by Micah 'Prof.' Robinson

Hello Burning Spear fans on all corners of the globe. Once again, this is Micah Robinson reporting to you From the Road. I will be giving you some of our perspective of the goings on as we travel the world bringing the musical message of Burning Spear to the people. Not everything you will get will be specifically about shows, although there will be plenty of documentation from that part of the tour. We will also be bringing you our individual perspective of the general day to day happenings relative to the touring life and life alongside Burning Spear, as that experience is unique enough to warrant input.

8 and 9 July 2003 - Paris, France: Elysee Montmartre
Paris feels surprisingly similar to London or even NYC. The definite urban feel is the kind of environment that makes reggae music so therapeutic.

Today is the first night of a two night stand in Paris.

We see, once more, how much the music world loves Burning Spear. Spear fans all over remember 'Live in Paris'. That concert and CD has created a legacy that simply can't be ignored. Any rendition of the Burning Band has to see itself in this historical context. We hit the stage fully aware of that history and those memories came rushing into the present.

Tonight's show was simply smoking!! It seemed we all knew just how important these two nights were to the people here. So many landmark reggae concerts have taken place here, it just brings out the best in any musician. The audience ate it up!! They could feel the vibe and we could feel them in return. Tomorrow night promises to be just as memorable.

Day two found many of the fans from day one here again and they were amongst the lucky ones to experience two consecutive blockbuster concerts Burning Spear style.

Mr. Rodney and the band got a warm reception Paris style. It simply doesn't get better than this.

10 July 2003 - Worgl, Austria
Today presents us with another installment in this year's European heat wave. Soundcheck gives us a good idea of just how hot it might be at show time. Lots of water is definitely in order as well as light weight clothing. Touring requires attention to details like drinking enough water, finding time for things like laundry, etc. When the small but important logistical things are in place, the other things seem to fall in line alongside them.

The quiet pace of things allows us to prevent getting too hot and that saves energy that will be most needed tonight.

Showtime proves what sound check showed us about the temperature. Some of us like to feel the heat of the room and the stage lights when we play... it seems to add something to the whole experience.

The challenge, now seems to be to make the audience sweat just as much and be just as happy doing so.

We did get some help from Anthony B. and 'We Remember Bob Marley', which is essentially a tribute act in honor of Mr. Marley.

By the time we took the stage, it was obvious we would have some serious work to do. The previous acts got the audience really pumped!! It became our duty to not let them down. I have to admit that we did a pretty good job of keeping them going. You could almost see in the faces of the people there that they expected Burning Spear to up the ante! Well, they got what they wanted. The show left them happily drained of any anxiety they may have come in with and blissfully exhausted. This show will remain in their memory banks for some time!!

12 July 2003 - Beograd, (formerly Yugoslavia)
Now there's proof, once again, that there's no place reggae music can not penetrate! Who would have expected, just a few years ago, that Burning Spear would bring his Burning Band to this part of the world? In a place known recently for it repressive dictatorship and suppression of the people, one might not expect to find such an expression of self determination... on the other hand, what better place? Reggae has its own history of speaking out against oppression, and it seems this expression has found its way clear across the globe!

Members of two of the opening bands expressed how heavily influenced they have been by Burning Spear and how important it was for them to finally see the Master of Music in person on their own soil. Maybe their knowledge that Burning Spear was there brought out the best in all three of the bands that came before us. Whatever the case, there was certainly plenty of anticipation and energy in the air when the Burning Spear show began. The energy level only increased as the show progressed and came to a climax some two hours later. The people seemed to feel vindicated in their struggles. They had gotten a visit from one of their primary icons in the struggle for self determination and that visit was just what the doctor ordered!!

14 July 2003 - Stuttgart, Germany
The day begins quietly enough. Clyde and the driver take a short shopping trip downtown before getting down to work. This year's European heat wave seems tailor made for leisure or plain old lounging. But there's no lounging here. There's still plenty of work to do, starting with sound check, after which we all sit down to a home style meal cooked by Tedo and Dave Richards. They make a serious team in the kitchen, which is born out by the various people who take a pass on the food that's already available in order to have some of their creations.

The German people know their reggae music and they couldn't wait to see Burning Spear once again. Most of the people have waited at least a year for this and can't wait for the show to start...and it started with a bang!! The audience projected so much energy that it became contagious and the exchange began. By shows end, there could be no doubt that the people's loyalty to Burning Spear was richly rewarded.

15 July 2003 - Marghera, Italy
One of the first things that we notice as we arrive is the name of the street where the hotel is... via Malcontenta.

The weather alone could leave you totally content... lots of sun and plenty of heat. It's the kind of heat that makes siesta so natural.

The venue's outdoor setting seems perfect for reggae music. You can feel it.

