tag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:/blogs/latest-news?p=3Latest News2020-09-02T13:31:00-04:00Parthenon Huxleyfalsetag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/66060652021-04-16T14:30:45-04:002021-04-16T14:30:45-04:00BEFORCHESTRA T SHIRT<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/79f5427b5223649c13ee80dc27c90ee835892698/original/beforchestra-shirt-model-copy.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_thin" alt="" /></p>
<p>THE BEFORCHESTRA T SHIRT features</p>
<p>members of THE ORCHESTRA</p>
<p>long BEFORE they joined the band. </p>
<p>Check out</p>
<p>Lou, Mik, Eric, Hux, Cliff, Louis, Gordon and Glen</p>
<p>when they were in their teens and 20s...and </p>
<p>couldn't imagine still being in a band in 2021!</p>
<p>Lots of men's and women's sizes available.</p>
<p><a contents="ORDER YOUR SHIRT HERE" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://parthenonhuxley.com/p-hux-store#!" target="_blank">ORDER YOUR SHIRT HERE</a></p>
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<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/717be6eeb982c36b2ec0238f72f197d504df49f7/original/beforchestra-shirt-cd.jpeg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpeg" class="size_s justify_left border_thin" alt="" />SPECIAL OFFER:</p>
<p>Get your BEFORCHESTRA shirt and a P. Hux "Deluxe" CD,</p>
<p>the classic album made by Hux and Gordon BEFORE they joined</p>
<p>THE ORCHESTRA</p>
<p><a contents="ORDER PACKAGE DEAL HERE" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://parthenonhuxley.com/p-hux-store#!" target="_blank">ORDER PACKAGE DEAL HERE</a></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/65365572021-02-01T15:54:19-05:002021-02-01T15:54:19-05:00P. Hux on WHO KNEW The Smartest People In The Room<p>On January 26, I was the featured panelist on a webinar called WHO KNEW The Smartest People In The Room along with my friend, author Dan Levitin. We discussed elongating one's music career by adding hyphenate skills--songwriter-producer-arranger-touring musician-writer- and so on. I think we had a pretty fun talk. You can watch it here:</p>
<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XS5CI865-q4">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XS5CI865-q4</a></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/65270382021-01-21T16:02:00-05:002021-01-21T16:02:00-05:00New BEFORCHESTRA T Shirt<p>Announcing the brand new <strong>BEFORCHESTRA T Shirt!</strong></p>
<p>Featuring classic, hilarious, maybe even adorable images of your favorite musicians Mik, Lou, Eric, Hux, Glen, Gordon, Louis Jr. and Cliff...long BEFORE they were in the ORCHESTRA.</p>
<p>This super soft shirt comes in a variety of sizes and Men's and Women's cuts. </p>
<p>ORDER now at the P. Hux Store: <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.parthenonhuxley.com/p-hux-store#!">https://www.parthenonhuxley.com/p-hux-store#!</a></p>
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<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/79f5427b5223649c13ee80dc27c90ee835892698/original/beforchestra-shirt-model-copy.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/65131292021-01-04T08:39:03-05:002021-01-04T08:39:03-05:00P. Hux song "Perfect" featured in perfect UK post<p>A perfectly optimistic blog post from the UK says 2021 will be perfect and features eleven songs with "perfect" in the title. "Perfect" from the P. Hux album Kiss The Monster, is the perfectly placed lead track of the blog. </p>
<p>Check it out: <a contents="A Perfect Beginning" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://poprockrecord.com//?s=P.+Hux&search=Go" target="_blank">A Perfect Beginning</a></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/65108892020-12-31T12:21:23-05:002020-12-31T12:21:23-05:00Another Album of the Year Award<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/e0e9701b4731d42978002c24b3c6ec91dc49c215/original/tyb-front-cover.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><em>Thank You Bethesda</em> has been named "BEST COLLEGE ROCK ALBUM" by Just Plain Folks, the internet's largest community of online musicians. The awards were just handed out online this week after years of sorting through submissions. So, even though TYB came out in 2013 (!) it is officially a 2020 winner. Better late than never. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/5f359bcc9de00960042cb4d7201d6b9289513a8c/original/img-5152.jpeg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpeg" class="size_m justify_center border_" /></p>
<p>This is my fourth Album of the Year Award. Previous winners include <em>Sunny Nights</em> (Creative Loafing Magazine); <em>P. Hux "Deluxe"</em> (Audities Magazine) and <em>Homemade Spaceship</em> (Just Plain Folks).</p>
<p>You can order <em>Thank You Bethesda</em> here: <a contents="Thank You Bethesda Download" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://parthenonhuxley.com/product/310776">Thank You Bethesda Download</a></p>
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<p> </p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/64214952020-09-02T13:31:00-04:002020-09-03T09:15:23-04:00What I did during my Pandemic Summer <p><span class="font_regular">Hey Everyone:</span></p>
<p><span class="font_regular">I hope you are safe and sane. Unless you live on a different planet, I pretty much know what you did this Summer: stay home. I've stayed home, too, and since I am unable to safely perform in public, I've spent my entire summer singing songs in <em><strong>The Pandemic Houseguy Show</strong></em>. </span></p>
<p><span class="font_regular"><em>American Songwriter Magazine</em> called the Pandemic Houseguy Shows "</span>as compelling as his live shows always have been.<span class="font_regular">" </span><span class="font_regular"><em>With <strong>episode #6</strong> ready to be released <strong>this Saturday</strong></em>, I thought you might enjoy seeing some highlights and lowlights from Episodes 1 thru 5. </span></p>
<p>If you need to catch up, you can see the first five episodes here: </p>
<p><a contents="Pandemic Houseguy Show #1" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_VpiGytU_o" style="" target="_blank">Pandemic Houseguy Show #1</a></p>
<p><a contents="Pandemic Houseguy Show #2" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONfxZ1v2qsU" target="_blank">Pandemic Houseguy Show #2</a></p>
<p><a contents="Pandemic Houseguy Show #3" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=80eUaIYlLWU" target="_blank">Pandemic Houseguy Show #3</a></p>
<p><a contents="Pandemic Houseguy #4" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=40bB8ZfFZ9g&t=25s" target="_blank">Pandemic Houseguy #4</a></p>
<p><a contents="Pandemic Houseguy #5" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZwI1XnNOJH4" target="_blank">Pandemic Houseguy #5</a></p>
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<p>I shoot every shot with iMovie on my phone. After five episodes, I've learned a lot. For instance, in episode #1, I didn't know I could move that album cover off my face!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/d280f89f2dc092cc7712deb3fe31b6e4cd80159c/original/screen-shot-2020-08-31-at-7-26-42-pm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
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<p>In the shot below, I managed to make a split screen, but I didn't know how to line up shot #2. I completely missed me singing the backups. I decided to leave it, as if I meant to do it!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/f455e00ab9106dda5d4c6be62b3d64a0d843b7ce/original/screen-shot-2020-08-31-at-7-27-27-pm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
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<p>One of my favorite early bits was strutting through my kitchen to "Sweet Jane." YouTube later removed "Sweet Jane" from the video, citing copyright, so in some versions of Episode 1, I'm just a dork strutting through his kitchen with no music.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/cf4da2c52055c5f6d161b36192a62955d9011a00/original/sweet-jane.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
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<p>In Episode #2, special guest Kyle Vincent sang "I'd Really Love To See You Tonight"...</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/24b987056349f03eb3e7d9143ab6ef45d7c278e0/original/screen-shot-2020-08-31-at-9-40-01-pm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
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<p>...only to be interrupted by a sales pitch for MuVinin, a quarantine anxiety medication inspired by the song's weird pronunciation of "movin' in."</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/73f8019024c029c96fef13fd87dfab4bfdf0c85d/original/screen-shot-2020-08-31-at-9-40-30-pm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
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<p>In episode #3 we meet Willie Ray Honeycutt III. Willie says he's real close friends with "Huk." He teaches guitar in his garage next door, but his real mission in life appears to be annoying Hux.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/22842f2702c5315de358e85738dd73ea172e9610/original/screen-shot-2020-09-01-at-11-49-05-am.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
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<p>Future Hux is still doing the PH Show in 2032. He's down to covering songs by Andy Kim, which turns out to be more fun that he thought.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/576016b1c323b247d0b975cf37f246eda5a031f4/original/screen-shot-2020-09-01-at-1-30-06-pm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
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<p>As fun as the comedy bits are, let's not forget the music. Through five shows, I've performed all or part of 33 songs.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/0c66984a1b0b60528badeed7d4a93fbd494cc25b/original/screen-shot-2020-09-02-at-1-24-53-pm.png/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
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<p><em><strong>Pandemic Houseguy Show</strong></em> #6 comes out this Saturday! Thanks for watching and thanks to those who've been kind enough to contribute via the PayPal link on each YouTube video.</p>
<p>Best,<br>Hux</p>
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<p> </p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/63953412020-07-28T09:46:43-04:002020-09-03T09:15:41-04:00Pandemic Houseguy Shows featured in Pop News Release<p>Here's a link to record industry legend Bruce Brodeen's Power Pop News 'N' Tunes. My Pandemic Houseguy Shows are among the featured stories. </p>
<p><a contents="All the Power Pop News you can possibly stand" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://myemail.constantcontact.com/JULY-AUG-Power-Pop-Newsletter---New-Release-Info.html?soid=999817019776&aid=xjKsde_SQJg" style="">All the Power Pop News you can possibly stand</a></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/63861292020-07-16T21:29:31-04:002020-07-16T21:29:31-04:00Pandemic Houseguy Show #4 on YouTube now!<p>CLICK TO SEE THE SHOW!</p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="40bB8ZfFZ9g" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/40bB8ZfFZ9g/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/40bB8ZfFZ9g?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/63538282020-06-15T10:52:43-04:002020-06-15T10:52:43-04:00Pandemic Houseguy Shows reviewed in American Songwriter<p>Dear Huxinators:</p>
<p>Please check out this recent article on my homemade variety videos, the Pandemic Houseguy Shows:</p>
<p><a contents="American Songwriter Piece on Pandemic Houseguy Shows" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://americansongwriter.com/parthenon-huxley-houseguy-shows/" target="_blank">American Songwriter Piece on Pandemic Houseguy Shows</a></p>
<p>And, if you missed them, here are links to the first two episodes:</p>
<p><a contents="Pandemic Houseguy Show #1" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=G_VpiGytU_o&fbclid=IwAR1zCBDDVDsy_WtBm6WZ7Du0I_aquUiVhHK0X4AduhzHt-Co8H4ZoUZWCa0" target="_blank">Pandemic Houseguy Show #1</a></p>
<p><a contents="Pandemic Houseguy Show #2" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ONfxZ1v2qsU&feature=share&fbclid=IwAR1r-AX0UHDWFQlxipBNpJxcMmZL-iF77zWI8TwqE3RAPaTDi2rv_eiGBZI" target="_blank">Pandemic Houseguy Show #2</a></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/59439032019-10-30T11:37:46-04:002019-10-30T11:39:29-04:00In case you missed it...!<p>Just in case you missed this incredible work of art, here it is again: thirty seconds of highbrow advertising for my latest album, <em>This Is The One</em>. It stars my neighbor (retired FBI agent) Charlie as an adult consumer who's fed up with hearing the same old classic rock. I'm sure you feel his pain. The website www.thisistheonecd.com is legitimate. It'll take you right to my site. </p>
<p>Here's the link to my infomercial:</p>
<p><a contents="P. Hux THIS IS THE ONE" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yhU2oNVn2fw" target="_blank"><span style="color:#e74c3c;">P. Hux THIS IS THE ONE</span></a></p>
<p>Enjoy!</p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/59366422019-10-23T16:49:12-04:002019-10-23T16:50:17-04:00Here Comes The New Mix<p><a contents="Here Comes The Sun New Mix" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=KQetemT1sWc" target="_blank"><span style="color:#e74c3c;">Here Comes The Sun New Mix</span></a></p>
<p>A lovely video for the 2019 mix of Here Comes The Sun.</p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/59362152019-10-23T10:42:42-04:002020-09-03T09:15:59-04:00Nick Hakim: quietest five piece band ever?<p><a contents="Nick Hakim on Tiny Desk Concerts" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.npr.org/2018/02/14/585097044/nick-hakim-tiny-desk-concert?fbclid=IwAR3oEHRaZORhEj73KuuSohKgcwrCjScBFOWFytFMVeYJcKH_VlWn5GeiTao" target="_blank"><span style="color:#9b59b6;">Nick Hakim on Tiny Desk Concerts</span></a></p>
<p>I just learned about this artist from a student at my Omega Recording School lecture. I love the quietness of the band and the unique atmosphere created within a traditional lineup of two guitars, bass, drums and keys. All the players are locked into the artist's vision. Really cool. Hakim is an interestingly soulful singer, like an introvert daring to go public. Check him out.</p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/58964152019-09-18T09:35:55-04:002019-10-15T14:21:14-04:00Hear P. Hux on NO GUITAR IS SAFE Podcast<p>In case you missed it, I spent an hour or so with Guitar Player Magazine's Jude Gold on his podcast, NO GUITAR IS SAFE. Jude's a fabulous guitarist and an excellent podcast host. We spoke about a lot of fun stuff and even jammed on a song or two. Here's the link: <a contents="NO GUITAR IS SAFE with Parthenon Huxley" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://soundcloud.com/guitar-player-magazine/parthenon-huxley" target="_blank">NO GUITAR IS SAFE with Parthenon Huxley</a></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/55767622019-01-01T18:22:58-05:002019-08-06T09:55:38-04:00THIS IS THE ONE: Best quotes from the experts!<p>Here are some of my favorite quotes for my latest album THIS IS THE ONE. If you trust these amazing people's opinions, go to <a contents="www.parthenonhuxley.com/phuxstore" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.parthenonhuxley.com/p-hux-store">www.parthenonhuxley.com/phuxstore</a> and purchase a copy!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/7f409ea112359cb8d7c8db080e01dcad32b926a4/original/t-i-t-o-cover.jpg/!!/undefined/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>“Great listening to P. Hux’s new album! He’s in top voice and top songwriting form. Sweet songs, anthems to march to, it’s all there. Check it out!” <br>David Kahne <br>Producer Paul McCartney, Bangles, Sublime </p>
