A Note From Michael

July 2025

Happy summer to all of you!

During a cold and icy winter here in the mountains, Cookie the dachshund alerted me when Claudia slipped on the ice. I was inside with headphones on, recording. Cookie to the rescue!

Now everything is green and blooming. Flip-flops on, passion fruit iced tea in the fridge, and “the dogs are sleeping in the shade” (with herbal repellant collars on—the ticks here in the woods are insane). We’ve got birds and rabbits and squirrels and woodchucks and moles. A fox walks through every afternoon. And a doe had her fawn right outside our garage door in a sheltered spot—an awesome experience. “The spotted fawn…”

Looking forward to the gigs ahead and making music with the band: Charles and Veronica, Mark and Richie, and of course Karel. John and Sandy are at the helm as always. It doesn’t get much better than this. And a new hat (a Valentine’s Day gift)!

Veronica and I worked on the podcast this winter. It was amazing to recall all the incredible experiences and talented musicians I’ve known and worked with. Almost overwhelming. Lots more to talk about as we sip green tea and eat Claudia’s vegan apple cake. We’re having a hard time considering an episode finished. Always something to add!

Salvaging and re-recording ancient demos. I’m writing and recording new demos, too! Hope to get into the studio this fall.

Counting the days to seeing you out on the road! Thanks to all of you, always listening. Wishing you happiness, health and calm hearts.

Peace, Love, and Rescue,
SOJG *

* A few years ago we were playing the House of Blues in New Orleans (a perennial stop for us). I left after the soundcheck to hunt down some vegan food. When I returned just before showtime there was a large crowd lined up in front of the club. I had to cut through this line to get to the stage door. A young House of Blues employee was directing people and when a couple passed by and asked "Who's playing tonight?" he replied "I don't know. Some Old Jazz Guy." And this is how I've referred to myself to Claudia ever since...

Touring band