Desert Elysium

This poor negelcted space

2007-06-24T12:05:00.000-07:00

I've been thinking of a return to the blog. Trying to slow down the swirl of words, ideas, and emotions in me long enough to present something worthwhile. Pictures have been my words recently and maybe that's just too one-sided.

I've run out of excuses. I have my own computer and can access the internet from anywhere in the house I wish. I could even grab some WiFi at some hipster coffee joint. I guess it's time.

Five Thousand Miles

2007-03-04T06:36:00.001-07:00

Five Thousand Miles
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Saturday

I can't escape from the sensation of warm rays of sun on my skin. A touch you don't want to move away from. Fighting for my attention is an almost cold wind. The two elements swirl around and make something very comfortable. As if they belong together. The sound of rushing air past my ears makes me think of Jon Gagan's Five Thousand Miles from Transit. Pieces of it play over and over in my head.

I think of the distance I've covered this past year. So many changes. Things I could of never prepared myself for. The path is an interesting one, to say the least.

Thank you to those who've kept me standing, walking, moving forward.

Peace

2007-01-14T01:47:00.000-07:00

Merry Christmas

2006-12-17T14:49:00.000-07:00

I dropped off my children and their mother at the airport this morning at 4:30. For a number of reasons, they will be spending the holidays in Michigan. December 25th will find me waking in a house occupied by a dog, two birds, and a fish. 2006 has been a year of great change for me. Awakening to things I had never known before. Finding holes in the program I deemed unacceptable. This last action seems a fitting end to this 12-month cycle.

A path that seemed nothing more than a straight line has fractured into a confusing maze of options. I know what direction I want to move in, I know what I want. I simply do not know which line will take me there.

So, with that bit of light news out of the way, I’ll say Merry Christmas to my friends. I was born without a politically correct gene so please don’t be offended that I haven’t offered a happy holiday wish.

Barrett Martin - Earthspeaker

2006-09-10T09:40:00.000-07:00

I downloaded Barrett Martin’s Earthspeaker from the Listening Lounge yesterday afternoon after sampling a few tracks. I love it when music finds you at just the right time. I needed something different. There was a void to fill that I couldn’t quite identify. Not even my beloved Opium could quench my thirst. This was serious. Something had to be done.

I’d been meaning to sit and listen to the tracks from this collection to see what they offered but time, as always, is a rare commodity. My interest was driven by the fact that Barrett is part of the yet unnamed project with Ottmar Liebert, Rahim Alhaj and Jon Gagan. I should have simply purchased the music when it was added to the lounge and been done with it. After listening to Agbadza and Sunlight, I was hooked. I burned a CD and then added the tracks to the mp3 player. I took the CD on a short car ride after dark and listened through headphones while waiting for sleep to take me.

I woke up ready to pontificate, to wax poetic about this new treasure. Out of curiosity, I began to explore Barrett’s website and found this and this. I find myself outdone by the source. There is nothing more that I could add. I’m happy to see that the world offers me another kindred spirit. A lover of the desert due to it's unique balance and harsh reality. In addition, I have another source that can speak through music, leaving cumbersome words behind.

Hopefully, Barrett’s Painted Desert CD will be added to the lounge soon. I look forward to hearing more.

Another Day at the Office

2006-09-03T13:20:00.000-07:00

No animals or humans were harmed in any way during the making of this

Ottmar Liebert + Luna Negra, Celebrity Theater August 9, 2006

2006-08-12T14:16:00.000-07:00

Well, as you can see here, the cats out of the bag. Under normal circumstances, just seeing Ottmar perform is a huge high point for me. Getting to spend some time with him adds to the experience more than I have the ability to explain.

After meeting the crew (yes, Jon Gagan is as cool as you think he is) and hanging out for a while, I headed back home so they could get ready for the show. A few hours later I was back at the venue. A friend from work who had never seen Ottmar live before had decided to attend (this could have been peer pressure). I caught sight of my neighbor from down the street as well.

The Celebrity Theater continues to be one of my favorite venues. The sound is good and the atmosphere pleasant. Wednesday’s show was no exception. The latest incarnation of Luna Negra includes Stephen Duros on rhythm guitar and soft synths, Dave Bryant on percussion, and of course, everyone’s favorite bass engine Jon Gagan who also lends his skill to the “hard synths”.

I’m not sure if it was just me but I never knew where to keep my focus. All four of these guys are having so much fun playing, you don’t know who’s going to do what next. This is my first time seeing Dave Bryant’s percussion and he does not disappoint. The crowd loved him. Stephen’s playing is a fantastic compliment to Ottmar’s. Before the show, the house music was a blend of Stephen’s new CD as well as Jon’s. Both are great but I’m really looking forward to putting in some serious listening time on Mr. Duros’ latest project.

Early in the set I was surprised by a new twist during Santa Fe. After most of the familiar sounds of this song had been played, Ottmar then reached for his electric guitar. This was so cool! After the show, he said that this was something new they started in Australia, as were some of the new bass changes on a few other pieces. What a great addition. The tone of the electric guitar seemed even better than it has before. I forgot to ask if he made some change there. I think it’s time for an electric guitar album. Stephen can play acoustic rhythm guitar and let Ottmar loose with the electric.

The start of the second half of the show begins with This Spring Release 10,000 Butterflies from the One Guitar CD. Ottmar plays this alone on stage and is then joined by the rest of the guys. It was great reminder of his solo shows. Those on the east coast of the US should watch for the upcoming dates. These shows are not to be missed. The intro to Duende de Amor is a fantastic new buleria, which should appear on next years release Up Close. Food for a buleria junkie to be certain.

As always, the show passed by too quickly. Before I knew it, the crowd had all left and I watched as the crew handled the tear down. From there I witnessed the now infamous “Fake Segway” episode. They had the nerve to put training wheels on the thing. After another chat while watching the trailer get loaded, it was time for the day to end. I would have loved to hitch a ride on the bus for the rest of the tour. Who knows, maybe sometime I’ll have the chance.

The Sun Rises in God's Country

2006-08-07T03:28:00.000-07:00

August 6th Sunrise
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Thank you Boris for the title! It’s easy to forget where you are and what you’re doing while living the everyday life. Surrounded by concrete and cars, black top and traffic lights. Deadlines, schedules, and days on the calendar. You become so narrowly focused you forget to really look around. The train of life keeps rolling along and you don’t bother to get off. Eventually, you remember to wake up and pull the emergency stop cord. You tell the conductor that you’ve missed your stop and you have to get off this train.

As you stand on the platform and watch the train speed off, you eyes change focus from the sights of everyday and a new surrounding appears. Ordinary is replaced by extraordinary and you remember what is really important in life.

(Yes, it's 3:30am my time as I type this)

Breathing in the Emptiness

2006-07-01T20:55:00.000-07:00

I dropped my wife and children off at the airport 24 hours ago. They normally return to Michigan during the summer to visit family. Nearly all of our relatives are there. As always, they ask me to join them and as always, I decline. Not that I wouldn’t like to go back for a visit but spending a week living with my in-laws is not my idea of a vacation.

