tag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:/blogs/latest-news?p=2Latest News2024-01-09T06:58:56-08:00Alex Rasmussenfalsetag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/73307362024-01-09T06:58:56-08:002024-02-06T20:23:31-08:00Becoming Visible<p dir="ltr"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/180741/385a41051d07bfbee93034716c31503fe4e0a004/original/04-bv-cover.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">I've been waiting patiently to make this announcement, and I'm thrilled that I can finally tell you.</span><br><br><span style="color:#000000;">Over the past eight months, I've been putting together an anthology featuring work from a skilled cast of Seattle poets, many of whom are also singer-songwriters in the local music scene. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Not only am I happy to announce the book's completion, but I'm also excited to be teaming up with Seattle / Portland publisher Common Meter Press on the release!</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Here's the back-cover copy:</span><br><span style="color:#000000;">"Becoming Visible is a collection of poems by twelve Seattle-based writers. Each offers a unique perspective from their often-soggy corner of the country. From the whimsical wordplay of Gemma Maliszewski to the melancholy musings of Oscar Mejia, from Hailey Magee's erotic imagery to Lucas Van Linden's eloquent romanticism, this anthology contains something for everyone. </span><br><span style="color:#000000;">Like one's first taste of fresh Northwest salmon, or view of the majesty that is Mount Rainier (Tahoma), the words and ideas within will leave an impression that lasts long after the final page has been turned." </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">The book, which includes four unreleased poems from each writer, is now available for pre-order via the link below. (Until 1/31, you can enter the promo code BECOMING to get free shipping!)</span></p><p dir="ltr"><a class="no-pjax" href="https://rb.gy/a865ru"><span style="color:#1155cc;"><u>https://rb.gy/a865ru</u></span></a></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">On 2/18, we'll be celebrating the anthology's release with an in-the-round style performance at Seattle's Rabbitbox Theatre featuring a mixture of poetry and music (more details to come). </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">The following poets will be featured in the collection: (with their Instagram handles)</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Lucas Van Linden: @lucasvanlinden</span><br><span style="color:#000000;">Henry Wong: @h.wong_writing</span><br><span style="color:#000000;">Gemma Maliszewski: @jemma.malisheskey</span><br><span style="color:#000000;">Owl Scarey: @owl_scarey</span><br><span style="color:#000000;">Amy Laybourn: @laybournmusic</span><br><span style="color:#000000;">Andrew Drinnan: @longwaybackband</span><br><span style="color:#000000;">Megan Torgerson Drinnan: @megantorgerson</span><br><span style="color:#000000;">Nick Zettell: @showandzettell</span><br><span style="color:#000000;">Me</span><br><span style="color:#000000;">Hailey Magee: @haileypaigemagee</span><br><span style="color:#000000;">Erin Roth: @shruggingshoulders</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Cover art by my talented sister, Ashley Zuckerberg: (@sewhotrightnow_shop)</span><br><span style="color:#000000;">Huge thanks to @meredithsmithpoetry and Common Meter Press! (@commonmeter)</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Let the countdown begin <span><img src="https://lh7-us.googleusercontent.com/rgO3RXOW0pnYnmfeC8xi5EL8v178J6aEzAj1-wjZXj0Q10QQs_tZcxh6cezeKhrLbHTmRcUTIJxf-Qg0zeYv1RfZHKmew3YruhzqpuR0KEKSYqhgBngM7hdCor2JBEJE_ZSPQiHuEowr6IzrGdNoL3Y" class="size_orig justify_inline border_" alt="🕑" height="32" width="32" /></span></span></p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/72700722023-09-07T15:14:04-07:002023-10-16T07:48:54-07:00Good Things<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/s:bzglfiles/u/180741/e6402db28bb6ac9221f9517e9d350c468ee17818/original/goodthingspromo.jpeg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:rgb(0,0,0);">My new single, Good Things, is for anyone struggling to maintain hope in the midst of challenging circumstances. For those putting one foot in front of the other, day after day—praying for progress, searching for light, and holding onto the belief that they’ll find a way out. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:rgb(0,0,0);">In January of 2022, I was bedridden by a health nightmare that made nerves in my hands, feet, and legs feel as though they were on fire. This was accompanied by several other symptoms; all of which, my doctors eventually determined, had been triggered by a widely recommended pharmaceutical procedure that had catapulted my immune system into an intense, self-targeting attack.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:rgb(0,0,0);">Luckily, in the months following my long-awaited diagnosis—through the courageous world of functional medicine—I was able to receive the treatment necessary to regain my active, fulfilling life. Now, almost two years later, each day without pain is a blessing, and I’m thankful I didn’t act on the nagging temptation to put a permanent end to my intense suffering.</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:rgb(0,0,0);">While I was incapacitated and unable to work, most of my days were spent researching my novel condition, visiting doctors, and communicating with other people around the country who’d been injured by the same medical procedure. With almost all of my limited energy being directed toward healing, I did very little writing. Fortunately, the one song that did come out of this experience perfectly captured the duality of my thought process during the most harrowing challenge I’ve ever endured. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:rgb(0,0,0);">Good Things is a snapshot of a person trying desperately to find motivation and meaning while locked in a body that has become a painful prison. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Recorded, produced, and mixed at Vertigo Studios in Seattle, WA, by Brad Kaminski. </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Drums - Bruce Weitz</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Bass - Chase Baldwin </span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Guitar - Owen Thayer</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Keys and Vocal Harmonies - Lucas Van Linden</span></p><p dir="ltr"><span style="color:#000000;">Mastered by Blake Bickel of Dynamic Sound Service in Kalamazoo, MI.</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(0,0,0);">Photo by Jon Leach (</span><a class="no-pjax" href="https://www.instagram.com/jonleachstreetphotos" target="_blank"><span style="color:rgb(0,0,0);">https://www.instagram.com/jonleachstreetphotos</span></a><span style="color:rgb(0,0,0);">).</span></p><p><span style="color:rgb(0,0,0);">The song is available in the music section of this site and on all streaming services, including Spotify here:</span></p><p><a class="no-pjax" href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/3q9b44LunqytGQAodE88jL" data-link-type="url" contents="https://open.spotify.com/artist/3q9b44LunqytGQAodE88jL"><u>https://open.spotify.com/artist/3q9b44LunqytGQAodE88jL</u></a></p><p><span style="color:#000000;">And Apple Music here:</span></p><p><a class="no-pjax" href="https://music.apple.com/us/artist/alex-rasmussen/1453482855" data-link-type="url" contents="https://music.apple.com/us/artist/alex-rasmussen/1453482855"><u>https://music.apple.com/us/artist/alex-rasmussen/1453482855</u></a></p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/69961022022-06-17T08:15:05-07:002023-12-10T08:52:27-08:00Symptoms of the Night<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/38edf2a30f3f270686356ea56060aa676280b692/original/foggyfinal.jpg/!!/meta:eyJzcmNCdWNrZXQiOiJiemdsZmlsZXMifQ==/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>My newest single, Symptoms of the Night, is now available for download in the music section of this site and streaming on all services!</p>
<p>I wrote the song years ago after catching myself over-thinking the magical process of falling in love rather than giving myself fully to the experience. </p>
<p>The violinist is a longtime friend and music instructor from Turkey named Gulay Sarbay who, like a comet, only passes through the United States once every few years. I was lucky to catch her on her most recent visit to record this song, which we've played live together any time she's been in Seattle. </p>
<p>Recording was done at Vertigo Studios in Seattle by producer / engineer Brad Kaminski, who also played piano and drums on the track. Vocal harmonies were contributed by Fae Wiedenhoeft of the Seattle-based Celtic folk band, Seastar. Mastering was done by Blake Bickel of Dynamic Sound Service in Kalamazoo, Michigan. </p>
<p>Photo by Maggie Whalen.</p>
<p>Spotify: <a contents="https://open.spotify.com/artist/3q9b44LunqytGQAodE88jL" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/3q9b44LunqytGQAodE88jL">https://open.spotify.com/artist/3q9b44LunqytGQAodE88jL</a></p>
<p>Apple Music: <a contents="https://music.apple.com/us/artist/alex-rasmussen/1453482855" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://music.apple.com/us/artist/alex-rasmussen/1453482855">https://music.apple.com/us/artist/alex-rasmussen/1453482855</a></p>
<p>Enjoy!</p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/69736712022-05-17T20:53:35-07:002022-05-17T20:53:35-07:00Crawl<p>Due to health complications (from which I've been steadily healing), this year has been the most challenging of my life. Luckily, during my darkest moments, I had some wonderful people in my corner who helped me navigate the choppy waters. This song, Crawl, is about being there for someone in their time of need. </p>
<p>The video was filmed by Seattle-based singer, songwriter, and cameraman extraordinaire, Wyatt Olney. </p>
<p>Enjoy!</p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="luktZgOn1mo" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/luktZgOn1mo/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/luktZgOn1mo?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="360" width="640" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>
