I had the last week off from my day job, which felt like finding a twenty in an old jacket pocket. I used it to actually live a little. I filmed some new YouTube videos, worked on a couple of music videos, and finally let my brain think about something other than spreadsheets and email chains. Most of my focus was on Digital Masquerade, my new album that’s out now as a digital download. Physical CDs are on the way because I apparently refuse to let the 90s die. I’m really proud of this record. It took a ton of late nights and small miracles, but these songs mean something to me. They’re about trying to stay human in a world that’s constantly trying to sell us a shinier version of ourselves.
Music keeps me grounded while the country feels like it’s slowly unraveling. I went to the No Kings rally last weekend, and it hit me hard. Being in a crowd of people who still believe in democracy and the Constitution made me tear up. It felt good to be reminded that decency and freedom aren’t extinct species yet.
In between all that, I taught a live class for my Berklee students and led a workshop for Andrea Stolpe’s community. I also help run weekly meetings in her EMC Institute, which I genuinely love doing. Teaching keeps me tethered to what’s real. It’s easy to get lost in noise and algorithms, but a good song still feels like medicine for all of us.
The highlight of the week might have been antique shopping in St. Paul with my partner. The leaves were outrageous, like nature showing off. We ended up buying a painting of a purple fox because how could we not. It’s weird and wonderful, and it fits right in with the rest of our art collection.
Next week it’s back to the grind. The coffee pot will resume its full-time job. The meetings will multiply. But I’m heading into it feeling grateful for the break, for the art, for the music, and for the small reminder that we’re still free to make beautiful things.
If you haven’t heard Digital Masquerade yet, it’s streaming everywhere and available for download here: Digital Masquerade on Even.biz. Give it a listen. It pairs well with rebellion, reflection, or a purple fox staring at you from across the room.