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Alan's From The Road

Tour Diary - March 13, 2009 - AC Flight 662 (Halifax-St. John’s)

Finally homeward bound after more than three weeks on the move.  I think this is the longest stint away from H since he was born.  Hard on the head.  Skype helps, but it is no replacement for the real deal.  Almost there.

Sad news from home with the North Atlantic seems to have claimed a few more of Newfoundland’s own.  A chopper bound for a couple of offshore oil stations went down yesterday and it appears only two of the 18 people aboard will be found and only one clinging to life.  As many of you know, we folks of the Rock have had a give and take relationship with the sea for over 500 years.  Mother ocean has been our chief source of food, employment and commerce, and in reality her bounty is the solely responsible the existence of our Colony, Nation, and Province.  Yet she has claimed more than a few of our sons and daughters over the years, and it looks like the song remains the same.

Sean sent out a tune to the families and indeed the passengers of the Chopper themselves last night.  Very appropriately, he chose ‘England’ from Fortune’s Favour, a song he penned about the hardships of living off the angry brine.  

Class act.  Well done

Both the Halifax and Moncton shows were a thrill.  We have not played a big gig in New Brunswick in a number of years and we were so pleased with the considerable turn out and response on a Cold and snowy Wednesday night.   Halifax continues to be our home away from home.  Last night we beat our indoor paid attendance record for Halifax with almost 5000 folks in the house. That’s an astounding show of support for a band that has been playing regularly in the city for a decade and a half.  I am so grateful.

No late night shenanigans last night, however as I was too eager to get home in a fresh frame of mind.  Shame to miss a night on the town in Halifax, but I confide that my mind was one Province east as soon as the show finished last night.  I would have red-eyed if one was available.

Hope the wee fella is not spooked by the bearded dude who wakes him up from his nap this afternoon.  He’s seen the facial hair grow on daily Skype sessions, but I fear the in person effect might be too much.

Scruffy Alan 

Here’s for a big gig on Saturday in the town that matters most.

Cheers,
Alan
 

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Published Friday, March 13, 2009 3:13 PM by nicopop
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Comments

 

jeannine said:

Please shave. lol
March 13, 2009 3:47 PM
 

L said:

I can still hear the roar of the Metro Centre crowd, music to the ears nearly (but not quite) as wonderful as your own. You were thrilling as well as thrilled; the gratitude goes both ways.

Sean's mention of the crash was powerful and moving, his moment perfectly chosen. Such a heavy blow on all, especially on a few small towns, yet another in a painful series. I was talking to a local woman this afternoon about the loss and her words rang with an undeniable Truth: "This is who we are; this is how we have become who we are." Which made me think "And this is why it is so impossible not to love you for who you are."

You're "Dad" with the beard and you're "Dad" without it - loved (and gorgeous) both ways. Enjoy your home time to the fullest.

March 13, 2009 3:50 PM
 

L said:

How could I forget to say...Mile One will be spectacular. You will be spectacular. Not a bit of doubt about it.
March 13, 2009 3:54 PM
 

Michelle said:

I SO dig the beard - suits
March 13, 2009 4:23 PM
 

Stephanie said:

So that's where all Sean's hair went.......  Sorry, man, but I can't say I like the beard.  Truly, I think very few men can pull off a full beard like that.  It ages you too.  lol - beard + (awesome) long hair make you look like you've been marooned on a deserted island or something.

Is the beard for the movie?  If so, then it's okay.  We all have to make sacrifices.

My thoughts and prayers go out to those dead at sea.  You're right, though; that's part of the Newfoundland culture and life.  In addition to being an amazing sight over which one can ponder, the sea is both bane and boon - and always will be.  It's one of those things that you have to appreciate for its bounty, while being aware of its dangerous power.
March 13, 2009 5:21 PM
 

Mysticshadowlady said:

Okay for a second I thought I was looking at a photo of Brad Pitt!  Caught me off guard.  Folks were leaving comments about a beard and I hadn't a clue.  I know...I should get out more!  I am assuming the beard is for the movie?  It is definitely a different look but I love your baby face.  Speaking of babies....your his "daddy"  beard or no beard so I wouldn't worry too much.  .

This recent tragedy reminds me of the Ocean Ranger Disaster where I lost my uncle so my mind has been with the families of the 16 missing since the incident happened.  Glad you guys paid tribute to the families last night.

Enjoy every minute of your time at home with your little Prince and Fair One.
March 13, 2009 5:51 PM
 

lawner said:

Class act indeed. You will be hard pressed to find a Newfoundlander in the audience tomorrow who is not there with a heavy heart, myself included, we lost someone from our little community on that helicopter.

