NEW SEGMENT: Kevin Harrison's Lyrical Enlightenment of the Day

Everyone needs some encouragement in the morning when you have to deal with incompetent drivers/Metro riders/any annoying commute equivalent you deal with everyday.

Lately, my musical soulmate Kevin Harrison has been remedying my morning woes with some uplifting and comical lyrical text messages courtesy of some of our favorite bands.

He just started a new job at UNICEF in New York City to fund his other career as a musician and takes the East River ferry everyday from the hipster 'hood, Brooklyn, to Manhattan. In this time, he would text me some Chris Robinson wisdom via Black Crowes lyrics. As this trend has continued, we've moved on to other artists like Macklemore, American Aquarium...even 30 Seconds to Mars (I'm only OK with it because Jared Leto is my hippie fantasy man).

I thought all of my vagabond family could benefit from this lyrical therapy. So, Kevin Harrison's Lyrical Enlightenment of the Day segment on Musical Vagabond is born. Check back every day for a new lyric, as well as some textual commentary on said lyric.

(NOTE: I think this is even more appropriate since what is more 'vagabond' then taking a boat to work? Awesome.)

Enjoy your Fridays everyone, and keep on listening!

Y'ALL GET THAT CHICKEN - Some DC Ladies' Epic Trip to New Orleans Jazzfest - May 2-6, 2014

There are some trips that (a) foreshadow a long and prosperous friendship and (b) are really awesome. My latest trip to New Orleans Jazzfest was both of these things. I went with my soccer besties Natalie and Christine on an epic and somewhat spontaneous journey to New Orleans. We had all been to NoLa before but never for Jazzfest and never as a unified #horsebraiding unit. This was also all of our first foray into the use of AirBnB – staying in someone’s house when they may or may not be there. It’s wayyyy cheaper than a hotel (especially during Jazzfest) and so I was like why not? We are adventurous individuals – we can handle it.

Team Horsebraiding. Don't ask.

We embarked on our adventure Friday night, complete with an entire bottle of wine pregame at the airport AND wine on the plane (thanks, Southwest.) We arrived to the aptly named Louis Armstrong International Airport several hours later and head downtown in one of New Orleans’ finest taxicabs (pause for sarcastic recognition). All that we knew was that our AirBnB accommodation was right downtown on Canal Street a bit north of the French Quarter. What we didn’t realize is that it was an older house amongst the Tulane Medical School building complex. Needless to say, we were a little weirded out. BUT as soon as we walked in the house, we realized we made the right decision. The house was eclectic and looked like the apartment from Across the Universe (if only we had Sadie to hang out with). We stayed in one of the resident’s rooms, a girl with incredibly eclectic taste – wigs, vintage shoes, a Willie Nelson shrine in the kitchen, philosophical writings on the mirror. This chick was our kinda girl. Her room was HUGE – enough room for her queen bed and a double air mattress. There was more than enough space for the 3 of us and all of our festival stuff, as well as a huge bathroom for us connected to the room. Best of all? A dive bar next door named Handsome Willy’s with the best day-of-the-week promotion I’ve heard since Wu-Tang Wednesday at Satellite Room – ‘Funk N’ Crunk Fridays’. It’s OK – I know this is blowing your mind as much as it did mine. I want to make it my goal in life to start a Funk N’ Crunk Fridays trend at every bar I attend going forward. We called it a night fairly early by New Orleans standards since Natalie and Christine had to prepare themselves for their first big music festy.

The next morning we woke up refreshed and ready to go (and entirely too early because we didn’t go out). We met our eccentric AirBnB host. She gave us fantastic pointers about jazzfest and where to eat breakfast. Her suggestion led us to the Ruby Slipper, a locals spot a few blocks down from our little abode on Canal Street. They are famous for their larger than life biscuits – for good reason. These biscuits were as big as my head and weighed down with the most butter ever. We ordered 3 more for breakfast the next two mornings. After a Walgreens run for beer/sunscreen/Cliff bars, it was Jazzfest time.

Our house was near the French Quarter, but not necessarily near the Jazzfest fairgrounds. So getting to the fairgrounds was our first task. It turned out that from anywhere in New Orleans to the fairgrounds was just $5 per person each way – not bad at all for a major tourist attraction. The fairgrounds were quite a bit larger than we realized so we knew we would need to get our bearings first. We wandered, got a schedule and a beverage and made our way to the Acura Stage, Jazzfest’s main stage. I was the festival veteran of the group, so my Camelbak was the communal hydrator. We got to the Acura Stage in time for New Orleans legend Allen Toussaint to start his set. He went through several classic New Orleans jazz songs which was a poetic way to begin our first jazzfest. This was about noon, very early in the day for the festival, so the area around the stage was fairly sparse. Good news for 3 chicks whose first jazzfest it was. Allen Toussaint then announced that he had a friend that he’d like to bring on stage. I thought another New Orleans jazz legend. And this is where the Jazzfest surprises began. Allen Toussaint’s “good friend” was none other than Jimmy Buffet. Everyone was SHOCKED. I thought about Parrotheads paying hundreds of dollars to see Jimmy Buffet and I got to see him based on pure chance. Very cool. He sang a few songs and was on his way to continue partying at Jazzfest. The daiquiris needed refilling so we attended to that need. We wandered for a bit and even got to participate in a Jazzfest parade, complete with a brass band and steppers. Walking past the food vendors made me realize this wasn’t just any music festival – each stand was dedicated to some New Orleans culinary specialty – crawfish, etouffee, jambalaya, alligator pie, fried chicken – take your pick. My arteries were clogging with each new food option. Although we had tickets to a show later that night to see The Revivalists, they were also playing at Jazzfest at Samsung Galaxy stage, the other main stage at the festival. I had just seen them a few weeks before in DC so I knew how epic their shows could be. Nothing could have prepared me for their festival style show – so much energy and all the instruments sounded incredible in this setting. Best part of the show? 2 back-to-back Rage Against the Machine covers. If there was any doubt in my mind that I had made a good decision to come to Jazzfest, this doubt was on a plane back to DC.