So I have the house to myself for 9 days. I spent today just enjoying the quiet. Adjusting to the slower pace of just me. Well, Little Pork Chop is here, but she slept all day. We are moving at about the same speed.

Beside work, I’ll be keeping my own schedule. No need to ask what everyone wants for any meal. I even get control of the computer.

I’m hoping to complete a writing project I’ve been bouncing around in my head. Best-case scenario, it changes my life. Worst-case scenario, I’ll have a neat story to share. We will see. I even hope to get in some random blogging.

I took a walk this evening as the sun was setting. To the east, a storm was trying to break into the valley, the sky a mix of grey and blue with bolts of lightning streaking through. To the west, a pink, orange, and purple sunset was fading behind the silhouette of the mountains. Only the sound of the wind rustling leaves and padding of my footsteps to be heard.

Help!!!

2006-06-29T05:32:00.000-07:00

On a whim, I checked the concert schedule for the Rialto Theater in Tucson. Ottmar played there last June before the Phoenix show. He will be there on August 8th, the night before the Phoenix show.

How crazy would I be to by tickets for the Tucson show? That's 180 miles round trip. Decisions, decisions. At least the show is general admission so I can take a few days to decide. It was a great time last year…..

I Feel Better Now

2006-06-26T18:42:00.000-07:00

Just purchased 2 tickets for Ottmar's August 9th performance here in Phoenix. I caught the announcement on the radio this evening during the ride home. All is right with the world.

Ottmar Liebert Solo Guitar + Talk 2006

2006-05-02T21:17:00.000-07:00

Ottmar settled my struggle to write a review of his Seattle solo performances. He wrote today, “Words can get in the way. Don't let them.” The comment was not aimed at me but these were the words I needed to hear.

I’ve now seen Ottmar Liebert perform live 6 times in over the past 3 years. Each show has had a life of its own, even when separated by only 24 hours. I’ve never doubted that music is a form of communication. During the interview section of the Wide Eyed + Dreaming DVD, Ottmar stated that “expressing myself though music and not with lyrics is just like expressing myself in any other language”. Until now, audiences have not experienced any great deal of verbal communication from Ottmar during his shows. He relies instead on the music to transmit thought and feeling. For a select few shows, that has now changed.

Somewhere late in 2005, Ottmar wrote that there may be a few solo performances in his future. This idea became reality. People in and around the Seattle, Washington and Redwood, California area (as well as a few diehard fans from around the country and across the Atlantic) were treated to a new experience. Not only did they enjoy a new musical experience, they also were engaged in a discussion. The topics were wide ranging but tied together well. We were given a brief history lesson, a bit of insight on human nature, and quite a few laughs. None of this was unexpected. The man is a complex thinker but never seems to fail in conveying his thoughts in a very simple manner. I like to think he’s a guy you could sit around with and talk the day away, never touching the same subject twice.

Writing about past Ottmar Liebert + Luna Negra concerts has been far easier. At least in the detail that I’d like to apply to the Seattle shows. The experience was by no means less rewarding and certainly more complex. I think that the words have gotten in the way. It’s all emotion. Maybe I’ll never be able to properly express my experience.

Where was I

2006-03-15T07:16:00.000-07:00

Mobile blog entry made Tuesday afternoon

I woke this morning with the slightest recollection from a dream. I rarely recall any details from my dreams but something stayed with me from the night before. I was walking. The walk seemed without end. I have no idea where I was going or why. The only clear point was my own concern that I would surely be tired the following day after such a trek.

The morning moved at a much more leisurely pace than normal. My children are on spring break so I enjoy a quiet breakfast while the rest of the family sleeps. I went off to work with no second thoughts of the dream. Near noon, I took my customary walk around the block. Half way through, I felt some soreness in my legs. By the time I returned to the building, my legs felt like rubber bands. If I had taken a mountain hike I might expect this sensation but I’d had no out of the ordinary activity. Except in the dream.

I wonder, were was I last night? If anyone has any information, please let me know.

Taking Time to Think

2006-01-27T08:53:00.000-07:00

Driving eastbound this morning after dropping the kids off at school, I watched the sun rise over the mountains. The sky was colored in a mix of orange, pink, and purple. The few clouds helped to softly blend all the colors together. Oddly enough, Sunshine of Your Love by Cream was on the radio.

I started again to think about the concept of a long-term vacation. More accurately, an absence from the work environment. I really want to watch more of the world. To soak in what happens everyday but without me present to witness it. I’m thinking about an entire year of observation. Taking photos, sketching, writing notes, or even stories about the most mundane items that are overlooked each day. The question would be how to pay the bills.

Ottmar Will Work for Food

2006-01-25T05:44:00.000-07:00

Jon came by this morning and traded a breakfast burrito for guitar tracks I recorded for one of the new Transit2 songs.

Hmmm...Would a carry out order from Maria's and a six pack of Bohemia get us any more tracks for Tears in the Rain :)

Vacations, Today and Tomorrow

2006-01-10T20:04:00.000-07:00

Tomorrow I leave for the “Happiest Place on Earth”. No, this is not a trip to Santa Fe. We are off to Disneyland. As with any trip, the journey is as important as the destination. It’s six wonderful hours of driving through empty desert to get to LA. The CD collection is ready and so am I.

As enjoyable as it may be, my real vacation will be in April.

Ottmar’s first solo shows are in Seattle on April 21st and 22nd. After not making it to any of the holiday shows, there was no way I was going to miss this opportunity. It seems that a few other dedicated fans are of the same mind and now we have a small crew, including a special visitor from across the Atlantic, who will be making the pilgrimage to Washington State.

The plans are still fairly open. We are working on hotel choices and the like. If any one else thinks they may like to join in, please leave a comment or send me an e-mail. I’ll fill you in on the details. It should be quite an adventure.

New Podcast From Ottmar Liebert

2006-01-09T15:56:00.000-07:00

The first SSRI podcast for 2006 went live a few minutes ago.
The URL for the podcast feed is: http://www.ssri.biz/music/subscription.php
If you don't have podcast receiving software - please consult Google to find suitable software for your computer platform.

Morning Arrival in Goa live from the 2005 holiday tour. Gorgeous.

As if anyone would be checking my blog before Ottmar's.

Anniversary

2005-12-10T09:08:00.000-07:00

This morning I started my day listening to the 10th anniversary edition of Nouveau Flamenco. While cooking breakfast, I drifted back to memories of the first time I encountered the CD. I consider my personal Ottmar Liebert anniversary to be the entire month of December as that was when my addiction started. The following piece was written in December of 2004 and intended for entry on OL.net. Maybe someday the website will happen.