<p>“Parthenon has a way of drawing inspiration from the best songs of the 60s and 70s while creating recordings that are clearly his own. And he gets better and better. I can’t quit smiling.” <br>Don Dixon <br>Producer R.E.M., Marshall Crenshaw, Smithereens </p>
<p>“Parthenon Huxley’s always had a knack for catchy rock & roll, and This Is the One yields some of his freshest tracks yet. I dare you to not sing along—‘Just Sayin’!’” <br>Holly George-Warren <br>Author: A Man Called Destruction: The Life & Music of Alex Chilton </p>
<p>“Parthenon Huxley, besides possessing perhaps the best name in rock music, is a guitarist and singer of great ability. His new album is out soon - give it a listen.” <br>Al Stewart <br>Artist, Year of the Cat </p>
<p>“P. Hux's new release, This Is The One, is a thrilling musical ride earmarked by thoughtful, heartfelt lyrics, commanding vocals and plenty o’ infectious hooks…everything you’d expect from this perennially gifted tunesmith.” <br>Ken Sharp <br>Artist, Author </p>
<p>“P. Hux’s tunes are in the archetypal melodic guitar rock texture…but with his trademark clever songwriting/arranging style, clear signature voice with intelligent and heartfelt lyrics.” <br>Rusty Anderson <br>Artist, guitarist Paul McCartney </p>
<p>"Looking for a Classic Rock Cake that uses organic, carefully cultivated ingredients from both the British and American pantries? Well, my friend, look no further! This Is The One!!!!!" <br>Sass Jordan <br>Artist, Canadian Idol Judge </p>
<p>"Not many people are doing this genre of music at the level of Parthenon Huxley. He's got it all - songcraft, production, vocals, guitar chops. Long live P. Hux!" <br>Linus of Hollywood <br>Artist, Producer </p>
<p>"Parthenon the man is exactly like his music: timeless…and fantastic and memorable and loaded with surprises at every turn. All hail P. Hux!" <br>Damon Johnson <br>Artist, Guitarist, Singer, Black Star Riders </p>
<p>Parthenon Huxley has always had that rare ability to seamlessly seesaw from rockin' power popper to heart-tuggin' tender vocalist, and his latest album showcases this talent in spades. "This Is The One" is a summer blend of Beach Boys, 10cc, ELO (duh), KISS, McCartney/Beatles, maybe even a bit of Coldplay. "Song For James" is a beautiful ode featuring shimmering guitars and that tender voice promising, "One day, you're gonna see it's OK" - a message we desperately need right about now. <br>Kyle Vincent <br>Aritst, producer </p>
<p>“Parthenon Huxley...one of THE coolest names in rock n roll...has made some beautiful music. Expertly crafted pop songs that go beyond ‘pop’. Great vocals and playing, have a listen!” <br>Jason Orme <br>Artist, guitarist Alanis Morissette </p>
<p>“Parthenon’s always provided a torrent of relatable sentiments, memorable hooks and honest rockers. The newest tunes are all that and more. Yay!” <br>Jim Jacobsen <br>Composer, Producer eels </p>
<p>“These new Hux tunes make my car stereo very happy. And when my car stereo is happy, I’M happy.” <br>Jude Gold <br>Guitar Player Magazine </p>
<p>"Wow! Absolutely Pop Genius, but SO much more! There's never a dull moment; the tracks just keep progressing. How could you not like it? It's aggressive but never harsh. I'm blown away. I have listened on my phone, in my car, and in a control room - cranked, and lemme tell ya it deserves to be heard loud. It's so rockin, so big, and full of wonderful surprises! THIS IS THE ONE!" <br>Aaron Failes <br>Artist, guitarist Dwight Twilley</p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/55443802018-12-07T14:13:19-05:002020-08-28T13:02:51-04:00Honey Sweet Baby in at #17<p>You never know who is listening out there. Come to find I have a fan at Patrick Donders' Sweet Sweet Music Blog. Patrick has put "Honey Sweet Baby" from my latest album THIS IS THE ONE on his list of Top Songs of 2018. I'm at #17 and in good company. Lots of cool songs on this list, including one of my faves, "Direction" by Bird Streets. </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/59de271a134ade1dc97dc5c9c0c6b0b224185de5/original/sweet-sweet-music-blog-screen-shot-2018-12-07-at-1-58-31-pm.png/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.png" class="size_m justify_left border_" /></p>
<p> </p>
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<p> </p>
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<p>Here's the list: <a contents="Sweet Sweet Music Blog" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://sweetsweetmusicblog.wordpress.com/2018/12/06/sweet-sweet-music-best-of-2018/?fbclid=IwAR1eMhJ7Uwfwzn815PkjbpZg6oBz6WpmwG_F4VhgiuEN_-wlzJJAtqNDKQs" target="_blank">Sweet Sweet Music Blog</a></p>
<p>Here's the 17th best song of 2018: <a contents="Honey Sweet Baby" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://soundcloud.com/user-981681169/honey-sweet-baby-mastered-mp3/s-hLxDh" target="_blank">Honey Sweet Baby</a></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/55410532018-12-05T14:54:35-05:002019-08-06T09:54:28-04:00This Is Rock 'n' Roll Radio (with Dana and Carl) features tons of P. Hux<p>Wanna sit back and listen to an amazing radio show? Here's a link to <em>This Is Rock 'n' Roll Radio featuring Dana and Carl,</em> a long running indie rock program out of Syracuse that reliably plays fantastic music new and old. They recently featured a heavy dose of P. Hux music. Please check it out!</p>
<p>Click here: <a contents="THIS IS ROCK N ROLL RADIO featuring P. Hux (show starts around 2:25)" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://westcottradio.org/archive/rock_n_roll_radio_2018-09-30.mp3" target="_blank"><span style="color:#3498db;">THIS IS ROCK N ROLL RADIO featuring P. Hux (show starts around 2:25)</span></a></p>
<p>Here's the playlist:</p>
<p>-- </p>
<p>P. HUX: This Is The One (Nine 18, This Is The One) </p>
<p>THE WHO: Substitute (MCA, Who's Better, Who's Best) </p>
<p>IT'S MY PARTY!: Can I Get To Know You Better (Mister Cat, Can I Get To Know You Better?) </p>
<p>JEFFERSON AIRPLANE: Plastic Fantastic Lover (RCA, Surrealistic Pillow) </p>
<p>THE GRIP WEEDS: Vibrations (Jem, Trip Around The Sun) </p>
<p>XTC: No Thugs At Our House (Virgin, Upsy Daisy Assortment) </p>
<p>-- </p>
<p>THE MONKEES: Love Is Only Sleeping (Rhino, Pisces, Aquarius, Capricorn & Jones, Ltd.) </p>
<p>JOY DIVISION: Love Will Tear Us Apart (Rhino, Heart And Soul) </p>
<p>P. HUX: Every Minute (Black Olive, Deluxe) </p>
<p>JEFFERSON AIRPLANE: It's No Secret (RCA, Takes Off) </p>
<p>THE HANDCUFFS: Wonderful Life (OOFL, Electroluv) </p>
<p>THE ZOMBIES: She's Not There (Big Beat, Zombie Heaven) </p>
<p>-- </p>
<p>PARTHENON HUXLEY: Double Our Numbers (Columbia, Sunny Nights) </p>
<p>THE PRETENDERS: Cuban Slide (Rhino, Pretenders) </p>
<p>P. HUX: Just Sayin' (Nine 18, This Is The One) </p>
<p>JEFFERSON AIRPLANE: Come Up The Years (RCA, Takes Off) </p>
<p>SCREEN TEST: Notes From Trevor (Northside, Through The Past Brightly) </p>
<p>THE DIODES: Tired Of Waking Up Tired (Sony, Tired Of Waking Up Tired) </p>
<p>-- </p>
<p>THE TREND: Peer Pressure (Screaming Skull, J Marc Memorial Show) </p>
<p>ELVIS COSTELLO & THE ATTRACTIONS: Pump It Up (Columbia, This Year's Model) </p>
<p>THE KINKS: Waterloo Sunset (Sanctuary, The Ultimate Collection) </p>
<p>WARREN ZEVON: Mr. Bad Example (Rhino, Genius) </p>
<p>VeG: The Best Is Yet To Come (Cactus Boy, VeG) </p>
<p>JEFFERSON AIRPLANE: 3/5 Of A Mile In 10 Seconds (RCA, Surrealistic Pillow) </p>
<p>-- </p>
<p>P. HUX: Goldmine (Nine 18, Purgatory Falls) </p>
<p>THE MUFFS: Rock And Roll Girl (Sympathy For The Record Industry, Hamburger) </p>
<p>PAUL McCARTNEY: Who Cares (Capitol, Egypt Station) </p>
<p>JEFFERSON AIRPLANE: Share A Little Joke (RCA, Crown Of Creation) </p>
<p>PRINCE: I Could Never Take The Place Of Your Man (Warner Brothers, The Hits/The B-Sides) </p>
<p>NEW ORDER: Temptation (Warner Brothers, Singles) </p>
<p>-- </p>
<p>DEAN LANDEW: After Work (deanlandew.bandcamp.com) </p>
<p>THE REZILLOS: Top Of The Pops (Sire, Can't Stand The Rezillos) </p>
<p>P. HUX: Inside Your Shoes (Nine 18, This Is The One) </p>
<p>JEFFERSON STARSHIP: Miracles (RCA, Red Octopus) </p>
<p>THE RAMONES: Babysitter (Rhino, Leave Home) </p>
<p>THE SEARCHERS: Hearts In Her Eyes (Omnivore, Another Night: The Sire Recordings 1979-1981) </p>
<p>-- </p>
<p>P. HUX: Better Than Good (Kool Kat Musik, VA: This Is Rock 'n' Roll Radio, Volume 4) </p>
<p>THE JAGS: Back Of My Hand (I've Got Your Number) (Rhino, VA: DIY: Starry Eyes) </p>
<p>PARTHENON HUXLEY: Long Way To Go (Nine 18, Thank You Bethesda) </p>
<p>MANNIX: Highway Lines (Kool Kat Musik, VA: This Is Rock 'n' Roll Radio, Volume 3) </p>
<p>P. HUX: This Isn't Yesterday (Not Lame, Mile High Fan) </p>
<p>JEFFERSON AIRPLANE: Blues From An Airplane (RCA, Takes Off) </p>
<p>-- </p>
<p>P. HUX: Honey Sweet Baby (Nine 18, This Is The One) </p>
<p>JEFFERSON AIRPLANE: Comin' Back To Me (RCA, Surrealistic Pillow) </p>
<p>P. HUX: Live Like A King (Black Olive, Deluxe) </p>
<p>THE CHURCH: The Unguarded Moment (Rhino, VA: Children Of Nuggets) </p>
<p>P. HUX: Wear My Ring (Nine 18, Kiss The Monster) </p>
<p>THE CHESTERFIELD KINGS: She Told Me Lies (Rhino, VA: Children Of Nuggets) </p>
<p>THE CHEVELLS: Let There Be Surf (Ace, VA: The Birth Of Surf)</p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/54937652018-10-31T11:28:12-04:002018-10-31T11:28:12-04:00AIRPLAY!<p>WTMD in Towson/Baltimore is one of the USA's coolest radio stations. The music is often brand new and not heard elsewhere. The jocks are knowledgable and they actually SAY WHAT SONG THEY JUST PLAYED. Yes, a miracle.</p>
<p>I'm thrilled that JUST SAYIN', the first single from THIS IS THE ONE, has been getting loads of airplay on WTMD. There's nothing better than hearing your song on the radio. Every recording artist should get to experience the thrill. Here's a link to the best station in these parts:</p>
<p><a contents="Listen to WTMD" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://wtmd.org/radio/listen-wtmd/" target="_blank">Listen to WTMD</a></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/53751102018-08-04T20:45:11-04:002019-08-06T09:57:11-04:00THIS IS THE BOOK available now in P. Hux Store!<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/808740d2d56a948c4e23138564df20a696a727dd/original/tito-book-photo-standing.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>The next best thing to recording my new album was putting together this <strong>insane 50-page hardcover Photo Album</strong>. I dug through boxes of printed photos, stacks of photo albums, thumb drives, hard drives, old computers...I looked through 40,000 photos. It took nearly a year to find all the pictures I KNEW I had...and in the process I found hundreds of others I'd forgotten. Really fun.</p>
<p>The book starts with me and my first guitar (1964) and then photographically tells the musical story of the next 50 years. There is some editorial input about being in bands, addressing the music business, and so on, but really, it's pretty much people with guitars and funny haircuts traveling to fun places. I think you'll like it!</p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/069c0e93f3262f05cbba0ffeb904be9178b3c0bf/original/tito-book-inside-kiev.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_left border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/127471f1c2678d8ca1eeba91c079c1644962bcac/original/tito-book-mca.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsIm1lZGl1bSJdXQ==.jpg" class="size_m justify_right border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/326d94b40f07740f83bdb05cc5070ed0cc37cb47/original/tito-book-south-a.jpg/!!/b:W10=.jpg" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/53735402018-08-03T11:59:10-04:002020-07-15T23:33:08-04:00Nice rediscovered review of Kiss The Monster<p>My wife Helle ran across a review of my album <em>Kiss The Monster</em>...nice one. (KTM is of course available in the P. Hux Store)</p>
<p><a contents="http://www.powerofpop.com/p-hux/" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.powerofpop.com/p-hux/" target="_blank">http://www.powerofpop.com/p-hux/</a></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/53724952018-08-02T17:12:41-04:002018-08-02T17:12:41-04:00This Is The One CD now available<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/7f409ea112359cb8d7c8db080e01dcad32b926a4/original/t-i-t-o-cover.jpg/!!/b:W1sic2l6ZSIsInNtYWxsIl1d.jpg" class="size_s justify_left border_none" alt="" /></p>
<p>CDs have arrived! My new album is now in stock. I am sending them out to my Kickstarter supporters as quickly as I can...but you can also order it in my store: <a contents="https://parthenonhuxley.com/p-hux-store#" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://parthenonhuxley.com/p-hux-store#" target="_blank">https://parthenonhuxley.com/p-hux-store#</a></p>
<p> </p>
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<p> </p>2:42Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/50158572018-01-09T23:12:57-05:002018-08-23T15:28:30-04:00P. Hux and The Posies<p>I will be performing on a bill with <strong>The Posies</strong> at the Hamilton in Washington DC on Saturday February 3rd. This will be a really fun night. Hope to see you there!</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/021d7d2229aede94b821383c94b2dfa4a2e9ccb8/small/posies-30-acoustic-generic.jpg" class="size_s justify_none border_" /></p>
<p><a contents="GET TICKETS HERE" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://live.thehamiltondc.com/event/1584892-posies-duo-washington/" target="_blank">GET TICKETS HERE</a></p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/9cb0989d3b30ff38c5f33fc88ff46a92e3ba2491/small/hux-acousti-jj-9-9-17.jpg" class="size_s justify_none border_" /></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/49561432017-11-30T11:22:34-05:002018-08-23T15:32:49-04:00Sample Song From new P. Hux album This Is The One<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/2728c3d1dbd07b0fe51802ff9de2649fd9235d91/small/hux-a-chord-in-moscow.jpg" class="size_s justify_none border_" /></p>
<p>Here's a rough mix of "Song For James" from my new album <em>This Is The One</em>. About 12 hours remain to pre-order the album on Kickstarter. It's easy. Just go here:</p>
<p><a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1509194478/new-p-hux-album-this-is-the-one?ref=creator_nav">https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/1509194478/new-p-hux-album-this-is-the-one?ref=creator_nav</a></p>
<p>Thanks for supporting my music!</p>