Jazzfest - Day 1

Jimmy Buffet & Allen Toussaint - NBD

The Revivalists - Rage cover - Bulls on Parade - Minute 17:20

Speaking of Rage Against the Machine. Following The Revivalists set, we only had about an hour until Bruce Springsteen & the E Street Band started at the Acura Stage. So instead of being inundated with Tulane students waiting for Foster the People, we made our way to Acura. It was unbelievably packed. Like Bonnaroo was never even this packed – I guess everyone else knew how sweet it was that the Boss was at Jazzfest for the price of a day ticket. The most annoying thing about Jazzfest is that they don’t limit where people set up chairs and such. So getting close to the front of the stage is a feat for those who don’t mind getting dirty looks from those in their tailgating chairs. We were in that category of people. We got as close as we could without suffering a claustrophobia anxiety attack and severely pissing off the people standing an inch from my face. The Boss was as incredible as ever, playing quite a few songs from the new album and then more recognizable songs like Hungry Heart. A few songs in, I realized this was not the typical E Street Band crew. There was a newcomer, none other than Tom Morello from Rage Against the Machine. I just about fainted from shock. Probably the best way to end the first day of Jazzfest. After a while of looking at the guy in front of me’s neck, we decided to get some air and walk over to see Trey Songz. I really don’t wanna hear it, fellow music snobs. I couldn’t stand to be that dangerously close to some Jersey tourists’ B.O. for one more second. There was definitely more space at Trey Songz, the opportunity to see the sun begin to go down and some dancing. And Trey was as sexy as ever. Eye candy may have been better than the show, but that’s fine.

Best girls in the world

Trey Songz!

The Boss

We had tickets that night to an awesome show at the Joy Theatre featuring three prominent New Orleans acts – Earphunk, Motet and the Revivalists. We went to a standard (and overpriced) place for dinner in the French Quarter. After the server told us a good way to get a feel for local culture was to go to the zoo, it was definitely time to go elsewhere for tourism advice. The show started with Earphunk who rocked the Joy Theatre. The best of the night in my opinion. The theatre wasn’t full at all for Earphunk but I figured that was a result of them being the opener. The $4 Stellas definitely helped make the night more interesting. The Motet wasn’t really my style, but the lead singer definitely had stage presence. The Revivalists were the headliner, but I felt that for that venue, Earphunk stole the show. The Revivalists are definitely better suited for a large festival atmosphere than a smaller venue. It could have something to do with that fact that the theatre was half empty, but…I’m just sayin’.

Me & Dave Shaw from the Revivalists!

Sunday was to close out the 2-weeklong festival. Some of my favorite acts were to come. Let me preface this epic of a day by saying Natalie had casually been saying throughout the trip that her cousin was the significant other of the bassist in Arcade Fire. I knew songs by Arcade Fire but I was completely oblivious to how big time of a band they were. I guess I should have known by the mere fact that they were one of the headliners of the festival. Fail Nora. The early part of the day wasn’t too exciting musically so we did a bunch of the stuff that looked awesome but weren’t sure if we would get around to it – go to the zydeco stage, learn how to properly dance to zydeco music, go to the Native American village and watch a man move his feet faster than any human I’ve ever seen during a traditional war dance, eat Indian fry bread, eat other New Orleans food (namely crawfish), make friends while eating crawfish and…buy more sunscreen for Christine’s fragile Eastern European flesh.

