hello again, deep south.

Well, the Outsmarting Simon full US tour is officially underway. We haven't had quite a full schedule as of yet, but things are shaping up every day. We started things off with a Hurricane Katrina benefit show in New Brunswick. Things got interesting when we wound up doing an impromptu collaboration with an MC named Kosher Dills. I think that's right anyway. For a few reasons, I decided it would make Fred Feldman proud. Playing the show was a bit of a struggle, since there wasn't enough power for us, but I'd say it all worked out in the end. Afterwards, it was a trip to the grease trucks, and then some hanging out in New Brunswick.

The past few days have been fine as well. We played in Norfolk, which is always a blast, and we made it back to Ladson, SC. It was Greg's birthday, so we all celebrating by going out for oysters and alligator tail (among other things). I thoroughly enjoyed both. Our show at the hole was an amazing time, and later on we had a blast hanging out with Ford, the Aslan dudes, and everyone else.

From there we started off to Atlanta, ate boiled peanuts again, and made it to Swayze's in Marietta. By some chance, we would up playing with Philly's own Jena Berlin. There great dudes and a great band, and it was good to see them all so far from home. Aaron 084 set up the show and played as well, and it's always good to see him.

Now, it's off to Birmingham to stay for the night, and then I think we're meeting up with our good friends Marigold and In Pieces to play a show in MS. That certainly worked out for the better, because I believe we would have had a few days off otherwise. Not to mention, they are some of our favorite bands of all time. From there, I guess we will cautiously attempt to make it to Houston, but that's pretty touch and go considering the hurricane. Well, that's a few days off at least.

I wanna eat a burrito

So much excitement in the past few days, and just to think, this is supposed to be our time at home to rest up before the next tour. Well, I can't complain too much, because we did get to play two amazing shows with our good friends Marigold and In Pieces. Before I get too far along explaining the fun times had, I'd like to strongly recommend that everyone check out Marigold and In Pieces and start making them your favorite bands. They are currently starting a 6 week, full US tour, and would certainly appreciate any support. So check them out on the interweb, come out to some shows if you can, maybe even give them all a place to stay--I know they would all appreciate it.

The past 2 days, however, have been both awesome and exhausting. It's always a little rough juggling shows and work, and these past 2 days have been no exception. On Tuesday, we made the muti-stage journey up to SUNY Purchase to play at their Student Center. We got to see the Marigold dudes again, and finally see all the In Pieces guys since our tour with them. We also had the chance to catch up with some old buddies: Lea, Joe, Lexie, Bethany(feverfew), and all the Ambition Free guys. Our friend Pinagio, now a Purchase student, was also able to make it out. The show itself was great. Thanks to everyone for sticking around and making it so.

Afterwards, it was a bit of a trek back home, and I got back at 3 am, only to wake up 3 hours later and head to work. Maguire had a tough time too, and I'm sure the other guys as well. Consequently, Maguire and I were pretty spent when we met up yesterday to head up to the show in Montclair. Still, it all worked out. Again it was great to play with both Marigold and In Pieces and it was a very pleasant surprise to see some of our friends. Amit and Chris stopped by, and Tiffany and Becca came bearing snacks. It was a much needed pick me up. Although the show was a little long, and went a little late, people actually stuck around. Thanks so much.

From here on, it's about a week more at home until we embark on our own 6 week, full US tour. It is exciting, though I must admit we are all a bit concerned about high fuel prices, and the general scope of the trip. If we can, we might meet up with In Pieces and Marigold on the West coast. Scotty and I decided we'd have to do token Cali things like surf, bleach our hair, and eat burritos. Some of those sound fine to me.

Finally, please check back here soon. I think there is a fair chance we'll be playing a show in NJ the day before we leave. Regardless, I look forward to seeing everyone when we get back in November. Thanks and take care.