<p> </p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/67911122021-10-29T16:24:46-07:002023-12-10T09:01:12-08:00Sixteen Voices<p>Here's a video for an older tune of mine called "Sixteen Voices," shot, directed, and edited by the talented Wyatt Olney. </p>
<p>Enjoy!</p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="WeLm1JLnXV0" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/WeLm1JLnXV0/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/WeLm1JLnXV0?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="360" width="640" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/65792262021-03-19T11:42:25-07:002023-12-10T09:32:06-08:00Shovels, Sweat, and a Glimmer of Hope<p><strong>How a Day of Dirty Work Changed the Life of One Homeless San Diegan</strong></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/30eb554a76d2ecb36c83cc985c566d72c9925f05/original/img-20210319-120407-081.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_none" alt="" /><br>Two weeks ago, I answered a Craigslist ad for a construction job seeking applicants who were “good with a shovel.” Though my dirt-moving skills had never been officially tested, I was sure I qualified. </p>
<p>After showing up to a house in San Diego’s North Park neighborhood, I started digging trenches alongside three men, one of whom was named Yoshi. As we filled wheelbarrows with earth, and took turns running them up a ramp into a ramshackle wooden trailer, Yoshi told me that he was newly homeless at 26 years old. He’d been a barista before Covid struck, and the pandemic had caused his job to dissolve. Fortunately, San Diego’s Convention Center was serving as a makeshift shelter, and Yoshi was staying there while he got back on his feet. </p>
<p>When Yoshi told me he’d never done construction work before, he and I were side by side, scooting on our stomachs toward the back of a dank crawlspace. With a small jackhammer (which had to be operated almost horizontally to avoid hitting the floor a foot above us), we began digging a trench, fifteen inches deep, that was to run the perimeter of the crawlspace. Dirt from the trench was then scooped, either by gloved hand or small shovel, into a long plastic tub with a rope tied to it. Once the tub was full, either Yoshi or I would shout “Good!” to a man at the crawlspace’s entrance who would then pull the rope until the tub reached him. After this, the man would lift the tub out of the hole, dump it into a wheelbarrow, and poke his head back beneath the house to slide the empty tub across the ground to us. </p>
<p>A day of this work was gruelling and monotonous. Occasionally, Yoshi or I would emerge from the house's anus for a drink of water or slice of pizza (graciously provided by the contractor). When in the crawlspace—over the rat-ta-tat of the jackhammer—we told stories and threw jokes around to lighten the mood. After what felt like an eternity, five o’clock came, so we shut off the headlamps, unplugged the jackhammer, and army-crawled toward the light at the end of the filthy hole. </p>
<p>While standing in the sun, squinting so our eyes could adjust, Yoshi and I dusted ourselves off and talked about how good the impending shower was going to feel. He daydreamed aloud of his post-shift beverage. “That first beer is gonna taste so good.” Wiping his forehead, he added, “It’ll be a treat. Not like usual.” When I asked what he meant, he said that he was used to drinking out of boredom. “Or just smoking weed, sitting around, watching TV and feeling sorry for myself.” </p>
<p>That night, Yoshi drank to victory, a fattened wallet, and to ease his sore muscles. I know this because I’ve worked with him several times since. After the crawlspace job, the contractor was so impressed by Yoshi’s work ethic and attitude that he hired him full-time. Yoshi and I have since moved on to another house, which we’re demo-ing with the help of a middle-aged Louisianan. </p>
<p>On our lunch break the other day, between bites of a burrito, Yoshi told me that construction work—though unfamiliar, uncomfortable, and challenging—filled him with purpose. He said that he felt good at the end of each day, like he’d accomplished something. He felt like a man; and he joked that he wished he could see some of his male coworkers from the coffee shop try to swing a sledgehammer or lift a several-hundred-pound cast-iron bathtub. “They used to complain about lifting a ten-pound bag of coffee beans.” </p>
<p>Yoshi said this with drywall dust caked inside his nostrils, and his statement got me thinking: If the construction job brought Yoshi such pride, maybe it’s possible that constantly challenging and exerting oneself is a cornerstone of fulfillment. </p>
<p>(Before any baristas get angry with me, I respect the coffee job and know several people who love that work, but Yoshi was looking for something different. In fact, he’s even talking about starting his own construction company someday). </p>
<p>We live in a society where the majority of what we need is available at the click of a button. If you want it, someone will bring it to you. If you don’t want to do it, someone will do it for you. As a result, if we feel so inclined, we are able to spend as little effort as possible on a daily basis. The reward for this conservation of energy is convenience, but there is also a law of physics that says energy cannot be created or destroyed. This being the case, is it possible that the energy we conserve must manifest in other ways? </p>
<p>Maybe as swirling thoughts that target the thinker. </p>
<p>Maybe as a need to lash out at someone at the grocery store, or leave a nasty Yelp review for no reason. </p>
<p>Maybe a key to happiness is not hoarding one’s energy, but spending it in a helpful way—releasing it into the world—giving as much of ourselves as possible before our wick burns out and we fade away like Yoshi’s barista job. </p>
<p>Obviously, we must take breaks to recharge the batteries. I’m not advocating self-induced exhaustion. But I am saying that deep satisfaction may be the result of spending our precious and finite energy on work, relationships, raising children, creating and sharing art, charity, physical activity, learning, or whatever else we might find to be worthy outlets. </p>
<p>Whether or not this is a universal remedy for some of our modern-day maladies, it seems to be working for Yoshi, and that’s good enough for me.</p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/65320012021-01-27T11:14:53-08:002023-12-10T08:57:58-08:00Into the Wild<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/c1e6396f3b80a3e2ba104f2c0471d723c27a9a64/original/737a1a8d.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I recently read “Into the Wild,” which is the true story of an upper-class college grad who sheds most of his possessions and travels the U.S. After two years of hitch-hiking and hopping freight trains, he wanders alone into the Alaskan wilderness, where he hunts and lives off the land for several months. Unfortunately, he eats a toxic plant and dies, but not before scrawling a potent revelation into a book he left in the abandoned bus which served as his off-the-grid home. </p>
<p>In a Throeau-esque moment of clarity, Chris McCandless (or Alexander Supertramp, as he had dubbed himself) concludes that “Circumstance has no value. It is how one relates to a situation that has value. All true meaning resides in the personal relationship to a phenomenon, what it means to you.” </p>
<p>Though I don’t believe that circumstances have “no value,” I do agree that immense power lies in how we choose to connect with, react to, and interpret the world and events around us. </p>
<p>Contemplating this notion makes me think back to living in Nashville, when I chatted with homeless guys who sold flowers on Broadway that were ten times happier—and more enjoyable to be around—than some of the more materially wealthy, aspiring songwriters who were in town trying to “make it” on Mommy and Daddy’s dime. </p>
<p>My job at that time was driving a pedicab around Music City, and I remember one Tuesday night, downtown, a coworker pulled up beside me to complain about how slow the night was. As the words left his mouth, another pedicabber sped past with four drunk guys crowded on the back of the bike, hooting, hollering, and headed for the strip club (which gave cabbies a payout per body we could get in the door). On that ride alone—fifteen minutes of work—the driver made at least sixty bucks. </p>
<p>Those two coworkers had the same circumstances that night, but vastly different outcomes based on their mindsets and actions, their “relationship to the phenomenon.” </p>
<p>I love thinking about how this concept relates to my life, about what could be done to improve my own mindset and which behaviors could be adopted to facilitate further growth. Then I think about the collective beliefs and actions of our country, the world... </p>
<p>We’ve all been on the receiving end of the interpretation game as well. In my experience, people are especially expressive when I’m street performing. Out there in the human jungle—with minimal boundaries, rules, or supervision—I become a blank canvas onto which people project their inner worlds. I’ve had folks tell me that a song I played made their day; or they might email later to say that the book they’d purchased from me touched their lives. I’ve also had people spit on me, call me a beggar, or try to rob me. </p>
<p>Same circumstances: a guy with his guitar and books, different responses. </p>
<p>Attitude's influence over our experience fascinates me, as does the spectrum of outcomes, the symphony of perspectives. </p>
<p>Sometimes in harmony. Sometimes discordant and clashing. </p>
<p>But we play on, regardless, like that band on the Titanic.</p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/63333412020-05-28T10:20:49-07:002022-05-21T12:52:04-07:00Make it Real<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/a941925e557a654ebbf3c297c6872f9a085c1625/original/img-20200528-101447-253.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Announcing the release of five new songs to help kick off your summer! </p>
<p>My latest EP, Make it Real, is now available in the music section of this site and on all streaming services. <br>Massive gratitude to the skilled team that brought these tunes to life. With the exception of fiddle, vocal harmonies, and a few auxiliary instruments, the band and I tracked everything live, which gave the session an exciting energy. </p>