Christine + Zydeco dancing

Nola parade

Native American traditional dancer

A few hours later, we made our way to the Samsung stage for the the funk fest began for the day with George Porter, Jr. and the Runnin’ Pardners. Awesome I know. We were at front of the stage doing what I like to call Nora-funk dance. It’s really catching on I think. I wish I could go to shows like this all the time – all is right with the world at a funk show. Like all of the musicians we’d seen, these guys were insanely talented local musicians. After that funky dance party, we made our way to another one at the Acura stage and figured we would just camp out there for Arcade Fire and Trombone Shorty to close out the festival. Ian Neville’s funk project, Dumpstaphunk, rocked the Acura stage and I was finally able to hear my favorite New Orleans funk number, “Hey Pocky-a-Way”. I danced my life away for that one and had exhausted my Camelbak so I needed to take a few to chill. We waited about an hour for Arcade Fire. In this time, Natalie had been texting her cousin and she was able to get Nat a backstage pass for the show. Christine and I were able to get right to the front of the general admission fence as Nat went backstage to hang with her cousin and the rest of the Arcade Fire crew. Going into this show, I knew a few Arcade Fire songs but by no means was I a huge fan. I just knew they were a band made up of a bunch of people. From the beginning of their set, they were really playing into a New Orleans state of mind – parades, horns and drums, costumes, etc. What made it a great festival show was that even people who didn’t know their music that well could have a blast with it. They are so fun to watch because they all play so many different instruments. One song one of the band members may be playing lead guitar, and the next song they may be playing the steel drums. Great show.

Ian Neville's Dumpstaphunk


After Arcade Fire was the moment I’d been waiting for – TROMBONE SHORTY! It was also this moment that Natalie Benda asserted herself as best person ever. In other words, she graciously offered to allow me to use her backstage pass to see Trombone Shorty up close. I was officially freaking out. Nat gave me specific instructions on how to get side stage to where she sat and then how to get to the very front of the stage in the press area. Obviously I was going directly to the press area. I waltzed past several security checkpoints, right into the press area. This was literally right in front of the stage – in front of the VIP section – where all press and photographers were permitted to go. I didn’t know what to do with myself – should I take a ton of videos? Should I just dance my life away? Stare at Trombone Shorty incessantly? Well I decided to do all of those things (I think he looked directly at me…). Since I probably looked like a teenager freaking out at a One Direction concert, I stood out like a sore thumb and was eventually told to leave…womp, womp. So Christine could enjoy some of the VIP lifestyle, I passed the backstage pass along to her and Nat and I went back around to where the ordinary folk watched the show. I was pretty awe inspiring to see Trombone Shorty in his hometown close out Jazzfest like that – you could see how humbled he was to have such a crowd supporting him on a stage he only dreamed to play on growing up.

Literally that close to Trombone Shorty

Thanks for being awesome, Jazzfest!

Nat was our VIP party planner for the rest of the night by informing us that we’d all been invited to a private party hosted by Arcade Fire. Casual, right? We all felt like such VIPs for the night. None of us brought overly sexy clothes – since we thought we would be degenerate music festival goers the entire time – so dressing for the occasion was a bit of a struggle. (WHAT IF TROMBONE SHORTY WAS THERE?? I gotta make sure I look gooooood). Turned out we didn’t need to dress up at all, as the entire bar crowd was reminiscent of an Urban Outfitters ad – old hip hop, hipster threads and REALLY hipster drinks. Oh did I mention this was open bar? This was a much welcomed treat. For the next few hours, we mingled with Arcade Fire, their significant others and other hangers-on. This included Nat’s cousin who was SUPER cool. Could she just be my life spirit guide? Her fashion, her life course in Montreal – just all screamed cool. We even had a bonding moment rockin’ out to ‘No Diggity’.

Arcade Fire’s conga drum players set up shop in the corner, including a full drum set which super talented chick Régine Chassagne of Arcade Fire started jammin’. James Williams, local New Orleans celebrity, even showed up to show off his horn-blowin’ skills. This was what I wanted every night out in my life to be like – random jam sesh with a rock band and I’m just the audience. The girls and I made friends with James Williams, part of the New Orleans Swamp Donkeys Traditional Jass Band. He was super cool and even offered to take us over to Frenchman Street, New Orleans’ live music hub. We walked in the Spotted Cat Club like we owned the place – James literally knew everyone. The scene is New Orleans is very cool – musicians walk in the various clubs with their instruments and sit in with whoever is playing that night. It’s so impressive that they can sit in with anyone and sound like they’ve been playing together for years. A perfect way to round out Jazzfest weekend.

Monday was our free day and the only thing I wanted to do was go to the famous Willie Mae’s Scotch House. They were famous to have the best fried chicken in the country. Obviously I was going. We walked through the Treme neighborhood which you could see had a ton of history in the city. About a block away from Willie Mae’s we knew we were close because a man on the balcony of one of the houses yelled down to us, “Y’ALL GET THAT CHICKEN!!” Yes. It was unassuming and not fancy at all – just as all the best places are. They had all the traditional southern sides and the chicken was unlike any I’d ever seen. Anyone who has had fish and chips knows what the fried beer batter coating looks and tastes like – and it’s delicious. The chicken tasted like it had this coating. It was delicious. We made friends with some local old men who told us how often they came to eat there. At total fullness, we exited the premises. 

Willie Mae's Scotch House chicken

 While waiting for Arcade Fire, someone near us told us that Magazine Street would be a cool place to wander, shop and eat. It was about a 15 minute cab ride from Willie Mae’s and a world away – much yuppier. Magazine Street was known for its shopping and restaurants. The vintage and antique shops were quite good. Since it was Cinco de Mayo, we figured it would be a good idea to find a semblance of a Mexican bar and drink margaritas into oblivion. Juan’s Flying Burrito would do the trick. This is also where we would meet our new bestie – Tyson. A 30-something, ex military guy from Madison, Wisconsin – I think Natalie met her Midwestern soulmate. He told us he was traveling alone and would buy us a pitcher of margaritas if he could sit with us. 4 hours later, we were best friends and drunk Christine had sufficiently freaked him out by asking about his management strategies of his real estate business. We even shared a cab to the airport the next morning.