Some things are best viewed from the beginning. Experiencing the evolution of a project helps understand any subtle points that may escape the casual observer. I feel that I was lucky to experience Ottmar Liebert’s version of Flamenco guitar from his beginning. My first taste was the CD Nouveau Flamenco. The circumstances surrounding the introduction were quite extraordinary. I was taking a road trip from Phoenix into northeast Arizona to do some work in the Navajo Indian Reservation. I was traveling with a man I had never met before, in a vehicle I had never ridden in, to a place I had never been before. The entire event was full of mystery and I wasn’t certain what might happen. Normally, I prefer slightly more comfortable settings but I kept myself open to new possibilities.

The trip began quite pleasantly and after an hour of introductory talk, my new friend asked if I liked music. At this point, my worst fear would have been the thought of a five-hour drive listening to country music or maybe something even worse. A CD collection was handed my way and I began to browse. The driver asked if I enjoyed guitar music and I answered in the affirmative. He took the sleeve of CD’s back and withdrew a reddish orange CD and placed it into the dash-mounted player. He didn’t attempt to talk over the first song. He just drove. I imagine he anticipated my reaction and wanted me to enjoy the experience. The gentle sounds of Surrender 2 Love drifted from the trucks speakers. After the first few moments, I actually tried to find something I didn’t like about the song. No such luck. The second song ended and my companion asked my opinion. “Very nice.” was all I could muster. The CD continued and I listened intently as I watched the desert turn into pine forest as we traveled north into higher elevation. Looking back now, I see I was headed into higher elevations in more ways than one.

By the time track number five, Three Women Walking, came up the driver added some commentary. He explained that this was his favorite song. He had seen Ottmar play in a small club once and this song stuck with him. I turned my attention to the scene the music made in my mind. A dream-like movie with no dialog, and watched this story set to music unfold. More insight about the music and the man playing it were provided. Nylon strings, not steel. No picks, he’s got long nails on his right hand. Not being an expert of acoustic music, I filed this information away so I could research it. The music continued and we talked more about ourselves. The pine forest gave way to the high desert country. The wide-open space with mountains in the distance matched perfectly with the music. Everything was clean and distant from the noise and clutter of the city we had left behind.

We listened to the CD twice. Near the end of the second time around, my friend was ready for a change. Though disappointed, I recovered when he started a flamenco compilation CD. This time, I listened for differences in the music. Something new had been introduced to me and I wanted to take advantage of an opportunity and soak this in. Another track from Ottmar, not from Nouveau Flamenco, was on this collection. I felt a certain promise that music from another of Ottmar’s CD’s was just as good as the tracks on Nouveau Flamenco.

We arrived at our destination and worked as planned. During my entire stay, with all the new experiences, I wasn’t able to take my mind from the music I had heard. I had written down the name of the artist and CD, promising myself I would look into the music sometime soon. Maybe I would pick up the complication CD I had heard and listen more carefully. Maybe another of those artists might be a better choice for me. During the course of the next week, I made my way to a music store and picked up a copy of Nouveau Flamenco. There was no way of knowing what impact this purchase would make in my life.

A short time later, I was talking to a friend who has the largest music collection I know of. I brought up Ottmar’s name and he indeed had heard of him. He lent me another CD, The Hours Between Night + Day. I was hooked. This guy was no “one hit wonder”. A quick search on the Internet brought a wealth of information including a neat little website, www.lunanegra.com. From there my passion grew. I collected the CD’s in chronological order. I took my time and worked to digest each new CD before purchasing the next.

I began reading Ottmar’s online diary and, in a way, found myself connecting with the man responsible for this incredible music. Here you find reflections on art, life, music, food, and links to some of the coolest gadgets know to man. In addition to Ottmar’s words, you can read what his listeners have to say regarding his thoughts. It’s now my privilege to have friends around the world with a common bond, music. Somehow these friendships, with people I’ve never met face to face, are stronger than the friendships I’ve had with people the surround me every day.

Just over three years have passed since my introduction to Ottmar Liebert. I still listen to his music everyday, sometimes all day. Our world is changing at every moment. People and places you know shift position. Few things offer comfort or security. One of the few things I can count on is this amazing collection of music Ottmar has given us.

2005-11-29T16:59:00.000-07:00

Ikigai. That which makes life worth living is my favorite definition. I think I’ll start posting different things that fall into this category for me. Todays will be hard to beat though.

My five-year-old daughter and I stayed home together today. She told me,” When I was in Mommies tummy and it was dark outside, I looked through her belly button and saw a shooting star. I wished for a Daddy just like you.”

Another Path

2005-11-07T20:55:00.000-07:00

My normal daily routine takes me on short walks around the building I work in. The area is quiet and the landscape is reasonably nice. The lower area of the parking lot is a natural wash and there are some old growth trees there. The area is plagued by progress and construction continues all around us. During the summer months, I walk only in the morning. Now that autumn has arrived, I can walk anytime.

Today, I broke routine and headed out along one of the main roads, away from the building. I exchanged the relative silence of the parking lot for the hiss of traffic. Well, I cheated a bit. I had my daughter’s mp3 player and Ottmar’s bootleg recording of his 1999 tour took the edge off the sound of passing cars.

Heading away from the buildings, the deserts hold is still strong. Wildflowers have popped up along the sidewalk. The creosote smells wonderful as usual. The tiny leaves of this bush are such a vibrant green, if you touched them, your hand would come away wet with the color.

As usual, time is my enemy. Checking my watch, I knew it was time to turn around and head back to my desk. On the return trip, I realized that lately I had been thinking in incomplete sentences. This walk had allowed me finish some thoughts and hopefully make way for some new ideas.

The next time you have the choice, take a new way.

Borya sets a trap for me

2005-11-05T18:52:00.000-07:00

Borya asks: Actually I start wondering if u play guitar and in case that not, why not?!

After two days of thinking the question over, I’ll try to answer. As long as I’ve actively listened to music I’ve been drawn to the guitar. More than just listening to music with guitars in it, but music built around the guitar. I grew tired of music with lyrics. I felt there was more to the experience than listening to someone else’s story with no room for my own thoughts and feelings.

I tried learning to play guitar when I was younger. The lessons failed miserably. The student and teacher were a horrible match. I had no interest in learning folk music and the teacher knew no other style. I accepted the failure and went back to my role as the listener. Peeling away the spoken word and looking for the voice of the guitar.

My first reward in instrumental guitar came from the appearance of Joe Satriani in the mid to late 1980’s. The first song I heard on the radio was The Crush of Love. That song made me pull my car over and just sit and listen. To me, this was what music should be. The guitar as the voice. Sure the music can be described as hard but when you look inside, it’s amazing. It’s not just volume and noise. Somebody is thinking when these pieces are composed.

When I made my move to the desert southwest, I felt I should explore the culture a bit. What caught my imagination was the mystical image of the open desert. A lone figure in the distance and the sound of Spanish guitar. Oh, and some tequila too. The concept of flamenco music was pretty vague for someone who grew up in the area I did. I knew what it was in general but had no real understanding. I tried a few CD’s blindly, just to test the music out. These tests failed miserably. Still, I held hope that there was a flamenco match for me somewhere. It didn’t have to be traditional flamenco. Maybe something that held some of the elements. If I only knew then what was waiting for me.