Be careful with your young man and the beard, my brother in law had one for years then shaved it off while on the road, when he came home his daughter didn't recognize him in bed with mommy and freaked out! It took a long time to assure her that was indeed daddy but and we learned there was no way my sister could have an affair!
March 13, 2009 5:59 PM
 

holly said:

hey alan
i can't want for tomorrow i am going to  the show
i ant like  the beard.
so kool lol
holly -XOXO-
March 13, 2009 6:12 PM
 

Rick Adams said:

Just wanted to say it was a great concert you guys put on in Moncton First time I seen yas live. It won't be the last. I'll have to bring my wifebnext time. I think she would like it.
March 13, 2009 7:03 PM
 

TinaMack said:

The show was memorable. England was amazing. I was right in front of McCann as he belted it. Intense? yes. Moving? completely. He truly sent it out to the souls listening.

BTW, I like the picture you included in this entry. It's cool. It's real.
March 13, 2009 7:27 PM
 

mairzydotes said:

So sorry to hear of the sad loss of lives - thoughts are definitely with the families that have lost their loved ones.

On a happier note, the beard thing makes me laugh. Many moons ago, my hubby pulled the same trick on our youngest, who was a bit over 2 at the time. We laughed ourselves silly over her reaction when he arrived home.  She kept looking at him with these HUGE blue eyes, touching his beard and then giggling nervously, but then she'd wrap her arms around my neck and hang on like she was terrified, LOL! It took him about 2 hours to convince her he wasn't some scary stranger and get her to come to him, and even then she'd stop now and again and stare at him so hard it was hilarious. Hopefully seeing you via Skype will help H avoid the same reaction.  

Personally, here's hoping they make you keep the beard for filming - love it!
March 13, 2009 8:03 PM
 

Audrey said:

Dad is dad, voice is the same.  Prayers to the families.
March 13, 2009 9:41 PM
 

Laura-Gail Thompson said:

Moncton show was awesome! Did an awesome job, despite the crumy weather. Bring up front also helped.
As for the chopper, it's a shame. My brother's god-father was on it.
March 13, 2009 10:15 PM
 

marikochurst said:

What shame to hear that. :( I'm glad that Sean chose to sing England for them. What an appropriate choice!! :D

I love the beard, it looks great. ;)
March 13, 2009 11:33 PM
 

MammiBear said:

Beard?  I didnt know Alan A'Doyle had a beard..*lol*..
March 14, 2009 3:15 AM
 

jeannine said:

With the weight Alan lost the beard drags down his face, making him look older and tired. Ok so he was tired. I saw him yawn at the concert in Halifax. But it was a great show. I have been a Doyle fan for years, love the deep voice, the hair,..etc.The beard, made me want to shave it of and reveal the good looking guy underneath. So Alan please shave, cause we can't have Sean looking better then you.
March 14, 2009 9:29 AM
 

Kris said:

Sure, everyone's entitled to their own opinion, but that doesn't necessarily mean every opinion needs to be said out loud. Whatever happened to "if you can't say something nice..."?
March 14, 2009 10:18 AM
 

art4m said:

Enjoy Tonight! Would have loved to be there, but work had other plans, off to the UK tonight.  Beard for the movie no doubt..can't wait to see it! Perhaps will see you over the pond next month..

cheers,
March 14, 2009 3:33 PM
 

Pete said:

What is with all these hair changes,first Sean and now You!
We wont know its GBS on stage this Wednesday.
( Till ya start singin!)
See ya in Ontario.

I still have four walls around me and the sun is puttin a smile on my face.
March 14, 2009 3:50 PM
 

Tracy said:

Keep the beard..it is awesome!!

The show rocked on Thursday night in Halifax, I never felt like home in a long time until I got to enjoy your wonderful music again. I am from the town of Bonavista,Newfoundland and I rant and roared like a true Newfoundlander Thursday night...LOL!

Thursday night I was the Third row from the stage, it was awesome. The last time I saw you guys was in 97, Come home year for Bonavista and I was longing to see you guys again. I finally got my chance this past Thursday..you guys ROCKED and you will be rocking the rock tonight in St. John's, NL.
I love you guys and thanks for a wonderful show!! Hopefully, I will see you guys again soon.

PS...don't shave! :-)
<3 Tracy
March 14, 2009 4:56 PM
 

Amanda said:

I almost didn't recognize you Alan.... ^.^ Can't wait to see you guys in Montreal this week!
March 14, 2009 5:02 PM
 

LeslieCdot said:

Alan, if you read this...curious, is the beard for the movie or are you trying a new look?
March 14, 2009 5:46 PM
 

Geoff said:

A Great Big show at St John's tonight. The dedication to lost love ones was spot-on. A Great Big Class Act; at least another 16 years please fellas.
March 14, 2009 10:21 PM
 

Lawner64 said:

Great show last night,you guys had the house rockin!Great to have you home!
Sean did an amazing job on "England",very thoughtful to pay tribute to amazing men and women!
March 15, 2009 10:00 AM
 

Michelle said:

Amazing St. John's show!!!  My daughter's first concert; she had an incredible time!

Thanks for 'England'...a perfect tribute.
March 15, 2009 3:17 PM
 

Sarah said:

Fingers crossed you shave before wednesday! You know we're all only half serious, but wow, does it ever age you.
March 15, 2009 4:26 PM
 

Cayla said:

LOVED the show at Mile One last night - Sean singing "England" at the beginning left me with a lump in my throat - beautifully done.  