A very early morning flight ended our New Orleans adventure, but this was one of the most memorable trips I’ve ever taken. There’s something to be said for good friends who you can travel with – and give you backstage passes to see Trombone Shorty. (LOVE YOU, NAT & CHRISTINE).

Nora's Funkiest New Favorites - John Butler Trio, Karl Denson's Tiny Universe feat. Nicki Bluhm, & Mingo Fishtrap

Hello, fellow music lovers! Sorry for the radio silence - this funfilled New Orleans Jazzfest trip is proving more difficult than I thought, probably because there's so much cool shit to write about. It'll be up soon!

In the meantime, I wanted to share my favorite new jams that I am purely amazed by, like to get down to, and a new album by one my favorites - Mingo Fishtrap.

First of all, at Bonnaroo (post to come soon), I witnessed a hippie Australian man who does otherworldly things on an acoustic guitar. His name is John Butler, ladies and gentlemen. His band is named John Butler Trio - expanded to a quartet, but who's counting. We were pretty close to the stage and the first half of the show, I kept looking around the stage confused. My buddy Kevin goes "Nora what are you looking for?" I said "the lead electric guitarist, of course!" He told me how silly I was to think that John Butler needed a lead guitarist, as he WAS the lead guitarist, making crazy awesome electric sounds coming out of his rickety 12-string. The show was funky and fun until he got to the awe-inspiring instrumental 'Ocean', where all the sounds were coming from him and him alone. As you can see in the video below, his drug dealer-long nails help him make some pretty beautiful sounds out of that one instrument. I think the entire song, people around me were jumping up and down going apeshit and I was standing with my mouth open. Like HOLY SHIT this guy is something special. A truly beautiful song.

Next is the fun shit. I came across this particular song/performance on my role model/hippie spirit guide Nicki Bluhm's Facebook page. Little did I know that I would get so FUNKED up. Wasn't a fan of Karl Denson before but now I am. You all should know by now the softspot I have for horns and generally fun music. This song is the pinnacle of all of that fun. 'Nuff said. Check it out.

Finally, in early June, Austin, Texas funky soulsingers Mingo Fishtrap released a new album "On Time". Just saw them live on a Wednesday night in DC and they blew the roof off. They just emanate good vibes and put you in a good mood. They are from Austin, Texas but their sound is very New Orleans and Muscle Shoals.

Trombone Shorty and Rebirth Brass Band and Gregory Porter, OH MY!! - DC Jazz Fest - June 28-29

Ok. As if my June 2014 wasn't already music-filled enough, I just got some fantastic news about DC Jazz Fest at the end of June. When I first heard about this jazzfest, I was like SHOOOT THIS AIN'T GOT NOTHIN' ON NEW ORLEANS. Not impressed with the initial lineup.

Well, apparently the organizers of the DC Jazz Fest felt the same way and hired some of the best New Orleans jazz artists out there - Trombone Shorty & Orleans Avenue and Rebirth Brass Band. I just found this out and am actually FREAKING OUT.

DC Jazz Fest actually goes on for a good part of June, but this is the only part of it I really care about. And by that I mean the only part of it where I won't be out of town. This portion of it will be at the new Capitol Riverfront at the revitalized Yards area near Nationals Park. Tickets can be purchased here.

So what are you waiting for? Get tickets if you are ready for this New Orleans invasion of your eardrums.

The Desert - done differently: Arizona road trip, Vegas and Aunt Lynn's 60th - 2nd Leg of Nora & Dan's Arizona-Las Vegas Fantastic Road Trip of Fun

After a very full weekend of music, baseball and skin burning, it was time for the last full day in Phoenix and MLB Opening Day with the Diamondbacks. Every day we were there, we had a full schedule of activities, so for Monday to not have anything scheduled was weird, yet welcomed.

We hadn’t really had a chance to check out the beautiful red rocks that Arizona is famous for (more on that once we reach Sedona), so we went to a public park in Tempe - Papago Park. By public park, I mean a place that would be like a national park to most other people in the U.S. The park centers on the red rocks that make Arizona’s landscape famous. It is set right outside downtown Tempe and next to the Phoenix zoo. The setting is peaceful, yet desolate. You can see downtown Phoenix, Tempe and the surrounding areas due to the flat desert landscape, but you feel far enough away that you feel a sense of peace and reflection.

The next thing on my Arizona bucket list was to get some REAL Mexican food. This led us to the barrio section of town (not the official term, obviously) to Mariscos Playa Hermosa. Thanks to Yelp’s helpful advice, we ended up at a Mexican seafood restaurant, complete with colorful Mexican-style decorations, Mexican soccer leagues on TV and lots of regulars. I realize we were at a seafood restaurant in the desert, but…whatever. Trust in Yelp. There was lots of Spanish being spoken and people ordering things not found on the menu – so I figured this must be the type of place we were looking for. Although we could have ordered some more exciting items, we stuck with fish ceviche and fish tacos. Both delicious and not overly processed like many of our fine country’s attempts at quality Mexican food.