<p>The idea to record as musicians had "back in the day" came from Sheldon Gomberg, who produced, engineered, and mixed the EP at The Carriage House in Los Angeles. </p>
<p>Also engineering were Bill Mims, Mirza Sheriff, Jason Gossman, and Johnnie Burik. </p>
<p>Drums - Jimmy Paxson <br>Bass - Chase Baldwin <br>Fiddle / Vocal harmonies - Sara Watkins <br>Guitar / Lap Steel - Ben Peeler <br>Keys - Chris Joyner </p>
<p>Mastered by Blake Bickel at Dynamic Sound Service. </p>
<p>Spotify link is here:</p>
<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://open.spotify.com/artist/3q9b44LunqytGQAodE88jL">https://open.spotify.com/artist/3q9b44LunqytGQAodE88jL</a></p>
<p>Enjoy!</p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/62591212020-03-23T09:53:01-07:002023-12-10T08:42:57-08:00Back to Nashville<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/804671a3d389e5a213127f051d6e13f1d6340f00/original/2020-03-22-20-39-551.png/!!/b:W10=.png" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>I'm thrilled to announce the release of Back to Nashville, the first single from my forthcoming EP. </p>
<p>The song was written two years back while speeding down I-65, headed for Music City, which would become my home-base for eight months and serve as the setting for one of the most inspiring, challenging, and growth-inducing chapters of my life. </p>
<p>Produced, engineered, and mixed by Sheldon Gomberg at The Carriage House in Los Angeles.</p>
<p>Also engineered by Bill Mims, Mirza Sheriff, Jason Gossman, and Johnnie Burik. </p>
<p>Drums - Jimmy Paxson <br>Bass - Chase Baldwin <br>Fiddle / Harmonies - Sara Watkins <br>Guitar / Lap Steel - Ben Peeler <br>Keys - Chris Joyner </p>
<p>Mastered by Blake Francis Bickel at Dynamic Sound Service. </p>
<p>The song is available on all streaming services and in the site-wide audio player below.</p>
<p>Enjoy!</p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/59095422019-09-29T10:38:51-07:002023-12-10T08:50:53-08:00The Campfire Fellowship<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/4e2f73d4b20cb99c4e9ab01649fb37c0c598d526/original/dsc-0022.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Greetings everyone!</p>
<p>I'm excited to announce that a short story of mine--about street performing in Austin, Texas--has just been published on an independent-music blog. </p>
<p>Check it out here: <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://mysoundposter.blog/the-campfire-fellowship-alex-rasmussen/">https://mysoundposter.blog/the-campfire-fellowship-alex-rasmussen/</a></p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/57568332019-05-16T09:45:03-07:002022-05-01T17:33:08-07:00Hustlin' Hearts<p>New video posted above and in the "videos" section!</p>
<p>A father and son selling bottled water to tipsy tourists on the streets of Nashville. Immigrant construction workers sweating it out out six days a week in the hundred-degree Texas heat. A farmer’s market jeweler shivering through a Seattle winter to put food on the table for her son. <br>These are a few of the everyday heroes. <br>The hustlin’ hearts. <br>And this is their song. </p>
<p>Thanks to these talented people for bringing this to life. <br>Recorded and mixed by Brad Kaminski <br>Mastered by Blake Francis Bickel of Dynamic Sound Service <br>Bass by Chase Baldwin <br>Drums by Heather Thomas <br>Fiddle by David Salonen <br>Harmony vocal by Fae Wiedenhoeft <br>Performance footage by Brie Golden Breeze <br>Video edited by Wyatt Olney <br>Check out Nature's Twist jewelry online or at Pike Place Market. </p>
<p>Song available on Spotify, iTunes, or wherever you stream music. </p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/56200792019-01-30T12:18:14-08:002022-08-06T15:40:02-07:00Inside out<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/6c5f15ed32b86addeaf26fd0600b908f458b2e8a/original/alex-rasmussen-inside-out-front-cover.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_none" alt="" /></p>
<p>After almost four years of writing, re-writing, editing, and second-guessing, my first poetry collection, Inside out, is available for purchase in paperback or Kindle format on Amazon. </p>
<p>"...the poems explore topics from love to loneliness, eccentric painters to hollow consumers. Each work is a piece of a puzzle which, once assembled, shows in vivid detail a life shaped by the journey from turbulent childhood to nomadic artist." </p>
<p>Follow this link to check it out!</p>
<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.amazon.com/Inside-out-Alex-Rasmussen/dp/1790828384/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1548871756&sr=8-1&keywords=inside+out+alex+rasmussen">https://www.amazon.com/Inside-out-Alex-Rasmussen/dp/1790828384/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1548871756&sr=8-1&keywords=inside+out+alex+rasmussen</a></p>
<p>A huge thank you to editors Anna Eklund and Sarah Pasillas for your hard work and patience. </p>
<p>Cover art by my very talented sister, Ashley Zuckerberg (Instagram: @fromatozcrafts).</p>
<p>Graphic design by the one and only Mario Di Sandro (Instagram: @disandroid).</p>
<p>Enjoy!</p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/53937012018-08-19T15:06:34-07:002023-12-10T09:43:40-08:00My Kinda Crazy<p>Here's a new video for you!<br>Shot in Nashville by the very talented Monica Baranko.<br>The tune is a tribute to women who live by their own rules. <br>Lyrics are available in the Youtube video info. <br>Enjoy!</p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="G-wac2dCdF8" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/G-wac2dCdF8/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/G-wac2dCdF8?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="360" width="640" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/51718272018-04-09T08:49:40-07:002023-12-10T10:04:53-08:00On The Road Again...<p>My two months in Seattle was a blur of gigs, recording, and working a few jobs to pay for recording. <br>Now, I'm happy to announce that the 6-song EP is officially finished and--after a few days of much-needed rest in Salt Lake City--I'm headed to Cleveland, OH, to kick off a Midwest mini-tour and pick up the discs. </p>
<p>I'll let you know as soon as the new music is available for streaming / download!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/ea02ac28924d9a20062789fe16fb2e05e3b354db/original/roadagain.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/50584462018-02-02T13:21:59-08:002022-08-18T16:51:29-07:00One Brick at a Time...<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/3f6add792e853f804779a61128b61ec4e55154d6/original/oregon.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />After a gorgeous six-day trip from Austin to Seattle--complete with stops in Albuquerque, Salt Lake City and Bend, Oregon--I'm now back in the swing of Northwest livin'. My first three days at home were spent at Paradise Sound in Index, tracking vocals and putting finishing touches on a soon-to-be-released six-song EP. I'm very excited about the way these tunes are shaping up, and I'm aiming to have them finished and released before I leave for a Midwest tour on March 29th. </p>
<p>In the meantime I have several solo gigs--and a few with the trio--in the area. Check the calendar for a date near you and come hang!</p>
<p>I'll also keep you posted as my poetry collection--Inside Out--gets more polished. I don't have a projected release date for this project, but once the poems are cleaned up--thanks to editor, Anna Eklund--I'm going to be sending them to some publishers with the hope that some larger entity will release the work. This process will take some time, but it could be worth the wait. </p>
<p>Keep checking back for updates and have a good everything!</p>
<p>-Alex</p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/49833812017-12-18T17:20:05-08:002022-05-01T17:31:27-07:00Diverting the Flow<p>A few weeks back I had a dream that I was hanging with my former Seattle band-mates. One of them told me that I should "Finish what I started."</p>
<p>After waking I realized that this comment came in regard to the recordings the band and I had begun a year ago; and, after speaking with that band-mate, it was revealed that she and the other band-mates had held a conversation about the status of the recordings on the same night I had that dream. </p>
<p>I'm always one to listen to synchronicity. And when it coincides with the inability to lock down dates with the folks I'm scheduled to work with in Texas, the choice is easy. </p>
<p>I'll return to Seattle January 25th through March 29th. En route I'll meet with a good friend in Bend, Oregon, who'll be lending his phenomenal electric-guitar skills to one of the six tracks that I'll be finishing while in the Northwest. </p>
<p>The sessions will continue at Paradise Sound in Index, Washington, and will feature several guest musicians to broaden the EP's tonal spectrum. </p>
<p>While in the area I'll also be playing several gigs--some solo and some with other NW musicians. After two months at home, I'll shoot out to Nashville with the recordings to explore the songwriting scene and dive deep into Music City livin'. </p>
<p>I'm also in the midst of the editing process for a collection of sixty poems, which will be called "Inside Out." </p>
<p>Slow and steady seems to be the name of the game. And, though I am very excited to share all of these creations with everyone, I know that this work will only make the final products that much better. </p>
<p>Shine on!</p>
<p>-Alex</p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/49134152017-10-31T10:18:38-07:002023-12-10T08:46:38-08:00The Leaves, They Are A-Changin'<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/5fc5e5346a68a66f2a7c603abe9117415cbc2914/original/22794615-380617395700247-5493667564229754880-n-1.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Greetings from Nashville! </p>
<p>The past few weeks have been spent between here and Cincinnati, Ohio.</p>
<p>I've played a few fun gigs (including a Cinci Farmer's Market where some costumed children held a tiny dance party), met many friendly folks, and been inspired and humbled by the abundance of talent and opportunity in Music City. </p>
<p>Tomorrow I'll head back to Texas, where I'll stay for a few months. During this time I'll be evaluating a few studio options and recording some music .</p>
