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February, 28th

2010 Late winter musings…

Hello-

I'm happy to say that I've begun recording an instrumental only CD here at Rue Voltaire. Seems to be something I can do and perhaps even need to do at this point. This is an album I've always dreamed of making and it's time. No words, just guitar work with perhaps some simple embellishments. 6 and 12-string guitars and of course the Dobro. So far I have 6 or 7 already recorded (not mixed) and I'm quite busy collecting and writing the rest. There are no release plans, label interest or anything of the sort but I'm not at all worried about this either. First thing is to get some good music down on tape (or onto the computer as it were) and after that we'll see. If nothing else, I can sell it off my site and at shows so that's no sweat. I was thinking perhaps of posting some recording diaries but this self recording that I'm doing is a slow go and I don't think it would be all that interesting after a few days of turtle news.

I must say that it's much easier to have an engineer pushing all the buttons but, as you can see from the picture, I've arranged everything so that I can pretty much reach it all from my chair. It's slow though and not having a third ear (i.e. a producer) makes me doubly cautious. Also I'm a latecomer to Protools (which is my recording software) so that slows me down. It sometimes takes me a long time to figure out how to do basic editing or even corrections. As an example: the other day I had somehow ‘grayed' out my record button on track 1 so I couldn't do anymore recording on that track (which I needed to do). I ended up having to go to the Digidesign user forum and write out my problem and it was the next day that someone wrote in suggesting that I do a <control - click> over the offending record button to highlight it again. Yes! Fixed me right up! Anyway, just to show you what it's like around here. Once I'm up and running though it's been going well and I'm having some good moments. I'm happy to be recording again and it's feeling good. I do need to get focused though. I've quite a collection of songs from the past couple of years, which are all over the map stylistically and in various forms of undress. I've got to find a way to bring that all together now into a comprehensive and listenable package.

On a more sober note, I've just finally had to admit to myself that Michael Statsman, the owner and label boss of (now out of business) Borderdreams Records/Dock Distribution had been lying to me for the past 2 years.

The short story: money was supposed to be paid to me in the form of sales figures (a percentage of every record sold) and he was also required (by law!) to pay publishing royalties (also known as mechanicals). More then 2 years after the release of the record I have never received one accounting and I know from my publisher that the mechanical royalties were never paid at the pressing plant. I have had some advance CD's to sell at shows AND to use for promo and so I was able to put a little money in my pocket. Many of those Cd's (more than100+) I gave to the press and used for publicity purposes. And just recently I gave him 500€ more for the rest of his unsold Shotgun Pillowcase inventory (400 CD's) but that was only after he had again assured me that he had paid the money for publishing royalties which, by law, he is required to do (“… you should be collecting that soon”, he said).

How was this possible? In the shark infested waters of the music world I suppose this is a naïve and even stupid question. This is a guy that I trusted and who I even thought of as a friend. But this situation I am describing is not new is it? I've never understood why, when it comes to paying time musicians, on whom the whole pyramid of the music business is built, are the very ones who are last in line to be paid. Read any musician autobiography on the shelf and it's the same story. Now you can add my name to that very long list of artists. ‘nuff said!

Speaking of records: I've heard that Wilderness Years, Frozen and Leaving West are all sold out now at Glitterhouse records and so that is the end of those CD's. I guess it was bound to happen sooner or later but I have to say its kind of a drag. I've lived with these records as my friends for long time now. It is strange to think that these CD's will no longer be available for folks to buy and listen to. Some more music for me to put up on the Internet for sure and I am doing that. I've just posted Blue Room and Leaving West on Tune Core and Shotgun Pillowcase has been up for awhile now. The full albums and the downloadable songs should show up at all the various digital music outlets in the early springtime. BTW - please be sure that if you are looking to buy TLH music online that you only purchase songs that identify TuneCore as distributor. There are some unauthorized sellers of my music out there. The names that I know about are Bongo Beat, New Rose, It's About Music and I think there's one more. I appreciate you helping me out here. The digital music world is a place with little oversight or control and it's full of types who knowingly collect and pocket money from the music's rightful owners.

As far as gigging and touring plans go I really haven't spent much time doing it to be honest. As mentioned I've been focused on this recording and by design I've had to pull myself away from the readily available distractions of the computer. Although having access to the Internet from my home office has certainly made booking tours much easier this is also a time gobbler in a major way. Quite literally I could spend 6 hours a day for a weeks just plugged in and to book shows that are months down the road. The point being here that when this recording is finished I will again turn my attentions to touring. Hopefully for next fall. I'm sure I'll be quite ready to get back on stage by then as well.

So - that's the story here from TLH central. I'll post some more recording updates I'm sure so do stop back. Thanks again for your support and I do hope that your winter has been a good one wherever you might be now!

