2006



12/15/06

Hello Shrdluufolk,

Some say it’s El Nino. Some say it’s global warming. Still others opine that it’s just a fluke. I picture some combination of all three. As nice as it is in some ways, it’s a bit disconcerting to have it be quite as balmy as it’s been of late. It’s a tad difficult to get the full seasonal feeling without it being colder with maybe a leetle snow. For crying out loud, it just started raining, as I write this! This is kinda what Christmas felt like to me in Florida years ago……….palm trees, colored lights, White Christmas on the radio. As a confirmed New Englander it was rather absurd and pointless. Surreal.

On a more real plane, tonight/tomorrow night, Saturday, December 16th, the Shrdlu Band will be playing our last public gig for 2006 at our revered haunt, 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut, beginning at 10 PM. I believe there’re some parties going on that may include stops at this establishment, including a party for Cyndi….let’s all sing, in the key of G, Happy Birthday to you,

Happy Birthday to you,
Happy Birthday dear Cyyyynnndi
Happy Birthday to you.

We’ll be kickin’ up some dance dust, so come out with your mate and some friends and get a great dinner, have a drink or two and let loose on the dance-floor. Before they close the kitchen for the night I’d get a slice of Banana Pie (scrumptious!) if I were you, too. Share it with a friend! Reservations may be a good idea, at 860-350-5995, and peruse the menu at www.59bank.com.

The Acoustic Open-Mic at the same establishment, which I host every Thursday, starting at 9:30 PM has been rollicking lately, so why doncha venture out to that? Come as an audience or bring your instrument, voice, etcetera, and we’ll all have some fun.

I was going to announce that I’d be fiddling and the band would be performing at the First Night Celebration in Danbury, Connecticut on New Year’s Eve, but I learned yesterday that the whole event has been cancelled due to a lack of funds and volunteers. Oh, well. Anyone need a band for a party?

And so, the days start to get longer next week…Spring’s right around the corner.

See you tomorrow or soon.

Peace,

Shrdlu

12/8/06

Good morning Shrdluweenies,

Wow! A slight dusting of snow this morning and really cold suddenly. Well, only cold in a relative sense. When it hits 5 below it’ll be really cold. Unless you’re from up North, proving the true relativity of it all.

In the interest of the utmost brevity that I’ve ever managed or you’ve ever imagined: the Shrdlu Trio will be appearing tonight, Saturday, December 9, at 9:30 PM at the GW Tavern located at 20 Bee Brook Road (Route 47) in Washington Depot, Connecticut. There will definitely be a nice (smoky) fire enhancing the ambiance, the food and drink will be plentiful, the waning moon will be shining down and the crowd will be convivial and celebratory. 860-868-6633. www.gwtavern.com.

So after a week of work, shopping for the perfect something for the perfect someone, and adjusting to a cold snap, don your good duds and hustle your atavistic self on down and dig the music, the food and the grog.

[Holiday shopping tip: Special sale-Annual Riverstone Jewelry and Craft Sale Saturday and Sunday from 10 AM-5 PM at the home of Jill Scholsohn at 279 Kent Road, 1/2 mile north of the Bull’s Bridge intersection on Route 7. Beautiful jewelry and pottery and random items from Jill’s world travels. 860-927-1012. www.eriverstone.com. ]

More next week,

Good day,

Shrdlu

11/10/06

Hello Shrdloopers,

Well, this was the week that was! The world has breathed a sigh of relief! The Democrats routed the Republicans at long last and Rumsfeld has been excoriated and has stepped down. Now if a modicum of civility can be inserted into politics and the Dems can actually refrain from stooping to the depths of skullduggery to which their rivals swam (not a sure thing, obviously), maybe some of the nation/world’s problems can be addressed by our elected officials. Perhaps the mess in Iraq can be straightened out? Maybe “the Decider-in-Chief” can grow up and try and work with political enemies for the benefit of all of us. Enough slime! It was gratifying to stand in a long line at the polls. I don’t know what the figures were for voter turnout, but it seemed good. Congratulations to us. Let’s wrest democracy back from the grip of lethargy and complacency.

All politics being local, locally the Shrdlu Trio will be appearing at the GW Tavern at 20 Bee Brook Road (Route 47) in Washington Depot, Connecticut, tomorrow, Saturday, November 11, 2006, starting at 9:30 PM. For the uninitiated, the GW is a charnel house where the bodies are deposited for dining, drinking, dancing (the three d’s) and general socializing and merry-making. The fire should be lit, the waning moon will be out and good humors will be high. The food and drink, as I’ve stated so many times before, are excellent, so make yourself and some friends a reservation at 860-868-6633 and come on out. www.gwtavern.com.

The following Saturday, November 18, the 4-piece Shrdlu Band returns, after a one month hiatus, to 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut. Here we’ll start at 10 PM unless they’ve cleared tables for us a little early. The food and drink here are also excellent and the cheer is cheery. The salads and flatbreads here are especially good. 860-350-5995. www.59bank.com.

Every Thursday, except Thanksgiving, of course, I host the Acoustic Open-Mic, which commences at 9:30 PM right there at 59 Bank. There’s been a good turnout of folks to play lately, even though I offended one person recently. It’s safe to return now. I suppose I should be glad that I’ve offended only one.

Having recently been in New Orleans, the dearth of places to play or go to hear live music around here is quite noticeable. I’m thankful that I have these two venues to play on a regular basis, in addition to the clubs/restaurants at which I play less frequently.

Exciting news for me is that I’ll be returning to New Orleans in the Spring for JazzFest! More on that later.

It’s a nice day for a walk, think I’ll take one.

Come out and celebrate democracy. You’re either for us or against us. See you soon,

Shrdlu

10/27/06

Hello Shrdluviacs,

Okay, so maybe Indian Summer is wearing out, as is October, but there're still two gigs I need to announce, thus a chance to redact this writ, pronto! Pronto because the first gig is tonight, Friday, October 27th, starting at 9:30 PM in the Tap Room of the fabled, gabled Redding Roadhouse situated at the junction of Routes 53 and 107 in West Redding, Connecticut, where the food is dreamy and the drinks sublime. This is the full, four-piece Shrdlu Band, guaranteed to rock your socks off, so gird yourself with your finery and come shake that thing. For reservations and/or directions call 203-938-3388 or visit www.reddingroadhouse.com.

Saturday, October 28th, the Shrdlu Trio (same band, sans drums) will return to the GW Tavern at 20 Bee Brook Road (Route 47) in Washington Depot, Connecticut for the Annual Halloween Costume Party. We commence again at 9:30 PM. I must offer the caveat that the establishment is being low-key about the event this year, as Robin, the former ringleader/decorator, moved to Florida last year, and no-one is as avid as she to gussy the place up. The prizes will be minimized, but there will be something. So, if you don't already have a costume, you have fewer than 48 hours to rig one up. Get going! I still have to figure out mine. All is exquisite there and the phone number is 860-868-6633 and the website is www.gwtavern.com.