<p>After the EP is recorded and released--and a collection of my poems has been published--I'll be coming up to Nashville to explore the songwriting scene and dive deep into Music City life. </p>
<p>The next few months will be a blur of creativity and hard work; and I can't wait to share the finished products with you. </p>
<p>In the meantime, I've posted a tune called "Blame Me", recorded between a hotel in Cincinnati and a hostel in Nashville. I slept in the van for the majority of my time up here (showering in an abandoned house), but once the temperature started dropping into the mid-thirties I figured I'd treat myself to warm water and some non-shivering sleep. </p>
<p>Enjoy the song! </p>
<p>I won't tell you what it's about. </p>
<p>Sometimes it's more fun that way. </p>
<p>-Alex</p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/48334942017-08-31T14:46:54-07:002020-01-20T18:03:26-08:00Join me on Patreon!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/b3c87ce4d799bc80061d552b943ebf54ad528c63/original/img-20170823-193819-157.jpg?1504215805" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Greetings from beautiful Sedona, Arizona!</p>
<p>The journey from Seattle to Austin has been great so far--many successful gigs, friendly folks and adventurous hikes. </p>
<p>Beyond all of this, I've begun to record music in my Dodge Caravan--committing myself to releasing at least one new song a month. The tunes will be recorded in the van--or in various basements, garages and studios across the country. These tracks, along with poetry, tour stories and more, will be posted on my new Patreon page:</p>
<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.patreon.com/alexrasmussen">https://www.patreon.com/alexrasmussen</a></p>
<p>Follow the link to check out my first van-tracked release, Come and Gone, recorded in and around Sedona. </p>
<p>Enjoy!</p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/47797742017-07-14T13:58:41-07:002020-02-02T11:07:02-08:00Mission Accomplished<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/1923de7188ba12d4a33c0f8fbb52f8ca093ec377/original/slc1.jpg?1500063781" class="size_l justify_center border_" />I'm pleased to report that the trip to Salt Lake City with fiddler Amanda Fitch was a great success.</p>
<p>We played several amazing gigs, camped for a few days in Idaho's Sawtooth Mountains and braved 105 degree heat in a '98 USPS van with no A/C. Needless to say, this van is being swapped out for one with air-cooling capabilities. Driving half-naked with the windows down (earplugs to kill road noise) did little to drop our body temperatures. Luckily we only had a few drives where the heat was so oppressive. The rest were done during morning or early afternoon before the sun could reach its sinister potential. </p>
<p>Here are some highlights from the journey:</p>
<p>Wandering through Boise's vibrant Freek Alley--an eclectic collection of local graffiti. We could've spent a whole day taking in the art. </p>
<p>Camping by Skein Lake in the hills above Lake Cascade in Central Idaho. With the exception of a man and his dog, we were the only two beings on this lake. Gorgeous and serene. The next day we took in America's birthday fireworks, shot from a marina on Lake Cascade. </p>
<p>On July 5th the van had a cylinder misfire en route to our gig in Twin Falls. Luckily we found an honest and competent mechanic (Steve Summers in Garden City, Idaho) who fixed the problem quickly, leaving us with time--and money--to spare. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/b508755a8a54554a1e19a2fb1808e85737475be9/original/img-20170704-183104-517.jpg?1500064680" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Utah offered several engaging and rewarding gigs; my favorite of which being the Self Care Sanctuary in Murray where we were encouraged to blend poetry and the reading of a chapter of my novel into our set. Toward the end of the performance, viola master Rebecca Suelzle took the stage and added her magic to a few songs. (She has yet to confirm, but may be joining me when I return to the Self Care Sanctuary on September 8th).</p>
<p>The next night--after a day of wake-boarding and swimming at Jordanelle State Park--we played the rooftop deck at the Boneyard in Park City, complete with 360 views of the Wasatch Mountains, a gorgeous office for the evening. Amanda flew home the next morning for a gig with her band Bootleg Sunshine, and I hiked to Jupiter Peak (elevation 10,000 feet) with a few friends and their pup. There, we watched some para-gliders sail into the sun before descending so I could play the tour's final gig at a Park City winery. </p>
<p>On Monday I did some booking work at a cafe and enjoyed some improvised jazz with a friend in downtown SLC before beginning the 14-hour trek home, which happened to coincide with my 30th birthday. Spending that day on the road was a perfect opportunity to reflect on my many blessings and contemplate the next decade. </p>
<p>I'm now back in Seattle until August 18th. On that date I'll begin a five week tour to Austin, Texas, which will be home for the fall. </p>
<p>As far as the recording of the album is concerned, the process is on hold until the proper players can be found to put the finishing touches on the tunes. At this point, it's looking like I may be meeting them somewhere down South and finishing the work there. I'll keep everyone updated as new developments emerge. </p>
<p>Until then, hope to see you out at a gig. Ruckus on!</p>
<p>-Alex</p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/47406302017-06-10T11:26:49-07:002021-12-16T03:12:37-08:00Good luck, Geli!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/ad62420292cbc43f265ed622baa77058d0ba846d/original/tour10.jpg?1486852851" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Geli Wuerzner, who has been my musical partner and adventure buddy for two years, is parting ways with "A Lovely Ruckus". She will be calling the Pacific Northwest home for a while; and I will be heading to Austin to explore a new music scene. I wish nothing but the best for Geli. Her influence and musicianship shaped the sound of this project; and our trip to New Orleans gave the band its name. I am extremely grateful for all the good times we've had and amazing music we made. </p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/46504432017-03-29T11:17:00-07:002022-01-11T04:06:19-08:00Home Again, Home Again...<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/03ff0f1d8492cde3c67eadb84e22e522b94da40a/original/sw.jpg?1490810755" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The Southwest Quest was a ride--full of great gigs and personal challenges (including, but not limited to, Geli coming down with strep throat the day we rolled into Austin). Luckily, with the help of some antibiotics, she powered through and only had to sit out for one gig. Beyond this, our three weeks were filled with wonderful people, beautiful scenery (New Mexico is amazing), and copious amounts of sunshine (with the exception of the blizzard we were stuck in for three hours as we left our gig in Park City, Utah). We were treated well everywhere we went and were lucky to play to engaging and appreciative audiences at every show.<br>Now, we're gigging around the Northwest as we finish the recording of our album--which is set to be released in June.<br>Stay tuned!Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/45863692017-02-11T15:14:55-08:002023-12-10T08:44:25-08:00South for the Winter Tour - Photo JournalAfter a little over two weeks on the road, Geli and I have once again parked the RV in the Pacific Northwest. <br>Our South for the Winter tour--to Central Arizona and back--was a huge success! We played 8 (official) gigs in two weeks--not counting several Arizona open mics and an impromtu gig at a back-road bar and grill in Cornville. Always good to have your instruments with you. Never know who may want you to play during their break.<br><br>Over the course of this tour we had so many amazing experiences, met so many supportive and electric people, and enjoyed no shortage of breathtaking scenery. <br>We could write a book describing the entire two weeks (which felt like a month's-worth of living), but they say a picture is worth a thousand words; so here is a photo-journal of our trip. <br><br>These were all taken by violinist, vocalist, and snapshot extraordinaire, Geli Wuerzner.<br>(Except, of course, the photo of her. And the one where we're stuck at Snoqualmie Pass).<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/263664363d3bfbce96c4cc9610559fb07e5275a6/original/baker.jpg?1486852538" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Our first night was spent in the RV, parked in a dollar-store lot in Baker City, Oregon. The low temperature was 9 degrees, which became apparent when we ran out of propane at 3 AM. Needless to say, we kept a full tank from there on out. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/10cdb52184164f994bd6148f47f3190fb8b82d00/original/16228804-145169472654912-6970126245119918080-n-1.jpg?1486852702" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Snow on the ground crossing the pass to Prescott. Not the Arizona we expected!<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/ad62420292cbc43f265ed622baa77058d0ba846d/original/tour10.jpg?1486852851" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Geli in her natural habitat--Red Rock Heaven!<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/ac037ec89988a810712309873013f697609fcce1/original/16230327-1322855204439256-2139552084649836544-n-1.jpg?1486852950" class="size_l justify_center border_" />For two Sundays in a row, we were fortunate enough to play the Sedona farmer's market. Not a bad office! Tons of supportive people (many of whom showed off their dance moves), and a family of friendly vendors who showed their appreciation for our music by sending us home with bags of tasty local goodies. On our second Sunday there was also a strange little girl who would scurry around like a woodland creature with wrists limp like a T-Rex. She would crouch down in front of us, stare for uncomfortably long periods of time, and lick rocks while we played. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/0749d2d0107e19cda248a0264fbf582df3fdb324/original/16228800-576843792517789-8428908773355028480-n.jpg?1486853103" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Cathedral Rock in Sedona--a beautiful beast. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/b32a09b389125fdadcb6feef62424e54a5793a9f/original/16230103-215605108843570-2220298320218161152-n.jpg?1486853150" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Far From Folsom, on Prescott's whiskey row, was home to one of our favorite crowds of the tour. The place also had some of the coolest decor (including the mystery creature mounted on the wall), and some amazing BBQ ribs! This is also where our night hanging out with Prescott's Nin Duo began. Check them out. A very cool male / female act--possibly playing on your next cruise.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/9d6bf3220e2f475193047f652acda2c153b79ef2/original/16230869-1345471065525552-5060104196385144832-n.jpg?1486853411" class="size_l justify_center border_" />One of the greatest challenges of the tour was climbing Bell Rock in Sedona (600 feet of Sandstone) with our instruments. The trail is treacherous at times, requiring patience and laser-focus, but Geli and I--along with a new friend from Detroit, Kelly--successfully ascended, bringing an envelope of New Year's resolutions to the top from our NYE gig in Snoqualmie. Now they must come true!<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/02169065616b1d36d5b0b948c56708bd7f0f6632/original/16122715-753882041435760-3679418750710317056-n.jpg?1486853611" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Four Eight Wineworks, one of our last gigs in Arizona, is an old bank converted into a tasting room. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/8ea57912f4ebe31938b4fa17183c0423a9f74706/original/16464806-741827842632625-6320778437514493952-n.jpg?1486853670" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Burning Tree Cellars in Cottonwood, where Geli was able to enjoy a beautiful walk along the river before a very fun gig. After the show we checked out a few local acts in downtown Cottonwood. Both were phenomenal--a gypsy jazz quartet, and a rock band who did a spot-on cover of Pink Floyd's "Brick in the Wall".<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/e4104cbf0bfbf85fdf67a3d33589c4f2a353e69b/original/16230674-255432751535244-3967063503776251904-n.jpg?1486853855" class="size_l justify_center border_" />After a much-needed couple days off in Salt Lake City, Geli and I began our journey home. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/aedcdce7ead87097df89555bcfe5acd559539c9a/original/16465880-336399580087619-794590957172424704-n.jpg?1486853932" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Then, after having traversed a million and one mountain passes without incident, Snoqualmie decided to close just before our return to Seattle. It was shut down for about 24 hours while road crews cleared snow and debris from the freeway. Geli and I took this opportunity to drink wine and play music in the RV while parked near a Safeway in downtown Ellensburg. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/3bd694c6d884d7a815e196be878a83ce963296dd/original/16464270-1396987530342414-1222810591131860992-n.jpg?1486854212" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Rather than ending the tour journal with a picture of us stuck in the snow, here's a photo of me taking a much-needed nap of a sandstone ledge near Sedona. <br><br>Hope you've enjoyed reading this!<br>I'm so happy we live in a time where technology allows us to share the journey with you. <br><br>Since being back in the Northwest, Geli and I have already been missing the sunshine, but we have only a few weeks before we head to Austin to play during the South By Southwest music festival. Until then, we've got several gigs in the Seattle area and an album to finish. <br>We'll keep you posted on everything as we roll forward. <br><br>Thanks for reading.<br>Ruckus on!!<br> Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/45310522016-12-30T11:32:59-08:002016-12-30T11:32:59-08:00A Lovely Ruckus2016 has been amazing!<br>We've played over 100 gigs this year--from Seattle to New Orleans and a few places in between.<br>And, as awesome as 2016 has been, 2017 is shaping up to be even better.<br><br>With the band moving into this new and exciting year, we will also be taking on a new name. <br><br>For a time, the name Alex Rasmussen and The Road was representative of this project but, as we are growing and evolving as a band, this is so much more about a collective unit than it is about me. <br><br>When Geli and I were in New Orleans in October--heading one afternoon to do some busking on Royal street--we passed a man smoking a cigarette who told us to "make a lovely noise". At the time, I had been ruminating on new band names, and that line of his stuck with me--a lovely noise. I played around with it a bit and, after getting the approval of the band, we came up with our new name:<br><br>A Lovely Ruckus<br><br>We are currently working on switching over all of our social media profiles and, as of January 20th, will have made the full shift. <br>Our album, which we will be recording next week, will also be released under this name. <br>Once the album is recorded, Geli and I will be embarking upon our South for the Winter tour of Arizona that will help us start the new year with a bang--and hopefully a bit of sunshine. <br><br>Thank you all for the support and love you've given us this year.<br>We can't wait to Ruckus with you in 2017!<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/7069832373bd67b54d4c943a6ac789358a8aa7eb/original/alr-sfw-tourposter.jpg?1483125929" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/45024742016-12-08T12:33:43-08:002016-12-08T12:33:43-08:00Next Stop: Paradise<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/5c5adb259792ee1e8bd6e879dd05098f76ec4661/original/paradises.jpg?1481228861" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Since returning from the Road, the band has been super busy playing gigs and working on new material. <br>During some of our down time, we were able to scope a few studios in the Seattle area. After considering our options, we have decided to record our next full-length album at Paradise Sound in Index--at the base of the Cascades near Steven's Pass. <br><br>The month of December will be spend rehearsing and playing gigs all over town. Early January we will be tracking this album, which will hopefully be released early this spring. As soon as tracking is finished, Geli and I will hit the road again for a two week run down to Arizona's wine country. <br><br>Once we return home, we will have a month to put finishing touches on the album before we head back to Austin for the South By Southwest music festival in March. <br><br>We have a busy few months ahead, and we couldn't be happier!<br><br>We'll keep you posted as the band rolls forward. <br> Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/44705402016-11-16T16:02:34-08:002016-11-16T16:02:34-08:00Ball of Glass<p>Hey all!<br>We have some very exciting things brewing.<br>In the coming weeks, we'll be filling you in. <br>For now, here's a video for our song "Ball of Glass", shot beneath some cedars by camera-master Wyatt Olney. <br>Enjoy!<br><br><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/raofRpub1nw" width="560"></iframe></p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/44435602016-10-29T15:18:47-07:002017-01-14T10:12:55-08:00Tales From The Road - Final Chapter (Arizona)<p>After Utah, Austin, New Orleans, and many stops in between, Geli and I had thought we'd seen it all on this tour. But nothing could prepare us for the beauty of Northern Arizona. </p>
<p>Before we made our way toward Sedona, we parked the RV in the Scottsdale area for two days. Casino Arizona has a large vehicle parking lot where they allow folks to land for a few days in hopes that they will wander into the casino and spend a bit of cash. Geli and I decided to join the mobile neighborhood. </p>
<p>We arrived on a Tuesday night and woke the next morning with the blazing sun. After a bit of breakfast we hiked Camelback Mountain—an elevation gain of about 1,300 ft in just over a mile. Hiking may not be the right word to describe this entire trek, as parts of the trail require you to scramble up the sandstone boulders on all fours. This, combined with the almost 100 degree heat, made our journey to the top challenging, yet very rewarding. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/a4eaad892990d8671e894d35f10e479336f551f8/original/az1.jpg?1477778692" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>After lunch and a nap, Geli and I zipped over to Sip Coffee and Beer where we did a bit of office work--making booking phone calls and maintaining the band's online presence. During this time, we were told that Sip would be hosting an open mic later that evening. After our office work was done, we grabbed the instruments and played. The Scottsdale music scene was very communal and supportive. And the performers were all very talented. </p>
<p>The next morning Geli and I played the 9 o'clock slot at a farmer's market in the aptly named Sun City. We enjoyed a warm reception—pun intended—while the big ball of fire in the sky beat down on us. After about an hour and a half of jamming for the snowbirds (many of them from Seattle), we decided to call it a day. As Geli and I were leaving several vendors showed their appreciation for the music by sending us home with some fresh local food. After we got back to the RV—which, remember, was parked at a casino—we pulled out the camping chairs and ate tamales, covered with fresh salsa, in afternoon heat. A very hillbilly-esque picnic. </p>
<p>That night we played at the Rockbar in Scottsdale. The staff was great, and several folks came to see us who had heard our music via various online promotions that the venue had sponsored. A few folks from the previous night's open mic even came out to show their support. A great gig all around. </p>