Monday night was our last night of actual planned activities – Dbacks opening day! As many of you can imagine, the beginning of baseball season is one of my favorite times of year – more than Christmas or any other religiously affiliated holiday – although I would argue that the journey to a baseball season is as much a religious experience as any other. We discovered our seats were wayyyy up high, but who cares? IT’S OPENING DAY! We got to Chase Field just in time for the Opening Day ceremony and the ultimate freedom fest of the Star-Spangled Banner and God Bless America. Please see the photo below for a reminder why you love freedom.

The following day was checkout from our beloved Sheraton with free food and drink galore – they were setting us free into the Arizona wilderness. We made our way out of town in the 80 degree weather in shorts and sundresses. After 2 hours of driving, I had changed into jeans and packed away my flipflops, clinging onto the one jacket I had with me – the power of elevation. But with elevation came the undeniable beauty of the American southwest.

One of the things I was looking most forward to about Arizona was shopping for all of the beautiful Native American turquoise jewelry – and Jerome, AZ delivered in spades. This was the quintessential Arizona town I was looking for. Like the Eagles lyric, “standin’ on a corner in Winslow, AZ” – well we didn’t make it over to Winslow – but in my imagination this is was what the all-American western town that Jackson Browne wrote about looked like. I walked in and out of store after store, getting shown the very expensive turquoise goods the store clerks were hawking ($500 FOR A BRACELET?! I DON’T THINK SO.) All of the store clerks would say things like “this is authentic jewelry made on local reservations” and unfortunately, it started to sound more like a gimmick than a fact. Finally I found some reasonably priced turquoise and we rolled on to Sedona.

Sedona was as beautiful as everyone made it out to be. It reminded me of Uluru in Australia – it seemed every time the sun moved even an inch, it was a new photo-op moment for the red rocks in Sedona. The ways the shadows and sun hit the rocks was awe inspiring at the least and it seemed I couldn’t take enough photos. The most disappointing thing was the overcommercialization of Sedona. In one respect, I could understand why this has happened – people from all over the world want to experience the beauty of Sedona. In another, it surprised me that the people of Sedona allowed this to happen. I always imagined it to be like Big Sur – hippies in all their splendor – minus the ocean. Dan and I took a tip for where to go for dinner, met a lovely couple from Germany, and made our way to a popular cliff to watch the red rocks at sunset. It was as beautiful as you can imagine.

We decided staying in Sedona was both overpriced and unnecessary, so we just made our way to Flagstaff for the night. As anticlimactic as the LaQuinta Inn of Flagstaff was compared to our beloved Phoenix Sheraton, it was surprisingly nice to get to Flagstaff. It was incredible to me to that after driving for only a day, we went from warm desert in Phoenix to Arizona’s skiing outpost. Locals in Flagstaff were looking at us funny because we didn’t have winter coats on. The best part to me was that no matter where we went – desert or mountains – everywhere we went in Arizona seemed quintessentially western – and felt like freedom.

The Arizona part of the trip is officially over. It’s time for VEGAS.

At this point, Aunt Lynn knew we were coming to town and that Grandma and Uncle Dave were coming to town – a Vegas family reunion of sorts. BUT she had no idea about the birthday party yet. Of course Dan and I were running late for dinner at our favorite sushi spot ($25 ALL YOU CAN EAT SUSHI?! EVERY DAY PLEASE.) Wednesday was really our only night in Vegas to just chill with Lynn and Tony, as every other night would be consumed with family activities.

Grandma Thomas, the matriarch of the Thomas clan, was flying in from Buffalo Thursday morning, so Dan the Man and I went to McCarran to pick her up (it’s very strange to be on the receiving end of the Vegas airport – it seems that I should only ever be arriving ready to rage or leaving with my head held in shame as I go home – picking someone up from this dichotomy of scenarios is quite soul crushing). What Aunt Lynn didn’t know about this journey to the airport was that her and Tony’s dear friends from Buffalo, Rich and Deb, were on the same flight as Grandma, coming into town for the shindig.

After Grandma’s initial shock and awe and Aunt Lynn and Uncle Tony’s very sweet digs, Dad and I went out for a drive and respite, meeting our good friend Mike Hoffman at his new real estate office. My aunt suggested we go to a place called Twin Peaks. Of course this is Vegas and very tongue-and-cheek. I can’t believe I didn’t realize this would be a Hooters-esque situation. We were waited on by a snappy tattooed young lady (I suppose it’s because the finest strip clubs in Vegas did not want her and she had to settle for Twin Peaks). Mike caught us up on his rock star lifestyle and we commiserated on our mutual love of San Francisco. He let us know that he would be attending his weekly bowling league at the Southpoint casino (of course he’s in a casino-centric bowling league) and that we should stop by.