I continue to host the Acoustic Open-Mic weekly on Thursday nights at 59 Bank at 59 Bank in New Milford, Connecticut, beginning at 9:30 PM. 860-350-5995 or www.59bank.com. Bring your ax and come entertain us. Or come be entertained.

I believe Saturday is the last New Milford Farmer's Market on the Green in the town of the same name, from 9 AM till Noon. Get some fall vegetables and say goodbye to the farmers and others who've been taking such good care of us. Maybe the Goatboy goats will be there and you can stock up on soaps, lip balms and hand lotion (it's the best!) to keep your skin from cracking this winter. Or go to www.goatboy.us.

I hope to see all of y'all this weekend. The unofficial website is still www.shrdluband.com.

Toodleloo,

Shrdlu



10/12/06

Well, Shrdluviacs,

I intended for this to be a lengthy newsletter containing info on my recent trip to New Orleans. Me being me, what you get is a brief, last minute notice of my Acoustic Open-Mic at 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut, tonight, Thursday, October 12, starting at 9:30 PM.

Also, the Shrdlu Trio will be at the GW Tavern at 20 Bee Brook Road in Washington Depot, Connecticut this Saturday, October 14, also starting at 9:30 PM.

Great food, music, drink and dancing as necessary at both places!

Other October events and N'awlins stories coming up.

See ya there.

Shrdlu



9/15/06

Hey Shrdlufolk,

This item is lifted from my last week's mailing, as a reminder of this week's great event, to wit:

This weekend, Saturday the 16th and Sunday the 17th, that other Shrdlu Trio, consisting of me, Pete Bennett and Marc Sichel will return to the Hopkins Vineyard Harvest Celebration (this is the 25th Annual!) which runs from Noon until 5 PM each day. This is a rain or shine wine tasting event, but damn, we deserve shine and shine on this one. It’s so outrageously beautiful up there when the weather’s nice, you owe it to yourself to be there. The wine is good, the setting is glorious, the hors d’oeuvre buffet is scrumptious, the music sings for itself, everyone is so friendly. The photos of Wally Kolek will be on display in the Wine Bar. Lifetime Case Club Members get in free as do children under 12 (there are non-alcoholic drinks provided). Admission is $15 with a postcard that can be downloaded from their site www.hopkinsvineyard.com if you didn’t receive one in the mail, otherwise it’s $20. It’s well worth it either way. Bring friends, a blanket, lawn chairs or whatever and relax in the splendor of a late-Summer afternoon while chillin’ with the Shrdlu Trio. How do you get there, you ask? The Vineyard is located on the north side of Lake Waramaug at 25 Hopkins Road (how apt!) in New Preston, Connecticut. If you want to arrive by mail, the zip is 06777. The phone # is 860-868-7954.

I have the feeling, as I was not sent a bunch of "undeliverable" notices, that a goodly portion of my mailing list did not receive last weeks' email, so the above notice is not a repeat for you.

See you there,

Shrdlu



9/8/06

Hello again Shrdludiads,

Dig this weather! Don’t get much nicer than this, eh? And that gorgeous moon which is riding high these nights….full, splendid and romantic, I say. Methinks I need a laptop so I don’t have to be shackled to the indoors to produce this missive. Maybe I’d be more prompt about it? Nah, probably not. But at least I could be reclining in the shade of a tree by the river right now, sipping my mint julep and watching the leaf-hoppers cavort. I suppose that’s anthropomorphising and they probably only appear to be cavorting. Ah, reverie!

Meanwhile in the “real world” our pervicacious president-in-chief continues to act like a suzerain, ever maintaining his “rightness” in the face of much evidence to his “wrongness”. Do you feel safer? He fills the air with bromides while his handlers, advisers and cronies spew venom at anyone who disagrees with his/their non-policies, all in the run-up to this fall’s elections. They’re avidly trying to milk 9/11 and terrorism/security while suddenly ignoring the failures of Iraq and Afghanistan. Is your memory as short as they want it to be? For a “uniter” W has sure bifurcated our populace and political system. I’m not sure if the Democrats have answers, but at least they have questions….the Republicans seem to have neither. Let’s all vote, now.

But then meanwhile in my little world, my little Shrdlu Trio will be back at the GW Tavern at 20 Bee Brook Road (Route 47) in Washington Depot, Connecticut on Saturday, September 9th (which is either tomorrow, tonight or yesterday, depending on when you read this) from 9:30 PM till closing. This is the usual Pete Bennett, Jim Lynch and me trio that regularly plays there. The moon will still be large and this is your invitation to roister with your friends and other celebrants in the charming atmosphere of this venerable establishment. Out on the deck will no doubt be amazing this night so come early and have a nice meal then stick around for some fab music and conviviality. www.gwtavern.com. 860-868-6633.

Next weekend, Saturday the 16th and Sunday the 17th, that other Shrdlu Trio, consisting of me, Pete Bennett and Marc Sichel will return to the Hopkins Vineyard Harvest Celebration (this is the 25th Annual!) which runs from Noon until 5 PM each day. This is a rain or shine wine tasting event, but damn, we deserve shine and shine on this one. It’s so outrageously beautiful up there when the weather’s nice, you owe it to yourself to be there. The wine is good, the setting is glorious, the hors d’oeuvre buffet is scrumptious, the music sings for itself, everyone is so friendly. The photos of Wally Kolek will be on display in the Wine Bar. Lifetime Case Club Members get in free as do children under 12 (there are non-alcoholic drinks provided). Admission is $15 with a postcard that can be downloaded from their site www.hopkinsvineyard.com if you didn’t receive one in the mail, otherwise it’s $20. It’s well worth it either way. Bring friends, a blanket, lawn chairs or whatever and relax in the splendor of a late-Summer afternoon while chillin’ with the Shrdlu Trio. How do you get there, you ask? The Vineyard is located on the north side of Lake Waramaug at 25 Hopkins Road (how apt!) in New Preston, Connecticut. If you want to arrive by mail, the zip is 06777. The phone # is 860-868-7954.

Then on Friday, September 22nd, the four-piece Shrdlu Band will ensconce itself into the little nook in the back of the room at 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut, providing you with some hot tunes for listening and dancing. After having a nice little meal there ourselves, we’ll start the show at about 10 PM and play till 1:30 AM. Come early, stay late! 860-350-5995. www.59bank.com.

See you at one of these affairs.

A bientot,

Shrdlu



9/1/06

Hello there Shrdluvians,

A September welcome to you. It's the first of the month and already it feels like the end of summer, right on schedule. The change of season is always nice, although I could wait a few more weeks for it to occur. In fact, technically there're still weeks of summer left so it will undoubtedly remain a bit balmy for a while.