Your friend in music,
Terry Lee

January, 26th

Favorite Artist Auto Biographies-

 

Charles Mingu s- “Beneath The Underdog”

Art Pepper - “Straight Life”

Miles Davis - “Miles-The Autobiography”

Motely Crue - “The Dirt”

Twyla Tharp - “Push Comes To Shove”

Arthur Miller - “Time Bends”

Marianne Faithful - “Faithful”

Bob Dylan - “Chronicles”

Phil Kaufman - “Road Mangler Deluxe”

Marliyn Manson - “The Long Hard Road Out Of Hell”

 

January, 20th

"Tetro" Written and directed by Francis Ford Coppola.

Edited by Walter Murch, Music by Osvaldo Golijov. Running time: 127 minutes.

Starring Carmen Maura, Maribel Verdu, Vincent Gallo, Alden Ehrenreich, and Klaus Maria Brandauer.

I liked this movie. In fact it surprised me how much I liked it. Yes, Coppola has had his mega blockbusters but that's definitely not what you're going to see with Tetro. Boldly operatic, this movie is I think very inventive. Almost something like a film school graduate would make. But no film school student could make happen what this master writer and cinematographer bring to screen. Shot mostly in black and white it has a very film noir kind of feel. Visually it's stunning for the most part, a bit raggedy in others yet still the director holds it all together and delivers us to the very end with a casual wave of his hand. It's all here folks. Death, glory, mystery, music, dance, love, family, conflict and resolution. I haven't been able to shake this film from my thoughts for 2 days now and that's good. There's a lot to chew on and that's rare and most welcome. Leave your preconceptions at the door and try to just open yourself to this glorious ride. The master is back!

PS- I read that it was edited all on a Macintosh computer with Final Cut!

January, 18th

Top 8 + 2= Top 10

Ok, so I'm a little late. A few folks wanted to know why I couldn't get a list up to a top 10. Well not that it matters that much but JUST to be normal here I've included 2 records that I've I think are wonderful although they were NOT released in 2009 (both were from '08). Great records nevertheless.

Sam Phillips "Don't Do Anything".

I probably listened to this record the most last year. Everything (vocals, songwriting, performances, etc.) works on this record but what impresses me most is the production (she produced it too!). It's very NOT business as usual to my mind. You don't find the bass or drums in usual places. The mic's are recording from the back of the amp instead of the usual 12" from the front. On and on. Never a dull moment and the songs… ah the songs. This woman can write a song and that's a fact. I'm a fan of all her work but this record is her best. Mature, slightly ironical and full of life, hope and passion. Must be an interesting gal to know.

John Mellencamp - "Life, Death, Love and Freedom"

This songwriter has been a kind of guilty pleasure for me I but I used to like him a lot a decade or more ago. I just lost interest somewhere along the way. Too much bombast, too many words and not enough "point". Too much smoke and not enough substance to my way of thinking. This new record really brings it all back home though and it's truly awesome. He stripped away all the crap and got down to writing the kinds of great songs like we know he can do. The record is honest and interesting, unflinching and simple, colorful and directed and best of all: clear as bell. This one is a true winner and this guy is back on my "A" list!! I'm glad too! Another record produced by T-bone Burnett BTW. Does this guy have the best producer ears in the business or what?? Check out this new recording medium (CODA) that T-Bone and company have developed. It's like listening to the master tapes on your home stereo. I surely hope they can make it stick!!

January, 4th

I know most folks make a list of ten but I didn't have 10 records so here are 8. Alphabetical order only. The sad note at the end of ‘09 is that Vic Chesnutt took his own life at Christmas. A fucked up and dreary ending to a very, very difficult year.

You might also see here a preponderance of more rootsy Americana type recordings. Not sure why that is because I listen to all kinds of music at home. And I'm not much of one for nostalgia but who knows. Listening to boom-chickachika French rock and roll might be taking its toll. Still, the list is what it is and these were my favorites of the ones I bought that were released from 2009.

Animal Collective - "Merriweather Post Pavilion"

A "strange" CD and one I didn't like at first listening. It took me awhile to come around to it but this record uncovers its mysteries slowly, which is not bad. If you get everything on the first date what's left right? Very ambitious recording I think and with an utterly unique sound and style. Fascinating production and vision. This band changes the rules of the game and that makes me happy! A rich and very rewarding album. I can understand why this one made many critics top ten lists. Something new with every listen. How they do it is another question. I need to see these guys live!

Bill Callahan - "Sometimes I Wish I Were An Eagle"

I knew some of his work with his band Smog but this is the first CD I own by him. I love his songwriting, voice and laid back demeanor. The first track "Jim Cain" is a standout! I think the album wobbles a bit in the middle but still, a noble effort and worthy.