So, after I was hit with the musical avalanche that is Ottmar Liebert, my view of music intensified again. Changing and growing as it should. I thought maybe I would try guitar lessons once more. A friend loaned me a spare acoustic and I played around with it. In the end, it never felt like I was on the right side of the experience. For me, I truly believe I am the listener. As Ottmar himself has said, the relationship between the musician and the audience is a symbiotic one. I’m just doing my part.

Untitled from Opium

2005-10-25T20:25:00.000-07:00

These were my notes from my mobile blog (read notebook) entered on October 5th after nearly one hour of the Untitled from Opium track played on repeat.

The chant pulls you in. Unable to break free and having no wish to, the sound of the bass lifts you. Now a vapor, you float free, unchained from Earthly bonds.

Electric guitar wakes you from the trance but does not force you back to reality. Moving through the air, the wind at your face and the ground moving below, all there is to be heard is the music. It fills all that is known.

The chant maintains the hypnosis. The bass keeps you aloft. The guitar powers the flight and guides your senses. The visual is of your own design.

Adam is a Real Cool Guy

2005-10-18T16:34:00.000-07:00

After a fruitless search on October 11th, I thought I would have to wait for Winter Rose. It seemed none of the usual stores would be carrying the new CD until closer to Christmas. Sure, I could have downloaded the album but it seemed that Winter Rose deserved the full presentation. And then Adam stepped in.

Adam purchased his CD at Tower Records. Up until now, there were no Tower Records locations in Arizona. The ever intrepid Adam checked the Tower Records website and found the new location just 10 minutes from my door. I found that it had just opened within the last few months. He e-mailed me yesterday to let me know and I picked up the CD after work.

After ripping mp3’s for the player and making a copy for work, I settled in for a real listen. All I can say is life is good.

Thanks Adam!

Ottmar at work

2005-10-05T20:52:00.000-07:00

Ottmar at work
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

“Do you play guitar?” “Is that your brother?”. Over the last month I’ve gotten questions like these from co-workers, most people I’ve never met. They are responding to the pictures I have hanging on my cubicle wall. Two of these photos have been there for nearly a year. The others are from the concerts in Tucson and Phoenix last June. I’m not certain why it’s taken so long for the questions to surface.

Invariably, I’ll smile and explain my passion for Ottmar’s music and attempt to provide a description of what the music is like. After nearly four years of listening, it still takes far more time to express than most people have time to wait for. Some show an interest and others jut nod politely. In situations like these, I realize just how difficult it is to transfer feelings into words. Only experiencing the music itself will provide the answers for those who wish to feel it.

Can you see the family resemblance?

yo-yo

2005-09-19T18:59:00.000-07:00

yoyo
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Technology is good. I like downloading music, shopping online, digital photography, mp3 players. All these things make life a little easier and maybe a bit more fun. But sometimes, technology gets the best of us.

Things have been moving pretty fast lately. There hasn’t been much time to write, take pictures, or do most other things I enjoy. I decided it was time to slow things down a bit. I needed a stress reliever. Jut a little something simple to take a break with. Then it hit me. I needed a yo-yo.

A few minutes of up and down is strangely relaxing. I haven’t had a yo-yo for quite a long time so I’m relearning some tricks. Nothing too fancy, I’m keeping it simple. Take my advice. Get a yo-yo.

Bodum tea pot

2005-09-01T19:11:00.000-07:00

Bodum tea pot
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Sorry for being so out of the loop lately. I’ve had trouble with my internet service so I never know when I’ll be able to connect.

After waiting far too long, I picked up a Bodum Assam teapot. Yet another great recommendation from Ottmar. I chose the 1-liter version, as I’m the only tea drinker in the house. What a great item! The concept is so simple it makes you wonder why you didn’t think of it yourself. Brew the tea to taste and push down the plunger to stop the process. There’s no need to remove the leaves from the pot before you drink.

Another great feature is that the tea stays at just the right temperature while it’s in the pot. I took an hour to drink one brew and the last cup was nearly as warm as the first. Of course it was 105 degrees outside so that may have helped.

I picked up two small black cups to go along with the pot. They’re nothing special but I thought they matched well. Two cups because you never know if someone may stop by and like some tea. Hey, it could happen. Just call first so I can tidy up a bit.

Prickly Pear

2005-08-13T08:44:00.000-07:00

Prickly Pear2
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

For Victor. The fruit is close to ripe now. Ready for jelly or ice cream?

It's That Time Again

2005-08-09T18:38:00.000-07:00

Summer’s almost over. The kids returned to school on Monday and the monsoon season has taken hold. The weather forecast calls for rain all week. Monday I took my lunch outside during a mild shower. I just stood under the covered parking area, listening to the unpredictable pattern of falling rain on the tin roof overhead. We had another fast moving thunderstorm again today. Seeing so little rain makes you truly appreciate a good storm.

Bear Lake - Utah

2005-07-27T18:42:00.000-07:00

Bear Lake - Utah
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Sitting in the car, on the beach, watching my children play along the shore. They’re building sandcastles. The wind has picked up and the sand stings the back of your legs as it rushes across the beach. The water is still calm but small waves are starting across the surface.

As lakes are not something I see much anymore, I smile as I retrieve the mp3 player from my bag and bring up the Wide-Eyed disc from the Opium collection. Quickly scrolling through the menu, I play Ripple / Wind Over Water on repeat for quite some time, watching the waves, listening to the wind, watching the castles take shape.

A Trip to the Top

2005-07-23T07:40:00.000-07:00

Yet another slideshow, here

Water

2005-07-21T19:28:00.000-07:00

Click here for a refreshing break from the heat

Happy Birthday to Me

2005-07-21T17:09:00.000-07:00

Happy Birthday to Me
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Thanks to the work of my sister, my mother gave me this for my birthday. It was even the color pattern I wanted.

All is right with the world. Well, it will be once I get my own mp3 player. You can only be so cool borrowing your daughters.

Thank you

2005-07-19T15:37:00.000-07:00

Thank you all for the birthday greetings. I have almost 200 pictures to sort through from my little vacation. I'll be posting as I make any progress.

Gone Fishing

2005-07-14T10:40:00.000-07:00

I'm off to face the dawning of middle age in Utah. It seemed like a good idea at the time. I believe I will be computer free until Tuesday. The idea of not using the internet for four days sounds as though it may have some interesting effects. We will see.

Good Morning

2005-07-03T07:25:00.000-07:00

100_0491
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Took a little walk this morning. Come see.

The Forcast Calls for Smoke

2005-06-30T17:49:00.000-07:00

I can't keep track of the number of wildfires burning in Arizona. The Cave Creek fire is about one hour north of my home and has burned around 150,00 acres so far. On the way to work in the morning I can see the smoke from that fire spreading from due north to the east. Another fire broke out last night about 30 minutes drive to the south. It seemed to be fully contained last night but I haven't checked the news yet today. The weather forecast last night didn't call for the normal conditions. Typically you'll see windy, warm, or something like that for the overnight conditions. Last night the description was actually listed as Smokey. I stepped outside and thought I'd stumbled into a large outdoor barbeque.