I spent last week in the Adirondack, Green, and White Mountains, having quite a nice traveling vacation. There was a bit more of a chill up there and it was invigorating. I did two watercolor paintings, convincing myself that I don't know how to do watercolor paintings. I rowed a boat, and paddled a canoe and a kayak. Whoever invented the rowboat must have been weird. It's a clunky boat and you face where you've been, not where you're going, making the getting there harder, especially navigating around rocks, logs and other flotsam and jetsam. What was he or she thinking? The kayak is where it's at. Maneuverability plus!

On a more cogent note, Today, Saturday, September 2, weather permitting (about which I have my doubts) I'll be fiddling at the New Milford Farmer's Market on the Green in New Milford, Connecticut, between 10 AM and Noon, although the market opens at 9 AM. If this indeed comes to pass I'll be surrounded by a wonderful array of fruits and vegetables, flowers, locally baked breads, focaccias and the like, preserves, salsas, goats and the soap made from their milk (Goatboy, naturally), and smiling faces.

And if the weather holds out I return to Panini Café at 7 Old Barn Road in Kent, Connecticut, to play, solo, under the Maple from 5 PM till 7 PM. As you know, the sandwiches, soups and gelato are delicious and it's a very pleasant outdoor setting. Their phone number is 860-927-5083. I'm planning on going a little early so I can go to the Opening Reception at the Morrison Gallery next door, featuring the works (mostly oil paintings, I believe, and very good) of artist Dennis Hartley. The reception is from 2-5 PM and the show runs till October 6th.

So, if I were you, I'd buy some good local foods in the AM, while listening to your favorite jigs and reels, then view (and buy?) some fine art and follow it up with some fine music and a nice light meal in the afternoon, still leaving time to entertain yourself in the evening.

If it does happen to precipitate I won't be playing at either location but that shouldn't stop you from visiting the market, Panini or the gallery.

Next week the rest of the September schedule, including the Hopkins Vineyard. Stay tuned.

I'm hoping for dry weather (HA!) and to see you there,

Au revoir (sp?),

Shrdlu



8/16/06

Hey Shrdlufolk,

A reminder that tomorrow night, Thursday, August 17, I'll be hosting the weekly Acoustic Open-Mic at 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Ct. It starts at 9:30 PM, so come grab a bite and a drink and either be a performer or a listener or both. Next week there will be a guest host.

And the next night, Friday, August 18, the four-piece Shrdlu Band will be in the same establishment for a livelier sound and more dancability. We start at 10 PM. Same great everything else!

www.59bank.com 860-350-5995

So, whether you're feeling splendid or splenetic, come on down and let's get down!

See ya' there,

Dlu

8/9/06

Hey shrdluvvies,

Just a reminder that tomorrow and every Thursday I host the Acoustic Open-Mic, starting at 9:30 PM, at 59 Bank in New Milford, Ct, and this Saturday, August 12, the Shrdlu Trio will be at the GW Tavern in Washington Depot, Ct., beginning at 9:30 also. My usual guitarist, Jim Lynch, is away that evening so the Trio will be slightly different this week, featuring Gino Zenobia on percussion and Pete Bennett on bass guitar and guitar, and me on the usual potpourri of stuff. Look for a new twist on some of our usual songs and some entirely new material, too. It'll be way cool.

www.59bank.com 860-350-5995

www.gwtavern.com 860-868-6633

Hope to see you there.

Shrdlu


8/3/06

Steaming August greetings Shrdluvvies,

Damn!! I guess not much need be said regarding the current weather. Record-breaking (or thereabouts) heat in these parts, with some serious storms recently, to boot. And it's cooler here than in much of the rest of the country! I certainly remember days like this around here in the summer but from what I notice and read it sure seems like a trend is happening. Global warming anyone? I've been wandering the streets of New Milford the last couple of days dipping in and out of the AC.

To answer Terry's question of "Where are you now?," tonight, Thursday, August 3, I host the weekly Acoustic Open-Mic, at 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut, starting at 9:30 PM. I'm still hoping for a didjeridoo and some other unusual instruments in addition to the guitars, and one of these nights there's supposed to be one. Tonight, in fact. But can one believe everything a didj player says? Find out tonight! There was, of course a jazz quartet a few weeks ago. Come hear some of the local talent that's been making the rounds and get a nice meal and drinks. All the food is excellent, but lately I've been digging the flatbreads. Call 860-350-5995 or go to www.59bank.com for information. It's air conditioned!

A guy goes into a bar. The bartender says "I need a band this Friday." The guy says "You got it." Hence, tomorrow night, Friday, August 4, the Shrdlu Trio will be appearing at the GW Tavern at 20 Bee Brook Road (Route 47) in Washington Depot, Connecticut. I didn't have this gig when I started the newsletter yesterday. Timing is everything, as they say. Speaking of timing, we'll start at the usual 9:30 PM. I gotta say, as nice as the terrace is at the GW, in this weather it's nicer inside. The phone number is 860-868-6633 and their website is www.gwtavern.com.

This Saturday evening, August 5, from 5 PM till 7 PM I'll again be playing solo as part of the Summer "Music Under the Maple" series in front of Panini Café in Kent, Connecticut. The Maple lives in the little courtyard, the address of which is 7 Old Barn Road between Backcountry Outfitters and the Morrison Gallery and Main Street. Their phone number is 860-927-5083. The delicious gelato, of which they have four flavors at any given time, is made fresh daily and is, of course, less fattening than ice cream due to its lack of cream. If rains come, you can still enjoy all the panini and gelato you want but you won't find me playing. Panini manana. Just wanted to type that for fun. Bananapaninimanana.

The following Saturday, August 12, is our regularly scheduled GW Tavern gig, with all the details the same as above. Forgot to mention the delicious food and drink. Lucky us.we get to play there twice this month. Lucky you.you get to see us there twice!

Friday, August 18, the four-piece Shrdlu Band returns to cook up some dance tunes at 59 Bank. For this we commence at 10 PM. Get the particulars from the Open-Mic paragraph above. Come early, stay late.

If I can manage to arise early enough I intend to sidle on down to fiddle at the New Milford Farmer's Market on one of these Saturday mornings, but it's hard after playing until 1:30 and not getting to bed very soon thereafter.

That's all the places where I and my bandmates will be on public display this month. So get gussied up and come on out and guttle.

Remember: In Vino Veritas.

Shrdlu



7/19/06

Hello Shrdlufolk,

Here’s the round-up for this “ending of the great month of July”, in which we’ve been mightily attacked by summer. Never ceases to amaze me that people can complain about snow and cold in January as if it’s not supposed to happen and then do the same about the sultry days of July and early August! Why do we live in New England if we don’t expect these extremes? There is still room in North Carolina.

