What's up with the JDB?

Here's an update from Jim on the status of the Jim Dyar Band:

A lot of folks have been asking about the JDB and when we're playing again. My answer is, I'm hoping pretty soon. 

As many fans of the band probably already know, I've been busy for the past couple of years with the Muletown String Band, which continues to create music and perform here in Northern California. I love this band and the level of creativity and musicianship has been a pure thrill for me. Our last gig was opening up for Amy Goodman at the David Marr Auditorium.



Fan photo of Muletown at the David Marr.

 
Still, I just got my Fender amp fixed and I'm feeling the urge to rev up a little more straight ahead country fried rock. We'll see what that churns up.

On the songwriting front, I've got some new tunes hoppin' around and some others brewing. Whenever the decks of life get cleared, I like to think about and work on new songs.

I've been hearing some fantastic new work from those around me. In Muletown, everyone seems to be getting after it terms of songwriting or performance (congrats to Tracy, Paul and Torri for their great new tunes). Friends like Rick Larson, Brian Kenny, Nick Ciampi, Mokai have all cranked out great new stuff. I can't wait to hear what others have come up.

Also recently, I've enjoyed backing up a terrificlly talented young musician, 13-year-old Matthew Ziesing. We recently opened up for The Hoppers at Crossroads Church in Yuba City. Matthew's impossible not to love and is rapidly progressing on fiddle, mandolin, sax, guitar and everything else he gets his hands on. I'm already definitely learning from this kid.

So times may be tight right now, but music lives on. Here's to honoring creativity over the mad scramble for dollars and survival.