Back Among the Living

2005-06-30T17:41:00.000-07:00

Today was my first day without a blinding headache in eight days. I saw a chiropractor yesterday afternoon and he did quite a lot of work on my neck and jaw. Seems I tilted my brain pan a bit to the left and my neck went on strike because of it. I went three days with no music; there was no sound I could stand. That may have been the worst of it. It’s nice to go out in the daylight again, not to mention look at the computer screen without passing out. In the Arms of Love never sounded better.

Untitled Solo

2005-06-21T18:49:00.000-07:00

This song may hold the record for the shortest time required for addiction. It comes to me from out of nowhere during the day and I’m able to replay it in my mind. I know that the final version on the CD will be great but I really love this solo piece. I’ve hijacked my daughter’s mp3 player, as she’s away at camp this week, and I listen to the song on repeat during my morning break while walking outside. If this song is any indication, I think we will soon have another “best yet” CD on our hands. Is it 2006 yet?

The Rest of the Story

2005-06-17T19:17:00.000-07:00

Well, the word is out. OL's joke about bribing me to write my review of the Tucson show lets me share the rest. In addition to seeing a great show last Thursday and finally meeting Ottmar, I was also witness to what an exceptionally fine person he is.

When tickets went on sale for the show in Phoenix, I purchased two. Tradition holds that my oldest daughter and I attend the show together. Shortly after the Phoenix show was announced, the Tucson show was scheduled. How could I resist? I was able to purchase two more tickets for that show and again, planned to go with my daughter. Then things got interesting. My son is nine and has been listening to OL to help him focus and at night to help him slow down. He decided that he’s like to see the concert. Shortly after, my wife decided that she wanted to go as well.

Meanwhile, OL and I had discussed how my son had been listening to his music, the results on his behavior, and how he would attend the show with me. Ottmar mentioned how he was looking forward to meeting my son. When we meet after the show on Thursday, he mentioned meeting my son and I again on Sunday. I told him that I still wasn’t sure who was going with me as my wife wanted to go as well.

On Friday morning, I checked my e-mail and found a note from Ottmar. He had a photo pass and an extra ticket waiting for me at the Phoenix venue so my son and my wife could attend.

It may seem like a little thing, but I’m still blown away. My son saw his first concert and had a great time and my wife saw her first OL show.

I wasn’t sure what would meeting Ottmar would be like. I know him from his diary, from the personal e-mails I try to keep to a minimum, and the music he shares with all of us. Who is he really? I can’t say that I know all about him but, after a nice conversation face to face, I couldn’t be more impressed. I look forward to our next meeting.

Phoenix show photos

2005-06-14T22:10:00.000-07:00

More pictures here

Tucson show photos

2005-06-12T13:27:00.000-07:00

Come and get 'em, here

Rialto Theater Tucson Arizona June 9, 2005

2005-06-10T16:12:00.000-07:00

The Rialto Theater is a restoration work in progress. It may have been a grand concert hall in its day but today, it’s a little tired. Even with the house lights on, it’s dark inside. A huge reddish-orange curtain hung at the back of the stage. OL’s new set up is very minimal and the colors used are very vivid. See his Flicker page for some pictures of the banners being used. Tired as the old Rialto may be, she gave us a fine evening.

When we arrived, after purchasing some shirts and another copy of La Semana, we made our way to our seats. Ron Wagner’s set up looked as it normally does with the addition of a rather stylized, rectangular box set to one side. Hmmm, what could that be? The magnificent Lakland basses were set on stage, along with the near legendary Devoe Negra guitar and the Stratocaster copy. New Luna Negra member Brandon Draper had an amazing assortment of percussion goodies. There were a few of the “Tupperware” drum pads in addition to the cajon and other traditional drums. As we watched some of the final set up, my daughter noticed a breeze on stage was blowing Ron’s chimes. Ron was busy trying to close a vent that was directing the air conditioning across the stage to cure that problem.

For this tour, the band is wearing black. The idea is to draw attention to the faces and hand as they play. Four figures in dark clothes drifted in from back stage, settling in at their places. The new intro piece is not a buleria but it’s awful damn good. The guitar flows back and forth, some of the sections are familiar but the entire piece is very fresh. I could already feel the sense or relaxation as I focused on the sound.

After the intro, the songs flow on. The first half of the show flew by. I was trying my best to enjoy the show and get as many pictures as I could. During one percussion take over, Brandon started to really dig in and Ron got up from his normal cross legged position and sat on that rectangular box I mentioned. We were then treated to Ron and Brandon each playing cajon in unison for a few minutes. It was fun watching Ottmar and Jon as they watched these percussion masters at work. When he was really pleased, OL would smile and stick out his tongue. The drum duet before intermission was spectacular. I really hope to see Brandon on tour again. I mean, after this Sunday’s show of course.

We all remember Adam’s love of the kora intro done on last year’s version of Snakecharmer. Not to be out done, Brandon has put a new twist on this piece. Returning from intermission, sound starts to echo from the back of the room. There is only one instrument that sounds like this, a didgeridoo. Brandon walked across the main floor in front of the stage as he played, then back up the stairs and sat down never missing a beat. I hope that a board recording of this newest Snakecharmer makes its way to the Listening Lounge soon.

Not long after, a wonderful buleria intro brought in Duende del Amor. OL also treated us to Querencia, a song that I cannot get enough of. Mixed in during the night were two new pieces for the upcoming release. They were played like they were old standards and I can’t wait to hear the recorded versions. At the end of the show, as the last song of the standard set ended and the band introductions were made, my daughter leaned over and asked what the encore song would be. “Ballad for Santana”, I replied. She shook her head in disagreement. A few moments later, she gave me a disgusted look, as my guess was right.

There is much more to this night than I have written so far. Some things are still floating around in my head and I’ll share them as soon as I am able.

MC + OL

2005-06-10T07:30:00.000-07:00

MC + OL
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

More pics to come

Are we there yet? Are we there yet?

2005-06-08T16:28:00.000-07:00

I'll be leaving for the Tucson in 24 hours. It’s a nice 90-mile trip from my house, one of my favorite drives in Arizona. There's a photo pass waiting for me at the venue so we're sure to have pictures. All I've got to do is make it through the next day.

I’m really looking forward to the show. From the website, the venue looks very nice. We'll be there early to get some interior shots. Look for a full report by Saturday. I'll try to get the pictures posted on Friday morning.

Laugh out loud

2005-06-04T10:18:00.000-07:00

Last night, I was laying in bed listening to the 10th anniversary edition of OL's Nouveau Flamenco. As the rest of the house was asleep, I was using headphones. During "Passing Storm" I heard the detail of the squeaking chair and started to laugh uncontrollably. For some reason, the fact that this sound made it onto the recording and the mental picture of Ottmar sitting in the chair, moving to the music was hilarious.

I have no explanation or excuse. Try it yourself and see what the results are. Headphones are a must and you really need to listen for the squeak. Just sitting here writing this, I'm laughing again.