<p>The next day we loaded up the RV, kissed the casino goodbye, and headed into the hills. We parked the rig at a campsite with a beautiful view of the red rock about 20 minutes from Sedona. Then, following the advice of several folks, we headed up into the old mining town of Jerome, Arizona. After chowing down on some delicious barbecue, we wandered into a music shop where we met a local songwriter who invited us to his gig at a nearby winery. We drove down the hill and found the spot—an old bank converted into a tasting room, owned by the singer of a very prominent rock band. The place had old teller windows that sat behind racks of wine and a vault that had been converted into a merchandise room. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/165fdee187cf5d7606ed17c532c0e48538da2e45/original/az3.jpg?1477778754" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The next morning we rose early to climb Bell Rock—600 feet of crimson sandstone and limestone. The ascent was led by a retired New York attorney named Peter who, at 74, has made it his mission to take as many folks to the top as possible. There were 9 in our group, including a very brave 10 year old from Scotland named Vincent. By the end of the sometimes stomach-turning climb (don't look down!), all of us in the group were high-fiving, hugging, and snapping pictures. Crazy how quickly nine strangers can become family. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/b6aa6ab75bd42b43cbf6dd4f774478071a323249/original/az2.jpg?1477778786" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>After descending from Bell Rock and grabbing some lunch, Geli and I decided that we were up for a second dose of red rock adventure and ventured out to Boynton Canyon. We hiked two and a half miles in—Geli with violin on her back and me carrying a burly guitar case. Definitely more of a workout than I'd anticipated, but well worth the pay-off when we arrived at the end of the hike and had the sandstone cathedral to ourselves. Geli and I cooled down for a moment before picking up our instruments and playing a short set for whatever ancient spirits may have been in attendance. Though we could have stayed and played for hours, the few stars twinkling in the darkening sky ushered us up the trail. We hustled back to the car as bats whizzed past our heads and light became scarce. By the time we found the Corolla (thanks to Geli remembering a few crucial forks in the path), it was completely dark. We celebrated our narrow escape from the canyon by heading into Cottonwood to hear some live music. Between a not-so-polished Johnny Cash cover band, a rock group in a grimy biker bar, and an acoustic guitarist dressed like Jack Sparrow, we had a pretty eventful evening. </p>
<p>The next morning we hit downtown Sedona to do some street performing. While setting up our case on a busy sidewalk, we were instantly shooed away by an angry (and possibly sexually frustrated) shop owner. We set up further down the sidewalk—in an area free of bitchery—and played for a couple hours, making a good chunk of money and being joined at one point by a few women from a local gospel choir. </p>
<p>After packing up, Geli and I headed to a nearby winery to watch a Phoenix songwriter play a set. She sounded great. On our way out of the place, I shook the manager's hand, and have since booked a gig at the spot for late January. In an age of doing everything by computer, I'm still a big believer in a good ol' fashioned handshake. Worth a thousand emails. </p>
<p>That night we packed up and started heading north. The next night we hit Park City, Utah where we played a brewery and hung out with a few friends. Two days and about 900 miles later, we were home making gumbo for my roommates in Seattle. In case you've read the New Orleans blog, you'll be happy to know that we put fake cockroaches in the stew—a perfect ingredient for any Halloween-time supper. </p>
<p>Geli and I have since played a few gigs here in town and are settling back into Northwest life. Wrapping up a tour is always bittersweet. We've had so many amazing experiences over the last month and, though it is nice to be home and see so many familiar faces, the road is already calling us—begging for the next adventure. </p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/44322992016-10-22T13:31:48-07:002017-01-14T10:12:55-08:00Tales From The Road - Chapter 3 (New Orleans)<p>Woooweee! </p>
<p>What a week it's been. </p>
<p>After a 22 hour drive from New Orleans to Phoenix, Geli and I have parked the RV in the parking lot of the Arizona Casino—a place where, during my 7 AM trip to the bathroom, people were still stuffing pennies into slot machines, chasing the dream. </p>
<p>Our week in New Orleans was packed full of experience—good and otherwise. </p>
<p>We first spent two days camping in the swamps of Lake Charles, Louisina—very close to the Texas border. Two days of friendly locals, mind-blowing bayou landscapes, scaly wildlife, and late-night campfires was a perfect introduction to a state that neither of us had previously visited. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/239be8fc9fbf36d43ea50eaa9ed7a545215e13a0/original/no4.jpg?1477167917" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>Geli and I also discovered that if you stuff peanut M&M's into a cooked marshmallow it makes an extremely tasty snack. We call them M&M&M's. </p>
<p>Side note: Don't wear flip flops while walking through the grass in Louisiana, unless you'd like your toes to be feasted upon by hungry demon-bugs. </p>
<p>After our two days in the swamp, Geli and I zipped over to New Orleans where we parked the RV at the Segnette Bayou, unhitched the Toyota Corolla shuttlecraft, and headed into the city for an open mic at Buffa's backroom—an old red-walled lounge that I imagine, back in the day, used to be filled with cigarette smoke and shady characters. </p>
<p>I know two people in New Orleans—a magician who travels the country on his motorcycle and the best-dressed songwriter in the country. Within ten minutes of sitting down at this open mic, the magician walked into the bar. (Sounds like the set-up to a joke, doesn't it?) Considering the size of New Orleans, and the fact that neither of us knew that the other was in town, he and I saw this to be quite the coincidence. Geli's old roomate—who also lives in the Big Easy—joined us, and we all played music and listened to a series of talented and charismatic performers. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/7343107049fcc8a998e2306f32cfa1fdc82ff50f/original/no3.jpg?1477167955" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>The next day Geli and I tried our hand at busking in the French Quarter. It was a hot and sticky afternoon; after hitting a few spots, we didn't make much money; so we decided to call it for the day and explore that very interesting and historic side of the city. Once we'd seen a few bands and eaten some crawfish, Geli and I headed to Neutral Grounds coffee where we played a set of original music for a small but attentive crowd. </p>
<p>Friday was our tourist day. We learned a ton of cool facts about the city on a walking tour of the French Quarter that ended in one of New Orleans' above-ground cemeteries—a very creepy, but very cool place. Corpses are left in these elaborate tombs for at least a year and a day. After 366 days of “slow cremation”, boiling in the Louisiana sun, the body will have decomposed enough to make room for the grave's next guest. Let that image sit with you for a bit. </p>
<p>I'll wait. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/7cfa7f3879899ab40163adcb0d3775f5f4f6384f/original/no2.jpg?1477168047" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>After wandering through a few cemeteries, Geli and I headed out to the swamp where we hopped into a fan boat with a buncha outta towners and were whisked through the canals by a very colorful (and very toothless) local. We saw a few alligators in their natural habitat and even got to hold a baby named Fluffly. I wanted to eat him, but Geli advised against it. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/300898748a036253a96b8906076fa0dba75ff028/original/no1.jpg?1477168123" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>The next day we played a very lively gig on Frenchman Street at The Apple Barrel Bar. The highlight of the three hour show was a merging of a bachelor and bachelorette party. The tension was high between these two groups, and Geli and I felt that the only way to release the steam was to guide the bachelor and bachelorette through a dance-off to the tune of “Billie Jean”. With their friends cheering them on and singing along, these two battled it out for a few minutes. At the end of the day, the bachelorette came out on top; though, the bachelor would never admit it. </p>
<p>The rest of that night was spent wandering around with friends, checking out bands in various venues and on the street. Andre Lovett—a Seattle musician who had recently relocated to N'awlins—joined us for a while. He's the world's best-dressed songwriter, whom I mentioned earlier. Even in the sweltering Southern heat the man was rocking a full pastel-colored suit and bowtie. Style for days. </p>
<p>After Geli got her tarot cards read by a woman on the street, we braved Bourbon street for only a few moments before we ran into a group of drunk college kids who tried to start a fight with us. We had stepped out of the way of their buddy who was hunched over on the street, thinking he was going to puke. Apparently, if you drink a beer upside down, it cures hiccups. One of his angry buddies had explained this to us—slurring speech with nothing behind his eyes—and told us to stop judging them. </p>
<p>We laughed, told the group they were crazy, and moved on. </p>
<p>The next day, Geli and I tried our hand at street performing again—Royal street this time—and had much more success. Geli even lent her violin to a girl who was in town for her sister's 21st birthday so she could play the birthday anthem for the special gal while we sang along. </p>
<p>We decided to take our hard-earned cash and go get some gumbo at ####### (the name of this establishment has been censored to protect the guilty). This place came highly recommended by Geli's friend, who had shown us pictures of it underwater during Katrina. Geli and I sat down at the bar and watched the Saint's game with a few locals. When the my gumbo—and Geli's artichoke soup—came out, I had only chowed down on a few bites before I noticed a strange sight in my spoon—looked like a shrimp with some of the shell still on it. I didn't think much of it and bit into the little guy. </p>
<p>The taste revealed that it was not shrimp. </p>
<p>I quickly spit the unknown creature into my napkin and headed swifly for the bathroom when I recognized it. </p>
<p>Cockroach. </p>
<p>When I returned from a thourough mouth-rinsing, the staff apologized profusely and gave Geli and I anything we wanted to eat or drink for free. After sterilizing my mouth with a few shots of strong whiskey, I ate the rest of Geli's artichoke soup. She had lost her appetite; though, in between sips of daiquiri, she did muster up the courage to eat the fries that were soon set in front of us—investigating each bite very carefully. </p>
