Germany

So, the Son Ambulance tour is primarily centered in Germany where the band seems to have the most loyal and understanding fans. I love the old architecture along with the ultra modern that you find here. It also seems that the clean places are way cleaner than in the US. I'm comparing because I have always hated how the US always talks like it is the best. It is not and I am saying that as a US citizen. At my age I don't knowe that I would move to Europe, but the place certainly appeals to me. I will say that I am dealing with a bit of the typical tension I feel at home regarding race. The band tell me it is my imagination but I have lived with this all of my life and I know a rat when I smell one. All I can say is that it still hurts when people cross the street whgen they see me coming, some of the cold and downright fearful stares I catch when walking alone is still unsettling. I did not experience this in Japan. With those thoughts shared I feel better. Thank you blog.

I'm in Europe!

Well I made it fine through the flights. My uneasy feeling about the flight was on time though. There was a medical emergency during the flight but everyone was safe. A man went into a diabetic coma and he was panicked and delusional. It was handled well by the crew but I had a feeling about the flight. There is so much to say but I'll just say that Europe has not disappointed me so far.

Preparing for journey

Today I leave for Europe. For me this is a big day. I know that people travel all over the world all of the time and it's no big deal. I can't begin to describe how I have longed to go to Europe since I was a child, thinking the possibility was beyond me. My family went through some really lean times and I know that has a lot to do with why I've supressed many of my dreams. They just seemed impossible. I am so thankful for this opportunity. It has not been easy getting ready for the tour. Frankly, rehearsals have had many moments of tension. I pray that the band will find its groove and that we play well for the people and ourselves. I enjoy flying but I have had moments of deep anxiety upon hearing about the recent plane crashes. All I know is that it is beyond my control. I pray for a safe journey for the whole band. Ultimately I pray for a safe journey for everyone. I want to openly declare my dedication to Son Ambulance, to doing my part to make the band strong and musically potent. I dedicate myself to making an effort to help the band move forward musically and professionally. I may not be able to come up with perfect pop bass lines, but I always play with soul. The audience has always made a point to let me know they feel it. I know that this is something I can contribute consistently.

Visit with Thomas and Nick

Last night I enjoyed a very nice visit with Thomas and his son Nick. Thomas is quickly becoming a new friend as well as band mate. I'm searching for the right descriptive words but it's basically the Native Americanness in his ways that I really like and am comfortable with. There's a spiritual essence in the way he lives. It comes through his son Nick as well. The kind of people I like to surround myself with.

Showing Zach my new camera

One of my life long friends is a fellow named Craig Chytil (that's him in the background on the phone). We've known each other since high school, have played music and experienced a lot together. We have a special bond. I remember the first time I saw Craig's wife (before they were married), I knew that he would marry her the moment she walked in the room. Craig like me, swore he would never marry. Zach is their son and he's 11. These people are like family and I love Zach so much. I just wanted to share that.

video post #1

Thanks Randy

I played at the 31st annual Groundhog Prom in Omaha last night. It is a costume/freakers ball that's a big annual event in Omaha. I was able to take pictures of the event thanks to my friend Randy, he gave me a new camera after hearing about the death of my Fuji. I love taking pictures and just capturing moments. Randy sayed the day just in time for my trip to Europe. You can bet I intend to take a bunch while there.

Record Collection

My latest audio work

Recently I was contacted by German artist Kommissar Hjuler (http://www.asylum-lunaticum.de/) to collaborate on a piece. Kommissar's visual work is fascinating and disturbing at the same time, and I have been told that some of my sound work has the same effect. I agreed to receive a cd-r of text spoken by the artist and his wife/artist Mamabaer to incorporate into a sound work. The audio is finished and I have uploaded it to my Soundclick player. The name of the piece is "Anticipation of the Generalized Other". Scroll through the titles on the player until you see it and have a listen. Kommissar Huler will release the collaboration in Germany on his label SHMF in a limited edition with original artwork made for each copy. I am also making the work available on cd-r with cover artwork by K. The two covers I have chosen to use are displayed above. If you are interested in purchasing a copy send me an e-mail. dvhiggins@cox.net

thoughts

Now that I have set up this blog I have become aware that I am very much a baby boomer. By that I mean that I am more guarded about my privacy than younger folks, like most people my age (mid-50's). I work with a lot of people young enough to be my children and have noted the ease they have about what they do and say online. I find myself thinking and perhaps overthinking what to say before I post. There are so many sides to one's personality, so many aspects to your true self, how deeply can one share his personal truths without fear of reprisal? For example, I am a respectful and accepting person but in reality hold back my thoughts on the way some people live out their religious beliefs. Primarily in regards to how those practices directly affect the quality of my life. I sometimes want to write and rant about it, express my anger. Even after just writing that much my mind is saying "don't get started now". I suppose the reason I self censor is that I know that people cannot help being who they are and my thoughts are merely that. Thoughts. Most of the time there would be no positive gain by engaging others with my opinion, especially if my opinion would likely create conflict or perception of something negative beyond my right to say what I'm thinking. And yet, my blog is my soapbox and here I want to get used to the idea that I can speak my mind, within reason of course. Besides, most likely the only person that reads these posts is myself and maybe my big sister.

Lovely Still clips

I recently got started working in film in the wardrobe department. Here are two clips from the first film I worked on, "Lovely, Still". It should be in theaters around Christmas time this year. I really learned a lot working with Martin Landau and Ellen Burstyn.

Working in film

Tomorrow I go to North Sea Films to do some more work on the upcoming film Lovely Still. As much as I love this work (wardrobe) it still kind of freaks me out to think about. I recently watched the current cut of the movie with Nik (Fackler, the director and screenwriter) and the movie blows me away even as it is. I looked in wonderment at the culmination of my work along with the rest of the crew and it amazed me. Right now I'm deciding to get psyched up to do a good job rather than be concerned that I can get it right again.
That brings to mind the other films I've worked on, all yet to be released. April Showers will be out first and I am excited for the future of this movie, even with the economy being as it is. I look forward to people seeing it and realizing there is no exploitation going on here. I am very proud to have worked on this film. In case I need to say, the movie is based on true events that happened at Columbine.
I also worked as wardrobe assistant on an independent science fiction film called The Scientist. This was quite different from the other films with a very small cast. many days were spent with just the main actor, Bill Sage. I quite enjoyed this filmmaking experience as well. I think this movie will be released in Novemeber, Lovely Still close to Christmas time.

Last night's show

My band played at the Barley Street tavern last night. We were one of the opening acts. Although I broke a string and didn't feel real comfortable it was a very good night. It was real cool that people were already there when I arrived to setup. I tend to fret to myself about my music and whether or not it is relevant or passe. I know how the music makes me feel but I admit to deep codependency, a desire to be all right with everyone else. It is always so encouraging when people let you know that they feel the music. Many people let me know with sincerity last night. Paper Owls was the main act and they are quite good. Sometimes reminding me of Massive Attack and Portishead. I'm thrilled that the band asked us to play and look forward to more shows with them.