Anyway, aside from the Acoustic Open-Mic which I host each Thursday at 9:30 PM at 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut, and which had a very talented jazz quartet in its midst last week, the last public gig I and my Shrdlu Band have for the month is at, you guessed it, that very same 59 Bank thith Friday, July 21th, thtarting at 10 PM. Put on your glad rags, dancing shoes and a bib (for the crumbs and slobber from your delicious meal that you’ll get there) and get on down and spend the night with us. Phone is 860-350-5995 and the web is www.59bank.com.

For you runners who will run the 8-mile race at the New Milford Village Fair on the 29th, I will be at my perch at the turn as you ascend that last, gruesome hill, cheering /spurring you on with my fiddle. Now, these people don’t complain about the heat. They’re so nuts they actually run 8 miles in it!! They also run in that Winter snow. How out of touch are they?

So, if I don’t see you on that hill I do hope to see you at 59 Bank this Friday and various Thursdays.

Till then,

Shrdlu

7/13/06

Good day, Shrdloobers,

Thanks to all the folks who sent me well-wishes in the last week while I was sick. I finally feel good today, still a little weak but basically here, ready to get back to work, after intense fever burned itself out the night before last. I still didn't have it together enough yesterday to write this, but now, listening to an uplifting CD of contemporary African music, here I type.

Meanwhile the world slips, in its handbasket, inexorably closer to hell, as Israel is now battling both Gaza and Lebanon, terrorists struck 7 trains in India, North Korea and Iran are challenging everyone, and our forays into Iraq and Afghanistan continue to deteriorate, to mention just the grimmest, most obvious, headlines. This weekend the G-8 meets in St. Petersburg, Russia, and here's a quote from today's Washington Post regarding this event: "The tone for the meetings was set Wednesday when Russian President Vladimir Putin took a jab at Vice President Cheney for his recent criticism of Moscow's retreat from democracy and pressure tactics against neighbors. 'These kinds of comments from your vice president amount to the same thing as an unsuccessful hunting shot,' Putin said on NBC's "Today" show, referring to Cheney's hunting accident earlier this year." Should be a fun event! The Big Dig in Boston is collapsing because of loose bolts and the world is being run by loose nuts.

But speaking of fun, it starts tonight Thursday, July 13th, as I host the Acoustic Open-Mic, at 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut, starting at 9:30 PM. With the warm summer nights upon us more people have been coming out to perform and the crowd has been growing also (some members of the crowd are now over 7 feet tall!). Come join the good time. 860-350-5995 and www.59bank.com.

Friday, July 14th, commencing at 9:30 PM also, the 4-piece Shrdlu Band rocks the famed Redding Roadhouse which is situated at 406 Redding Road, West Redding, Connecticut, at the intersection of Route 53 and Route 107. It is alleged that Mark Twain ate and quaffed and mebbe sketched some ideas in this very building..too bad they painted over the graffiti in the men's room, I seem to recall reading in there, years ago, when the place was called the Bachelors II or III or whatever it was, something to the effect of "John, John Sawyer, where is that boy?" Come dance with the ghosts of Tom and Huck and Becky and Injun Joe, and sample the same fine foods and hospitality enjoyed by Mark. What's the difference between you and Mark Twain? You can call 203-938-3388 or visit www.reddingroadhouse.com for directions and reservations and he couldn't.

On Saturday afternoon, July 15th, from 5 till 7 PM I'll be playing solo in the Music Under the Maple series at Panini Café, located at 7 Old Barn Road (there, I finally learned the address), a stone's throw from the monument on Route 7 in downtown Kent, Connecticut. This was kindly re-scheduled by Anne and Dave from last Saturday when I was first sick. I mention again the delicious panini (sandwiches) they serve there, as well as the refreshing, not too fattening, gelato(i). The phone number is 860-927-5083 and there doesn't seem to be a website. Panini Café was voted Best Take-out in Litchfield County in the Litchfield County Times last year. I imagine all of last year's sandwiches are gone by now but I know from experience that this year's are equally good so come git yerself one and enjoy the music and mapleish ambiance.

Next Friday, July22, the Shrdlu Band returns to 59 Bank at the same address, phone number and website as listed above in the Open-Mic section of this missive, offering you the chance to eat drink dance and be merry. We'll begin at 10 PM but you can begin earlier with some of the excellent food and liquid refreshment. To paraphrase Cheney, or was it Rumsfeld, "Be happy.be very happy."

See you soon,

Shrdlu

7/8/06

Well, Shrdlubbers,

Turns out my health has not taken a turn for the better, so I postponed my Panini Cafe gig for this afternoon...I'll be there next Saturday, 5-7 PM.

The Shrdlu Trio will still be at the GW Tavern tonight, but it'll be a duo, Jim Lynch and Pete Bennett, without me. I'll be at home soaking my weary bones. Go out and catch them anyway, it'll stil be fun and quality music.

Be back atcha next week.

Shrdlu

7/7/06

Hi Shrdlupeeps,

I gots to be brief and fast as I'm announcing two gigs for this weekend, Saturday July 8th! I procrastinated long and then went under-the-weather and now it's a race against time.

From 5 PM till 7 PM I'll be playing solo under the Maple in front of Panini Café in Kent, Connecticut. Luscious little toasted Italian sandwiches.I seem to go for the mozzarella/basil/tomato variety, but they're all equally good. Or maybe have some homemade soup. Wash (?) it all down with a nice gelato..mmmmm. The place is in a little courtyard between Backcountry Outfitters and the Morrison Gallery and Main Street. Their phone number is 860-927-5083. If it happens to rain, you can still get the eats but I won't be playing.but it won't rain.

Later that evening, 9:30 to be exact, the Shrdlu Trio will lively-up the GW Tavern at 20 Bee Brook Road (Route 47) in Washington Depot, Connecticut. The weather's nice now so folks congregate on the great patio to eat and make merry. Elegant dining in a tavern atmosphere. Go for the oyster appetizer with a nice chardonnay. All the while you can enjoy our dulcet tones and perhaps dance as the night wears on. We'll wear out at 1:30 AM. Reservations/directions at 860-868-6633 and website at www.gwtavern.com.

So, frou-frou yourself up and come out and have some fun with the Shrdlu family of bands.

Next Friday, the 14th, the full Shrdlu Band will be at the Redding Roadhouse in West Redding, Connecticut, but I'll say more about that next week, in a timely fashion.

See ya there,

Shrdlu

6/28/06

Hello Shrdroids,

“….and then it rained for forty days and forty nights” or something like that. Let’s all scream “Uncle” and maybe the rain will stop. It’s starting to seem like a bona fide monsoon season as experienced on other continents. The 10-Day Forecast looks continually gloomy, as do the 3 and 4 day versions, which is why I write.

