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Alan's From The Road

Tour Diary - March 17, 2009 - Highway 401 West (Mini Van)

Happy Paddy’s Day

The Fleet Foxes are carrying me West from Pearson Airport to Windsor for the first of five gigs on the extended Paddy’s week run with GBS and Spirit of the West.   Holy frig these dudes can sing.  I bought the CD on iTunes a few days back and cannot stop listening to it.  Muso’s around the globe have been listening to The Beach Boys “Pet Sounds”, for decades trying to capture the secret to the textures and layers of vocal harmonies that Brian Wilson and the lads managed to record all those years ago.  In truth, no one has managed to top the singing genius of that project, including bands like the Beatles and so many others who’d gladly admit that they fell far short in their efforts.  This Fleet Foxes CD is the closest thing I’ve heard to “Pet Sounds” in a long time.  Gorgeous singing.

Thought the gig at Mile One was a real success.  Difficult to party in the wake of the Chopper accident that has the entire city of St. John’s and indeed the whole NL Province in mourning.  Sean had the idea of singing a tribute to the fallen before the main body of our set commenced.  His kind words and expressive vocal delivery of England made for a fitting acknowledgement of the situation and a delicate condolence to the victims and their families.  The Telegram erroneously credited me with the opening dedication, when if fact the whole thing was Sean’s idea and he deserves all the credit for it’s delivery in such a delicate moment.

Great to have the SOTW dudes on stage for the Finale.  Is there anyone who plays the flute as well as Geoffrey Kelly?

Grand few days at home.  Looks like they will be my last few days at home for a few weeks as the March madness travel continues in the weeks to come.  There should be much dashing back and forth across the Big Pond and the entire North American Continent for yours truly in the days to come.  I am to spend the days following the Ottawa gig in London training and prepping for the Robin Hood Film, before blasting over the North Pole to Victoria for a gig at the rink.  Principal photography for the movie starts on March 30th, about 11 hours after I am to be on stage at the Juno’s in Vancouver.  Rock On.

Not much snow out the window of the Van as we tear West through pale sleeping fields.  Spring is not far for these meadows, though, and a wake up call for their Summer’s work is just around the bend.

Like us all, I suppose.

Cheers,
Alan

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Published Thursday, March 19, 2009 9:50 AM by nicopop
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Comments

 

Smack said:

You are such a kind man, Alan.  I've learnt a lot from you.

I've seen SOTW a couple times now and am amazed at the talent and energy.  Absolutely wonderful.  I was hopeful for a Westeren tour with those guys as seeing GBS and SOTW at once would be the hot fudge on my sundea!!  =P  Thanks Alan... for everything and being a great person!
March 19, 2009 10:21 AM
 

Fran said:

Looks like you've got a wild few months ahead of you. Have fun and don't wear yourself out.

Looking forward to my last show for a long time to come on Friday.
March 19, 2009 10:21 AM
 

Pete said:

What a GREAT show last nite in Guelph.
THANK YOU so much for a "fan" tastic evening.

Cheers
Pete
March 19, 2009 10:28 AM
 

olgarinco said:

Alan, hope home gave you a little rest and renewed energy. Sounds like you (GBS) continue to be the class act we all love along with a darn good time to see you in concert. Enjoy the rest of the Canadian tour and don't kill yourself on the movie:-)

You surely are embarrassing "to live while you're alive"....thanks for the reminder:-) Have a great summer, and we'll look forward to seeing you on screen (and back on stage when the shoot is done). --Olga
March 19, 2009 11:31 AM
 

Mysticshadowlady said:

Sounds like some crazy days ahead.  But I can sense your extreme excitement as well.  Take Care of yourself in these very busy days.  Looking forward to seeing you guys on the Junos an hoping for that best band award. You guys are a class act.  

Take care Alan and don't worry....you're gonna do great in London

p.s.....I hope your wee guy  liked your new look
March 19, 2009 12:11 PM
 

Wendy said:

Hope you enjoyed your time in Windsor, we sure had a blast! What an awsome show & I too am now a SOTW fan. We had the best seats, second row! Close enough to see that Alan looked extremely tired but still as handsome as ever. Got some great pics, will treasure them always.
Do take care of yourself Lad, it's gonna be a long summer.  
March 19, 2009 12:44 PM
 

Fred said:

I have seen quite a few concerts over this past year, grand Spectacles of Pyro backdrops and even creative uses of video monitors. What I saw last night was completely awe inspiring! No distractions just the band and the music to carry the show. Though I'm a Metalhead through and through You've found a Fan in me full devil horns up boys! ROCK ON!
March 19, 2009 1:39 PM
 

TinaMack said:

Rock on indeed. Or more likely HIT GO and hold onto your arse as it flies past your ears. (Don't forget your lute!) hahaha.
March 19, 2009 3:03 PM
 

MeeshJ said:

What a fabulous show in Windsor on the Night of Nights!!  Thanks so much and thanks to SOTW!  Can't think of a better way to have christened the WFCU for concerts - what a great venue our City has finally built for us - and the sound was fabulous!  