Was a little iffy about the beard when you first came out, but by the end of the show, who cared?  You guys rocked it out, and that's all that mattered.

I'll always remember singing "Bohemian Rhapsody" at a Great Big Sea concert - you'll have to do better to stump the home crowd next time!

Cheers
March 15, 2009 4:59 PM
 

JenniferGirouard said:

Hey, great show in Moncton! we managed to sneak our way down to the front row on the floor from the seats, and it was amazing! Little disappointed I didn't get a guitar pic though haha. Please come back soon ! Also, love the beard! you put me in mind of Eddie Vedder, nice!

March 15, 2009 6:13 PM
 

Anastasia said:

I thought this Youtube video might be fun for you to watch

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CBnYrNgMz30  (OBR w. SOTW)

(be sure to select the HQ option, it's way better)

Great show!
March 15, 2009 7:49 PM
 

gav in scotland said:

when u playing a gig over here!!!!!!!!
a wee secret one while ur filming ,the rest of the boys would love it.
ill buy the beers!
March 15, 2009 9:44 PM
 

alan-rocks said:

Alan, thanks for the great time at the show on Saturday! It was the best show that I have ever seen, and that's saying something. You guys rocked the house,and I can't wait til your next show.

Also, thanks for the picture on Sunday morning at the Duke, and for autographing my ticket. Don't listen to the people who say to shave cause they don't like your beard. You look good with or without it, and I for have changed my mind on it. It looks good on you.

Hope you enjoyed your pint, and remember I'm holding you to what you said...'see you around soon'.

Enjoy your time at home, you deserve it!

Cheers, Krista
March 16, 2009 11:15 AM
 

CharlesGBS said:

That beard just rocks Alan!! thanks again for the great 16 yrs of music and pray you have another album coming soon.
March 16, 2009 2:31 PM
 

Britt said:

First off I flew from Calgary to see the show on Saturday and it was one of the best yet! The beard rocks and if no one has mentioned it.... You look great!! Someones a skinny minny( but in the most masculine way possible). After the tough week in St. John's it was amazing to see mile one bouncing!

I hope you understand how much your music means as well as your kind words. I hope ill be able to bring my kids to your concert one day, as my parents have done for me! GBS made St. Paddy's day weekend. Best concert ive ever seen... The front row is definatly where all the action in! Thank god for GBS!
March 16, 2009 4:11 PM
 

matthewahurst said:

Being in Cornwall UK I doubt i will ever see you live but i have all the cds, all the dvds. got introduced to u by friends in north bay ontario.
Cornwall being a fishing county still has fond memories of when the Canadians came and supported our fishing fleet in its time of need.
We also heard about the helicopter and our thoughts are with you and the local community.
Keep up the great music, you and the currently disbanding Tanglefoot bring Canadian folk to us uk folk fans
March 16, 2009 8:37 PM
 

Brenda said:

Beard is GREAT !    
Glad to hear concerts are going great!

Must say - saw CBC news the other night & could not breathe for a moment till I heard the Newfoundland "aircraft" was a Sikorsky...
a helicopter... The B'ys don't do helicopters... breathe.
So sorry to hear of the loss of life of your countrymen.
Our Prayers are with their families.  

God bless you all -for all you do -to bring this joyful music and experience into our lives ... and God keep you safe too!
Please take extra care of yourself while your schedule is so full.   Hugs.  
March 16, 2009 8:39 PM
 

Darcylynne said:

Count Down!
March 16, 2009 10:32 PM
 

alan-rocks said:

LOVE the beard...you look sexier than ever. Enjoy the last few shows of the tour, a few days at home, and then the JUNOs and the filming of the movie.

You're going to be a star, I just know it!
March 17, 2009 12:34 PM
 

Pete said:

Happy St. Paddies Day me By's

D'ont over do it later tonite, We want you in fine form tomorrow!

C, ya
March 17, 2009 4:40 PM
 

Lynne said:

Happy St. Paddy's! Saw you in both FL and Chicago over the last month or so. Fantastic! Your (the boys) authenticity is so refreshing and appealing.  You guys have done an incredible job and all of your passion exudes when you perform.  I'm falling more in love each day....

Because I'm so fond of the boys...I'd like to make note of one thing that you may wish to address...your FTRs are great and I am certain that you want your history documented appropriately.  The header on the page for your '09 FTRs still reads 2008...I'm sure I'm the only one who noticed--type A, you know?

Best.
Lynne


March 17, 2009 9:13 PM
 

Manda said:

I like the beard. Makes him look all rough and east coast like :D
March 18, 2009 2:56 PM
 

MommaBear said:

Yeah..do you get to keep the beard?  Or do you have to give it back??
March 19, 2009 1:53 AM
 

weezy said:

When did Grizzly Adams join GBS? Nasty stuff.

Shave. Now. Please.
March 19, 2009 8:51 AM
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