This Saturday, July 1st, weather permitting, ha ha, I’ll be fiddling at the New Milford Farmer’s Market on the Green in New Milford, Connecticut, from 10 AM till Noon. More and more produce and plants are available there as the summer progresses, along with the Goatboy Soap and baked goods being proffered. I understand there’ll be locally grown rice there if the rain doesn’t subside.

And that very same evening, weather permitting, hahahaha, the Shrdlu Band will be playing less than 100 yards away on the Green, on the Bandstand/Gazebo, starting at 9 PM, stopping about 45 minutes later for the town fireworks display, then recommencing when they’re finished and playing till 11:30. Pray for nice weather! And do a Sun Dance.

The following day we play at a private party, also outside, so I really do want it to be nice. And of course you want it to be nice too, as we’ve all had it with this weather, no?

Tomorrow night, Thursday, June 29th, is the weekly Acoustic Open-Mic that I host at 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street also in New Milford. It starts at 9:30 PM and this week the Captain Morgan Girls will be there with Captain Morgan drink specials, give-aways of some sort and whatever else Captain Morgan-type girls do/have.??!! Come out to play or to accessorize.

That’s it for now….stay dry!

Shrdlu

6/6/06

Hello Shrdloobidoobies,

Well, it’s June, or so they tell me, but jeez, isn’t it supposed to be a little bit warmer or sunnier or drier or something? I’m not complaining or anything, it could be worse, I know, but what about my tan? And outside gigs take a beating in the rain and wind, as when the tent started to blow away in the driving rain ten minutes before we were finished playing on the second day of the Barrel Tasting at the Hopkins Vineyard last month, after intermittent showers and coolishness both days. Resourcefulness on the part of some of the remaining guests and staff kept the trio from getting squashed as well as soaked, and our equipment/instruments ruined.

Why such concern over rain? Why? Because this Saturday, June 10, I’ll be recommencing to play outside at Panini Café in downtown Kent, Connecticut, from 5 PM till 7 PM. I’ll be in a pretty little grassy courtyard in front of the shop, owned by Anne and Dave, among a few buildings, with a giant maple tree providing shade. It’s the same spot as the last two years for those of you who have been before. Come on out and have one of the delicious sandwiches (panini) they make, follow it with a gelato, all while listening to the dulcet tones of me. Call 860-927-5083 for the exact location of this fabulous sandwicherie. It’s easy to find, don’t worry. While in town, go to Backcountry Outfitters, also owned by Anne and Dave, which has moved from next to Panini to a location across Route 7, and check out the Morrison Gallery in between on your way.

Two and a half hours later (that’s 9:30 PM), the Shrdlu Trio will be scrunched into its little nook at the GW Tavern at 20 Bee Brook Road (Route 47) in Washington Depot, Connecticut. We’ll be serving up some of your favorites, as the restaurant delivers its mouth-watering fare and Chris works his mixological magic, until 1:30 PM. Make your reservations and get your directions at 860-868-6633 or www.gwtavern.com.

The following Friday, June16, the 4-piece Shrdluband will return to 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut for a night of hot music, dancing, carousing and lubricious what-have-you. Great food, drinks and bon hommie, it’s the place to be. Reservations/directions are to be had at 860-350-5995 and www.59bank.com. Do note that the calendar of events is not up to date.

And speaking of weather, the next two afternoons, Saturday, June 17 and Sunday, June 18, I’ll be strolling and fiddling on the Green in New Milford at the New Milford Outdoor Art Show (I think that’s what it’s called). I’ll be there for a couple of hours each afternoon but the event runs probably from late morning till early evening. It’s a chance to view and buy paintings, sculpture, collages, etc., and to meet the artists. There are at least three-score artists, and among those who reside locally will be Michael Patterson and Susan Grissell. Across Main Street facing the Green is the Gregory James Gallery which you should visit while taking in the show.

I will, of course, be hosting the Acoustic Open-Mic this and every Thursday at the afore-mentioned 59 Bank, beginning at 9:30 PM. This is your time to come out and perform those songs you’ve been writing or those of other people that you’ve been practicing so hard, before a live audience. It’s to share, right? And if you’re of the listening persuasion, come be the ears for these folks, and have a good time as the week winds down.

Also each Sunday I lead the Open Door praise band at the contemporary service of the Methodist Church at 68 Danbury Road (Route 7) in New Milford starting at 11:30 AM.

And the “unofficial” website is: www.shrdluband.com.

So, that’s how June triangulates for me, and that’s the news from Shrdluvia.

See you soon,

Shrdlu

5/12/06

Greetings Shrdluvanoids,

Welcome from the citadel of Shrdluvia to the lusty month of May! Is it true? It is true that the weather has been appropriately Mayish, what with some extraordinarily beautiful days, and now a string of semi-overcast days and nights, obscuring, once again, the waxing moon much of the time. Not to mention it has folks wearing turtlenecks and wool socks half the time again. The woods look amazing with their multi-hued greens as the leaves spread forming a canopy to eat/frolic in for all the birds that are migrating through the area. Warblers are appearing in abundance. I saw an Indigo Bunting near my house a few times recently…beyond gorgeous.

Last Saturday was the opening reception at the Morrison Gallery in Kent, Connecticut, of the watercolors of Deborah Chabrian, a local artist. She does beautiful work, and there are still a couple of Peter Woytuk sculptures around for your enjoyment. While in Kent, stop at the Bachelier-Cardonsky Gallery and see the works of 45 Litchfield County artists. Again, some phenomenal stuff!

This Saturday, May 13th, the boys and I of the Shrdlu Trio…Jim Lynch and Pete Bennett…return to the GW Tavern in Washington Depot, Connecticut, at 20 Bee Brook Road, also known as Route 47, starting at 9:30, to mesmerize you with music. If not, why not? It’s a monthly spot for us, as you know, and always loads of fun. Now that it’s Spring, the fire inside is off and on a nice night you can hang outside under the moon, stars or canopy while listening to us ambiently if you don’t want to be part of the inside crowd. The food is delicious, Chris is behind the bar and your friends will be there anyway. They’re at www.gwtavern.com or 860-868-6633 for any info you need.

Next weekend, Saturday, May 20th and Sunday, May 21st is the long-awaited return of the Hopkins Vineyard Annual Barrel Tasting from Noon until 5 PM each day. The long-awaited other Shrdlu Trio consisting of me and Pete Bennett and Marc Sichel will be performing all day each day. This event is the most fun……the setting is gorgeous, the wines are good, as are the hors d’oeuvres (I think I forgot how to spell it again, but I’ll be reminded) people are having a great time, and the band….what can I say? This is a wine tasting, there are ongoing wine seminars, and they’re introducing a delicious new chardonnay/vidal blanc blend named Duet. The art of Suzanne Heilman is being shown in the upstairs Wine Bar. Bring a blanket and come have a splendid afternoon or two.