Friday was a bit busier as my dad’s brother Dave and my mom arrived. My mom was a surprise to Lynn for the party on Saturday, Dave was not. We took Grandma to do a little light gambling at the local  casino, Green Valley Ranch. They have an incredible pool so I chilled there while the Thomas siblings had some quality gambling bonding time with Grandma (sorry dad haha).

That night Lynn and Tony were playing the part in high society and going to an American Heart Association benefit at Mandalay Bay. So what would be more appropriate than taking your Bentley sportscar to the benefit? Nothing actually, which is why Lynn and Tony did just that. I obviously was not permitted to, nor did I want to put my clumsy self at risk by driving the car, BUT I did sit in it!

Pam and I had gotten a surprise for dad by getting tickets to see the ‘O’ Cirque de Soleil show at Bellagio. This is one of the most sought-after Cirque tickets in Vegas and rightfully so. Each Cirque show has its own theme, and ‘O’s theme is water. All of them are a bit trippy and feel like a bad acid trip, but once you get beyond the weirdness, the amazement wofts over you. All of the cast in the show were incredible swimmers, divers and gymnasts. There were always four or five things going on in a scene, much like a circus, but much more impressive. There would be synchronized swimming, advanced tumbling, acrobatics and skilled diving – all in one scene. We were all thoroughly impressed.

You know you’re a music junkie when you pass by Bellagio’s club ‘Bank’ and go “no, I definitely don’t wanna do that – I’d rather go see a funk band at the Brooklyn Bowl”. Which is exactly what I did with my super cool parents. There are 3 locations for Brooklyn Bowl – Brooklyn, NY; London, UK; and Las Vegas, NV. Whenever seeing the acts that come to Brooklyn Bowl in New York I knew I needed to check it out. And what better time and place that Vegas? I think I am attracted to Brooklyn Bowl’s style because it has a similar music promotion model as places like The Hamilton – heavy on New Orleans-based music and other solid funk/jam band acts. Also – it’s just pretty cool that you can go bowling while at a sweet live show. The show started around 11pm and I was impressed at how awake Pam and Dan both were. Anyone who knows my mother knows she could fall asleep runnin’ to catch a bus (thanks, Irene). So this was a feat. The band was Galactic from New Orleans, heavy with horns and keyboards. Then came a funk angel from above named Maggie Koerner. Her voice was reminiscent of Joss Stone with a bit more edge. She was basically my hero in a maxi dress and boots, rockin’ the mic. The band played some New Orleans classics and closed out the show with the Rolling Stones’ “Gimme Shelter” – Maggie rocked it of course. At this point it’s about 3am and Pam is crashing hard. Overall, great night on the Strip.

Saturday had finally come – the big day for the party. With a couple hitches, we had successfully kept the secret from Lynn. The men were playing golf during the day and I was going to hang out with Lynn and Grandma. As Grandma wasn’t feeling up to much, I told Lynn I would “go shopping and hang out at Green Valley”. This was code for going to spend the day with my mom and sightsee a little. Neither of us had been to the new City Center (Cosmopolitan, Vdara, etc.) so we wandered there. Cosmopolitan is definitely the new hotspot for the 20-something crowd with a see-and-be-seen pool and dayclub, ‘Marquee’. My favorite thing we did that day was go to the Mandarin Oriental Las Vegas. Probably the most luxurious hotel I’ve ever been in. It’s a nice departure from the rest of the Strip, as the Mandarin Oriental does not have a casino. It was a beautiful day in the desert so my mom and I went to the hotel pool/lounge. I just imagined that if I ever win the lottery I will go to this pool for a straight week and order my weight in fancy pool food. We got delicious cocktails and basked in the sun for a bit before it was time to go get ready for the party.

As far as Aunt Lynn knew, they were going to take the out of town family to their hangout, the Las Vegas Italian American Social Club. Tony had organized a beautiful party with family and friends from out of town, a live Sinatra-esque band and enough nostalgic photos to make anyone teary. The Italian American Social Club was very understated and old school. Mind you, as soon as we parked, the smell of garlic in the air was beyond pungent and there was a reserved parking spot for an ambiguous Luigi. Needless to say, Lynn was absolutely blown away by the amount of people who made it all the way from Buffalo and elsewhere to be there for this special occasion. Lynn and Tony’s niece, Deborah, did an incredible job planning and took all of the photos at the party. I was thrilled we were able to be there and share in such a special time for my aunt.

Sunday was an early morning to the airport and just like that the trip was done. 10 days together was surprisingly easy and always memorable, solidifying that Dan is not only a great dad and travel companion, but the best friend.

Ray LaMontagne's New Album "Supernova" Finally Released! Nora reviews.

I haven't been this excited for a new album in a while - probably since Amos Lee's new record was released. (I realize this makes me an old soul, but I think we've established that already). One of my favorite folk-Americana singer-songwriters, Ray LaMontagne, released his latest album, "Supernova", on April 29th. I had heard bits and pieces of it on iTunes radio and YouTube but couldn't wait to hear the full progression of songs. It does not disappoint.

