay with Wayne Andrews when in Memphis because he is the kindest, coolest, most cosmic and gourmet cooking southern host wif da mostess. And Wayne gets me booked in to very cool venues. AND has a beautiful puppy, Tux, and of course the lovely Mrs. Wayne. I’ll see yous in May for Memphis in May!


12th & Porter in Nashville was the jamminest rock club. I felt honored to have the opportunity. Jaymie Babbit of Leon Russell fame is my dear friend from forever and I made Jaymie sing for three and a half hours with me. We ended with Jaymie raising the roof with a couple a Stones tunes with me. Shouts to Paul Levi (and his lovely), Audrey Korshoff and Brandi Nash. Brandi is a light in a dark storm, a true friend and familiar soul. You never know when or where you are gonna meet a familiar soul. Its wonderful…safe space. Brandi made the night and rock n roll, and thank you for all of your support.

I had the honor of playing the Rudyard Kipling in Louisville & opening for local musician John Mann, who was wonderful. Louisville is one of my very favorite places to play, and it was MAJOR to be able to spend some quality time with my good friend Dr Jeff Allen. ALL of his friends came out to the show and were quite a beautiful possee. We ate & drank Kentucky bourbon and hung out after the show around Jeff’s piano. And Kevin even sang us an amazingly soulful song & played his banjo!!! Jeff breeds & raises horses…and lets me feed & hug when I am in town. He took us out to the races where we won big on one of his horses! He also rescues greyhounds. I met Pedro (the fastest in the world) and Peaches (the sweetest in the universe) and Gangster (the coolest in da hood). Then there is Gracie, Jeff’s number one dachsund/jack russell and Snowball the ringleader under Gracie's scrutiny. We also met Jeff’s Moms and Katy the wonder dog. I also made the rounds with Dr. Jeff in the hospital the next day. He had written a heartening Xmas story and I read it & brought cheer to the patients. Thanks again Jeff: I have never been around such wonderful and awesome folks, animals included…and your chili and pies absolutely rock, especially at 3AM.

Oh man, sooo much more. It’s been a great year. I'm off to Brazil to do a few shows for the Holidays, so happys to all this Holiday season. I'll check back in with you next year!

Much Love & Major Rock-

G