<p>Hux</p>3:11Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/49387312017-11-18T13:22:29-05:002019-10-15T14:21:50-04:00Euro Solo<p>I'm a huge fan of Star Wars, and to my great surprise I kept running into Han Solo last summer in Europe. Here he is at the Rewind Festival in Cheshire, UK last July, wandering through the crowd and looking for something to drink backstage.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/88734100a111ef027058d54daf856afb4d402c01/medium/img-1676.jpg" class="size_m justify_none border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/883e32140b7749990334dc00bfce11dd5010fd30/medium/img-1654.jpg" class="size_m justify_none border_" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>At Versailles outside Paris I spotted him checking out Marie Antoinette's livestock and trying to nudge into our group.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/ff195338718d4b60dfad8dffb2625d11f43f4553/medium/img-3324.jpg" class="size_m justify_none border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/4fb0fe33c7975456b6478dc3814176885fd76d85/medium/img-3258.jpg" class="size_m justify_none border_" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>Finally, in Paris he strictly followed local street crossing rules and took in a view of the Eiffel Tower. He never said much. Man of few words. And he's way shorter than I would've expected.</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/901d8defd542cb01edc01e9188e0b58efcc25539/medium/img-3246.jpg" class="size_m justify_none border_" /><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/e03e5b8a5e3f6e49288eae5d5717a7f156c3b8f1/medium/img-3565.jpg" class="size_m justify_none border_" /></p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/49274712017-11-10T12:55:07-05:002020-08-30T11:53:09-04:00Over 100 backers! Could there be vinyl?<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/ce3ec022a8036b17e653ebd5b1fd0c61ea777796/small/img-2589.jpg?1510336159" class="size_s justify_left border_" />It's Day 10 and my Kickstarter campaign has more than 100 backers and over $10,000 in pledges. That is fantastic! Thank you to all of my supporters. With 20 days left to go, it seems conceivable we could reach $20,000. I'm thinking that amount would possibly allow me to press up 100 copies of This Is The One on vinyl. It's something I've long wanted to do. If the pledges continue to come in, I'll seriously consider posting a new reward for a limited edition vinyl run. What do you guys think about that? Let me know! </p>
<p>Best, <br>Hux</p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/49089722017-10-27T13:41:42-04:002020-09-23T11:01:23-04:00"Song For James" <p>I'm trying out guitar parts on "Song For James." </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/bae8b7b0532583233a1275985cf9a9bf052013c4/small/img-7915.jpg?1476205924" class="size_s justify_left border_" /></p>
<p>This is one of my favorite songs from the new album <em>THIS IS THE ONE</em>. It has a lovely groove and a lot of "space" for overdubs. Today I'm trying out new parts. Check it out: <a contents="" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://youtu.be/He-_04Gy9H8">https://youtu.be/He-_04Gy9H8</a></p>
<p>My Kickstarter campaign for <em>THIS IS THE ONE</em> begins next Wednesday November 1st.</p>
<p> </p>
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<p> </p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/49031322017-10-23T14:49:21-04:002020-01-21T00:59:22-05:00My new album is in progress<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/e5189b7c069cfae6137fe02b0d22b453869b1c30/medium/ph-and-mark-williams-at-studio.jpg?1406914417" class="size_m justify_center border_" />I'm recording overdubs on songs for my upcoming album <em>THIS IS THE ONE</em>. Once again I'm working with Mark Williams at Suckerpunch in Bethesda. Mark co-produced my previous album <em>Thank You Bethesda</em>.</p>
<p>Here's a peek behind the scenes. </p>
<p>I was determined to write a "shuffle" for this record because they're so much fun to play lead guitar over (just ask Billy Gibbons). So I came up with a song called "That's When I Know" that fits the bill. We've been calling it "Thin Pie" because it's got a little bit of Thin Lizzy and Humble Pie to it. Here are two videos of attempts to nail a guitar solo in one take. In this first video, the solo gets a little wooly. Probably not a keeper. In the second video everything seemed to hold together right through to the end, and I even pay a brief tribute to Mr. Gibbons in the middle, not that I'd planned on it. Check 'em out.</p>
<p>Close but no cigar:</p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="0f_WZPol6EY" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/0f_WZPol6EY/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/0f_WZPol6EY?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>
<p>I think it's a keeper!</p>
<p><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="BKDfTuAufag" data-video-thumb-url="https://img.youtube.com/vi/BKDfTuAufag/mqdefault.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/BKDfTuAufag?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="180" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe></p>
<p>Look for Kickstarter Launch on Wednesday Nov. 1, 2017!</p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/48329552017-08-31T12:32:20-04:002019-10-15T14:22:58-04:00P. Hux Live! Jammin Java Saturday Sept 9 Early Show 6pm<p>I'm looking forward to playing Jammin Java next weekend, Saturday Sept 9. I'll play for two hours. The first hour will be acoustic songs that I rarely perform. The second hour will be an electric set with Gordon Townsend on drums and Dave Phenicie on bass and vocals. We'll do P. Hux stuff, plus Beatles and some odd covers.</p>
<p>Please come out to see the show! Seating is limited and advance tickets are available here: <a contents="Purchase Tickets to P. Hux" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.jamminjava.com/event/1498216-parthenon-huxley-performs-new-vienna/" target="_blank">Purchase Tickets to P. Hux</a></p>
<p> </p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/0c3c97670c8fe701c2d7aaf75e001c339ead4b7f/original/jammin-java-hux-acoustic-electric-copy.jpg?1504040371" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>I will be joined onstage by two of my favorite musicians: Gordon Townsend and Dave Phenicie. Spotted below in Mexico...</p>
<p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/e5135010108da70c692ccd6a1a05ddc354b31df4/original/gordon-and-dave-in-culiocan-mx.jpg?1504039425" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></p>
<p> </p>
<p>COMING SOON: Kickstarter Campaign for my new album...!</p>
<p> </p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/46964712017-05-04T12:21:03-04:002018-09-10T17:16:50-04:00Wait A Second Let Me Say Something For A SecondThis insane mp3 was sent to me by a guy named James Tipper a while back. (Thanks, James!) It's from a 1989 live performance by my band in Monterey CA. The song, well it's not really a song, scratch that. The "piece" is a joke we created in rehearsal and thought it was really funny. In fact, we thought it was funny enough to inflict on an audience. I am amazed we did this. I apologize now, 28 years later. <br><br>What IS funny is how good my band was, despite doing stuff like this: Rusty Anderson (now with Paul McCartney + too many others to mention), Jen Condos (Ray LaMontagne and too many others to mention) and Rob Ladd (Me & Dixon, Roger Daltrey, too many others to mention).<br><br>Confession: I still think it's kinda funny.2:18Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/44536462016-11-05T15:11:56-04:002019-05-09T14:40:13-04:00Uncivil War<p>Thought I'd share a little ditty about my country. Recorded on my phone.<br><br><strong>Uncivil War </strong></p>
<p>We’re not trying to work together / We don’t do that any more </p>
<p>We just hide inside our bunkers and beat up on each other </p>
<p>In an uncivil war / In an uncivil war <br> </p>
<p>Away from home we've got each other / Highest peak and distant shore </p>
<p>But when we come back to our neighbors we crawl down in our trenches </p>
<p>And fight this uncivil war <br> </p>
<p>Talking heads feed us stories / They make it hard to see the truth </p>
<p>They make a living making nothing / But they make enemies of me and you </p>
<p>They make enemies of me and you <br> </p>
<p>Let’s start fighting for each other / Eye to eye and door to door </p>
<p>For the sake of God and country / And the future of our people </p>
<p>Stop this uncivil war / Stop this uncivil war</p>1:48Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/42879642016-07-20T22:40:28-04:002019-10-15T14:23:33-04:00Spain. New Jersey. Florida. Here we come.<p>THE ORCHESTRA Starring Former ELO Members will play five shows in Spain beginning Sunday July 24th in Valencia and ending August 6th on the isle of Mallorca. The band will return stateside in the second half of August for two shows in New Jersey and two more in Florida. Show info can be found here on my site. We're looking forward to connecting with fans old and new. I'll do my best to post some stuff here on my site's blog.</p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/41995372016-05-27T10:53:43-04:002019-10-25T14:00:27-04:00Todd Rundgren, Gandhi and El ChapoOn May 13th the Orchestra returned to the Arcada Theater in St. Charles IL, one of our favorite places to play. We planned to arrive on the 12th, when Todd Rundgren was playing the same venue. Orchestra keyboardist/singer Eric Troyer has worked with Todd numerous times over the years, and he agreed to introduce me to the man who wrote "Hello It's Me" and "Couldn't I Just Tell You", who produced Grand Funk's <em>We're An American Band</em> and XTC's <em>Skylarking</em>, and on and on. I was excited. I'd once heard that Todd liked my version of "There Goes My Inspiration" which appeared on <em>For The Love of Todd: A Tribute To Todd Rundgren</em>, and so of course I fancied the idea of him remembering my name, blah fanboy blah!<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/cd52dc798adbbea94a8f5139b9cf924f6448b19c/original/img-4821-marquee-arcada-may-13-16.jpg?1464293209" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>But, alas, this scrap of a set list, found onstage as we set up our gear on the 13th, was as close as I got to meeting Todd. Thanks to American and United Airlines, I arrived in Chicago four hours late and Eric arrived nine hours later than scheduled…when Todd's bus was already rolling to the next gig. Wanhh, wanhhh.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/b8ed9e47d9e24b5a1f6c9868e4a69e073a8ad76f/original/img-4843-2-as-close-as-i-got-to-meeting-todd.jpg?1464293228" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>I didn't get to meet Todd, but I did check out this truck, parked in front of the Arcada the next day. Pine tree eyelashes always cheer me up.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/ab7c3895d82a4315176da1e0c3bf427f749761f9/original/img-4826-painted-truck-st-charles-il-may-13-016.jpg?1464293206" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The dressing rooms of the Arcada feature unique items such as this bassdelier hanging in my dressing room...<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/aaebef43e3cd266606aaabf96603c7ce653055da/original/img-4831-dressing-room-lamp-arcada-theater-may-13-2016.jpg?1464293226" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>…and the decorative wall hangings made from my stage shirts.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/3cbe19151ee872d6d5b5af0d0deea972a1d1028d/original/img-4836-polka-dot-drapings.jpg?1464293232" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Playing at the Arcada also means getting reacquainted with our very enthusiastic fan Emily Elizabeth De Vita. Here she is arriving for a photo op with the band. Emily can get just a wee bit excited, you see, and tends to emit a mix of screams, exclamations and sobs all at once... <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/1aad66130a66a465fd9207f20be99b75d4653aea/original/65934822-orchestraimg-0137-the-scream.jpg?1464300499" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>…but when she calms down she's really a lovely friend. I think her Dad, far right, turned her on to ELO music. He obviously did an exceptional job.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/8c83523c135bb2fe5a51929651dfdf3d1e8beaa5/original/65934821-orchestraimg-0146-with-super-fan-at-arcada.jpg?1464300516" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Here we are the next day, on our way to a show in Cincinnati. This is not a photo of the fun rock life, it's just something The Orchestra has done more times than I can remember: pile out of an anonymous van and unload our stuff onto the curb of an airport. Whether we're in Chicago, Santiago, Madrid, Moscow…THIS part is the same.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/091955c570ca35a22ba6b5fab40882bee3a064c1/original/img-4877-we-see-this-a-lot.jpg?1464293241" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Chicago from the air. I'm a sucker for iconic skylines.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/f7e2a2d28769bc4f4d5996b4e1c3e48350ec178b/original/img-4882-chicago-skyline-and-overzealous-use-of-effects.jpg?1464293251" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>I saw this contraption in the airport. The chief selling point is that you'll never lose it. I think it could be the next big thing. It's called an immobile phone.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/5dd2192ecbe3086f81829c03645f5a49deabbe6e/original/img-4878-immobile-phone.jpg?1464293257" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Here's another scene on infinite repeat in Orchestra world: setting up our gear. Along with the local back line companies who supply much of the equipment, we arrive early before a show to get things in order. We used to transport loads of our own gear and travel with a crew of helpers, but no longer. We've managed to structure our stage needs in such a way that our setup is relatively simple and we can do most of it ourselves. Notice the two stage hands at left. <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/7cec7d21e0db319044c464e7bbba90bfcc1fec78/original/img-4893-stage-prep-panorama.jpg?1464293261" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The venue for our show at Mount St. Joseph University in Cincinnati featured quotes from notable people in history. When I saw Gandhi's words "…lose yourself in the service of others" I thought, "Well that's easy: <em>become a parent.</em>"<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/56c78f577b92aa72737d5010b203560ec0966785/original/img-4896-mt-st-joe-univ-gandhi-quote-why-parents-lose-themselves.jpg?1464293263" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>A week after Cincinnati, the band travelled to Culiacan, Sinaloa state, in Mexico. It's about 800 miles south of the US Border. It's a lovely, un-touristy city of about 850,000 people, located on the convergence of several rivers and a mere half hour from beautiful Pacific Ocean beaches. The food is amazing and the people were accommodating, friendly and excited to see us. Here's the view from my hotel room.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/40f7c516a6fe70d27e0d9d27ac77a6a20131f0f7/original/img-4953-hotel-view.jpg?1464293276" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>When I heard we were going to Sinaloa state, I thought it sounded familiar so I did a quick search online. I discovered that Culiacan is the favored home of Mexico's narco traffic kingpins such as the recently re-captured drug lord El Chapo. Who would want to live in such a place? As you can see in the photo below, the entire populace lives in fear of drug crime.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/41673a869b1c5ded9d0fde8d1a97ac6dd5257663/original/img-5021-terrifying-river-and-bridge.jpg?1464293310" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>El Chapo goes to Sears?<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/77f21fcb1f0727bed00eaf866f41053fa348aa4a/original/img-4959.jpg?1464359434" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>In the lovely 90 degree morning heat, we set up our gear at one end of the host university's soccer field.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/57655131da44685723135e1077b73315f89f208b/large/img-4968-stage-at-soccer-stadium-culiacan.jpg?1464293289" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The string section prepares to dazzle. L-R: Mik Kaminski, Louis Clark Jr, Louis Clark Sr.