All of Ray's albums have a bit of a different sound with the same type of Americana roots, which to me signifies a growing, dynamic artist. His earlier works had a more rootsy country vibe with some gripping lyrics, songs like 'Jolene' and 'Trouble'. Even though he had this rootsy sound, he has a unique soulful voice that comes right from the gut. He really showcased that soulful voice on his more blues-inspired album "God Willin' & the Creek Don't Rise". Ray shows the funky side of roots music with the opening song on the "God Willin'" album, 'Repo Man'. Most of the other songs had a more country feel, but nonetheless with genuine and intriguing lyrics.

Ray performing 'Repo Man' on Letterman




I was curious to see where Ray would take his new album musically, since he showed a diversity to his sound on the last album. Anxiously awaiting the album's arrival and before writing this post, I did a bit of research on Ray's influences musically. After reading one of his primary influences was Stephen Stills (of Crosby, Stills & Nash fame), I realized even more why I loved him and his music.

"Supernova" is the ultimate nod to '60s and 70s' folk music and psychedelic rock. The album was produced by The Black Keys' Dan Auerbach, explaining some of the psychedelicness. Opening song 'Lavender' has a Jefferson Airplane and the Doors sound (think the drums in White Rabbit). 'Airwaves' is a song I wish was released for me and Dan's epic road trip through the American Southwest - perfect road trip song. 'She's the One' represents the most rock-forward song on the album, showcasing Ray's soulful voice. 'Julia' and 'No Other Way' sound like songs straight off Crosby, Stills & Nash's 1970 album "Deja Vu". And finally, title track "Supernova" has an eerily familiar Joni Mitchell sound.

Bottom line: I love the album. But I also love this type of Ventura Highway driving music. If you are like me, you'll love love love it. If not, give it a listen anyway. Because I told you to.




(Also readers, never fear. The tales of Nora & Dan's Fantastic Arizona-Las Vegas Road Trip of Fun will continue in a second installment. COMING SOON!!)

Music & Baseball, that's what the Thomas' does: Nora & Dan's Fantastic Arizona-Las Vegas Road Trip of Fun - 1st Leg - Phoenix, AZ

After a several year hiatus of any serious father-daughter road trips, we decided it was time to embark on (and continue) our tradition of spring training baseball games and overall adventures. From the time I was in middle school through part of college, we would go to south Florida for Orioles and Cardinals spring training, some R&R and some good times with our friends, the Kinsloes. This year we decided to flip it and reverse it and give Arizona’s Cactus League a try – for a few reasons. We found out that 2 of our favorite artists – Nicki Bluhm & the Gramblers and Allen Stone – would be performing at the McDowell Mountain Music Festival, there would be an Arizona D-Backs exhibition game and Opening Day 2014 on Monday. Following that, we would road trip to Sedona and Las Vegas to visit Aunt Lynn and Uncle Tony. This will be an epic week off work.

The trip began at an entirely too early hour of 4am on Friday. Thankfully we didn’t have to function at a high level to park the car and navigate our way to the terminal, as we were dropped off by my mama (BLESS HER HEART). Dropping bags off was relatively easy, but TSA proved to be as reliable and functional as ever (pause for sarcastic laughter), opening the TSA lines late and therefore making many of us late for flights. Since I’m a federal employee possessing a federal ID (not really, but the House of Representatives was irresponsible enough to give me one anyway. Freedom.), I found about a week prior that I could skip the security line by flashing my federal ID. Take note, friends. I got to the gate as boarding began, and Dan the Man made it on the plane about 10 minutes before the plane was to leave. Way to go, Thomas clan. The plane ride itself was fairly mundane, as we both slept a good portion of it and consumed way too many Lorna Doone cookies given the time of day.

We finally landed in sunny Phoenix, Arizona, which basically looks like Las Vegas without the hotel skyline. I was so stoked to not wear a considerable sized coat for 8 days. The forecast while in Phoenix was 80+ during the day and lows of 60s. I considered kissing the ground and thanking Mother Nature for this precious gift of tanning, continuous sunshine and happiness. I restrained myself.

We took the Phoenix Valley Metro light rail from the airport to downtown Phoenix to check in to our hotel for the trip. The light rail is awesome – I wish the one on H Street NE would be that nice, but let’s be honest…. The hotel was the downtown Sheraton convention hotel which meant a sweet location for the baseball games and music festival. To us, it was about noon, but realistically, by the time we got to the hotel, it was only about 9:30am. Luckily, they let us check in that early on the CLUB LEVEL (HOLLA), which meant free food everyday! Awesome! Because all we had eaten at that point was more shortbread cookies than any human should eat before noon. We ate, settled in the room (and by that I mean I attempted to unpack my body bag of a suitcase) and headed to the pool. There was no way I was passing up the ability to get tan before noon in April. After getting sufficiently (and unevenly) sunburned, we regrouped for some quality wandering time. We started by going up to the park where the music festival was to be held – we weren’t going until Saturday, but figured it would be a good idea to have some sense of direction. The park was unassuming, right next to the Phoenix public library and a square teeming with homeless folk. Naturally, we found ourselves at the closest head shop to the festival, the Glass Joint, as they had a solid marketing plan (seen below).

This is what I call advertising...