<p>After our eventful lunch Geli and I played one more open mic and, the next morning, hit the road for the two-day drive to Arizona—where we've landed and are already having a blast. We're loving the sunshine, and can't wait to tell you all about the last leg of the tour. </p>
<p>Until then, check your soup. </p>
<p>You never know who may be hiding in there...</p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/44158012016-10-12T09:09:48-07:002017-01-14T10:12:55-08:00Tales From The Road - Chapter 2 (Austin)<p>Hello! <br>Writing to y'all from a coffee shop in Lake Charles, Louisiana. <br>En route to New Orleans, Geli and I have decided to park the RV beside the bayou at a nearby state park and enjoy a day off. </p>
<p>Our week in Austin was fantastic. <br>Great food (beef ribs the size of your arm), friendly folks, fun gigs, and a healthy dose of Texas sunshine. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/b6f70f84a34d997371de4736e0607ae43fda0374/original/atx.jpg?1476214891" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>After parking the RV at Geli's sister's apartment complex (thanks, Erika!), we decided to hit Barton Springs--one of Austin's many Colorado-river-fed swimming holes. We cooled off and caught up with some friends before enjoying a few tacos and heading to our gig at the Lustre Pearl--an old house converted into a happenin' bar. The gig there--hosted by friend and songwriter Aaron McDonnell--was great, with Geli pulling double-duty, jamming on tunes by both Aaron and myself for the entirety of the three hour set. </p>
<p>The next day, we enjoyed a hike through Austin's greenbelt before heading to a gig at Redfin on the outskirts of town. We played on the patio stage while the sun slid to sleep and folks chowed down on tasty Texas seafood. The staff and crowd at this place were amazing. Geli and I sold quite a few T-Shirts and CDs.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/ae82519a5a6a548ecdf466d3a7e56b459e285469/original/atx3.jpg?1476287010" class="size_l justify_center border_" />On Friday morning, Geli and I traveled out to Dripping Springs--in the Hill Country--to play Homespun Kitchen and Bar's 2nd annual Oktoberfest. Despite battling a bit of wind and rain, the outdoor gig went well. After the sun came out, and we ate some tasty burgers, Geli, Theresa (a good friend, pictured above), and myself decided to hit the Deep Eddy distillery. We sampled a couple paddle-fulls of their vodka before heading back into Austin to hit a Texas dance floor and do some boot-scootin'.<br><br>Saturday was a much-needed day off, used for relaxation and exploring the city. As the sun set, we waited in vain for a huge swarm of bats to fly out from beneath the Congress Street bridge. We'll have to catch them next time. After that Geli, her sister, and I went to a local theater for an improv show. Then we caught a jazz band's set at a cool underground club. <br><br>Sunday Geli and I did a bit of busking on South Congress street--serenading folks as they stood in line for tacos and ice cream. After making a bit of money there, we jetted to the east side of town where we played a sunny farmer's market to a crowd of very appreciative folks. The staff paid us with a huge bag of fresh produce, which we've been living off of for the past few days. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/aca6c4a90bf5cecc0a5703a1c855d8b471576e58/original/atx2.jpg?1476287881" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Transitioning between cities is always bittersweet. We had a blast in Texas. Great to play so many successful gigs and hang with such great people. But now, camping on the swamp in Louisiana, we're already immersed in a new and exciting world--complete with alien-looking flora and reptiles galore.<br>And, as I scratch one of my many bug-bites, I'm excited to tell you all about it. </p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/44034412016-10-04T11:15:40-07:002022-05-30T23:03:22-07:00Tales From The Road - Chapter 1 (Idaho, Utah)<br>Greetings from the Road!<br>Alex here.<br>Geli and I are about a week into our month-long run from Seattle to New Orleans and back. So far, the tour has been a blast.<br><br>The trip kicked off last Wednesday, the 28th, at The Anchor Pub in Twin Falls, Idaho. We set up and played to a group of folks on the patio before settling to chow down on some tasty food and hang with a group of locals around the fire. That night, we (Geli, her two dachshunds, and myself) slept in the RV in the parking lot behind the bar. We woke the next morning and stopped to check out Twin Fall's famous bridge on the way out of town. This monster towers over the Snake River and is frequented by brave base-jumpers who travel from all over to leap from its vertiginous heights. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/0b131f77c82c86f4f43dabb289d871f315842f02/original/img-20161003-224627.jpg?1475604717" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>That afternoon we landed at Jordanelle State Park, right outside of Park City, Utah. We parked the RV beside a large reservoir, flanked by hills turned tie-die red and yellow by changing autumn leaves. After setting up camp we took the car off the trailer and jetted into Salt Lake City for our first gig in the area at The Green Pig Pub. We played three hours worth of music for a crowd of awesome people. One very enthusiastic group--led by Salt Lake Steve--was feeling particularly loose and danced for the last hour of our set--singing along to the cover tunes they knew. They even demanded a few encores.<br><br>The next day we enjoyed an afternoon in the Park City sun before meeting up with the rest of the band at Park City Brewing to play a pre-wedding party for some Seattle friends of ours. The two-hour gig was a blast, also characterized by excessive singing and dancing--including a twenty-person conga-line that grooved its way around the inside of the brewery. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/e5a58afa9793da28e7ac61f7ab8ab7a455dc4e24/original/geli-and-i-utah.jpg?1475604893" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The next two days in Utah were amazing. Geli and I played the processional for a wedding in the Wasatch mountains before zipping down to Moab to explore Arches national park. The next day we drove through the rest of Utah, Colorado, and most of New Mexico--where we took an Albuquerque hike along a canyon peppered with hundreds of Pueblo Indian petroglyphs. This canyon was also home to a very speedy jackrabbit and an army of large black beetles that would stick their butts in the air when they would feel a human walk by. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/904b3db90382a13da762f46f0fdee07cb7145fbc/original/petro.jpg?1475604914" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Now, after a morning run along some southern New Mexico fields, we're once again packing up the rig and getting ready to hit the road, bound for Austin, Texas. Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/43923472016-09-27T07:12:57-07:002021-03-16T17:56:35-07:00OhioWe are very excited to share this video with you.<br>It's a cover of "Ohio" by Crosby, Stills, Nash, and Young--written about the Kent State shootings of 1970.<br>We've added a second verse to document current struggles between American citizens and those in power. <br>Filmed and edited by Wyatt Olney. <br>Enjoy!<br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="aCaRtEe92d8" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/aCaRtEe92d8/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/aCaRtEe92d8?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe><br><br> Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/43352662016-08-21T13:37:13-07:002016-08-21T13:37:13-07:00Heart of Gold<p>Last week, the boys and I went down to the Snoqualmie River and recorded a few videos for our new Youtube channel. <br>Here is the first: Heart of Gold by Neil Young. Thanks to Wyatt Olney for filming and editing the performance. <br>Enjoy!<br><br><iframe allowfullscreen="" frameborder="0" height="315" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/A_ZF_n8NovA" width="560"></iframe></p>Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/42658162016-07-06T11:21:48-07:002022-01-11T04:02:25-08:00Coming up for air<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/8f3f04bcda03e083fce3e09f084386442ed7347a/original/sign.jpg?1467828708" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Hey all, Alex here.<br><br>These past few months have blown by in a blur of performances and productivity. <br>Several shows have featured "The Road", but I've been focusing largely on solo performances as of late. <br><br>I've been bouncing all over the state--from the peninsula to Monroe to Auburn--playing taprooms and wineries, even hitting the "first" Starbucks at Pike Place Market every Sunday (when there's not a gig elsewhere) to get my weekly dose of busking. There are many more shows on the calendar in the coming months, including the first few dates of an October tour that will take me from Seattle to New Orleans and back. I am very excited about the current state of things. This momentum is intoxicating. <br><br>In band news: The Road and I will be recording a new 5-song EP in mid-July, once again engineered by bass-player-extraordinaire, Chase Baldwin.<br>Keep your eyes out for this release sometime in August / September. <br><br>Until then, check the calendar for a date near you as we continue full-speed ahead!<br> Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/41971192016-05-25T16:49:14-07:002022-05-25T02:01:52-07:00Passing the next mile marker...<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/b3ea856473973d48b99d17e7bcbaa35c31438ebb/original/trio.jpg?1464220246" class="size_l justify_center border_" />These past few months have been very busy for the Road.<br>We've played many amazing shows and have been booking like crazy to set up a very exciting summer schedule. <br><br>Check the calendar for upcoming dates, both solo and with the band, as we bounce around the state, bringing you a show to remember. <br>Also, keep your ears open for a new EP, which we'll be recording on the first weekend of July.<br><br>I'll keep you updated as we roll along...