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/24d49bc85f1310ed5083223b39ba34d6309c0b8e/original/img-4981-string-section-culiacan.jpg?1464293293" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>On keyboards, synths and vocals: Sir Eric Troyer.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/585a894fc111add667f806b43de13c47c5fa16fe/original/img-4982-et-culiacan-mx-may-21-2016.jpg?1464293293" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><p><br>The sección rítmica: Gordon Townsend on drums, and (filling in for Glen Burtnik) Dave Phenicie on bass and vocals.</p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/b9015f0f5d80903bcd9b8533e85581e720f2ef3c/original/img-4985-gordon-and-dave-culiacan.jpg?1464293293" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The next day's paper (The Sinaloa Sun) proclaims "The Orchestra: the music never gets old." Nope, but the musicians do.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/80bc4f6dcc7f3af0726f641a55abc03796377078/original/img-5088-the-music-never-grows-old.jpg?1464293323" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>A couple of native Culiacanians were kind enough to take me and Orchestra monitor man/brother-in-law Jaime O'Connell out for a beer or three in a cool little area of downtown. Thank you Michelle and Israel! When we walked into the joint, Black Sabbath was blaring from the speakers. Yes! All too soon, though, the music devolved to the Beibs.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/a79505f442f5e9f0f6065edbe9ba44ee9419346b/original/img-5047-michelle-israel-and-jaime.jpg?1464293315" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>I liked this doorway in downtown Culiacan.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/589190056f86998626e0a219bf0c610a29049787/original/img-5035-cool-door.jpg?1464293314" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>This is a pedestrian walkway beneath a city street overpass. Both cross one of the town's ubiquitous rivers.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/1da3c3575744568df3d49108235a7e6520e54888/original/img-5065-bridge-beneath-bridge.jpg?1464293318" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br>Thanks for sticking with me all the way to the end! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/f75d804aba442bd1e16001da31e082fbb303e375/original/img-4839-2-i-dont-hate-this-picture-thanks-to-make-up-lighting.jpg?1464293217" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br><br><br><br><br><br> Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/41179252016-04-02T18:33:31-04:002022-05-10T14:15:33-04:00From 4258 She CameToday would've been the 58th birthday of Janet Elyse Heaney. Undoubtedly she would've done something fun and creative to celebrate. She was always a ball of fire. Fiercely intelligent, stridently opinionated, unfailingly kind.<br><br>Janet graduated Summa Cum Laude from Boston University in the early 80s and headed west to find her fortune as a screenwriter/filmmaker. We met in Los Angeles in 1987 when she was just finishing the script for a movie called "Powwow Highway." <em>Powwow</em> would later win an audience prize at Sundance, get a limited release by Warner Brothers and become a revered cult favorite among Native American movie viewers.<br><br>Janet and I married in 1991. We honeymooned in Ireland and visited her ancestral home. Here's a panorama (before panoramas could be made with your phone) from our trip to the Ring of Kerry.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/5beea26c5b923f09a0c248f2efe0aeec95ea3998/original/janet-at-ring-of-kerry-ireland-copy.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><p>Janet inspired a number of the songs that appeared on <em>P. Hux "Deluxe"</em> including "Simple Things", "Live Like A King", "So Good" and more. That album is a favorite of people who know my music, and Janet deserves some credit.<br><br>Janet's favorite musical artist, by a mile, was Elton John. She got to meet him on two occasions, which always makes me happy to reflect on. Here she is with Elton and our friend from eels, Mark Everett. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/2f51a417adc9fdbea8a90f7de9947c42e6c67e0f/medium/janet-with-e-and-elton-john-copy.jpg?0" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br>Janet passed away on January 10, 1997 from brain cancer. She fought it bravely for over a year and was once again an inspiration for the way she faced her struggle.<br><br>My album <em>Purgatory Falls</em> is named after Janet's family farm in New Hampshire and dedicated to her life and memory. My song "I Loved Everything" reached #1 on Rolling Stone Magazine's Exclusive Download Chart. Credit for that belongs to Janet, too.<br><br>Gone, but never forgotten!<br><br> </p>3:12Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/40926372016-03-23T09:33:59-04:002020-11-21T02:18:33-05:00People Who Winter In Florida Might Be On To SomethingThis is winter 2016 in Maryland...<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/ef8946a5fba787e8be401b8b858fbcd6a92f4057/original/edit-snow-pic.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>…and this is Winter in Miami where I'm boarding the Norwegian Pearl--host to the <strong>Moody Blues Cruise III</strong>. The Orchestra Starring Former ELO Members will join the Moody Blues, Zombies, Vanilla Fudge, Mark Farner (Grand Funk), Chuck Negron (Three Dog Night), John Waite and others on a five day cruise to Key West and the Bahamas. Sure, it sounds fun, but make no mistake, this is a <em>work </em>trip.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/211a47c7916a36f4961413dc7a4d16e389965f59/large/img-4173.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>When you go on a work trip like this it's best to bring your muse. You don't want to be lost at sea without inspiration.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/104854648344819a3a61900e03fc3526cbdce412/original/ph-hh.jpeg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Here's a bendy panoramic shot taken above the Pool Deck. There's a big stage, sound booth under the blue and white striped pavilion, merch table, etc. Oh, and a hot tub if you like your rock with warm jets.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/ebf1fecce32b7ede338fcb2e65243004cf049170/large/img-4221.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><p><br>The Orchestra played, I mean, worked two shows on the pool deck. Our first show began at 5pm on Day 2 as the Pearl departed Key West, heading east toward the Bahamas. We faced the rear of the ship so the sun was in our eyes…brutal working conditions. Where's OSHA when you need them? We also held a Q & A session where fans of the band asked great questions and also offered us many, many nice compliments. You know, exactly the same work conditions as most other jobs.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/6af0a0da13c5567bb9dfa2e94002f1bd0cff725b/original/2016-cruise-hux-enhanced.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Left to Right: Louis Clark Jr, Louis Clark Sr, Glen Burtnik, Eric Troyer, Mik Kaminski, Yours Truly and Gordon Townsend.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/0c15d8d59cdb6443b381a324ab33176ae4ed51b6/large/12814414-918941191554311-3526064364331179142-n.jpg?0" class="size_xl justify_center border_" /><br>Our second performance began at 7:30pm on Day 4 as the boat headed back to Miami. Here are some of the nice people we met on the Cruise.</p><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/ea7c44023137cda5417a95a278f2b77a2e9c216b/large/img-4266.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Speaking of nice people, I got to reconnect with the very funny and crazy talented Chuck Negron of Three Dog Night. (The bag he's hoisting into the frame of the picture has an image of <em>young</em> Chuck...) If you get a chance, buy his book "Three Dog Nightmare." It's not all laughs, as the title suggests. But ultimately Chuck's story is triumphant, considering how perilously close he came to losing everything. If you're wondering about the cartoon sea creatures in the background, our dressing room serves as a kids area when old rock bands aren't onboard. So, in effect, it's a kids' room year round.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/8574dc57228d75ab97896e83abba164957b0b04f/large/img-4254.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>One of the best parts of rock cruising is the chance to be a fanboy. That's Mark Farner of Grand Funk Railroad with his arm around me. (His was the OTHER act that sold out Shea Stadium). I bought the first GFR album "On Time" when I was 14 and I know every note on that record. So of course I brought the album cover with me on the boat and Mark generously signed it. I love it. If you get a chance to see him perform, which he's doing currently, you will note that his voice is ALL there. Dude can wail! And his guitar playing is highly underrated and under-celebrated IMHO.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/9e45502c48dfa0bb81ce8c18bfe8fa66796ed211/large/img-4231.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The food at the buffet was free and available most hours of the day and night. So, yeah, the cruise ended up being about a four pound trip!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/7a44fd7aba89eb468683a4b338949a42a34772c0/large/img-4271.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The Moodies Cruise was really nice, but I have to admit…there were times on the ship when it was <em>pretty windy and cold…</em>and who signed up for <em>that?</em> So before we head back to Maryland, it's probably best that we immediately hit Disneyworld for our annual three night residency at EPCOT. Here's a view from the top of the water slide at the Disney Beach Resort, our home for five nights. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/91be84d80f2520569c73b0df2e895b3ce2b40d34/large/img-4294.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>These lake boats shuttle folks between hotels and attractions. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/28d233123fca4a2f1667ab736bade4bafe761ce6/original/img-4301.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>This shot was taken backstage. The squiggly clouds are residue from the successful launch of SpaceX's Falcon 9 rocket which was carrying a communications satellite weighing 11.6 thousand pounds. Cape Canaveral is sixty miles away.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/0763518013ca353452ba3b787b66a55b61d231c8/original/img-4315.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>This shot was taken in the Magic Kingdom. The squiggly water splashes are residue from the successful launch of a faux wooden log that descended 50 feet, delivering a screaming man weighing 175 pounds to an embarrassing photo op. One daughter, who was visiting Splash Mountain for the first time, shared my feelings about the ride. The other pulled off the coolest shot of the year.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/1feab385e6bcadef0a972cc56102a7f292ed80f6/original/splash-mountain-2016.jpeg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Ok, back to work. The Orchestra played three half-hour shows each night for three nights. The fans took great pictures and the staff at Disney treated us really well as usual, which is why we love playing there. Here's a shot by Mark Walters that I like a lot. Thanks, Mark! <img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/bb3224d0835ed0132b9055e08b3d0bc6444115e6/original/don-walters-showdown.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>"Hey Hey Hey!" is what we say. Note the mirror image double cutaway guitars. Totally planned. Photo by Diane Tartaglia.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/6d0ab0158822f4ba27118cbf735fa171c157ccc6/original/glen-hux-epcot-by-diane-tartaglia.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>In this remarkable shot by Michael Lucas, all four stringed instrumentalists seem to be lost in thought, reflecting on who-knows-what when they might ought to be focusing on the show.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/5253fb2c78a2bd264db6bad5ad609e8e0e9fa355/original/1930580-991992880890167-3039842178496366944-n.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Even if we can't really hear each other above the noise, Mik and I usually manage to find a laugh onstage. Photo by Donald Austin.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/ddf71cb361eef48220d864772b0a2141ee36c425/original/mik-hux-epoct-by-donald-austin.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>This shot by Kimmy G is probably during Roll Over Beethoven, a song which requires Glen and I to pay attention to what we're doing.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/c667e12763b16c00ec46fe9d85ef1e1034e1d9b8/original/12795160-10153244353116152-5445605034148840480-o.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>And just like that…the Cruise…and Disneyworld…drifted into memory…and back we went to our alleged everyday reality. Hey, the snow is gone!<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/e0b7d4df13c9ed03cd604c638515236c7346edf7/large/img-4359.jpg?0" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/40797552016-03-09T10:11:44-05:002017-01-15T23:22:04-05:00George Martin Changed The World<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/ced06a8004ffdef8fc163e4447e21fbed04a63aa/small/unknown.jpeg?0" class="size_s justify_left border_" /><br>Thank you, George Martin, for turning the 20th century in a new direction. Nice work.<br><br>It's arguable that The Beatles would've been "discovered" even if George Martin and Parlaphone hadn't brought the band in for auditions. But don't count on it. When you read Mark Lewisohn's epic book about their beginnings, <strong>Tune In: The Beatles: All These Years Vol. 1</strong>, it's clear the Beatles were perpetually on the edge of falling apart. In their earliest efforts to get noticed by the London-based recording industry, The Beatles and their manager Brian Epstein had struck out repeatedly. They were hicks from Liverpool with no track record beyond a German release of My Bonnie with them as a backing band. Not exactly a juggernaut.<br><br>Fortunately we don't have to ponder the what-ifs. George Martin DID find them intriguing enough musically; he DID like their personalities; he DID like their voices and he DIDN'T like Pete Best's drumming. He gave them the shot they needed. In no time, his hunch paid off and The Beatles story happened the way it happened and we're all the beneficiaries of the greatest musical tale of all time.<br><br>There's no denying The Beatles and George Martin's life-changing influence on me and most of my friends. We all know it and accept it in the same way others might acknowledge the influence of their religion or family lineage. I became a musician because of the insane thrilling sound made by The Beatles and all the bands and artists that followed in their wake. I write love songs because The Beatles wrote love songs. I own equipment by Gretsch and Vox because of you know who. I proposed marriage in the place I consider to be the holiest of grails: Abbey Road Studio Two.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/c379c02777998d880e805eed04a91b1fb9047792/small/images-2.jpeg?0" class="size_s justify_left border_" /><br>The Beatles were an amazing, history-making band...but without Brian Epstein and George Martin--the adults in the room--it's likely The Beatles would've flamed out in Liverpool. They were kids making magic, not forward-thinking entrepreneurs. Epstein was responsible for keeping the magic alive (literally by steadily increasing the band's pay through better gigs) and Martin helped forge skilled craftsmen from mind-blowing raw talent. Together, it all worked…to say the least.