The influence continues.....

2005-05-28T11:31:00.000-07:00

No Muzak here
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

This is my daughter's birthday present. Every kid in her school has an mp3 player. It kills me to see these kids strolling around with their iPods and cell phones as they leave school for the day. Some even carry laptops. After fighting with it for a few days, I've figured out all the secrets and loaded just over 60 cd's on it. I've snuck it away from her enough to know I'll have to get one for myself. No, it’s not an iPod, but I think it's the best choice for my (I’m the dad, who else is going to fix it?) needs. Battery life is quite impressive and changing the battery will be very easy when the time comes. Sound quality is quite good. Thanks to Adam for his input.

Bought it

2005-05-16T16:54:00.000-07:00

Bought it
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

I broke one of my one rules when I didn't by the Moleskine notebook. If something you want presents itself unexpectedly, buy it.

One Hundred

2005-05-14T11:46:00.000-07:00

Spring is officially over. Today’s high will be 100 degrees and the temperature trend will continue into next week. You could feel the change in the weather as this past week progressed. The air thins out and tastes different in summer. When outside, you can feel the intensity of the suns rays on your exposed skin.

I’ve had a number of thoughts rumbling through my head this week. Habits were one of them. I’ve been focused on how predictable my days are. Not that what I do is bad really, I just do the same thing everyday. Because of the schedule that’s kept Monday through Friday, I find it hard to break free and enjoy the weekend. I tend to stall out and do nothing. This weekend has too many family things planned and there isn’t time to take a drive and escape the city, as I’d like to. I find the Phoenix area is just too crowded. I need some room.

Ottmar’s mention of his retreat reminds me that I need to do the same. It’s time to recharge.

Happy Saturday

2005-05-07T18:55:00.000-07:00

Liquid Sunshine
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

My current beverage of choice. Feel free to stop by and join me for a caballito or two.

"How to drink tequila: The traditional way is to use a tall, narrow shot glass called a caballito ('little horse', or pony, also called a tequilito)."

Moleskine

2005-05-04T18:07:00.000-07:00

I had about 45 minutes to kill this afternoon and stopped at Barnes & Noble. I was hoping to find something of interest but nothing presented itself. It is becoming harder for me to find a book that peaks my interest. I don't have much time to read so perhaps I'm making it harder to warm up to a book. This preventing me from buying books that stack up in a corner never to be touched.

Before I left the store, I noticed on the far wall there was a collection of notebooks. I steered myself in that direction and found that Barnes & Noble carries the Moleskine brand notebooks Ottmar has mentioned. They seem quite nice but I didn't make the purchase. As I drove away, I mentally kicked myself. As I said before, OL is my best "worst" influence. It would be nice to have a notebook to write down my blog thoughts that I seem to always have when far away from the keyboard. I'll order one online and save a few bucks.

Of course now I'll need a nice pen to go with the Moleskine. And a messenger bag of some sort. Doesn't make sense to carry around a pen and notebook in your hand. And if I had a messenger bag, there would be room for an iPod.....

Hot Damn!!!!

2005-04-30T08:38:00.000-07:00

Just bought two front row tickets for Ottmar's show in Tucson!

Future Tumbleweeds

2005-04-26T12:21:00.000-07:00

Future Tumbleweeds
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

After the heavy winter rains and equally heavy spring growth, we have a great crop of tumbleweeds ready to let loose and start tumbling. I had one nearly come through my car window yesterday. It flew over me and stuck in the grill of the car behind me. There are harvesters around cutting large fields of dried growth in an effort to reduce this summers wild fires.

Poets and Angels - live

2005-04-25T13:24:00.000-07:00

I cannot stop listening to this version of Poets and Angels. Jon does some fantastic bass work. I'd love to hear this song with OL playing one of the Devoe Negras and Jon on the Lakland fretless bass. Maybe this fall?

I realize I should make the cool links that everyone else does where by clicking the highlighted word, the reader can be whisked away to the website that relates to the topic I'm writing about. I just can't figure out how to do it. Every time I can't figure out something on the computer and need to ask for help, I feel like somebody's father who just doesn't get it. Then today, it hit me. I am somebody’s father, times three. I guess I'm entitled. So, who's going to help the clueless guy out and teach me the link trick?

sunflowers

2005-04-23T15:52:00.000-07:00

sunflowers
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Borya, you may want to check out the new idol worship pictures. I'm digital now so there's no holding me back.

Concert Flyer 2

2005-04-19T16:32:00.000-07:00

Concert Flyer 2
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

One more. She picked the photos and font style on her own. I just made a few slight suggestions.

Concert Flyer 1

2005-04-19T16:30:00.000-07:00

Concert Flyer 1
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

My oldest daughter made this up last night. We'll be posting these up around town to help promote the show.

Third Row

2005-04-13T15:42:00.000-07:00

Purchased my tickets as soon as the box office opened this morning. Section A5, Row 3, Seats 1 and 2. This is just a few seats from where we were sitting for the 2003 show.

Seating is normally in the round but Ottmar is playing a half house. The stage at the Celebrity rotates for full house shows. He commented that he had opened for Basia and had to play on the rotating stage and found it quite uncomfortable.

Lunch With the Lizards

2005-04-07T19:07:00.000-07:00

The desert has decided that it’s time to return to normal. Temperatures have reached into the low ninety-degree range. The moisture left from our winter rains is quickly disappearing. The proper dryness has returned to the air. The grasses and weeds are fading while some of the wildflowers still cling to life. Some say that there hasn’t been such an incredible display of wildflowers in over ten years. You can smell summer in the air.

I take my lunch just after 12:00. It’s not yet the heat of the day and I like to stand in the sun while I eat. The parking lot at work has some nicely landscaped areas between the upper and lower levels. Small lizards are starting to show themselves, sneaking out of the bushes to warm up and snack on a few insects. It amazing how quickly they dart in and out of cover.

From where I stand at lunch, I can see the roof of the venue where OL played last spring. Today, I found myself so excited about the upcoming concert. It’s nice to have something to look forward to.

Little Pork Chop

2005-04-02T10:55:00.000-07:00

Little Pork Chop
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Here's the newest member of our family. She's an Akita/Sharpei mix. We rescued her from the Human Society last Friday. I grew up with a dog but this is the first for my family. Her age is estimated at three months. The cat is not happy.

Momentary Reprieve

2005-03-30T17:44:00.000-07:00

In the middle of my workday, during the endless paper shuffling and phone calls, I found some unexpected relief. I was placed on hold after calling a customer and was greeted by radio station identification. At this point, I normally fear the worst. Ten minutes of rap, hip-hop, or –gasp- country music. Instead, I was treated to the soft and instantly comforting introductory notes of Surrender 2 Love. In that very instant, my shoulders relaxed, my face creased with a smile, and all was right with the world.

You never know how long you’ll be on hold. Unfortunately, it only lasted for about ten seconds and my joy was interrupted by a voice on the line. No matter. In my world, I’ll take what I can get.

