WHILE I’M ON FUMES

While I’m on fumes this morning, it’s best to do my usual blog about a gig I just did and post various photos. Otherwise I might sleep the day away.

I have to get my live chops back!

Last night was my first gig of 2026, and honestly it shouldn’t sound like such a big deal. But after spending months in rehearsals and recording my latest album (which as you know is going exceedingly well), my brain had to readjust to live mode. Thought it could be analogous to riding a bike but it felt more like being run over by said bike.

Of course, the gig was with Supernova and we always have a blast! We played Mason Street Grille in Lake Hopatcong and while parking there sucks, once inside, we got down to business with setting up and rocking out. Last time I played with them was back in November 2025, and in my mind I thought “Pick up where I left off.”

I left my stage energy at the Thirsty Farmer apparently.

Don’t get me wrong: the band sounded great, the place was pretty crowded, but by the second set, I was on auto-pilot. First set, I thought “Yeah this is awesome” and by set two, that rigor mortis started creeping up. Was I getting too used to going to be earlier? I cannot be that old…right?

After downing a few Cokes (the drink, people) I started feeling good again. Some new tunes were added by Lenny Kravitz, Judas Priest, and while we were supposed to do a couple of Irish tunes for St. Patty’s Day…OOPS! We forgot!

Singer Mike McCormick told me before the show that he would not play as much guitar, would focus more on singing. Some songs he strapped on his Strat but otherwise I was left to my own devices. Fortunately, I know how to sound like two guitarists with my myriad of pedals (plus having seven strings works too…tee-hee!) I think he enjoyed walking around the stage without a guitar around his neck. Even got to put his foot on the monitor ala Iron Maiden.

I could have said Dokken but…let’s stick with Maiden.

By set three, I was done. Felt like “Wow, do I have it in me to perform any more?” I enjoyed playing, no question. I was and still am concerned that the live chops suffered, yet of course “the crowd doesn’t care”. Yet I do. The next show isn’t until May 29 with Rubber Duckie Riot, and I’m almost done recording the new album (doing guitar solos next weekend). If more shows emerge, then great. I will have to prep myself better, simple as that.

At least the hot pink sneakers with the glowing laces were a hit!