Lifetime Case Club Members are admitted free, as are children under 12 (they [the Vineyard, not the children] provide non-alcoholic drinks), and all others pay $20….unless you have a special postcard, acopy of which you can download at their website www.hopkinsvineyard.com that will save you 5 bucks off that price. Who wouldn’t bother to download? You can also get directions, etc., from the site or at 860-868-7954. Annnd you get a complimentary Hopkins Vineyard wine glass. Alsooo, save 15% on cases of wine during the month of May.

Hopkins Vineyard is located on a hill overlooking beautiful Lake Waramaug at 25 Hopkins Road, New Preston, Connecticut. Meet the winemakers. Drink the wine.

That same Saturday night, fried from an afternoon of playing in (I hope) the sun, Pete and I will head down to 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut where we will be joined by fellow Shrdlu Band members Jim Lynch and Butch Raymond, and, I hope, you, to full-out rock the night away, commencing at 10 PM. Come early, bring friends have a scrumptious meal and dance to your heart’s content in the convivial environment.

The New Milford Farmer’s Market kicks off this month on the Green in down town New Milford and I can be found fiddling about there from 10 AM till Noon on Saturday, May 27th, Memorial Day weekend. This time of year you can purchase a few cold weather veggies like lettuce and lots of plants, many organically grown, for your own gardens at home. There are also locally made breads, jams, cut flowers, and other goodies, as well as the famous Goatboy Soaps (lisa@goatboy.us) made in New Milford…meet the goats, wash with the milk.

If, and it’s a big if, it’s a non-rainy, that is a non-procellous, evening on Friday the 26th, I’ll be fiddling at the turnaround spot of the Moonlight Run roadrace which starts at Young’s Field Road in New Milford. I don’t know at what time the race starts. If you’re a runner I’ll see you there.

Thursday evenings I host the Acoustic Open-Mic at 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street, New Milford, Connecticut, starting at 9:30 PM and finishing when the last gasp has been gasped. There has been some really good talent there so far, and anyone who wants to add to that should be there, ready to break a leg. This occurs every Thursday, so come on down to play or cheer!

As ever, Sundays, except for the 21st when I’ll be at the Vineyard and Jim Lynch will be filling in for me, at 9:30 AM I lead the Open Door Band at the ContemporaryWorship service at the New Milford United Methodist Church at 68 Danbury Rd (Route 7) in New Milford. 860-868-4596.

What the hell happened to my margin? I just don’t understand computers.

So, that’s all the public gigs for the month, fit to print. Hope to see you at one/some of them.

Peace,

Mon Shrdlu,



4/14/06

Hello Dluviacs,

Well, yeah, Spring is really here with lots of sun and warmth and this should be the last you hear of it from me. We’ve lost an hour of sleep in exchange for a little extra daytime, and I guess that’s a good thing, as we regain it in the fall when we’re even more tired than now. The full moon is tonight and it’s supposed to be partly cloudy with a chance of craziness. In case you don’t know, the lunar cycle repeats every 29.5 days and that cycle is called a synodic period, which comes from the Greek words meaning "journey together," referring to the sun and moon's position with respect to each other. Now you know!

So come enjoy the pinnacle of the synodic period, and perhaps a little craziness, at 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut, where I’ll be hosting the Acoustic Open-Mic tonight, and also every Thursday starting at 9:30 PM. There’s been some really good music happening, so grab your instruments and ears and come have a great meal, a drink and a good time. The phone number is 860-350-5995 and the web address is www.59bank.com.

Tomorrow night, Friday, April 14, hie thee (and your friends) to the Redding Roadhouse situated at the junction of Routes 53 and 107 in West Redding, Connecticut, where the four-piece Shrdlu Band will hold forth in the Tap Room commencing at 9:30 PM and ceasing only after Publican Dean rings the bell for last-call. It’s a guaranteed party, and the food is, of course, excellent, and said Dean is a mixologist maven. Call 203-938-3388 for reservations or directions, and check out their website at www.reddingroadhouse.com.

This Saturday, April 15, formerly Tax Day, the same Shrdlu Band will be rocking 59 Bank in New Milford. All the appropriate location/phone/web info is listed above in the Open-Mic department. Defer your taxpaying angst till Monday and come have your fun with us on this night while you trip the light fantastic, fandango! Jill and Tammy will be behind the bar and that’s always a good thing.

Friday, April 21st the Shrdlu Duo (Pete Bennett and me) do our jazz chromatic harmonica/guitar duet thing at the other 59 Bank which is located at 37 Ethan Allen Highway (Route 7) in Ridgefield, Connecticut. We’ll be playing jazz standards from 8:30 PM till 11:30 PM, which is pretty early if you ask me. They serve the same delicious food as their sister restaurant in New Milford. There’s also pizza to go. The phone number is 203-544-0059 and for the website, see above. Don’t forget to check out Art and Julia Michaelson’s (the owners of 59 Bank and 59 Bank, which adds up to 118 Banks) new seafood restaurant, The Catch, also in Ridgefield, for some outstanding provenance from the watery depths.….find them at the same website.

So that’s it for the month of April from Shrdluvia. Hope to see you at a gig. And check out www.shrdluband.com, the “unofficial website”, still run by Mary Jane. Enjoy whatever particular holiday you may or may not be celebrating. Is that vague and politically correct enough?

Shrdlu



4/6/06

Hey Shrdlubbers,

The late-breaking part is that the Acoustic Open-Mic is tonight (could I be timelier?), as well as every Thursday, at 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut, and it starts at 9:30 PM and you’re invited to bring your instruments, voices, jokes, steps, and what-not to the event and display your talent, or be someone on the receiving end of that talent. Don’t be just another stay-at-home-one-dimensional apparatchik…..come out and have a good time. 860-350-5995. Also www.59bank.com - if you visit their website, you’ll see that they have my band listed (erroneously) as playing this Saturday, but as you’ll read below, I’m actually elsewhere.

And speaking of stay-at-home-one-dimensional-apparatchiks, don’t be one this Saturday, April 8, either, at least not between 9:30 PM and 1 AM, when the Shrdlu Trio will be movin’ and groovin’ at the wondrous GW Tavern located at 20 Bee Brook Road (Route 47) in Washington Depot, Connecticut. Be there with us, having your own internal/external party. Eschew those who will never be deep thinkers, and joinus instead, livelying-up yourself. This is your life, not a rehearsal. 860-868-6633 or www.gwtavern.com.

Both of the above places have, as you know, excellent food, drink and ambiance and are always fun, so be there. And it’s almost the full moon, if almost counts.

Next week the Shrdlu Band will be at 59 Bank and the Redding Roadhouse, but I’ll ‘splain that next week.

