I’ve been reporting more on the fun I’ve been having with Head Like A Kite lately than I have on my own project. Truth be told Head Like A Kite *is* more fun. I don’t have to book the shows, write the songs or do any of the hard work. I simply pick out a fun outfit, jump up on stage, sing some back up vocals, interact with the usually sold-out crowds…you can’t beat that.

My band has started to question whether or not I will ever play again, and I secretly wonder that myself sometimes. I feel like I’ve been too overwhelmed lately to write anything new.

On the evening of the last Head Like A Kite show I was at home getting ready, standing in front of the mirror in my black, sequined hot-pants when my phone rang. My father had been admitted to the hospital and was told he would probably not be leaving alive. I cried all my makeup off. Then I reapplied all my makeup and went to the show. I wondered all night if it was the wrong thing to do, but the show must go on.

I’ve had a troubled relationship with my father. He is a troubled man…listen to the song I wrote called “The Carpenter”. Since I moved to Seattle over 10 years ago I’ve developed a nice phone relationship with him. Our phone calls have given me the opportunity to get to know and understand him better than I ever did when we were face to face. It is a strange feeling to think of him not being here anymore, not being able to talk to him. I have a lot to process. I’ve booked a flight to visit him on the East coast. I’m hoping he makes it till I get there so I can say farewell.

I have a strange feeling this might be the start of some new songs. He has always been an inspiration in my writing…that is his gift to me, as painful as it’s been sometimes. He was not the worlds best father, but he taught me exactly how I should *not* live my life, and for that I am very thankful.

Photos from Head Like A Kite at Neumos…collaborating with Fresh Espresso, Truckasauras w/ special guests Tilson, Zera Marvel, Graig Markel, etc…

Photos below by: Dagmar and Amelia Gyde