Vic Chesnutt - "At The Cut"

What can I say? Vic's recent death gives this collection of songs a transparency that is poignant, wrenching and utterly compelling. Still, it is yet again a great outing from one of my all time favorite songwriters. Backed by the same musical crew (A Silver Mt. Zion & Fugazi member Guy Picciotto) who also recorded with him on last years powerful “North Star Deserter” this CD is slower in revealing its charms. Still, Vic always finds refreshing ways to guide us into the shadowy corners of his heart, memories and life. Would that he could have followed through what he proclaimed on "Flirted With You All Of My Life". Bored with your current musical diet? Mr. Chesnutt and this mighty band will pump some life into your breast. He will be greatly missed.

Bob Dylan - "Through Life Together"

His 33rd studio album and some folks don't think Dylan's been trying much lately with his focus on roots American music styles. I don't agree at all. He's put together an outstanding band that plays the hell out of these songs. Interestingly enough the lyrics on the record were co-written with Grateful Dead lyricist Robert Hunter (except “my wife's home town” co-written with Willie Dixon). I think this co-writing thing gives this recording a little something different then his latest outings and why the hell not? This guy is just getting better and better. I've found this record to be quite addicting.

Buddy & Julie Miller - "Written In Chalk"

A real treat from this man and woman couple. She writes the lyrics, they both sing and play guitar and he produces (just like the Handsome Family couple/team who I also like a lot!). Pretty much straight ahead ‘country/folk' music but great songwriting from top to bottom and excellent performances all around. Business NOT as usual I think.

Willie Nelson - "Willie & The Wheel"

Nothing fancy here: just straight ahead Texas swing music featuring the long lived Asleep At The Wheel. Instead of the baritone voice of Ray Benson "at the drivers wheel" it's Willie Nelson doing the lead vocals. Asleep At the Wheel is the longest running (40 years!) and probably best band of this Texas music on the planet. Great playing by all these musical veterans makes this album a treat to listen to.

Richard Shindell - "Not Far Now"

Speaking of songwriting, this man is the real deal. I'd never really paid much attention to him before but a couple years back I had the chance to be the sound engineer for his Paris show and I really was bowled over. Vocals, guitar & bouzouki playing and lyrics. All top notch. This is my second CD of his and although his recorded music can get a bit "cluttered" by the arrangements (in my opinion of course) I love this guy's warmth, insight and eye for detail.

"Got No Chains - The Songs Of The Walkabouts/Various Artists"

Ok - I got one cut on this record (“Got No Chains” actually) but it's not why I put this on the list. It is truly is an outstanding collection of bands playing covers of The Walkabouts music in celebration of their 25 years of existence.

I've come to appreciate many of these tribute CD's which surprises me. I think it's because they tend to hold together (even given the varying styles of the bands) because the songs are all written by (usually) one hand. And if it's a good songwriter then you are in luck. In this case Chris Eckman's lyrics really have the chance to come to the fore and lets us hear what an outstanding songwriter he is. The arrangements on "Got No Chains'" for the most part tend to follow the originals but even with that said, they do veer all over the road. There are some great surprises as well. A bonus CD featuring the remastered original versions brings the whole project into focus. A great collection of songs and performances celebrating a great rock and roll band!

January, 3rd

First update of 2010 and it's coming from our friend Thomas Ott. Two new tablatures from "Tornado Alley": The Ballad Of molly & Shelly and Little Toes. Thank you, Thomas!

December, 30th

Here's a really great Vic Chesnutt interview from December 1, 2009 done with Terry Gross for NPR Fresh Air. American health insurance companies are directly responsible for the deaths of hundreds of thousands of human beings and, as such, are murderers and every one of the mother#*+"%^s should be imprisoned!

Terry Lee and a tired looking Vic at OBS festival in Beverungen a few years back.

December, 26th

Vic Chesnutt - (1964-2009)

I am so sad to have to tell you that Vic Chesnutt performed his last song on Christmas Eve day by taking his own life with an overdose of pills. I can't really believe he is gone. His absence here, in the now leaves a hole that can never be filled. Vic was a true original and a powerful burning light. I was so lucky to know him as a friend. I can't tell you why he took his life and speculation is useless. Kristen Hersh wrote a most eloquent memorial HERE.

His impact on my life has been profound and will be eternal. Vic changed the ways I thought about music and writing. About boundaries and what honesty is. Even more importantly he showed me with his music, his humor, his will and yes, his pain, how important and valuable life is because of its very fragility.

One of the greats is gone but will never, ever be forgotten.

Rest in peace Vic.

Terry Lee Hale
10/26/09
Paris, France

December, 20th

Go to MySpace TLH page to listen to "Christmas In The Chapel", Terry's first christmas song ever. Happy holidays everybody!

