I forgot to mention that I played with the Quixotic Trio just before leaving PDX. Also present were Control R Workshop, who now seem like old friends. Unfortunately Control R's drummer had quit to join a rock band. We all did mixed duos and trios all night, cappng the evening with short sets by each group. My duet with Frank (lastname?) the drummer of the QT was a blast. He's an interesting player who will benefit from touring more and meeting more players. The crabby, petulant JP Jenkins was not there, claiming "if there's not going to be an audience, what's the point of playing?" (an unbelievably bankrupt sentiment, if you ask me, and unbecoming a player of his caliber and commitment level - not to mention the fact that we *did* have a GREAT audience that night!).
The following night we went to the Olympia Experimental Music Festival, but the schedule was running so late I went home (because I had to fly to Seoul in the a.m.!) I'm afraid I was short with Arrington, the organizer, unintentionally. I just wanted one more gig with the fellows before leaving. I did get to see Mike Marlin's group, who were terrific, and it was good to finally hear Angelina Baldoz on trumpet. Marlin, himself, was a revelation, as usual.
You can still catch KFJC on the net, but the DMCA may not let that last. Apparently they have Super Unity and Don Brown and Dan Reynolds in their rotation!
Seoul junk: It is unbelievably safe here, or it feels that way. At night I see children (toddlers, even) unattended, single women, old folks all walking around openly. It reminds me of taking the late-night bus in Portland, which is always ONLY men. People here seem to really look out for children, especially, which is so beautiful to see. Patting other people's kids on the ass means you think they're cute! Old ladies, however, cast disapproving glances at me, often for reasons unknown. I think foreigners don't always behave very well here...depressing thought, since there are so few in this giant city. I have to get used to Lilly's firm mattress, though...