The show went really well. We're feeling good as we head back to the hotel to get ready for the drive to Rome.

16 July 2003 - Rome, Italy: Villa Ada Town Centre
It's the second of three shows with the people of Tour de Force and Romano Pasquini. There seems to be something happening every second. That's not unusual when you're organizing outdoor shows. I'm glad the shows are outside; it's just such a natural environment for reggae music.

While we warm up, I find myself watching the people just lounging in the sun. What a life... sunbathing during the day and Burning Spear at night. How could anyone want anything more?

17 July 2003 - Ripatransone, Italy: Ascoli Piceno Corte Medievale
The day is really hot!! It's even hotter on the bus. Between the conversation and the temperature, it's even hotter. It's respectful but people tend to stand by their opinions... with a passion. I don't even remember what exactly what we were talking about, but it was a lively conversation.

The ride is winding and goes almost straight up some pretty imposing hills and at times I don't know how the bus made it up them. There are several opportunities to make photos, but I'm feeling to lazy to get the camera.

We get to the hotel and do some critiquing of the previous few night's shows, doing what we can to make it even stronger.

The venue is a large arena that reminds me of scenes from "Gladiator". It speak history out loud. The main arena sits behind (or in front of) what looks like a castle/fortress, with lots of holes for archers to fire from. It's truly amazing.

The acoustics are perfect. I don't know how they managed to make it so that you could hear all the way to the top without any trouble at all.

I can't wait for the show to start, just to listen to the place reflect the band and the crowd...

18 July 2003 - Vienne, France: Arenes De Vienne
We're back in France for two more shows with Garance and a reunion with Gaelle, who has been a point person for us on this part of the French tour. She has provided much needed translation, as well as arranging transportation and making sure the dressing rooms are in order. She has also been a real friend to many of us.

Kevin is taking care of business, selling CD's and warming up the people with his personality. He's really a great person.

Audience responded really well. Morgan Heritage and Anthony B. also gave the people great shows. This is the third time the three groups have been on the same bill this year, with each taking a turn opening and closing the evening. There are some fine people in those two bands.

19 July 2003 - Cannes, France: Cannes Palm Beach Festival
The venue lives up to its name for sure. The place is a beachside resort with all the amenities one would expect. On the way to the dressing room, I see massage tables, what looks like a steam room and lots of other things designed to relax or revitalize a person. I keep referring to it as the comfort zone.

Kevin has been invited to go wake boarding and I wish it were me, but there's a lot of work to be done and we get down to it. But first, water! It's just so hot you have to keep fluids in you during this European heat wave. It feels strange to be on the beach looking for water, but it goes that way sometimes...

The atmosphere after the show felt like a 60's rock concert, where no one wants to go home. There are countless sweaty people dancing to the DJ's closing tunes and others are milling around, socializing and basically waiting for the security staff to send us on our way, which they do and the night becomes a memory.

21 July 2003 - Munich, Germany
Sometimes it easy to forget how many people we know here, in Europe. In Munich, we encounter a lot of familiar faces and people who we think are familiar. The world seems to get smaller as you travel around it. And when you're traveling with Burning Spear, there are a lot of familiar people to see and perform for.

This is one of the first venues that looks or feels like a club, except it's so much larger than clubs we may go to in the states. It's really more like a concert hall with a club feel.

The opening act is Ndiago Diop, an African singer and band who have a large following in Germany. Their music is excellent and transports you to a place where only good times can result. The make up of the crowd is evidence of the way music is capable of bridging gaps between people... even those that may result from differing musical tastes.

African music has a way of getting people really wound up and that spills over into our show as several people attempt to join us on stage.

23 July 2003 - Salzburg, Austria: Rock House
Unpredictable weather greets us as we arrive at the venue for tonight's show. There's a little something strange in terms of energy. Maybe, it's just people being tired, or just a little too relaxed. This work requires a certain amount of intensity and that intensity needs to be sustained for several months. It's largely a mental thing, similar to what professional athletes go through. There will be weeks of consecutive shows and each is the one and only chance the people here will get to see the Burning Spear show in their town. Sometimes an opening band can motivate the competitive instinct in a musician to show the world that that trombone player can't hold a candle to what I can do. There are others who don't see this as a competitive endeavor, and they're right when you look at the big picture, but if it motivates a musician to give his or her best on a given night, that's what's required and there's no shame in being competitively motivated. Anyway the ultimate result is that there's much work to be done in order to present the proper standard of performance night after night. That's the definition of professionalism. Do the necessary homework and practice as if it were show time and things ought to come in to place properly.