Travel safe on the rest of your journey and enjoy yourself in front of the camera - be yourself and I'm sure you'll be fabulous!

Looking forward to the Junos!
March 19, 2009 4:11 PM
 

Jackie said:

You were all terrific last night - both shores were represented well!  The first time we saw SOTW was at the Elora Gorge a few years ago, when John jumped into the water to cool off and popped back out again, still singing.  We've been fans ever since.  To see both of you together last night in Guelph was a great treat and so much fun!!
March 19, 2009 6:25 PM
 

Helenwheels said:

Can I just say that I love the poetry of this last sentence:
".... as we tear West through pale sleeping fields.  Spring is not far for these meadows, though, and a wake up call for their Summer’s work is just around the bend."

lovely imagery

Live while you're alive, my friend!
March 19, 2009 7:16 PM
 

Julie25 said:

Dear Alan,

Just a quick note to say we can't wait to see you in Ottawa on Saturday.  My daughters, Gillian Lawrie, 7 and Catherine Lawrie, 6 will be attending their very first concert, and are very excited.  They cannot wait and have been practicing all the Fortune's favour songs in order to be ready for the big night.  Good luck with your work on the Robin Hood flick, hope you enjoy yourself immensely.

Take care, and see you Saturday,

Julie La Salle
March 19, 2009 9:03 PM
 

Amanda said:

I live in Leamington, where the boys sometimes come play golf if they make it down to Windsor in the summer. I am SO sad that I couldnt make it to their concert in Windsor. I've seen them twice, once at the Labatte Center, and once at the Crysler Theatre (Something Beautiful Tour, and Hard and the Easy Tour respectively). Absolutely the best concerts i've EVER been to. Hopefully you guys will come back to Windsor and/or London soon so I can catch a show.

You guys rock!
<3Amanda
March 19, 2009 11:09 PM
 

kristine said:

What an amazing, uplifting concert you gave in windsor. Everyone's spirits were lifted and troubles forgotten and a good time was had by all. Hope you guys come back to windsor again real soon it was fun
March 19, 2009 11:23 PM
 

Momma Bear said:

So..you get to be bunkies with HIMSELF..or are you relagated to hang out with the lowlies?..You could talk shop with them.*lol*.this is an opportunity you wouldnt pass up if you had two broken legs...so..get out there and break one..(thats a showbiz term ya know)
March 20, 2009 12:16 AM
 

Nepomuk said:

That was lovely, Alan.
I used to believe Michael McGoldrick plays the best flute ( and whistle for that matter) in this here entire world, but your comment on Geoffrey got me thinking, so I'll go and do some research.
Thanks for such a nice start to my day. Would you also thank Séan on my behalf for the tribute idea?
Love and Fanship
Jule  
March 20, 2009 5:12 AM
 

Susan said:

Great show in Guelph.Loved the banter back and forth between Alan and Sean! It was a fun night.
Look forward to seeing Alan on the big screen.
...and good luck at the Junos.

March 20, 2009 10:53 AM
 

Wishn4CA said:

I got a chance to spend some time with several of the helicopter rescue workers at my hotel the night night I flew in from California. So I thought the tribute from Sean was touching and his words rang so true.

You and the b'ys did a fantastic job of raising the roof at Mile One and I loved meeting up with everyone after the show.

Best of luck with all you have scheduled this spring/summer.  Take care of yourself.
March 20, 2009 11:11 AM
 

Karen said:

It's been a long hard winter for certain with a ton of misery left in it's wake but we've all got to move on no matter how hard it may be. You boys have managed to clear my vision on many occasion (even with a few strong rums in my gullet)and pulled me to the top of a lot of my grief. You've made the road from home to Ontar-I-o alot shorter every time I make it-thanks for sure! I look forward to a GREAT evening tomorrow in Ottawa- you gotta know you're loved around here! Lots livin here from the EAST - We'll be the angels watchin from way up on high(last row I think-but...there none the less!!-and better dancin room anyhow!)

Thanks for your strength!
March 20, 2009 4:28 PM
 

Wendy from Waterdown said:

We saw you from the 4th row in Guelph.  I love you all !

I have never had so much fun in one night.  
The two girls in front of us had the sign that said it all!

"We love GBS!"

Love the last few songs with "The Spirit".
Loose and fun and yet sounded so tight.  
 
This was our 3rd show...and with you playing in a small venue like Guelph...made it even more intimate and special for my husband and I.   We will go again to see you in Guelph.

What a great Christmas gift!

p.s.    Sean, I loved your solo songs!