See ya,

Shrdlu



3/22/06

Hello Shrdluviites,

Well, it is Spring, and I have yet to run into anyone who isn’t happy about that. I went walking by the river today, where it’s been icy for the last couple of months, or icymuddy and today it was practically bone dry and I did some fast-stepping without fear of slipping to the ground. Of course we’ll get the rains that will turn it back into slop, but, hey, that’s Spring. The moon is on the wane and appears late in the sky, but is higher and seems brighter.

Our only president announced today that we won’t be leaving Iraq on his watch. That’s nice of him. But he still says things are going well. I always like to imagine that the guy’s not stupid, but it gets harder by the day. Meanwhile, it’s never too late to explain to your kids…..boys, girls, gays (don’t ask/don’t tell), straights, about being conscientious objectors. Don’t bother with the National Guard, obviously. It worked for the pres but now even the Guard gets to go to war anyway. Recruiters give me the creeps!

Last week, as you remember, the O’Shrdlu Duo did its Irish fiddle gig at 59 Bank in Ridgefield and it was a lot of fun. This Saturday, March 25, the 4 piece Shrdlu Band will be back at 59 Bank in New Milford, Connecticut. This bistro is located at 59 Bank Street, natch, and we’ll instigate the action at 10 PM, earlier if tables are cleared away sooner. As you’ve read in my missives so many times (monthly, to be precise), the food is great, ambiance convivial, bartenders topnotch, floor good for dancin’. Make reservations for you and your friends at 860-350-5995 and check their website, www.59bank.com even though the event calendar seems sketchy sometimes. Their new seafood restaurant The Catch is now open in Ridgefield and the food is, of course, excellent.

Two nights earlier, Thursday, March 23, (and every Thursday coming up, mind you) at the same Bat location (59 Bank, NM) is the Acoustic Open-Mic hosted by moi, and starting at 9:30 PM. We’re having a good start with it…thanks to the musicians who’ve come out so far, and the audience, and to Greg Wargo who did an exemplary job, I’m told, of hosting it for me last week. If you’re a musician/singer/etc and you haven’t been down yet (and you know who you are), come on out and show us your stuff. Whither the zither? Wherefor the airfare?

As always, I lead the Open Door Band in the Contemporary Service at the Methodist Church in New Milford, Connecticut on Sunday mornings at 11:30 AM.

Unofficial website: www.shrdluband.com.

That’s all for your lexicon for now,

See you there,

Shrdlu



3/16/06

Hello Shrdluposse,

Here it is, Friday, the 17th, the little green day so oddly and boisterously celebrated with drinking, dancing, fake brogues and too much green.

Where will you be spending the evening? You’ll find me with Pete Bennett at 59 Bank in Ridgefield, Connecticut. Although we usually do guitar/harmonica jazz at this venue, whereas it is St Paddy’s Day, I’ll be whipping out my fiddle and we’ll be doing jigs, reels, hornpipes, airs and polkas from the land of Eire for the evening. It’ll be a rip-roaring good time at this great restaurant located at 37 Ethan Allen Highway (Route 7) in Ridgefield. We commence playing at 8:30 PM and won’t quit till the last wee Leprechaun collapses from exhaustion. To find out if they’re having Irish meal Specials or to make reservations call 203-544-0059. And check their website: www.59bank.com. The 59 people are opening a new restaurant soon, called The Catch, also in Ridgefield. Watch for it.

Tomorrow, Thursday the 16th, as I have a previous engagement, the Open-Mic which I just re-started last week at the original 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, will be guest-hosted by my friend Greg Wargo, a very talented singer/guitarist who’s been in the area since way back. Last week was a successful return, with a nice crowd and some players who used to regularly perform there and were glad to have the opportunity again. Come on out to sup and quaff, perchance to dream, and if you’re a performer, to perform. Music starts at 9:30 PM. Thanks to Greg for filling in. 868-350-5995. See website above.

As they say in Ireland,

Arivederci,

Shrdlu



3/8/06

Hello Shrdlutiads,

This appears to be a weekly/monthly newsletter due to the time confusion I’m living in. Some of you may be experiencing similar disorientation. I walk around my home and my clock radio says one time, my watch another, the stove another and the computer still another! According to the calendar Spring is just weeks away, which means Daylight Savings Time can’t be far behind, all of which gives me the willies. I don’t know what to do if I lose an hour. As it is I’ve gained about 5 minutes walking around my apartment, but I’ve been late twice to my kitchen. And I live in a Studio apartment! Woe is me!

Be that as it may, however, the snow of last Thursday had the effect of canceling the first Return-of-the-Open-Mic which will now return tomorrow (return-of-the-return-of-the open-mic [pray for no snow, if only to avoid more returns-of]), March 9, at 9:30 PM at 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut. It’s over the hump of the week so you can stay out a wee bit later than usual and either be a part of the talent on display or just watch and listen. There should be some good stuff this week, based on the musicians I’ve heard from so far. And you can get a delicious bite to eat as you settle in for the evening. Phone and web: 860-350-5995 and www.59bank.com.

This Saturday, March 11, the mellifluous sounds will emanate from the Shrdlu Trio as we hold forth at our monthly engagement at the GW Tavern at 20 Bee Brook Road (Route 47) in Washington Depot, Connecticut. It’s always a gas there and the atmosphere is plenty romantic with the fireplace and whatnot. Getcha a scrumptious meal and good drink and fine music, starting at 9:30 PM. 860-868-6633. www.gwtavern.com.

Next week we’ll discuss St. Patrick’s Day and beyond.

Enough of my bloviating, it’s time to move on, and I’m either early, on-time or late….who can tell?

Later,

Shrdlu

2/27/06

Hey Shrdloobers,

A brief note to let you know that starting this Thursday, March 2, the Acoustic Open-Mic returns to 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Ct. I'll be hosting it every Thursday starting at 9:30 PM, so bring your songs, your instruments, voices and friends and let's get down and have a good time. And those of you who just want to be in the audience, you be there, too.

I'll see you there.

Shrdlu

2/17/06

Alright, Shrdlubbers,

Just a reminder that Shrdlu will be inhabiting the two 59 Banks this weekend....the Shrdlu Band at 59 Bank on Bank Street in New Milford tonight, Friday, starting at 10 PM for your dancing and listening pleasure, and tomorrow the Shrdlu Duo playing jazz standards, from 8:30 PM till 11:30 PM at 59 Bank in Ridgefield, both establishments being in Connecticut and locatable (sic) by going to their new website www.59bank.com.

Bring friends and let's have some fun!!

See ya there,

S

2/8/06

Greetings Shrdlupeople,

Weird winter! I don’t know ‘bout you, but I can barely tell what month or season it is whether I’m inside or out. The whole month of January was a thaw. I haven’t even snapped on my cross-country skis this season! What’s the point of having winter if it’s not cold and snowy? I might as well have stayed in St. Augustine and kept warm. Hmmm.