<br><br>What was so great about George Martin? He was the producer's producer. His mission was to bring out the very best from the artist. To not only honor the artist's impulses and instincts, but to hone and refine them as well. John presented Martin with Please Please Me, a Roy Orbison nod. Martin suggested they speed it up. Think about that--an "old" man telling teenagers to play their song faster! It went to number one.<p>He was a musician. He knew what he was talking about. Martin's string arrangements (Yesterday) and baroque piano playing (In My Life) turned great songs into recorded masterpieces. That's the mark of a real producer.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/e685e6e6b4e9f23465db80262fcf50c9dd26a2e9/small/images-1.jpeg?0" class="size_s justify_left border_" /><br><br>I wish I'd met him but that's okay. I've met his work. I could hardly wish for more.<br><br><br><br><br>Rest In Peace.</p><br> <br><br><br> Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/40239642016-02-04T10:19:13-05:002022-06-01T21:19:36-04:00Al Kooper: American TreasureOver the last few years, I've gotten to know Al Kooper a little bit. He gave a song of mine ("Red Eyeliner") a nice review and one way or another we ended up speaking on the phone from time to time. A couple months ago I called him up to discuss Lynyrd Skynyrd's first album, which Al produced. I've taught the opening track "I Ain't The One" to several of my guitar students. It's a head-spinning masterpiece of guitar arrangement. Al said, "That was <em>all them</em>. They were the most rehearsed band I've ever produced. Every note was worked out." We talked a bit more and then Al said, "You should come up to Boston and hang out. We'll just listen to music. I'll play you some stuff you've never heard." That sounded like an offer I couldn't refuse. So last weekend, I hung out with Al.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/daeb55300332867cb2c873bb4a54cfaa7948902f/medium/al-kooper-and-hux-2016-edit.jpg?1454591368" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br>Sure enough, Mr. Kooper played me some stuff I'd never heard. Lots of early R&B and Gospel that I missed as a kid infatuated with the British Invasion. He played me the demo of "This Diamond Ring", a song Al co-wrote that went to #1. "We wrote this for the Drifters. When I heard the Gary Lewis version I hated it." I like the Gary Lewis version. It's basically just a sped up version of the demo. "It's REALLY sped up," Al says. Maybe that's why I liked it. More British Invasion-y. Al just shakes his head.<br><br>I won't go into everything we talked about, because you readers have more important things to do. But I'd recommend you click on the links below. They'll get you started on an understanding how just how incredible Al's career has been--a career that began when he was 14 years old. Oh, one more thing. Buy a copy of Al's book "Backstage Passes and Backstabbing Bastards." I think it's the best rock autobiography I've ever read.<br><br><a contents="Al talks about his early days" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.tabletmag.com/jewish-arts-and-culture/music/128616/like-a-rolling-stone" target="_blank">Al talks about his early days</a><br><br><a contents="Video of Al's career highlights" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JeSe9UQUfzc#t=306" target="_blank">Video of Al's career highlights</a> (good stuff begins at 0:25)<br><br> 3:36Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/39834552016-01-11T08:49:17-05:002016-02-17T23:32:26-05:00David Bowie Cries For No OneDavid Bowie. Sigh. Huge influence, huge inspiration. Talk about living life as a work of art. I unabashedly drew from his bag of tricks, not sure how successfully. Here's a song I recorded a few years back with my friend Nic Pierone under the name Cranky. It's a tribute I think Bowie might've appreciated. It's called "David Bowie Cries For No One." R.I.P.3:04Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/39263812015-11-20T17:58:21-05:002015-11-20T17:58:21-05:00New Issue of the Mullet, New CD, New ShowIf you missed it, here's a link to the latest issue of my newsletter, The Mullet. And thanks to everyone who's already ordered the new P. Hux "Live" Deluxe CD! <br><br><a contents="New Issue of the Mullet" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://eepurl.com/bFT_pf" target="_blank">New Issue of the Mullet</a><br><br> Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/38500312015-09-10T20:11:00-04:002019-10-12T15:31:00-04:00Estonia<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/8c942df6590b77753e946686f682a05c08623d03/original/img-2151.jpg?1441910823" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Nowadays when you travel, you pretty much go to a mall that also has planes. Tallinn, Estonia's airport, vying to be the "world's coziest" goes a step further. Even the gates are kind of fun. They each have a different theme, and most don't look like gates at all. Here's Gate 5. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/351244b4c6b5f6ed923292afcb23af6878a94388/original/img-2080.jpg?1441910863" class="size_l justify_center border_" />We only had one day in Tallinn, so sightseeing was limited. However, I've been there before so I headed back to spots I liked the first time. Here's an overview of the extremely well preserved Medieval part of the city. Tallinn Old Town has benefited over the years from huge protective walls and lots of stone buildings--as opposed to the wooden kind which tend to burn down when your city gets sacked. Tallinn goes back roughly a thousand years. Since winning their freedom and independence in the 90s Estonians have raced to upgrade, preserve and present their city in the best possible light. It's a beautiful place.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/606893fc594e8389c818239e35551104cfba3c7f/original/img-2063.jpg?1441910806" class="size_l justify_center border_" />They've kept ancient stone towers as they are and put fresh paint on buildings from recent centuries. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/f481e542cb4cea44c488e662b2b21077a562fedd/original/img-2078.jpg?1441910815" class="size_l justify_center border_" />The influence from nearby Russia is clear.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/f86abec108d21e17da176ce749376cb04cc24eec/original/img-2106.jpg?1441910963" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Hard to avoid rubber-necking tourists such as the above.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/0dcee05c368cb9ba1c48401694961e72a3bad041/original/img-2073.jpg?1441910813" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Stone structures, not wood. Gotta remember that. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/5e30ea894063ce96ad346abb83f7c3701224aca8/original/img-2064.jpg?1441910801" class="size_l justify_center border_" />And now for some more stone, including cobblestone pavers.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/f2c13d12848de6cc0562128ea4188a094cfe96d5/original/img-2079.jpg?1441910861" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Wait, what? How did this wood survive the pillaging? Detail from a door. I don't think this style's available at Home Depot.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/35927e1c4ab61ae4d0c89d81b73a0e9bbbeb30c5/original/img-2105.jpg?1441910856" class="size_l justify_center border_" />You gotta love a Medieval town with a "hashtag sweet selfie spot."<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/073946ebcb8413146e3f160f1031d16b41230e5d/original/img-2102.jpg?1441910854" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Alright, let's do this: Glen Burtnik, Frank Sinatra, Audrey Hepburn, Gordown Townsend. Audrey's holding her own in the midst of a lot of manliness.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/6560d0400f858f43716676fe210a4f0ccbbc17e4/original/img-2086.jpg?1441910867" class="size_l justify_center border_" />There's a modern part of the city, too, of course. I like this floating glass building. BTW, the weather was cool and crisp, reminiscent of upstate New York in summer.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/7744743275af8c904cf867755e187965d1073ad9/original/img-2123.jpg?1441910827" class="size_l justify_center border_" />I decide to try my hand at conducting. <br><br><br> Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/38432932015-09-04T21:38:43-04:002022-05-11T06:00:52-04:00Helsinki, Finland. Yooper blueprint.When I learned the Orchestra would be playing in Finland this summer I messaged my friend Jonathan Rundman, the one guy I know who'd been to Helsinki. I asked what I should do on my day off. Turns out I asked the right guy. "You should meet up with my cousins Carl-Kristian and Micke." So I did.<br><br>Before we go on the Rundman Brothers Tour, let's get acclimated. This spaceship outside my hotel window is actually one of two synagogues in Helsinki. It's a little over one hundred years old. I love the look.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/f4090aac32da7a286ba4a6005edf7618999bdcdb/original/img-2163-synagogue.jpg?1441412383" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>This is the Hall of Culture where The Orchestra Starring Former Members of ELO played two sold-out shows. Nice place.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/f56d1f663f1a8e94c01cb1073446094cd2e4ce63/original/img-2171-concert-hall.jpg?1441412394" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Pedestrians on the right. Bicyclists on the left. DO NOT get the two mixed up or you will get run over.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/3ca5da7d2202851c29cc5d8386dec010738d1937/original/img-2172-dont-get-them-confused.jpg?1441412404" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>This is a former railway line that's been turned into a pedestrian and bike path. It runs right through the heart of Helsinki. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/5b215dbc6eeec67464ef732af2fdd28c99459418/original/img-2192-bike-path.jpg?1441412511" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Street art. I like it.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/565958629f22dd844869c69b8cf6d2bdcd967641/original/img-2174-street-art.jpg?1441412425" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>I see at least two smiling bug-eyed aliens in this piece of board from a building site.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/7f0c93c87646e1b67e4fb6570e82e0081c622981/original/img-2236-wood-graliens.jpg?1441412548" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>This is a laundromat. I was away from home for 26 days. Now you understand why I was excited to find a laundromat.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/2b484dbcaa826b21bd8e0002537775d4167ac68e/original/img-2187-laundry.jpg?1441412433" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Then I met up with the Rundman brothers. Carl-Kristian is a professional actor and Micke directs live music shows for the national public TV channel. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/3001037d55803d42e736841774a7e11a75744a48/original/img-2198-my-hosts.jpg?1441412505" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The super accommodating Rundman Brothers decided to split up their hosting duties. Carl-Kristian took the morning shift and showed me highlights of Helsinki. Micke would meet me later in the day and take me out to the country. Perfect. It was really generous of them to do this for a total stranger. I'll never forget it.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/60a24b48f3c0bed80f79a76672a27db44816268c/original/img-2211-downtown.jpg?1441412524" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>A distorted iPhone panorama of the Olympic Stadium from the 1952 games. The stadium has hosted the Stones, Springsteen and most every giant rock act. Plus some athletic stuff.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/56c356eea2758a8ddb37295884bfeb4fb12cdf05/original/img-2206-olympic-stadium.jpg?1441412520" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The harbor area is vast, with lots of waterfront. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/3de98504264f1a129198abcbcdf841b95c845d82/original/img-2217-helsinki-harbor-panorama.jpg?1441412546" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>View from inside a Ferris Wheel by the harbor. Blue tinted windows give a unique look at huge cruise ships that routinely traverse between Helsinki and Tallinn, Estonia, which is virtually right across the Bay of Finland.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/5678aba14276b0699951728ef1183a39c2e6326f/original/img-2214-ferris-view.jpg?1441412534" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Lunch by the harbor, cooked and eaten right on the street by the water. Salmon, fried sardines, onion rings, potatoes and fresh vegetables. OMG this was so good. Slimming, too.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/a6438643cc1a617b8de5c9805a1703b9dbacef48/original/img-2218-lunch.jpg?1441415027" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>We tried to walk off our lunch by visiting the Sky Bar atop a popular hotel. Here's the view.<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/1ec1e4f1a7f4b66fd4173901b9d595e9a6f68a32/original/img-2227-helsinki-from-sky-bar.jpg?1441415041" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>I bid adieu to Carl-Kristian, thanked him profusely for the tour, and then Micke drove me out to the country. We got into the family motorboat and after only ten minutes we were on a private island in the Bay of Finland. No sound but water, birds and the wind. Awesome. Oh, and my tinnitus. I could hear it really well out there.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/bce6cdcc96471ad68e0d281a34ce61cb0f7a825c/original/img-2253-view-from-the-island.jpg?1441412554" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Now's a good time to reveal the secret spice flavoring this whole trip to Finland. My Dad grew up in Ishpeming, Michigan, way up in the Upper Peninsula. Ishpeming has a long history with Finnish immigrants who settled there in droves. The aforementioned Jonathan Rundman, who suggested I meet up with his cousins, is from Ishpeming, which blew my mind when I found out. Besides music, our mutual ties to that isolated American town have sealed our friendship. So, when Jonathan's cousin took me out to the family camp on this beautiful island, I couldn't believe my eyes. It was a parallel universe to Northern Michigan. Calm, cool water, evergreen shores, white-barked birch trees, huge stones left lying around in the wake of ancient glaciers…it was exact! <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/4bdb6c005636f11b007269adb47efe2c9e824e9d/original/img-2261-michiganesque.jpg?1441412442" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Good stone placement. That's the Bay of Finland, so it's cold and salty.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/3560fcb1a535189ca00851ee8a2635863209ab7e/original/img-2297-good-stone-placement.jpg?1441412475" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Let's eat outside, shall we?<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/6961432c61da310e09dae7dd4b046bb20361af9e/original/img-2262-where-you-eat.jpg?1441412456" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Our constant companion.<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/73bb5e51f1fd767e7d51d8edf058af1169a2b760/original/img-2311.jpg?1441415711" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>Enter Finnish sauna, set for 200 degrees. Cook for 25 minutes. Enter Bay of Finland. Cool off for 25 seconds. Voila. Melted muscles. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/c6cd2b30493e3fe98285ff939bf25b2883ca0853/original/img-2285-200-degrees-jump-in-bay-voila.jpg?1441412499" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>I know. Not picturesque at all. <br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/0a5b3807aabec03989d5709350f187bc4ab1b9a2/original/img-2277-one-of-50-sunset-photos-all-amazing.jpg?1441412467" class="size_l justify_center border_" /><br>The least I could do was host my hosts at our show the following night. Thank you Rundmans! I can't wait to go back!<img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/e50ccf6b7b6a9a9f86e72e240a356cce115fba15/original/img-2341.jpg?1441415703" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/38339862015-08-27T13:50:34-04:002017-01-15T23:22:03-05:00The Rain in Spain<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/854cc05aefec87c4366b05551c4154dedefa4144/original/img-2354.jpg?1440694792" class="size_orig justify_center border_" alt="" /><p class="caption">It may look like an ordinary overcast day. But don't be fooled. That might be the Band Cloud. </p></div><br>The Orchestra wrapped up a recent tour with a show in St. Feliu de Guixols, Spain, about an hour up the coast from Barcelona. Nice town. Classic harbor surrounded by headlands, beautiful water. Part working town, part vacation destination.<br><br>We expected sunny weather. August in Spain, why wouldn't it be sunny? The only reason it might not be sunny would be, well, we don't like to talk about it, but…the Band Cloud.<br><br>The Band Cloud finds us in the most unlikeliest places. A few years ago we went to Junta, Colorado for a gig. Junta was in the middle of a <em>yearlong drought</em>. But voila, they booked The Orchestra, and a huge rainstorm cruised out of nowhere and parked itself on Junta. We waited three hours in a trailer for the rain to stop. It never did. We had to call off the show, first time ever. Band Cloud!<br><br>Cut to Spain. Looks nice, right? <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/9b53393d3b0a3f9addc0370435e39d0f3b5be6c2/original/img-2401.jpg?1440694696" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /> <br><br> <div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/3898344a996e1a6b420d9383e7da6afbb7b530c3/original/img-2384-buildings-in-town.jpg?1440694681" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">These cool old buildings face the harbor. I walked around for a bit...<br><br><img class='justify_center size_orig' src='//s3.amazonaws.com/content.sitezoogle.com/u/146082/c68f9b17aee79f54d1a68fc9b8e0e87e66a05580/original/img-2395.jpg?1440694685'>A faded sign on an abandoned snack shop. Kind of turned into abstract art.<br><br><img class='justify_center size_orig' src='//s3.amazonaws.com/content.sitezoogle.com/u/146082/c50abee756eb95597b129359074b575a75506684/original/img-2389.jpg?1440696079'><br> Not sure what these arches mean. Maybe water used to run through this part of town.<br> </p></div>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/699e6f033910510af46489cf15c3361bd0343ee2/large/img-2411.jpg?1440694719" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">I love the texture of roots and stone. There's a story there.<br> </p></div>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/d74783052839f2eaf37da1b694cc11a9cdb582a1/large/img-2408.jpg?1440696384" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">Up on an unmarked path, evidence of teen activity. That's another story. Hope it ended well.</p></div>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/826107299b9ba3f2e4b4f01f7cabd1cc70b6de1b/large/img-2423.jpg?1440694722" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">A suspended metal staircase is the final piece of access to a great little swimming cove below our hotel.</p></div>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/29b21777ad36281a9d52f4d9e9a30cf0877107bc/large/img-2431.jpg?1440694729" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">The swimming cove. Water was awesome.<br> </p></div>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/b05e432642bc838b5ada975d3d845b8aa2e8c7da/large/img-2434.jpg?1440694727" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">That's our venue for the gig on the day of the show. Mostly sunny. Should be fine.<br> </p></div>So, at 10:30 or 11pm we started our show. Seven or eight songs in, we did "Showdown." When we got to the chorus ("And it's rainin', all over the wor-orld…") it started, on cue, to rain. Band Cloud has a sense of timing. The first three rows of fans grabbed their chairs and scooted up to the stage, beneath an overhang, and out of the rain. We always like it when the fans are right in our face, so that was fun. For a while. Then the rain really started coming down and the promoters and technicians got that worried look on their faces (the look that says 'we don't want an electrocuted musician on our hands') and they hurried us off the stage. <br><br>How could this be? August in Spain? Really?<br><br>Then Band Cloud gave us a break. The rain eased. The promoters asked us to finish the show and that's what we did. A happy ending.<br> <div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/98da368f7bfe46d3f5d998dec4bfdafabc28618a/large/img-2456.jpg?1440694741" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">They stuck around until the end. Thank you, Spain!</p></div><br><br> Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/38334872015-08-26T13:07:38-04:002021-12-13T13:49:12-05:00Grand Ole OrchestryThe Orchestra were the surprise musical guests at a convention in Nashville recently. We performed at the Grand Ole Opry, which was a great honor. It's up there with Royal Albert Hall in my book.<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/cd08b1e223c53686cf2b7728c6ded38afdc16669/medium/img-2551.jpg?1440607957" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">This circle was taken from the original Opry, the Ryman Auditorium.It's in the center of the stage, the star spot.</p></div>
<div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/ce3ec022a8036b17e653ebd5b1fd0c61ea777796/medium/img-2589.jpg?1440608127" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">We couldn't find a star, so I stood on the spot instead.<br> </p></div><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/fb4426d9551078401077eaaf7d846e22473b4d94/large/img-2581.jpg?1440608138" class="size_xl justify_center border_" /> Here's our dressing room, the Porter Wagoner Room. Nicer than it had to be!<br><br> <div class="captioned justify_center"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/928484bc8d7c7d0824615aeb4906d5e069f2204c/medium/img-2546.jpg?1440608106" class="size_orig justify_center border_" /><p class="caption">The Artists known as Huxley and Burtnik.</p></div><br>Nashville is an alluring place. You leave the airport and banners hanging from poles proclaim, "Music Fills The Air." A billboard advertises the Johnny Cash Museum. Another announces a new album. Nice.<br><br>Our band doesn't carry all our gear. We use amps and drums and other stuff supplied by "backline" companies. Our rider requests an acoustic 12-string guitar which I play on "Sweet Talkin' Woman", "Living Thing", "Fire On High" and "Xanadu." One never knows what kind of acoustic guitar will show up…and sometimes things can get a bit dicey...but in Nashville I was provided with a gorgeous, easy to play Taylor 12-String. Thank you, S.I.R.! It really makes a difference!Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/37516672015-06-23T15:05:37-04:002021-12-07T08:00:22-05:00Where did the time go?Jeez. I haven't posted anything in a while. Sorry about that. Life can really ignore the internet sometimes. <br><br>April and May went by in a blur of travel and gigs: Florida, Illinois, Oklahoma, Argentina, Chile, Kentucky, Iowa, California, Tennesee. I honestly think our body/minds are not set up to deal with so much travel in such a compressed time. I found myself walking the streets of Louisville, KY thinking, "Wait a minute. I'm pretty sure these same feet were in Santiago, Chile just a week ago."<div class="captioned justify_left"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/293efaf0c448cbd3934f2e37d9886e260941e6cb/medium/hux-santiago-teatro-caupolican.jpg?1435085864" class="size_orig justify_left border_" alt="" /><p class="caption">In Chile one week..</p></div><br><br><br>I think of jet-lag as soul-lag. That first day in a far-away time zone can be so strange. You feel disoriented, tired, out of it. You're not yourself. And if you're not yourself, than, logically your self must be elsewhere. I like to picture The Self crossing time zones at a leisurely, less than jet-speed pace, saying, "I know you're already in Argentina, body. I'll see you when I get there." And then the next day, you feel like yourself again. Self finally made it.<br> <div class="captioned justify_right"><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/10c55a820deb10aa43a858e95b1c54affd9b992b/medium/lancaster-pre-show.jpg?1435086212" class="size_orig justify_right border_" /><p class="caption">…California the next.</p></div>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/36024802015-03-15T15:14:37-04:002018-07-13T06:02:08-04:00Putin rumors and the mystery successorPutin has not been seen in public for a week and rumors are flying that he is sick, deposed, under house arrest, attending the birth of his unlawful child, and so on. Whenever a Russian leader goes off the grid, it's rarely good news for the regime in power or the Russian people themselves. New leaders often cement their rise to the top with violence and repression. But this time could be different. If Putin were to fall, there is one distinguished member of the Russian military establishment who might have the credentials to not only turn Russia around but embrace the community of nations. <br><br>He is well loved by all. His talents are legendary. He is a man of peace. He is humble and thoughtful with a terrific sense of humor. He is known to be loyal, punctual, considerate and a team player. Who is this mystery man? Who is the one person sought by all to lead Russia to a glorious future? Please see below.<br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/608880268eb65545dba0c9373cc0818d97fc2556/original/mik-hat.jpg?1426446766" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/35856782015-03-09T11:22:29-04:002020-06-01T05:20:24-04:00How Did I Not Know This Song?<a contents='"The Night Chicago Died"' data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-L0NpaErkk">"The Night Chicago Died"</a> by Paper Lace? What and who is that? I just heard this song for the first time, which is weird, because apparently it was a #1 in 1974. I was still living in Greece in 1974 so I wasn't exactly glued to Top 40 radio, but still, you'd think I'd have heard it. Am I in some kind of weird minority here?<br><br>It's an odd song, with an almost-rap beginning and a hodgepodge of story lines. Based on the title, I assumed Paper Lace was a Chicago band, but a couple things in the track left me puzzled. The little guitar harmony at 1:00 is <em>way too</em> Beatley for a Chicago band; and when I heard the harmony vocals at 1:03 I thought, "That sounds like Sweet! No American band ever got this kind of vocal sound." Best resort to Google, and of course, I had my answer in seconds. They're English…and their other claim to fame is that they were the first band to record "Billy Don't Be A Hero", another #1, but only in the UK. Bo Donaldson and the Heywoods released "Billy" in the US and topped the charts over here.<br><br>But Paper Lace didn't write either of those hits. The writers were <a contents="Mitch Murray" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Mitch_Murray">Mitch Murray</a> and Peter Callander, a songwriting/producing team. Wonder who those guys were? Well, Mitch Murray's first hit was none other than "How Do You Do It?" That song was famously rejected by The Beatles in favor of "Please, Please Me" and then scooped up by Gerry & The Pacemakers who had a #1 with it. Murray had tons of other odd hits as well.<br><br>And here's the subtext of this post: although they consume way too much of my time, YouTube and Wikipedia are flat out amazing resources.<br><br><a contents="The Night Chicago Died" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p-L0NpaErkk">The Night Chicago Died</a>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/35264852015-02-12T19:41:18-05:002022-03-30T01:45:41-04:00Grammy WhammySome of you saw this picture on Facebook…of a placeholder card on a chair at the Grammies, put there so performers will know where to sit. It led to a little bit of confusion, with many friends wondering if I was going to be on TV. Easy to see why: that is indeed a picture of my band. But, alas, no, my band is NOT called "Electric Light Orchestra." My band is called THE ORCHESTRA (Former ELO Members). That has been our name since 2000. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/1f91892c12ef2a425e7f4eee4d3fea192008ebb0/medium/elo.jpg?1423787022" class="size_m justify_left border_" />Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/35193442015-02-10T11:34:28-05:002019-03-20T23:45:57-04:00Dean SmithI attended the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, arriving in 1974 after finishing high school in Athens, Greece. My dorm-mate was a friend from Greece, Ed Leight, who'd moved back to the States a few years earlier. After we'd unpacked our stuff, Ed told me, "Okay, you're going to have to learn how to do two things here: drink beer and watch Carolina basketball." I learned other stuff at Chapel Hill, but these were indeed two very important skills. Forty-one years later, Ed's advice remains valid.<br><br>Lucky for me, I was a freshman the same year Phil Ford arrived at Carolina. A dazzling point guard and scorer, Ford was the missing ingredient Carolina needed to thwart NC State's temporary dominance in the ACC thanks to the play of its superstar David Thompson. I soon learned to fume at State's coach Stormin' Norman Sloan. I fell in awe of Walter Davis and the rest of the Carolina players. I learned of the legendary game from the previous year in which Carolina came back against despised Duke from 8 points down in just 17 seconds. And I began my infatuation with Coach Dean Smith.<br><br>Coach Smith seemed to inhabit a different level of reverence in Chapel Hill. He wasn't just a great coach. He was nearly a religious figure to the Carolina faithful. He was to be trusted at all costs. During a tight game, whatever we thought we saw on the court, if we didn't understand it or agree with it, we assumed things were going to be okay, because surely Dean knew exactly what was going on, and furthermore, we felt sure he knew what was going to happen several plays into the future. Every substitution he made, every defense he called, every out of bounds play…seemed like the work of a divine craftsman. We believed in Dean Smith, and I mean, we BELIEVED in him.<br><br>We believed in him like he was a guy who'd risen just slightly above the human fray, who'd seen the light, heard the word, discovered what moved the hearts and minds of humans, and applied all of that divine knowledge to this thing called Carolina Basketball. In that way he sanctified the game for us. When Carolina won, it was with a sense of rightness and justice, because it validated Dean Smith's way of doing things: sharing the ball, getting the best shot, playing for the team, thanking the assist giver, standing up and applauding on the bench whenever a teammate was taken out of a game, taking a charge, hustling for a loose ball, diving out of bounds to save a possession, never giving up, playing hard until the last second, and on and on.