<br><br> Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/40622822016-02-26T12:17:49-08:002022-04-02T13:35:41-07:00Springing forward<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/5e4b714152b6be96f7885e9a12c6763f8a4ab463/original/rode.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br>Change is in the air.<br>Spring is just around the corner , and as the trees prepare to burst with fresh foliage, it feels very natural that this group veer down a new and exciting path. <br><br>As of sometime this spring, the band's violinist and singer, Geli Wuerzner, will be embarking upon a cross-country journey with her dogs and a fellow songwriter. The four of them will be living in an RV and traveling the US together. We wish them the best of luck. Until then, Geli will be joining us for several gigs, which can be found on our rapidly-filling calendar. <br><br>Upon Geli's departure the band will welcome a new member--who is, as of yet, undecided. <br><br>Beyond lineup changes, we would like to announce that our music--14 songs, spanning 2 discs--can be found on Spotify and iTunes by searching for "Alex Rasmussen and The Road." Our bass player, and video-editing whiz, Chase Baldwin, is also currently working on a music video for our song "Got it All". This video was shot on a cliff in Northern California, overlooking the Pacific Ocean, and we are very excited to share the footage with you.<br><br>In the meantime, keep your eyes peeled for show updates and other info as we round the next bend into the unknown. <br> Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/39664782015-12-19T22:52:17-08:002017-01-14T10:12:55-08:00Slow and Steady...Hey all,<br> Alex here.<br>I'm lying in bed, reflecting on the past year, and the year to come.<br>Gratitude is the word that continues to come to mind.<br>I am so thankful for the experiences we've had in our short time together, and excited to see what lies ahead.<br>The band has recently completed its first tour, released its first EP (available on iTunes), and is gearing up for a slew of local shows to kick off the new year. (Check 'em out in the Events section of the website.)<p><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/5119e249d193166499e09338db177ebf623edc81/original/lake.jpg?1450595115" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p><br><br>Over the past few weeks, the four of us have been enjoying some time to ourselves.<br>Each of us has another project (or twelve) that we've been nurturing, whether it be a novel we're writing, another musical endeavor (sometimes several), or just taking some time to recuperate.<br>The holidays are a great time to reflect, to regroup and strategize; and the members of The Road have been doing just that.<br><br>It is said that there is a calm before the storm.<br>And, to quote John Fogerty, with a line from one of his many Creedence classics:<br>It's been calm for far too long.<br><br>Expect much from us in 2016.<br>As the wheels roll on<br> Slow and steady<br> Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/39237012015-11-10T21:49:46-08:002022-03-03T21:29:05-08:00Surrendering to Serendipity"Batting 1000," is a phrase that we've been saying this last week on this tour.<br>The theme has been "just say yes."<br>On our second day we hit up San Francisco and Alex led the way to this beautiful lookout on the coast called Devil's Slide. We were going to take our instruments out to play on the cliff when a man in a Prius pulled up and asked what we were up to. "Are you shooting a music video?" he asked. <br>"Yes," was the reply that came from Bruce. <br>So we did with the 4k camera and professional grade tripod that Mikey just happened to have with him. It was a beautiful moment of communion on the cliff.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/3c5891307c32eb02a56a5bb447f340934f9cbc93/original/1446774189774.jpg?1447219813" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>It wasn't a surprise that the hostel we were staying at that evening happened to have a stage and we found ourselves giving an impromptu concert that was well received to the people lounging in the common area. The trip continued to unfold with busking, birthday libations in Yuba City, jamming in a moving van on the way to LA, and day after day of magical musical meanderings. Every day continued the unfolding as each person familiar or new brought their own flavor to the ways to say yes.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/5117a7d37da87dd18fce01df493ebbca800329dc/original/img-20151107-104922.jpg?1447220327" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The road called and we answered but the truth is without the support of the people that we know and have met along the way, this musical adventure would not be possible. We're halfway through our Busk or Bust tour but it's made a permanent impression on our hearts. A couple more days in Phoenix and we'll be on our way back to the Northwest to arrive with our stories and the knowledge that when you make the space for it in your life it becomes easier to surrender to the serendipity that comes.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/7de4bf9f5dc45f0972b45404da6307388217d5ff/original/img-20151110-151512.jpg?1447220955" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br> Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/39108642015-11-02T23:39:49-08:002022-01-11T04:00:10-08:00Got It AllWith hard work, meditation, blood, sweat, and a few naps the new EP is in our hands and ready for us to take down the coast as we embark on the Busk or Bust tour early on Tuesday morning. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/71d43c2bcfc3b74fb626a2b6f9b081c599ba03d9/original/img-20151102-232032.jpg?1446536008" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>If you want a sample of the acoustic version of these songs and the engineering genius of Chase Baldwin you can listen to the first track on our website. If you want to hear the whole thing you'll have to come find us at a show and buy it. <br><br>To understand how this all came together.<br>1. We recorded all five tracks live while Chase played the bass from the engineering chair. <br>2. These songs were recorded nearly in full within two days. <br>3. There was another weekend of cleaning up sound and then the mixer broke.<br>4. The mixer was repaired just in time for the team (mostly Chase) to finish up the mixes and get the tracks ready to press into a CD.<br><br>So give us three weeks and we'll give you an album... and a tour!<br><br>Look out California, here we come. Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/39060892015-10-29T14:52:24-07:002022-01-11T03:54:53-08:00Grinding wheels, rolling forward...Order rubber stamp for CD sleeves, check.<br>Chart out two dozen cover songs, check.<br>Make sure T-shirt order is on schedule for the group's November 3rd tour kick-off, check.<br>Update website, in progress...<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/47fd0a5525982236f7d59ca82602cb425ee04fdf/original/download-20151029-151844.jpg?1446157565" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br>The anticipation builds as next Tuesday approaches and the engine fires on all cylinders.<br>I'm Alex, writing to you about Geli, who is designing labels for the CD that Chase is mixing so that we can have some music to share on our fast-approaching tour, which Bruce is booking and promoting like a madman.<br>The days are blazing by and we couldn't be happier.<br>This time next week the group will be street performing in San Francisco, singing songs for passerby on Haight street, hopefully warmed by some California sun. We can't wait to hit the road--not only to share our new songs and gain some new experience, but also to experience the camaraderie that can only come from 12 days packed into a van with our gear and whatever smells may be the result of the sporadic showers that accompany our state of perpetual motion.<br><br>Keep your ears open for new music, which we'll be posting shortly, and your eyes peeled for the slew of photos and blog entries that we'll be sharing with you so that you can join us for what is sure to be a wild ride.<br><br> Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/39032822015-10-19T23:33:37-07:002022-01-11T03:56:36-08:00The Best is Yet to ComeThe gang just spent the last weekend live tracking, sweating in a booth, and smelling each other's farts. (Thanks, Qdoba)<br>However, the end result is five new tracks that are ready to be mixed and then pressed into a CD for the upcoming tour this November. <br>While you may be hungry and want a sample of the new tracks, you're just going to have to be satisfied with a picture of Chase in the Captain's chair for the time being.<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/750d3c6e8bd723a30090a9543641516cc5dba166/original/chasestudio-20151017.jpg?1445317040" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">One bad-ass bass engineer.</p></div><br>But wait, there's more!<br>We've also been hard at work practicing some Frank Sinatra cover tunes. Alex worked out arrangements for the four piece and we're going to be taking those songs to the Pike Place Market benefit called <a contents="Behind the Table" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://charityauctionorganizer.com/Az/8600585d-a62c-454f-af6a-a8c017c1a9cd/Event/Index?page=f6c47da7-7a3e-4eaa-b9bd-440574ac96c5&initial_state=~()" target="_blank">Behind the Table</a>. All proceeds will be contributed directly to the Market Community Safety net that provides financial assistance to anyone working or living in Pike Place Market during a time of great need. It's been such a privilege getting to know the community of people that surround the Market. So dust off your formal wear and come join us for an unforgettable evening of art, auction, and abundance.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/180741/3a9a7ba1c8ddb9d01a8d1101acd7fe1d5c12b3ea/original/pikeplacemarketrooftopview.jpg?1445322779" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br> Alex Rasmussentag:alexrasmusic.com,2005:Post/38964152015-10-13T22:55:52-07:002022-05-27T13:23:55-07:00Busking or BustThe crew is about to embark on a new adventure down the West Coast that includes stops in San Francisco, Los Angeles, and Phoenix as well as all the places in between. Stay tuned as The Road hits the road with the start of their new EP release.Alex Rasmussen