December, 15th

Merry Christmas everyone…

Christmas feels strange this year but maybe I'm still not used to how it's lower geared speed here in France. But this year too, like everywhere else, there is not much extra money to play with for most folks. I went to a toy store the other day and most everyone was just shaking his or her heads. Trouble is we've painted ourselves into a corner. Everyone feels pressured to buy gifts but if there is no money what do you? Feel guilty don't you? Create your own? Who would appreciate that anymore? Now we're lined all around with plastic and THAT costs a lot too. Quality is rarely an option anymore and even if you do find it who can afford it? Hell, I paid 20€ for a piggy bank! (Ok, it was dragon bank and had wings and was made in Germany and was good quality but jeez…). Good luck with the gifts you choose!!

Santa Hale 2008

Speaking of…

Peace and brotherhood of man? Obama was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize recently and took most of his acceptance speech justifying a war nobody likes. What are the alternatives though? It's extremely difficult to accept that Afghanistan is a "necessary" war don't you think? He argued his case eloquently as he always does and I thought he scored some good points. This guy is doing a hell of a job in spite of what the right-winger, fundamentalists and the rest of the yobs in America say. At least he's moving forward, rolled up his sleeves and is asking the country to do the same. My country has turned into a nation whiners, flag wavers and ammunition hoarders. Now - about that deficit Mr. Obama…

I have another one of these "postcards" I was getting ready to post here but then Christmas happened all of a sudden. The next one will have more information (and my ‘best of' list!) about some of the things that happened to me last year - some of it not so good - and some news about what I plan to do in 2010. I'll post the after Christmas.

Katy and I are well. Cold weather has moved in to stay for a while in Paris here but it's not as bad as it is other places and so we don't complain. We are going to spend Christmas day with her daughter and a couple of friends and I'm going to attempt to cook my second ever cassoulet (basically a fancy French bean stew) which I hope turns out ok. (With cornbread and molasses on the side of course). It's complicated and a lot of work but the one I made last year was fantastic. I'll let you know how this next one turns out.

For New Years Eve we're going to visit some friends out towards Chartre and then on to Nantes for a few days. All of which will be fun. Some country living and a chance to get away from the city will be greatly appreciated.

So - I say it every year and I guess it's always the same but I do hope you get to spend some of your time in the next days with someone you love. I know the holidays can be stressful and sometimes that "Uncle John" can just be just creepy but hey, it's family and for better or worse, you're all in the soup together. Plus its only once or twice a year right? Perhaps if you've got extra space at your dinner table, maybe you could invite an orphan for a meal? Lonely is always worse during the holidays!

Don't drink and drive, have fun (?) and again, thanks for all your support, friendship and love!

Terry Lee Hale

December 12, 2009 - Paris, France

 

October, 24th

Terry Lee Hale's version of the song Got No Chains is the title track of:

GOT NO CHAINS: THE SONGS OF THE WALKABOUTS – Various Artists

2-CD set - Glitterhouse Records

The Walkabouts turn 25! Time to celebrate one of the most influential bands in Alt. Country as well as Indie-Rock. Milestones of their career were the Americana masterpiece “Satisfied Mind” in 1993, which got them praise from all around the world and several “album of the month” reviews, the raw and rocking “New West Motel”, the dreamy “Devil's Road” which contained their first and only Top Ten single (at least in several countries), “The Lights Will Stay On” or the Brain Eno-produced “Scavenger”.

Now as a gift to these great people from Seattle, numerous musicians created this tribute album, amongst others Peter Buck from R.E.M., Steve Wynn (Dream Syndicate), Chris Cacavas (Green On Red), Jon Langford of Mekons fame and many many more.

Don't expect 1:1 copies of the originals, for instance Chris Cacavas' opening version of “Grand Theft Auto” recalls the atmosphere of Thomas Leer's “Private Plane” or Throbbing Gristle's “United”.

“A good songs is a good song”, Bob Dylan once said, and in case of The Walkabouts' songbook, these versions prove that Chris Eckman and Carla Torgerson are indeed truly gifted songwriters.

CD 2 comprises of remastered versions of the originals.

The whole thing comes in an extremely beautiful multi-fold digifile, keeping up with the quality of the music it contains.

October, 16th

Hello from Paris friends...
I'm a little overdue with updates and rest but lately I've just been taking it easy, resting up after my touring dates and trying to get caught up with a real backlog of mail. I'll write more soon so please stay tuned.

In the mean time HERE IS a real interesting article from a web site I look at regularly. This piece is a fairly honest description of what i see happening in America these days. The devisions are widening and bridges are being burned at an alarming rate. Folks just don't give a damn anymore.
I'd have to say that, for the liberals, being a nice guy is going get you finished last! Stock up on the ammo folks. Check it out...

Terry Lee

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For the club owners....here's TLH's Patch List.