Friday night consisted of some further wandering, enjoying walking around in less than a winter coat, and the D-Backs’ last spring training game of the season at Chase Field. This was an addition to me and Dan’s baseball stadium repertoire, and we were particularly impressed with the retractable roof and most importantly, the pool and hot tub in center field! Why isn’t this universal in all stadiums?? We realized that we really had no affinity to either the Cubs or D-Backs teams, as we recognized a total of 2 players on both lineups…we had some learnin’ to do.

Me and Dan at Chase Field

Pool and hot tub in center field?!?!

 At this point, Dan and I had been up since 4am (eastern time) to 10pm (Pacific time). But were we done? ABSOLUTELY NOT. Funk-jazz band Lettuce had played at the festival earlier in the day, and was doing an after-hours show at a local club, the Crescent Ballroom at 11:30pm. We rallied with 5-Hour Energies and musical devotion and headed out. The show eventually started around 12:30pm and it was time to get funky. It was the perfect way to start off the trip and introduce Dan to Lettuce. A DC friend, Kahlil, happened to be in town and met up for some funk and catching up.

Lettuce sounded as good as ever and induced a good amount of groovability. They covered a friendly band of their’s, Soulive’s, song ‘Reverb’ and welcomed a powerful voice, Alecia Chakour, to sing on a few songs. She fit perfectly with the band’s R&B sound. If you take Brittany from Alabama Shakes and add even more soul, you have Ms. Alecia Chakour.

Lettuce @ Crescent Ballroom

Saturday was another beautiful day in Phoenix and also our day for nothing but music. We had an all day ticket for the McDowell Mountain Music Festival with some great acts – Nicki Bluhm & the Gramblers, Allen Stone, Dispatch, Slightly Stoopid and Disco Biscuits. It was a very small festival with one main stage and one stage for local acts. It had the typical festival setup of food trucks, hippie garb, and depictions of Jerry Garcia from every angle. After some wandering, Dan and I posted up in front of the stage. Nicki sounded as great as ever with an outfit that I truly envy. They played my favorite cover of Jefferson Airplane’s ‘Somebody to Love’ and generally just rocked. Allen Stone brought the soul to this festival (weird dance moves and all) and Dispatch brought the reggae rock (think OAR, but better). I must admit that after a long day in the Arizona sun, we left before Slightly Stoopid and Disco Biscuits, but Slightly Stoopid will be at Bonnaroo and Disco Biscuits…well, I just don’t care that much. The most exciting thing was getting to see long lost Baltimore friend Allison and boyfriend Jimmy who live in Scottsdale!

Me, Dan and Nicki Bluhm!

Me and Allison! Missed you girl!

McDowell Mountain Music Festival - Phoenix, AZ

Allen Stone - Quit Callin'

After napping for 3 hours (yes, it was necessary), it was time for another after-hours show with Allen Stone at the Crescent Ballroom – I was starting to feel like a regular. For a Saturday night, Allen Stone put on a great show, with a great groove and engaging demeanor. I tried to get Kahlil into Allen Stone, but I must admit, it was tough to get past the weird O faces throughout the performance. As fun and warm Phoenix is, it has a serious downside when it comes to ending ALL alcohol sales after 2am – I guess it’s not totally perfect. After searching high and low for any form of alcohol, AND severely annoying the Sheraton hotel staff, we called it a night.

Sunday was the first day we’d had since we arrived that we didn’t have anything specific planned. It was time to get my shop and NCAA tournament on. This was also the first day we had a car, so it was prime for exploring. Dan wanted to take me to Sun Devils stadium, as it’s built into the side of a mountain, so there we went. There just happened to be a Tempe, Arizona Arts Festival the day we were there, so naturally I was on the hunt for some Arizona turquoise. The festival was on Tempe’s Mill Avenue (think Five Points in Columbia or Route 1 in College Park, but better). There were hundreds of artisans and craftspeople, which was like going to Sedona without the sweet red rocks in the background. Before it was too late, Dan and I realized that we needed to catch the end of the Elite Eight games with beers, margs and wings – FREEDOM. Kahlil even joined while his flight from hell was delayed.

As if having a sudden Great Lakes epiphany, Dan realized that the only Ted’s Hot Dogs (Buffalo, New York’s tradition since 1927), outside of western New York is in Tempe, Arizona! Clearly we were making a bee line for Ted’s. As soon as we arrived, it looked like Ted’s had just been lifted and transplanted from Buffalo. There was Buffalo paraphernalia everywhere inside and the menu looked just the same with only a few additions. The best part was eating a Ted’s hot dog outside in shorts in Arizona – what could be better? I think Dan had a religious experience.

Ted's in Arizona!

 At sunset we drove up to Taliesin West, Frank Lloyd Wright’s pride and joy in Arizona. Although we couldn’t get inside, I was able to see my first desert sunset with saguaro cactus. From there we saw where the other half lives – in Scottsdale. We ended the day wandering around Old Town Scottsdale and playing an embarrassing round of pool. Some mellow sightseeing with Dairy Queen was the perfect end to a great weekend. More baseball and roadtripping were to come.