18 years ago, my bass player took me to a VIP room in some bar. The mission was to pick up an effects pedal or something from someone. Unsure of the ways of the world, I sat for 5 minutes, observing the goings-on. The room hosted 10 zombie-like blank-faced patrons. Never before had I witnessed such boring people. Exiting the bar, I shared my observations with Mr. Bass. “Most people are like that”, he replied, “They’re incredibly boring until you’re had a few drinks. A few drinks loosens everyone up.” Suddenly, the world of alcohol made a lot more sense.
As you may be aware, I have big plans. One plan is to take my kids for a drive around the United States of America in a van while listening to countless episodes of This American Life. In preparation, I’ve downloaded all 405 episodes. Every day I listen to archives, sorting the wheat from the chaff. Last week, while listening to a random episode, I heard a mentally handicapped dude singing about California. Sure it’s borderline exploitative, but I urge you to listen to the full 95 second clip. Even if you’re at work, you’ll have a hard time not singing along with the chorus. The dude’s total lack of inhibition is startling. I’m pretty sure I could write equally fantastic music if I could stifle my inhibitions. Is there a boozeless solution to this? I’m too old to get mixed up with booze.