Hi Friends, were talking about a good moment right now. Early this morning Fred B. and myself attempted some BIG waves—huge and ruthless but invigorating nonetheless. From there it was breakfast burritos in downtown Encinitas. From there, a nice studio sesh and then this puts me now in front of my computer, listening to music and talking with you. First off, I’ve got to tell you about a new CD that arrived in the mailbox yesterday. Are you hip to James Taylor? Of course you are but check this—he just came out with a new recording called “James Taylor at Christmas” and it’s fantastic! I love his music and on this venture he’s bringing some beauty to Christmas songs. This inherently could be a mini disaster but I think it’s just the opposite. Pianist Dave Grusin did all of the arranging and some of the piano playing and his angle on things are brilliant. Check out James’ version of Jingle Bells and tell me that doesn’t make you smile.

Last week Fred Benedetti and I played a concert at Grossmont College highlighting all things fingerstyle guitar. We plugged in the boxes, rehearsed the tricky parts, skipped dinner, and set out to explore just what could happen when you play hungry. It was ultimate fun and thanks to all that made the show and took the ride with us. I’m hoping we’ll do more of it in January…

For this week my good friend Steve Kujala is making his way through the sea of cars, dissecting L.A., to join up with low-end avatar Bob Magnusson and myself for a concert at Dizzy’s on Friday evening. Steve is an absolute embodiment of sonic creativity and all you have to do is stay open around this guy for great music to immerge. Mag and I will stay open to whatever might happen and we know for sure we’ll touch down on some soft beauties, some roars that you never knew a flute could do, and some funny stuff you never thought serious jazz heads would pull. We’ll, maybe we won’t be funny ‘cuz you can’t really plan funny. However, excellent music is on the list and I hope you can make it out…

Also happening this week on Saturday evening is vocalist Lisa Hightower, bassist Gunnar Biggs and myself hooking up at the Inn L’Auberge in Del Mar. They have the place all jazzed up for Christmas and a thought might be to take in some music and then walk the grounds, checking out the lights and the rather large Christmas tree. Pretty cool…

surfs up, Peter