From the South

2005-03-24T21:16:00.000-07:00

There has been a strong wind blowing in from the south over the last two days. Standing outside, I can’t help but think of where the wind is coming from. I imagine a place a few hundred miles south, somewhere in Sonora. Mexico. I haven’t spent any time there. It’s place in my imagination. A quiet town with a nice outdoor restaurant where a nice meal could be enjoyed. Maybe there’s a square in the center of town that people gather at for celebrations. People walk from place to place; you rarely see a car on the streets. The world moves much slower here. I wonder if this place really exists.

March 12 - Sunrise

2005-03-18T19:19:00.000-07:00

312sunrise
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Last Saturday, I headed up to my favorite spot to watch the sunrise. The mist that morning made for pretty poor pictures of the actual sunrise but when I turned around, this image presented itself. The weather has turned back to normal and the grasses and weeds that have grown so well after the rains are starting to die. Wildfires should be a real threat this summer.

OL trio

2005-03-17T21:08:00.000-07:00

OL trio
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

For Borya. I promised pictures of my "idol worship". I love how these three pictures work together. I'm planning something similar for new Devoe negra pictures posted recently.

Who put this road here?

2005-03-03T18:17:00.000-07:00

rd1
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

This picture gives you an idea how unnaturally green it is here now. I had no idea there was a road here. It runs off from a four-lane road I drive on everyday. Normally, the entire desert is the same color so I've never seen it.

Who put this road here?

2005-03-03T18:15:00.000-07:00

rd1
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Sunset Road

2005-02-20T21:17:00.000-07:00

sunset rd
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Green Desert

2005-02-20T21:13:00.000-07:00

cactus
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

After all the rain we've had this winter, the desert gone green.

The Little Things

2005-02-12T21:51:00.000-07:00

I woke up on Friday at 4 am. I lay in bed listening to the rain for a while thinking that I’d much rather stay at home than drag myself off to work. I forced myself into the shower and went about the normal routine. I got in the car and anticipated another drive to work filled with constant radio station changes (my ten year old Chevy didn’t come with a CD player and I killed the cassette deck from overuse). I can’t believe how bad radio is today. People really listen to this junk?

After punching a few buttons, I stopped on the “smooth jazz” station long enough to hear the DJ announce that a song from Ottmar Liebert was next. They played Surrender 2 Love, one of my favorite rainy-day songs. It’s amazing how something as simple as a favorite tune can change your day. I made it to work and felt much better. Keep your eyes (or ears in this case) open for the little gifts in life.

The River of Time Runs Swiftly

2005-02-05T16:26:00.000-07:00

I apologize to those who may have been checking here for any new posts. My schedule over the course of the last month has been quite full. When the urge to blog hit, I was typically not near my PC and when I was on the computer, I had lost my inspiration.

During the past few weeks, I’ve given the concept of time a great deal of thought. In my own day-to-day experiences, there just isn’t enough time to do everything that needs to be accomplished. The hours turn to days, then to weeks. It’s February and it seems that we just celebrated Christmas yet the experience is so distant. In corresponding with Ottmar in regard to his Lester Devoe guitar, he reminded me that he’s had the “new” guitar for almost three years. I remember him posting in his blog when it arrived. Where has all that time gone?

I received word last week that the mother of my closest friend had died. I had known the women for twenty years and thought back on time spent with her. Only then did it hit me, I hadn’t seen her in nearly five years. How could that be?

This morning I woke just after four AM. That’s my weeklong schedule and it’s hard to shake off. I like those few hours in the morning when the rest of the house is still asleep. The minutes become mine and I savor them. I sat on the couch and listened to the Dreaming CD from the Opium collection through headphones. I watched out the window as the stars faded away as the sun rose, the black night sky turning a perfect blue. Thinking back, that’s the best control over how I’ve spent my time all week.

I’ve got to work on that. As long as I can find the time.

Pilgrim by Klaus Holitzka

2005-01-02T21:51:00.000-07:00

Pilgrim
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

I braved a trip to the new Ikea store that opened here recently. With the exception of this print, not much caught my attention.

Grand Canyon

2004-12-26T21:22:00.000-07:00

gc1
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Our visit to the South Rim on December 19th.

Winter Solstice

2004-12-21T14:43:00.000-07:00

I'm thinking of taking the next year and creating my own celebration in the name of the solstice. Of course, I'd have to observe the summer solstice as well just to keep things fair. I wonder if I could sell some card ideas to Hallmark?

I can see it now, people greeting each other with a heartfelt, "Have a super solstice!". There could be solstice salsa and chips along with a super soaker solstice celebration in the summer. This could be big.

I'm of to listen to Ottmar Liebert's Winter Solstice from the CD Christmas + Santa Fe. I wonder if I could convince him to compose a summer solstice buleria?

Side note: Took a surprise trip to the Grand Canyon last Sunday. Pictures to come as soon as the caveman film is developed.

Vernors Ginger Ale

2004-12-12T19:44:00.000-07:00

Vernors Ginger Ale - Ginger Beer/Ales - Soda Pop

After being down with the flu on Thursday and Friday I had plenty of Vernors on hand. Nothing settles your stomach better. Tonight I passed on dinner and made a Boston Cooler. Just vanilla ice cream and Vernors blended together. I haven't had one in years.

Estrella Mountains

2004-11-22T16:49:00.000-07:00

Pic #6
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

I took these pictures two weeks ago. I was getting dinner started and saw the color starting to build up out the kitchen window. I grabbed the camera and drove to the end of the subdivision. There's an open field where I took these shots. I would have liked to driven down the road a bit and taken the pictures from the reservation. That would have given me shots without the street lights but this color wasn't going to last. About ten minutes and it was all gone.

Estrella Sunset

2004-11-21T17:26:00.000-07:00

Pic #1
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

This sort of speaks for itself

Head in the Clouds

2004-11-18T18:21:00.000-07:00

For the past month or so, I find myself looking up at the sky. Sometimes I just stop, my head tilts right back, and I gaze toward heaven. The clear blue over the open desert is so inviting you can easily get lost, feeling as though you could slip right into space. I start work at 5:30am and the sun doesn’t really make a dent in the day until around 7:00am. I like to take my morning break standing in the parking lot, letting those first rays soak in and recharge my battery. The view from work isn’t too bad.

We’ve had some rainy days and I’ll spend my lunch watching the layers of clouds race each other to some unknown finish line. Cooler weather brings more birds to the valley as they escape the cold of the northern part of the state. I especially enjoy the return of the ravens. Watching their gleaming black bodies glide across the pale blue is simply beautiful. Some nights, I just open the front door to check the stars. Since I moved to the desert, I’ve been promising myself I’d drive out into the middle of nowhere to look at the night sky without the city lights to ruin it. I’ve gotta do that.

Stand at the right elevation, and you can see into the distance for what seems like forever. Standing on the steps of my daughter’s school, you look over the open desert and swear you can see into Mexico. Every time I pick her up, I marvel at the view and wonder if anyone else even notices what an incredible spot it is. The only thing that spoils that view is the army of custom SUV’s in the parking lot. I guess you have to take the bad with the good.