The only way it seems wintery is that the small critters are in the house. How do I know? They’re eating my soap. Why do mice eat soap? No taste buds? Are they just stupid? Do they say lots of bad things and their mouse mommies force them to eat it? Mystifies me! All I know is I go through lots of soap.

I thought the little beasts ate only Goatboy Soaps, the brand most preferred by 9 out of 10 rodents and myself. I thought maybe it was the milk or saponified oils, but no. They’re gorging on Yardley, too! I will add that Goatboy hand lotion is again keeping my fingers from cracking and recommend the stuff highly. Check it out at www.goatboy.us. Keep your hands smooth and your mice healthy!

Which brings me to my upcoming gigs, of which there are three public in February, all at familiar places. This Saturday, February 11, the Shrdlu Trio ( myself on guitar, violin and harmonicas, Jim Lynch on guitar and Pete Bennett on bass, with all of us on vocals) will be returning to the GW Tavern at 20 Bee Brook Road (Route 47) in Washington Depot, Connecticut. A friend who hadn’t been there before brought a table-full of folks to our last engagement there and declared the food “unbelievable” and said of the band “you added a nice touch to the food and the atmosphere.” I don’t remember touching their food, but if she says so….We’ll begin playing at 9:30 PM and go till 1:30 AM. If you’ve been there before, you know the routine. For those who haven’t been, it’s a cozy place with a fireplace and couch, rustic, with great food and drink. Phone 860-868-6633 for reservations or directions, or go to www.gwtavern.com.

The next Friday, February 17th, the 4-piece Shrdlu Band (add Butch Raymond on drums to the above trio) will be back at 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut, starting at 9:30 or 10 PM, depending on when tables can be cleared away so we can set up. This is a terrific place to meet some friends, libate, get an excellent meal and do some dancing, too. We’ve been playing here monthly since the place opened and it’s always a fun time. Their website is www.59bank.com and the phone number is 860-350-5995.

And the following night, Saturday, February 18th, as a guitar/chromatic harmonica duo, the Shrdlu Duo, consisting of Pete Bennett and me, will be playing jazz standards again, between 8:30 PM and 11:30 PM at the Ridgefield, Connecticut version of 59 Bank, called 59 Bank. The actual location is 37 Ethan Allen Highway (Route 7) in Ridgefield, Connecticut. They serve the same delicious food as the New Milford restaurant and we nestle into the corner of the friendly barroom where bartender Tiffany holds forth. The website is the same as the above, and the phone number is 203-544-0059.

The unofficial Shrdlu website, as maintained by Mary Jane Fast, can be found at www.shrdluband.com. Thank you MJ.

And I still lead the Open Door Band at the Contemporary Worship service at the New Milford United Methodist Church at 68 Danbury Road (Route 7) in New Milford every Sunday at 11:30 AM. 860-354-4596.

Everything stated in this newsletter is true. If I decide to include some of it in my memoirs, I’ll probably feel the need to liven some of the facts up a little bit in keeping with the current literary trend of whatever-his-name-Fray-(Frey?) and just about everything uttered by our President. (grammarchek, pls!?)

I hope to see you all at one of these gigs.

Peace,

Shrdlu

“There are two things you can’t do…that which you say you can’t, and that which you say you can.” Said by I know not who.


1/19/06

Happy New Year Shrdluviacs,

Welcome to the bowdlerized first newsletter of the year. Here I am off to another slow start, but at least here I am! I don’t know about you, but I spent New Year’s Eve with my son in St. Augustine, Florida, where the temperature was in the 70’s and shoes were optional. My, it was pleasant to be away from the winter for a little while, soaking up the sun amid the palmettos and Spanish moss. And I always have liked a southern drawl. Since my return I’ve had frozen water pipes and my car was frozen shut! Good ol’ New England!

Getting back into the swing of things this week, the Merry Men of the Shrdlu Band will be revving up this Friday, January 20th, starting at 10 PM, or mebbe 9:30, at our home stomping ground 59 Bank at 59 Bank Street in New Milford, Connecticut. The last time we played there we were downstairs for the first time and I’m not sure if we’ll be up or down this time, but it’s always a good time, with plenty of dancing along with great food and drink. Make it a plan with some friends and put on those dancing shoes! The phone number is 860-350-5995 and their website, which may still have the wrong listing for that night, is www.59bank.com.

Saturday, January 21st the Shrdlu Duo (Pete Bennett and me) do our jazz chromatic harmonica/guitar duet thing at the other 59 Bank which is located at 37 Ethan Allen Highway (Route 7) in Ridgefield, Connecticut. We’ll be playing jazz standards from 8:30 PM till 11:30 PM for all you early-birds. They serve the same delicious food as their sister restaurant in portions not exiguous! There’s also pizza to go. The phone number is 203-544-0059 and for the website, see above.

Which brings us to the following weekend when the full Shrdlu Band returns to the Redding Roadhouse on Friday the 27th, starting at 9:30 PM and concluding when the clock strikes 1:30 AM. This renowned dining/drinking establishment is situated at the junction of Routes 53 and 107 in West Redding, Connecticut. Call 203-938-3388 for reservations or di-rections, or go to www.reddingroadhouse.com and learn even more about the place. And the place features Dean as bartender.

And on Saturday, January 28th the Shrdlu Trio engages at the venerable GW Tavern at 20 Bee Brook Road (Route 47) in Washington Depot, Connecticut. This trusty establishment always has a convivial atmosphere, what with the fireplace and couch and food aromas wafting throughout (I always get hungry there, even if I’ve already eaten, just from watching and smelling plates going by). It’s a little pricey but all the food is excellent. We will commence, softly, at 9:30 PM, turning up the heat as the night passes. The phone number is 860-868-6633. Or is it 3366? 99EE? And the website is www.gwtavern.com.

The unofficial Shrdlu website is still maintained by the fastidious Mary Jane Fast, at www.shrdluband.com. Thank you MJ.

And I still lead the Open Door Band at the Contemporary Worship service at the New Milford United Methodist Church at 68 Danbury Road (Route 7) in New Milford every Sunday at 11:30 AM. 860-354-4596.

So, leave the dullards at home and come out and eat, drink, laugh and be merry at one or more of these gigs.

See you there,

Shrdlu


1/06

Greetings Shrdluviacs,

I would like to thank all of you my friends/fans for coming out and supporting me and my various bands in the past year. Without you there is nothing. And a thank you to the various venues which have hosted me/us, and the folks who had my/our music at your/youse parties. Keep live music alive!

Peace,

Shrdlu

PPS…thanks to Wally Kolek, Bob Stone and Marc Isolda for photos, Mary Jane for maintaining the “unofficial website” www.shrdluband.com which I will make official.