My friend Eric Layer had an open mike birthday party on Saturday. Honestly, I was pretty beat and was debating whether to attend. I sure am glad I did. T'was a lovely vibe with some stellar music that night. It forced me to once again reinterpret the finer points of Eric Layer, for it takes a special gift to attract such a wonderful group of people all in one place. A nice bonus- I finally got to see Azalia Snail perform, a band I've heard about for years. That was pretty special. I think I'd like to do a show with those folks. Good band, good people.

Alanna from Linister and Kim from Eagle & Talon suggested the three of us get up and improvise. Well, we must've really been onto something because soon the fever spread and we were joined by no less than four others including bass, drums, Eric on keys, and my new friend Brian on the horn(!). Our virgin band really was quite good but it was Alanna and Kim who really turned it into something special and unique. Wow. Supersexy. Smart. Spontaneous. Their melody, presence and fearlessness were undeniable.

Afterward the girls mentioned they felt a little bit out of their element (it got rather funky) but for me that's what made it really interesting- watching these two perfect indie chicks being asked to shed that particular skin and draw from their untapped Marvin Gaye-ness was quite a thrill. It felt dangerous and very sexy. Needless to say, they had everyone's attention. As for me, it just felt so good to be vibrating on a level with so much raw talent. I was pleased to discover how absolutely comfortable I felt in that moment. I went home that night feeling pretty good. Thanks for a great time, Eric!