Wendy & Pete - Waterdown
March 20, 2009 7:31 PM
 

wally54 said:

Alan and lads,
Another fine kitchen party at the JLC in London on Thursday past. My throat still hurts from singing, as do my legs from jumping up and down!! With a huge Newfie base in London, you boys are like sons to us all, and after seeing your last five shows here, can't wait for your return. And I too have become an instant fan of SOTW....they rocked! Good fortune with the movie Alan, and thanks again. Cheers, Dave
March 21, 2009 1:57 PM
 

E. Ann Bardawill said:

Been listening to you lot for years and finally took a friend down to the JLC in London to see you for the first time. You and SPOTW were just grand. Great show! Thank you!

Before the show met a couple of young American ladies at Chauncy Smith's that had driven all the way up from Detroit to see you. They described GBS as a "hidden treasure", which I thought both charming and a bit sad. Treasures, yes... but hidden? Still, it's lovely that you are appreciated on the other side of the border.

Especially enjoyed the "Tin Whistle" exchange.
Naughty boys! Shameless!
.
.
.
hee hee hee!!
March 21, 2009 7:57 PM
 

mamajojo said:

London was great...as usual! I was there for SOTW and GBS in 96 visiting a friend at Western and both of you have seen me through the years and were my bit of Canada while overseas. My, has it been that long? You had my poor mother in stitches over the whole tin whistle exchange and my husband in tears for England - it is his adopted theme song (I dragged him over the pond 5 years ago), our 4 year old prince knows it by heart! After Fortune's Favour at Ontario Place, Oshawa and London in the past year it will be hard to say goodbye to that poor woman who insists on staring at your butt the whole show...but hey, we the audience get your *ahem* tin whistle!
I have to say though...I would KILL to see you do Straight to Hell live!
Come back soon...pleeeeease.
March 21, 2009 11:29 PM
 

njkggc said:

Another Great Big Show in Ottawa last night! We were front row centre and had a blast. It was my 10th show (3rd this year!) and my nieces' first. They were thrilled with the show, and when Kris handed his sticks to my younger niece, she was blown away!!
Thanks for always delivering an amazing show.
March 22, 2009 10:27 AM
 

WG said:

Be safe and have some fun on the other side of the Pond! You're gonna do just fine in the film.
March 22, 2009 1:30 PM
 

love4gbs said:

What an absolutely awesome show you guys did in Ottawa March 21!  We're from east of Toronto and started the tour with you June 25/08 (at the Heart & Crown) and were honored to be with you at the end of the tour (at the Civic Center).  SOTW touring with GBS was an added bonus (just like at the Toronto Greg Cup party).  That was our sixth time seeing you and can't wait for the next show.
Every show we've been to is so uplifting - one can only feel joy and happiness while in your company.  If I had to choose one word to describe GBS, I'd choose 'theraputic'.  
Travel safe, and have fun filming Robin Hood.
March 22, 2009 8:15 PM
 

Pete said:

The FF tour didn't start at the Heart & Crown. It started at PJ OBriens in TO.
March 23, 2009 1:14 AM
 

Houseb said:

What a wonderful giving soul you have Alan,  i love how you seamlessly juggle words and arrange them on the page so beautifully, you touch the hearts of many with your words and your music. Thank you, for sharing your wonderful talents with us all.
March 23, 2009 10:43 AM
 

Carol said:

You guys played such an amazing show in Winsdor last week. I think I can honestly say there is no better way to celebrate St. Paddy's than an over-sized kitchen party, especially when the musicians are Alan, Sean, Bob, Kris, and Murray. The rest of my family was rather jealous that my sister and I got to go. I think next time, we will bring the whole family. (I think SOTW was a little surprised to see how well we all knew 'Home for a Rest'.)
Good luck with all your plans for the Spring Alan. Be careful you don't wear yourself out.
I am really looking forward to the next album and the next tour. Love you guys, keep up the amazing work, as if you'd do anything else :)
March 23, 2009 3:21 PM
 

Pauline said:

What an awesome, fantastic, exhilerating (excuse my spelling!) show in London!!!!  You guy literally ROCK!!!  I left the concert with such an uplifting, joyous feeling.  Your music is energizing and peaceful all at the same time!  We can't wait to see you again.  And, I hope it is soon!  

You all looked and sounded GREAT!!  

Best wishes,

Pauline from Michigan
March 23, 2009 4:19 PM
 

StaceysMeadows said:


Just ordered 2 tickets to the Toronto Show!!  Saw you guys last week in London, loved the Tin Whistle Banter! I took a friend of mine that also came with me to the Oshawa show in Nov.  I didn't tell her that SOTW was opening and she was amazed! She saw them last in Peterborough years ago when she went to University. What a great combo GBS and SOTW are!  Especially the encore!!!
The Toronto concert will be the fifth show for me since the London concert at the Fair in September in less than a year!  I've been going to the concerts for about 8 years now, in cities like Toronto, St.Catharines, Barrie, Oshawa and London.  So proud of you and your shanty men for all of your years of hard work. 15 years together making music. What an accomplishment!

You are truly blessed to be able to live your dream of being a musican and now an actor!  Cheers to you!

Break a leg (good luck) across the Pond.  
Stacey's Meadows
March 24, 2009 12:01 PM
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