I find that I don’t need an object in the sky to focus on. The mountain in the distance doesn’t need a dramatic peak. The wide-open, empty space is just fine. I still haven’t figured out what I’m looking for yet. If it hits me, I’ll be sure to let you know.

Side note: When I sat down to write this, I actually had to stop and think what music I wanted to play. Of course it was Ottmar. Little Wing. It’s been at least two months since my last listen and we needed to get reacquainted.

Sanjuro

2004-11-06T17:32:00.000-07:00

Turned on IFC this morning at 6:00 and was rewarded with one of my favorite films by Akira Kurosawa. I haven't seen this film in a few years and was glad to find I still enjy it. Still trying to blend my love for Japanese culture and the desert southwest.

Strange Day

2004-10-28T18:20:00.000-07:00

It rained today. This is odd because it rained nearly all day, from 7:00 am to just after 4:00 pm. This does not happen in Phoenix. Typically, it doesn’t rain in autumn at all. We do get seasonal rain. The summer monsoons bring some fantastic storms, which can cause flash floods. The soil here can’t absorb much water so during a big storm the dry riverbeds fill up and streets flood. The storms are short and the water disappears quickly. The sun breaks through, burns off the clouds, and everything is back to normal.

Today was very different. This rain reminded me of Michigan. It was quite cool all day and the rain never let up. I spent my breaks at work just standing outside enjoying the cool air and wonderful smell that water brings to the desert. Like water for the desert, where have I heard that before?

Four Peaks

2004-10-27T21:27:00.000-07:00

four peaks
Originally uploaded by Matt Callahan.

Not a bad picture

Another Great Morning

2004-10-17T20:40:00.000-07:00

The one thing about the desert that surprises some people is the amount of life in it. There is a misconception that the desert must be dead, that nothing could live in such an inhospitable environment. Nothing could be further from the truth.

I went to sleep last night feeling a little beat up. I wanted to get up early again and head for South Mountain but after working on refinishing the kitchen table most of the afternoon, I wasn’t feeling up to an early morning. I didn’t set the alarm but woke up at 4:30 anyway. I figured that meant I was supposed to go. I knew I wouldn’t make the hike so I drove to a spot I thought might work well for some photos. Bad choice, too many power lines in the way. I drove to the parking area for my favorite trail and walked a bit. Once I left the parking lot, the stillness of the desert set in. There were no planes overhead, no cars driving past, just silence. I stood in the dark, looking for a good spot and heard coyotes calling to one another. The birds started to chirp, waking up to meet the sun. It was as though they kept quiet, hiding from me until they knew it was safe to make their presence known.

I found a decent little hill and started up, avoiding the cholla cactus. The spines of this plant will penetrate through your shoes. Once at the top, I found a nice flat area to enjoy the sunrise. Sitting cross-legged I listened to the sounds of the desert waking. A gentle breeze started to blow from the west. As the light started to grow from the east, the clouds on the horizon started to take shape. This should make for a good show.

To the south, beautiful shades of pink, red, and purple started to appear against the mountains. Fewer clouds there made for better color. Straight ahead of me, the sun played in the heavier clouds. Rays of light would shine through and in a moment, disappear. I leaned back, watching the puffs of white clouds drift across the perfect blue of the sky. I could do this every day for the rest of my life and never tire of it. This seemingly dead place replenishes what you didn’t realize had worn low. You can stop and watch the world go by.

I did get some pictures. Hopefully, they will capture the same feeling I was able to experience first hand. As soon as I can, I will post them here.

Morning Adventures

2004-10-16T16:16:00.000-07:00

All week, I’ve been planning to get some pictures of the sunrise from my favorite spot. Friday night’s sunset was incredible so I was inspired to get up early Saturday and meet the day with a camera. South Mountain, here in Phoenix, is the largest municipal park in the country. This mountain is cleverly named as it lies south of the downtown area. The view from the north side of the mountain allows a fine view the greater metropolitan area. The south face is my favorite as it overlooks the open desert. I know of a great spot on the south side that allows a fantastic view of the sunrise this time of year with no city lights to ruin the effect.

I left the house just after 5:00. I figured I would have plenty of time to set up and enjoy. As I reached the road leading to the park, I see a road sign indicating that the park is closed. Now, I want you to recall the scene from National Lampoons Vacation. The first one, with the Griswold family traveling to Wally World. Once they reach the gates of Wally World, they’re greeted by John Candy who advises that the park is closed. Are you with me? I just couldn’t accept the fact that the park was closed. You can’t close Wally World! I drove to the first entrance and, sure enough, two park rangers were waiting to give me the bad news. They did however explain that only the road to the top was closed and I might be able to take a few shots from another spot.

Feeling somewhat relieved and hoping to salvage my trip, I followed their directions and scouted a few spots. I wasn’t what I wanted but I found a decent area so I started climbing. Did I mention that it’s still dark? Do you remember that this is the desert? Even in October, there are still snakes lurking around. I think to myself, “Hey, I owe it to my internet friends to get some pictures. I need to spruce the blog up a bit.” So, braving any unseen dangers, I made my way up to the most likely looking place. The sun rises quickly here in the southwest so it wasn’t long until the first rays of light began creeping over the horizon. The color looked great, a few clouds were hanging just above the sun. I guessed just a few minutes remained until I would get the shot I wanted. Then, as quickly as what I thought would be another perfect sunrise started, it turned to crap. The colors faded and all I got for my trouble was a plain yellow orb popping over a mountain in the distance.

As I sat, disappointedly staring at an unused camera, I carefully considered that even a “bad” sunrise from a quiet spot in the desert is better than any magically colored rays of sun viewed from a car stuck in traffic.

I will try again tomorrow. There is a trail leading up to my spot. They couldn’t have closed that. Sure, it takes an hour to hike up there but it might make the experience all the more rewarding.

Exhale

2004-10-08T20:56:00.000-07:00

I took a short drive a sunset tonight. There were no dramatic colors, just the gradually changing blue sky. The road I took separates housing developments from the open desert. At this time of year, the daytime highs are still near 100 degrees but the evening temperatures are quite cool. As the sun sets and the colder air settles to the ground, the trees and plants seem to exhale, releasing the breath they’ve held all day long. The result is intoxicating. The smell of mesquite and creosote isn’t overpowering, like fresh cut grass, but if you look for the scent it’s there.

I drove under the speed limit with the windows down, breathing in the fresh air and listening to the wind. I could have driven back and forth down that road all night.

Elysium

2004-10-07T18:21:00.000-07:00

I've been walking upright for some time now but, when introduced to this word, I had to look it up. Webster's defines the term as any place or condition of ideal bliss or complete happiness. The word was introduced to me through Ottmar Liebert's fantastic CD, Innamorare. The track in question is titled Desert Elysium and the desert is the place where I find my bliss.

I figured this would be a good place to start my ramblings.