<br><br>When Carolina won the national championship in 1982 it was awesome to have seen James Worthy battle Patrick Ewing, "Mike" Jordan hit the game winner and Fred Brown freakishly pass to Worthy and so on. But as we spilled onto Franklin Street for an all night celebration, a huge portion of our delirious joy was linked to our love of Dean Smith. It meant that no one could tag him with the ridiculous criticism that he "couldn't win the big one" after his six previous trips to the Final Four. (Any fan knows how many "big ones" you have to win to even reach one Final Four.) Sure, of course, yes, it helped to have James Worthy, Sam Perkins and Michael Jordan all on one team. We absolutely needed every bit of their talent. But those future NBA stars, when at Carolina, played like all the other Tarheels before them. The championship confirmed that the best team in the land could play the way Dean Smith wanted every Carolina team to play: unselfishly.<br><br>Carolina's current coach, Roy Williams, talks about Dean Smith in this video. Carolina fans can appreciate how hard he's working to keep it together the more he talks about Coach Smith. R.I.P.<br><br><a contents="Roy Williams on Dean Smith" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.goheels.com/mediaPortal/player.dbml?id=3711314" target="_blank">Roy Williams on Dean Smith</a>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/35166772015-02-09T12:11:55-05:002015-02-09T12:11:55-05:00Read What Bob SaysEric Troyer tipped me off to this incredible speech by Bob Dylan. You must read it. After saying virtually nothing over all these years by being elusive and evasive, Dylan has, in one speech, made clear the rhyme and reason of his entire musical life. It's amazing..and I'm not necessarily a Dylan guy. I love <em>Blood On The Tracks</em> and a few other things, so I'm far from a lifetime patron. But this speech is great, great, great.<br><br><a contents="Bob Dylan's amazing speech" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/music/posts/la-et-ms-grammys-2015-transcript-of-bob-dylans-musicares-person-of-year-speech-20150207-story.html#page=3" target="_blank">Bob Dylan's amazing speech</a><br> Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/34933062015-01-29T10:01:07-05:002020-10-31T05:30:40-04:00Still Think You're 24 years old?<font face="Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif" size="2">Not sure how it happened, but somehow (L -R) Grand Funk turned into Steven Wright, George Washington and Billy Crystal with a mullet. </font><span style="font-family: Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; font-size: small; color: rgb(0, 0, 0);">You know how we walk around thinking we're still 24? This will cure that.</span>
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</div>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/34912272015-01-28T10:18:16-05:002019-07-10T11:33:03-04:00Never Too LateThat Powerpopaholic site does a good job of tracking the genre. Nice to see <em>Thank You Bethesda</em> on a Best Of 2013 list, even if I didn't see it until 2015! For what it's worth, I don't go into making albums with the mantra "this will be power pop", I guess my records just turn out that way. Hard to shed pre-Cambrian influences, I suppose. Thanks to Powerpopaholic for the nod.<br><br><a contents="Thank You Bethesda on a Top 25 of 2013 List" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.powerpopaholic.com/2013/12/power-popaholic-top-25-best-albums-2013.html" target="_blank">Thank You Bethesda on a Top 25 of 2013 List</a>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/34911562015-01-28T09:53:15-05:002015-01-28T09:53:15-05:00Once Again, Amazing New Photos of You Know WhoSeriously, has anyone been photographed more than The Beatles and the Stones? Every year it seems a new crop of never-before-seen photos gets revealed. It's insane. And, I love it. Check out these pictures taken by the bands' tour manager. My favorite has to be of Lennon playing keys with his elbow on "I'm Down."<br><br><a contents="Beatles and Stones New Photos" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.latimes.com/entertainment/music/posts/la-et-ms-beatles-rolling-stones-photos-ebay-bob-bonis-20150127-story.html#page=1&lightbox=82649725">Beatles and Stones New Photos</a>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/34822182015-01-23T10:04:09-05:002020-06-15T00:27:51-04:00Three Things To Remember About FebruaryThere are only three things you need to remember about February. Here we go: 1) Super Bowl 2) Hux's Gig at Jammin Java 3) Valentines Day. That's it. Easy peasy. Let's go through that one more time. Super Bowl, my gig at Jammin Java, Valentines Day. You're all set. <br><br>If you haven't yet bought your advance tickets to the spectacular 6:30 pm show at Jammin Java on Saturday February 7th, here's your chance while the getting's good:<br><br><a contents="Buy Tickets Now While Good Seats Last" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.ticketfly.com/purchase/selectSeats?__utmx=-&__utmv=-&__utmk=171949728&__utmz=1.1418829227.11.2.utmcsr%3Dfacebook.com%7Cutmccn%3D%28referral%29%7Cutmcmd%3Dreferral%7Cutmcct%3D%2F&__utma=1.705153693.1411393866.1421970004.1422025355.14&__utmc=1&__utmb=1.2.10.1422025355&id=741779&seatSelectorOnly=true" target="_blank">Buy Tickets Now While Good Seats Last</a><br><br>See you at the show!Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/34313122014-12-23T14:39:43-05:002020-06-06T00:00:52-04:00This Two-Different-Shoes Pioneer Finally Gets His Due<br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/91b03fa4f6fda1368083e94c943d39b5517eb789/original/2-shoes-huxley.jpeg?1419363188" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Those of you who've known me for a while may recall my pioneering fashion deployment of two different colored shoes back in the mid to late 80s…I KNOW, I know, you're welcome for my bravery. Well, at long last, the larger world has caught up with my idea, and I couldn't be more pleased that it's in fact my beloved Tarheels who will be flying the bi-color banner in nearly the exact same colors that I so forward-thinkingly wore years ago. AND, it's for a great cause. Go Heels! <br><br><a contents="Heels Go Bi-Color" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.goheels.com/ViewArticle.dbml?DB_LANG=C&SITE=UNC&DB_OEM_ID=3350&ATCLID=209819588" target="_blank">Heels Go Bi-Color</a>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/34268622014-12-22T10:00:12-05:002021-01-25T05:39:42-05:00Statement takes the Royal out of RoyaltyMy Orchestra bandmate Eric Troyer sent me the below link. Those of you who aren't recording artists may find it surprising or even somewhat shocking. But most musicians who've rubbed up against a major label will understand, nod their heads, sigh and maybe even laugh. Same old story: don't expect honest accounting from a major record label, and don't expect to get paid. In other words, "Hey, you're just a musician. You wouldn't understand how the business works." Read on. Comments welcome!<br><br><a contents="Too Much Joy Royalty Statement" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.toomuchjoy.com/index.php/2009/12/my-hilarious-warner-bros-royalty-statement/" target="_blank">Too Much Joy Royalty Statement</a>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/33912242014-12-12T09:21:34-05:002020-06-06T00:00:52-04:00Gigs, Gigs, Gigs!Lots of opportunities to see The Orchestra (Former ELO Members), my covers band The Suitors and P. Hux solo shows in 2015. Check out the Shows page link below. The Orchestra will visit a bunch of places in the States we've never played before including Jacksonville FL, Louisville KY, Quapa OK and Manistee MI. The Suitors will play monthly at the awesome K of C Lounge beginning in January!<br><br><a contents="Gigs!" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="http://www.parthenonhuxley.com/shows" target="_blank">Gigs!</a>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/33777392014-12-09T09:44:39-05:002018-07-20T04:02:38-04:00Just Slightly More FunYesterday was the always-painful anniversary of John Lennon's murder. Beyond the horror and cowardice of the act itself, beyond the loss suffered by his wife, family and close friends, beyond the anguish felt by a billion (reasonable estimate I'd think) fans…it struck me after watching this video of the Dick Cavett show (link below) that the past 34 years would've been just slightly more<em> fun</em> with John Lennon among the alive and well. <br><br><a contents="Dick Cavett Show" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7kXCnKfdGOY">Dick Cavett Show</a><br><br> Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/33642642014-12-05T10:13:14-05:002018-07-13T06:11:34-04:00These people were not meant to dieNot everyone loves this kind of video, but I do. It literally makes me yell out loud. I feel like the crazy stuff captured on camera can be seen in a number of ways…it might mean that we humans are often idiots…we're miraculously lucky…we're truly protected by guardian angels…or all the above. Enjoy some amazing, gasp-worthy images in this vid:<br><br><a contents="Not for the faint of heart" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zP6Y2AktKic" target="_blank">Not for the faint of heart</a>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/33510962014-12-02T15:20:40-05:002020-06-06T00:00:52-04:00Sears not backing downI was in a Sears today. They didn't have what I was looking for, but I took a little stroll through the store just for fun…well, that's a bit of an overstatement. It wasn't really fun, but it was interesting, in a land-that-time-forgot kind of way. I gotta hand it to Sears. They're not going to be browbeaten into 21st century merchandising techniques. You know how people today enjoy stores that are "cool" or "fun" or "clean"? Sears is having none of it. Just stick the stuff on racks or put it on the floor. What you see is what you get--a sweater with a wolf on it, for instance. Or a shovel. Sears' shoe department has a beige sign saying "Footwear." That's <em>sexy</em>. It's like they said, "Shoes are kind of fun…how can we kill that?" <br> <div>I'll always be grateful to Sears, though, for the guitars in the catalogue. SO cool to fawn over when I was a kid.</div>
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<div> </div><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/8f89a55bb90fd9a70e7ea6d95dd7645ff7c8f85b/original/sears1969.jpg?1417551550" class="size_l justify_center border_" />Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/32802932014-11-13T10:39:16-05:002014-11-13T10:39:16-05:00For Beatle Freaks OnlyI'm reading <strong>The Beatles: All These Years Vol. 1 TUNE IN</strong> by Mark Lewisohn. If you love the Beatles, this book will tell you everything you could possibly want to know, and then some, about the Fabs. It's amazing. Vol. 1 is all about the early years, and it ends, after 803 pages, with the <em>release of their first album</em>. Yeah, it's insane. For guys like me, who consider the Beatles' story to be THE epic tale of our times, TUNE IN is a fascinatingly detailed tome. All the gaps in this well-known story are filled in. For instance, we know that John lost his mom Julia when she was run over by an off duty policeman. TUNE IN has the police report of the accident that cost Julia her life, recollections from the people who were there at the scene of the accident, quotes from the poor remorseful guy who ran her over, quotes from John's Aunt Mimi, who'd just walked her sister to the street after Julia's unusual visit to Mimi's home at Mendips, etc. TUNE IN is like reading a novel 50 years after the Cliff Notes.<br><br>Another bit, among hundreds, I found really interesting was learning more about Stu Sutcliffe and his art. It's long been said he was a great painter, but what painters influenced him? What style was he into? TUNE IN tells us who Stu Sutcliffe's favorite painter was. It comes up in the book because for the Beatles' first ever tour in Scotland, the boys all took on stage names. George became Carl Harrison (after Carl Perkins), Paul went for French sizzle with Paul Ramon and Stu became Stuart De Stael, after Nicolas De Stael. Here in the Google age, it's easy to check out De Stael's stuff (see link below). It tells us a lot about Stu to see De Stael's work, which is quite beautiful.<br><br><a contents="Stu Sutcliffe's favorite artist" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.google.com/search?q=nicolas+de+stael&client=safari&rls=en&source=lnms&tbm=isch&sa=X&ei=_LljVNazLbSRsQTe4oCICw&ved=0CAgQ_AUoAQ&biw=1183&bih=617" target="_blank">Stu Sutcliffe's favorite artist</a><br> Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/32773462014-11-11T17:56:25-05:002019-10-25T14:01:17-04:00Hilarious intro by Lennon and an even funnier comment by fan<p>This is a great video clip of The Beatles doing "Help!" <br><br> <a contents="Help" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=yWP6Qki8mWc">Help</a><br><br>This is one of the comments below the video:<br>"I have been The Beatles biggest fan for many years. I hope you all enjoy the music of John, Paul, George and Rooster."<br><br> </p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/32745982014-11-10T08:45:28-05:002018-07-20T04:03:52-04:00Tracks & Treasure Review<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 10px; font-family: Arial; min-height: 11px;"><span class="font_large">Don't you love your hard drive? I find all kinds of things on there. Here's a nice review of Tracks & Treasures Vol 1 by Fred Mills, ace music writer.</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 13px; font-size: 16px; font-family: Arial;"><br><span style="font-size: 17px;"><b>P. Hux </b></span><b>Tracks & Treasure Volume 1</b></p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 11px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(22, 54, 238);"><span style="color: #000000">(nine18 records) <a href="http://www.parthenonhuxley.com/">www.parthenonhuxley.com</a></span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Arial; min-height: 12px;"> </p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 11px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Arial;">Tarheel ex-pat Parthenon Huxley, currently based in the D.C. area and a member of ELO (aka "The Orchestra"), has a sterling rock ‘n' lineage stretching back to a series of seminal mid/late ‘70s Chapel Hill indie combos. Along the way, he's earned a reputation for being the consummate pop craftsman, steeped in the traditions as established by the Beatles <i>et al</i>, and able to wield a wicked hook at the drop of a hat while singing in an uncommonly rich tenor. He initially pinged the national radar in '88 after signing to Columbia Records, which released his album <i>Sunny Nights</i>, and he went on to collaborate with everyone from XTC and Sass Jordan to Kyle Vincent and the eels' E. Meanwhile, operating under the solo and band name of P. Hux, over the years he's also delivered a brace of records enthusiastically embraced by the power pop community - among them, <i>Deluxe</i>, <i>Purgatory Falls </i>and, most recently, <i>Kiss The Monster</i>. Now, with <i>Tracks & Treasures Volume 1</i>, Huxley does a little bit of vault-clearing and, per the odds ‘n' sods imperative as laid down all those years ago by Pete Townshend and The Who, he unearths some genuinely dusky gems that should have been included on his albums all along.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 11px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Arial;">Among the highlights: "The Air Gets Colder," powered by a rich violin melody courtesy ELO's Mik Kaminski and boasting an infectious vocal tagline; acoustic number "Mercy," a devastating portrait of loss and loneliness; "Drag You Down," chilling in its detailed depiction of a betrayal, yet so luminous - it's <i>Abbey Road</i>-worthy - that it draws the listener decisively into its warm cocoon of melody; and "She Must Be From Heaven," a gorgeous slice of Big Star/Todd Rundgren pop co-written by the Go-Go's Gina Schock, who also drums on the track. Sound quality varies somewhat over the course of the 11-song disc, which is typical of such archival endeavors. The crunching garage-rock vibe of "Things Could Be Worse," for example,<i> </i>contrasts considerably with the full-blown, lush production of "Kifissia Girls"; and a cover of Badfinger's "Perfection" (originally on 1996 tribute album <i>Come and Get It</i>) falls squarely in between those two sonic extremes.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 11px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Arial;">None of that's a drawback, however. In fact the final cut, a hidden track at the end, is an early, lo-fi version of "The Air Gets Colder" as twangingly charming as it comes. Knowing that it was originally cut by Huxley in the mid ‘70s (when he was going by the name Rick Miller) and his Chapel Hill band the Blazers just makes it all the cooler for anyone who's followed his career to date. Here's to several more decades, sir.</p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 11px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Arial;">FRED MILLS / Blurt Online Review </p>
