Wow! Seven years! Tony, I think the longest I was away from actually gigging was about a year or so.

I can relate to the not feeling comfortable, especially coming from a long term band situation...the first gigs I did solo I felt very ALONE, but I got to appreciate the perks, such as being my own boss, practicing as often as I wanted, and, of course, basking in all the glory.

Lately, I don't jam with the guys as often, because of our short, precious summer, but come the winter, we'll do duos and trios and make lots of racket. It will be especially welcome since my retirement from Yamaha this past spring, and give me another opportunity to play besides here in my new apartment. Plus, they always come up with some great old tunes I'd never think of playing.

The old expression, "there's a home for every puppy", means that there is quite likely someplace we can keep up our skills and express ourselves musically...even unpaid "jam sessions" with our buds are good for keeping our chops up, for one never knows when another playing situation will arise.

Ian