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My long-time musical partner in crime Eric Schmitz was visiting from Florida and we decided to meet up at The Goldhawk (936 Park Ave, Hoboken) for the weekly open mic. Right away everyone started calling this a reunion of our band Ya-Ne-Zniyoo which had called it quits back in December. Honestly I just wanted to have a few drinks with my friend, catch up on things since he moved away and maybe play a couple of songs.
So that's how I treated it. No pressure. Still, I was more nervous then normal and I rarely suffer form stage fright. Besides having been forever since I had picked up the guitar, in the bar this night was a beautiful girl named Erin that I had just started dating. So my knees were shaking and my heart was pounding as I shut my eyes to start playing. It was an energy I had not felt on stage in many years. And it felt good. I'm happy to report, she liked our songs.
Why was I so adamant about not calling this a reunion? Simple. Eric now lives in Florida and I'm here in New Jersey making rehearsals, let alone follow-up shows, nearly impossible. Besides, music has taken on more of a hobby role for me at this point. It's simmering on the backburner until I'm ready to commit to it full time. Sure it was fun to play again, but then the thoughts of lugging equipment and late nights turned me off as always.
If making music can be as pleasant as just hanging out with friends over a few drinks, then I'd be there in a second. As it is, the world of the entertainment industry is too hectic for my taste. I've had my share of ulcers, panic attacks and sleepless nights. For now it will be the occasional open mic whenever Eric and I are in the same town.
I was happy to catch up with my friend. Just a few days into his visit to NJ and he was ready to go back to Florida. I think he—along with his wife Hilary and their son Felix—has acclimated well to the slower pace of the South.
Next gig ... soon ... somewhere in Pensacola ... perhaps.
See Also:
 Ya-Ne-Zniyoo
The Goldhawk
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