<p style="margin: 0px 0px 11px; font-size: 11px; font-family: Arial;"><b>HIGHLIGHTS:</b> "She Must Be From Heaven," "Mercy," "Drag You Down"</p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/32601642014-10-31T12:01:11-04:002014-10-31T12:01:11-04:00My favorite music video in yearsI posted this to FB a while back, but it deserves another post here. This is the funniest cartoon about recording, producing, creative techniques, songwriting credit, rock history, vanity, inside music jokes, etc that I've ever seen. It's kind of a miracle that it exists. I was reading Bowie's biography, Star Man, and doing the occasional dip into YouTube to find songs I'd never heard before, such as "Can't Help Thinking About Me", an awesome 1966 harbinger of The Bowie To Come, when I stumbled on this cartoon that parodies Bowie's work in Berlin on the album <em>Low</em>. What's amazing about the parody is that there is <em>nothing inherently funny</em> about Bowie recording Low. Animation geniuses the Brothers McLeod plucked this out of thin air. The Tony Visconti quote about the Eventide Harmonizer is legit, BTW.<br><br><a contents="Bowie Recording in Berlin" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=FODvjYoVEi8" target="_blank">Bowie Recording in Berlin</a><br><br>And here's the cool early song:<br><br><a contents="Great early Bowie song" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=K1MXonBG5NI" target="_blank">Great early Bowie song</a>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/32581722014-10-30T10:53:30-04:002018-03-25T16:06:40-04:00Thank You Bethesda MagazineLooks like I'm not the only one mixing "Bethesda" into the arts. Here's a little piece in the most recent issue of Bethesda Magazine that mentions my latest album <em>Thank You Bethesda</em>.<br><br><a contents="Bethesda Magazine" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.digitalbethesdamagazine.com/bethesdamagazine/november_december_2014?sub_id=Xi07BVAveofY#pg49">Bethesda Magazine</a><br><br><br> Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/32581542014-10-30T10:44:27-04:002014-10-30T10:44:27-04:00Pretty Cool MashupGlen Burtnik turned me on to this well done mash-up with a surprise twist.<br><br><a contents="Pretty Cool Mashup" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=B5NuDWx2IMI">Pretty Cool Mashup</a>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/32562402014-10-29T12:48:14-04:002020-06-06T00:00:52-04:00Kid, I was chuggin' espresso before your Mama graduated grade school!The other day in Trader Joe's I purchased two large cans of dark roasted beans. A helpful 20-something employee asked me, "Sir, do you have a machine to grind these at home?" (Translation: "Old man, you <em>do</em> realize you're buying <em>beans</em>, not <em>NesCafe</em>, right?") I held my tongue. "Yeah. I do." Coffee is kind of my thing. Anyone who's had my homemade Soy Latte can attest to my skills. I absolutely need a cup of personality in the morning or I'll never get Mr. Grumpy out of my head. On the road I am a loyal Starbucks patron, with Eric and Gordon close behind. Glen Burtnik calls Starbucks "Fivebucks", which is a fair snark, but I will never, ever be mad at a place for making great coffee. Recently in Austria I asked the desk person if her city (Linz) had a Starbucks. Her shoulders slumped with frustration and she said, "I'm embarrassed to say that we don't. I wish we did!" I felt her pain.Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/32525712014-10-27T14:37:57-04:002014-10-27T14:37:57-04:00Random Free Downloads on the Music PageCheck in with my music page when you visit…I'll be making random songs available for free download from time to time. The latest free track is "Love Is The Greatest Thing" from <em>Thank You Bethesda.</em> I'd love it if you <em>bought</em> a few others, of course, but that's just my starving artist talking!Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/32177542014-10-04T17:28:14-04:002014-10-04T17:28:14-04:00Mike Versaci has excellent tasteA gentleman named Michael Versaci recently posted on Facebook:<p><span style="color: rgb(35, 35, 35); font-family: Arial;">I bought this album after having been a fan of Parthenon Huxley (aka P. Hux) for at least 10 years with high expectations. It came in the mail yesterday and I popped it in the car CD player for my morning commute. </span><span style="font-family: Arial; color: rgb(20, 23, 35);">It blew me away upon first listen. I was in classic rock heaven! Maybe I’m going out on a limb but I think this is the best album he’s ever recorded and I’m a fan of all of them. “Hux” is a fantastic songwriter with clever lyrics with a sense of humor coupled with sophisticated yet catchy melodies. His songs go down easy like a cool spring day. You don’t have to commit to them – you just like them. He is also an amazingly great lead and acoustic guitar player easily drifting between Hendrix and Harrison from one song to the next. His band rocks hard. The arrangements of the songs are intelligent and yet not contrived.</span></p>
<p style="margin: 0px; font-family: Arial; color: rgb(20, 23, 35);">Folks, this album is the entire package. If you like The Beatles, XTC, 60’s and 70’s Classic Rock in general, and yes, ELO, you must buy this album. Now. You’ll thank me.</p>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/31892252014-09-16T10:51:04-04:002014-10-04T15:53:16-04:00VIDEO: Thank You Bethesda!<iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="mZKroZGpLE4" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/mZKroZGpLE4/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/mZKroZGpLE4?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/31783262014-09-09T07:21:10-04:002014-10-04T16:07:53-04:00VIDEO: overdubbing guitar on "Love Is The Greatest Thing"While making <em>Thank You Bethesda</em> I spent a lot of time in Mark Williams' Suckerpunch Studio. I mean a LOT of time. Recording is fun, but when you do it for hours and hours you can kind of lose your mind, in a good way. Somehow we still managed to get work done. Check it out.<br><br><iframe class="justify_inline" data-video-type="youtube" data-video-id="wSHAu12H6iA" data-video-thumb-url="http://img.youtube.com/vi/wSHAu12H6iA/0.jpg" type="text/html" src="https://www.youtube.com/embed/wSHAu12H6iA?rel=0&wmode=transparent&enablejsapi=1" frameborder="0" height="200" width="320" allowfullscreen="true"></iframe>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/31756842014-09-07T14:31:17-04:002018-07-20T04:03:19-04:00What a show! I saw Aerosmith live, Saturday, Sept 6th, 2014, with opener Slash. <br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/74adfb9fd52c59922c91adc2d40729c573e8700c/original/img-6797.jpg?1410113859" class="size_l justify_center border_" />The reason I went to the show is this guy, Alex Leipold, one of my more talented guitar students. Alex is a huge fan of Slash, and many months ago Alex mentioned Slash was opening for Aerosmith in our area. I said, "Hmmm…let me see if I can arrange something. A guy I know works for Aerosmith."<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/f59781a0845b70272c0618361c6bab797323ca21/original/img-6799.jpg?1410113847" class="size_l justify_center border_" />That guy is <em>this</em> guy, John Shipp. John's a brilliant front-of-house engineer who used to work for my band The Orchestra. We had quite a few sonic adventures in places like El Salvador and Russia that required all of John's extensive audio skills. But I digress. I asked John if he could hook us up and boy did he ever. First, John took me and Alex up on stage to check out the gear.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/a6a483811fb6b05512430a3c3974f049bc4be961/original/img-6787.jpg?1410113874" class="size_l justify_center border_" />These are Slash's guitars. You've probably noticed already that Slash <em>really likes Les Pauls</em>. Those white picks are duct-taped to the headstock.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/b6b4c34b47a91989cd6c9b38cec422604a9c25b1/original/img-6793.jpg?1410115086" class="size_l justify_center border_" />This area is on the stage, right behind the drums and amps, hidden by black cloth. It's basically a rock and roll bunker/operations center. It's where the Aerosmith guitar techs keep all the guitars ready for action. Pretty much every one is a collector's item. Fun.<br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/5a04222cd4d1b259e9aaa55e65bcd0faec480db3/original/img-6813.jpg?1410115103" class="size_l justify_center border_" />This is the view we had of the concert. We were ON the stage, just to the right of Brad Whitford's guitar bunker. It was kind of insane. At one point in the middle of a song Steven Tyler came over to where Alex and I were watching the show. He leaned right into us while he was singing his heart out. A camera guy was right there and I looked up at the jumbo screen to see my smiling-like-an-idiot face, about two stories tall. Wish I had a picture!<br><br>So, how was the show?<br><br>WOW. You finally see an act live and suddenly everything changes. My appreciation of Aerosmith--a band I've liked well enough but not necessarily worshipped for all these years--just increased about 4000%. All because I saw them live. MAN OH MAN. Now THAT is a rock show!<div><div><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/a024f3c702fd613944066300e524d4eb7003776a/original/img-6831.jpg?1410113813" class="size_l justify_center border_" /></div></div><br>Steven Tyler in particular was a revelation. After having him around as media wallpaper for 40 years, I finally saw what he brings to the stage in person. It's completely amazing. He's obviously a piece of work, kind of a six-year-old in a 66-year-old's body...but what an entertainer. <br><br>90 minutes went by in a flash because Tyler never stopped pushing, never took a breather. He involved the crowd. He involved his bandmates. He involved the camera guys. He barked at his crew. He threw his harmonica to a fan. He threw a head scarf to a fan. He put the mic in front of a gawking middle aged woman and made her sing her heart out…for an entire chorus. <br><br>When he wasn't keeping everyone engaged he sang his ass off. I mean, <em>really sang incredibly well</em>. All the range is there. All the power is there. All the risk-taking is there. He played with melodies, screamed and shouted with abandon…it was eye-popping. A lot of guys half his age don't have half his skills. What a show!<br><br> Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/31699792014-09-03T17:20:42-04:002020-06-06T00:00:53-04:00When Waltzing Was WackyI recently noticed that both Buffalo Springfield and the Beatles enjoyed switching between waltz time (<em>123,123</em>) and standard 4/4 (<em>1234</em>) in the same song. You're probably more familiar with the Beatles' use of this neat trick. For instance the verses of <em>Lucy In The Sky With Diamonds</em> ("Picture yourself in a boat on a river…") are in waltz time, but the chorus ("Lucy in the sky-y with diamonds…") is in 4/4. On <em>We Can Work It Out</em>, John's bridge goes from 4/4 ("Life is very short and there's no time…") to waltz time (…fighting my friend…"). <br><br>Buffalo Springfield did it on <em>Broken Arrow</em>. After just a single line of the first verse in 4/4 ("The lights turned on and the curtain fell down") the band shifts to waltz time ("And when it was over it felt like a dream.") Pretty brave stuff, but of course it was the 60s, baby, yeah! <br><br>Another cool example from BS is <em>Everydays</em>, also from the album Buffalo Springfield Again. The verse stays in waltz time ("Saturday's child stays home/ Nothing to say, so long") and then drops right into 4/4 like it's the most normal move in the world ("Well well well another day / well well another day.")<br><br><a contents="Everydays" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=EISmB5HT20U" target="_blank">Everydays</a><br><br><br>I like it.<br> Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/31674852014-09-02T10:02:20-04:002020-06-06T00:00:53-04:00The Birth of Rock and Roll<a contents="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvzmBA91P3c" data-link-label="" data-link-type="url" href="https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvzmBA91P3c">https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=PvzmBA91P3c</a><br><br>According to most sources, Trixie Smith came up with this song in 1922. "My Daddy Rocks Me (With A Steady Roll)" looks to be the first linking of "rock" and "roll" and its subject matter couldn't be clearer. (There's also a version called "My Man Rocks Me…"). A great tradition was unleashed and I'm glad to be a small pebble in its roaring path.Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/31651992014-08-31T12:49:14-04:002014-10-04T16:03:39-04:00Cleveland Examiner notes my "guitar hero charisma"Here's a story from the Cleveland Examiner about The Orchestra's performance there in August, 2014. Unusually, most of the facts are correct (with the exception of Bev Bevan's last name among other small things) so hats off to to writer Pete Roche who seemed to really enjoy the show. I'm glad he ditched the legal history of the band and focused more on what actually happened on stage--that's what people pay money to see and hear IMHO.<br><br><a contents="Review of our show in Cleveland" data-link-label="" data-link-type="" href="http://www.examiner.com/review/the-orchestra-enchants-cleveland-pac-with-electric-light-hits?cid=rss">Review of our show in Cleveland</a>Parthenon Huxleytag:www.parthenonhuxley.com,2005:Post/31219202014-08-04T12:54:02-04:002020-06-06T00:00:52-04:00Hotel ArtThe Orchestra performed in Sydney, Nova Scotia during summer 2014. Sydney's a small city on a natural harbor. It's got that "northern" feel…birch trees, lots of uninterrupted forest, old wooden houses, etc. We stayed at the Martin Arms hotel. On the third floor at the top of the stairs I was captivated by this piece of art. Surely there's a heartwarming story behind it.<br><br><br><img src="//d10j3mvrs1suex.cloudfront.net/u/146082/7511ee3f977ae7d2ac56117536b54e5b442835f8/medium/canada-dancer-art.jpg?1407171042" class="size_m justify_center border_" /><br><br> Parthenon Huxley