Here it is, my newest pedalboard setup, with the Zoom G3 replacing the Yamaha MagicStomp.

My pedalboard is finally updated with the addition of my newest pedal, the Jetter Red2 (Red Square). It sounds friggin’ GREAT, I mean fantastic. I just got it yesterday and played it for the first time today. Time for a break, then back to it.

The song is “Got My Swagger Back”, http://www.reverbnation.com/c./poni/65419514, originally written for a full band. I just had some fun doing all 4 voices on 4-track.

I’ve been writing a bunch of songs with lyrics, and trying to sing them while playing rhythm guitar. The real challenge has been singing, hearing my own voice as I try to sound musical. Not to be unfairly hard on myself, but I’m not really happy with my vocal qualities.

So I’ve decided to “learn” how to sing, by developing my skills. Since I’m working a full-time job and don’t have a lot of extra time or $$, I have decided to begin my singing education by taking online lessons. I found a really good singer (and teacher), from what I’ve seen and heard on YouTube. The guy’s name is Eric Arceneaux; I’ve subscribed to his channel and plan to purchase a couple video lessons (premium ones) after I’ve worked through his free lessons.

I really dig that he sings in the style that I would like to sing. I doubt I will ever attain his mastery, but at least I will have the ability to sing my own songs with finesse and feeling.

I added a photo gallery to the site today. There are a couple photos from “The Percolators” last live gig in downtown Olympia, Sun, Oct 9, 2011.

Hey Yo, I will be performing with master musician Steve Luceno at the Port Of Olympia Plaza, on Sunday, October 9, from 4:00-5:00 PM. We’ll be part of the Rick Riordan festivities, sponsored by Timberland Regional Library. Our band is “The Percolators”, scheduled to perform during the event, including a book-signing by author Rick Riordan

I just added to my collection of digital recording devices. Previously, I had purchased a Zoom H2 audio recorder, which I really love. I’ve used it a lot to monitor my playing and singing; it’s very useful to hear myself playing. I can make better judgements, making it easier to fine tune my singing, (pitch-wise & melodically).

Now I just got the new Zoom Q3HD, a high definition video/audio recorder. I tried it last night, and it was revealing to see what my face looks like when I’m singing and playing. Mind you, I’m not a narcissist. But I consider performing live music to be similar to a theatrical presentation, like an actor. The plus side of this device is that it produces really high quality audio.

Well, I’m back on the electric bass for a day; playing at a “Battle Of The Bands” fundraiser event, to raise money for our local library (where I also happen to work). I’m joining forces with a fine young drummer, we’re going to do a drums/bass duo. I’m inspired by a band that lived in Seattle a few years ago, SadHappy, featuring drummer Evan Schiller and the amazing bassist Paul Hinklin.

Welcome to Trav’Ler Music, a new web site featuring the music of Trav’Ler.