Sometimes, no matter how many or how few times you may have played a certain venue, there are familiar faces who remember shows from several years ago or people who have waited several years to have the experience of seeing Burning Spear in concert. The people at Rockhouse are long time Spear fans and they come with high expectations. It's a big responsibility and we're motivated to live up to those expectations.

Today the band is working some new material to be incorporated in future shows... some great tunes from the new album Freeman, on the Burning Spear label. You need to go out and get a copy. The work is filled with subtle challenges that can bring out the best in each of us.

We have a home cooked meal, Austria-style. The attention given to us is gracious and the food prepared with love and care. This also provided a break for Tedo and Dave from the duties of cooks as well as their primary jobs. Although I must admit, that we have gotten spoiled by being able to eat good Jamaican style meals in places so far from home.

(The show started sluggishly, but after some prodding from the boss, the band kicked into high gear and gave the collected audience their money's worth.)

24 July 2003 - Darmstadt, Germany: Centralstation
One of the smaller venues on this swing through Germany... if you can consider a place capable of accommodating upwards of 1000 people small. A somewhat compressed schedule made it necessary to stay at the venue from sound check to show time. There was less than two hours time before show time. That probably helped us maintain our focus... it certainly kept everyone warmed up and ready for business.

The people got an energetic show and they loved it! You could tell from the people in the balconies dancing with total abandon that they were feeling no pain. In fact, it seemed more like a celebration of life and reggae music.

The band left the stage feeling pretty good as well. We'll have a pleasant memory to sleep by on the long drive to Auxerre, France in a couple of hours.

25 July 2003 - Auxerre, France
We arrived earlier than expected in Auxerre and got checked in to our rooms with time to organize, take leisurely showers and prepare for the day's work. We also reunited with Gaelle Court, our support person for much of the French leg of this year's tour. The support people on this tour have been great. They've not only provided much needed translations, but have also shown us some of the ways of our host countries. Big Respect due!!

Tedo and Dave are about to leave their hotel rooms and head to the venue to create some more of their magic in the kitchen. It's impossible to overestimate how important it is to have familiar food in unfamiliar places. Big thanks have to go out to these two for making the sacrifice of rest and relaxation to insure that we enjoy this gift... not to mention the fact that the food would be welcomed even at home in the States or Jamaica, it's so good.

The venue is open air in a park near a quiet channel used by some of the locals for kayaking and other sports, but somehow not overused... the fish are still swimming when there aren't kayaks moving quietly along the water and you can actually see a few feet down.

The dressing room is a refurbished 1930's houseboat that has been incredibly well restored. It has all the comforts of home and some not found in typical working class homes. Things like three bathrooms, two bedrooms and lots of community space. It's a real treat to just relax there after sound check. Sound check introduced us to yet another tune from the new album... sorry, but you'll have to catch the show to know which tune. The show went really well. Everyone was on the same page and we could feel the band coming together again. It seems that on each tour, it takes some time for a band to come together in a way that makes everything easier. People get to know or remember the habits of each other and can feel when someone is about to do something that they can complement. It's a great feeling... probably comparable to being on the winning team and knowing that long before halftime. Everyone enjoys watching the team play. Tonight was no exception. The Burning Band came on behind Mr. Rodney just the way we should.

Said goodbye to Gaelle and the crew from Garance for this year. They have been really good to us. It was good to be together again.

26 July 2003 - Dortmund, Germany
After a good show and fond farewells, it's time to get back onto the bus and head out for another long drive, this time to Dortmund. It's projected to take about 12 or 13 hours.

Well, it's been about 13 hours since we left France and we're right on schedule... not unusual for us; we're either early or right on time. Never, ever late!

We're working some new arrangements and doing listening homework. I'm looking forward to hearing the results of this work.

27 July 2003 - Malmo, Sweden
The day starts at 1:30am with a 7hour drive to catch the first of two ferries that will ultimately wind us up just outside of Malmo.

It's Sunday, so everything is quiet. It almost seems as if everyone left all at once. At first I think they will come out when the rain subsides, but that turns out to be wrong. Sound check was constructive with parts being ironed out and finetuned. That took about an hour and a half.

At 8:00 o'clock, when the doors opened, I expected to see a wave of humanity rush into the club, but again, I was wrong. But that surge was only 90 minutes away. By show time, the place was packed, and the crowd got a real tight show, with Mr. Rodney leading the band into some serious vibes. There were plenty of people from Copenhagen who knew there wouldn't be a show there this year and they didn't want to miss this one. They got their money's worth and more...

28 July 2003 - Stockholm, Sweden
We've come to the part of the tour where almost all the drives from one venue to the other are extremely long, which means getting started sometimes as early as 2:00 in the morning after coming off stage less than two hours earlier. This is where being organized or unorganized starts to show. Fortunately we're pretty organized as a group and we rarely lose more than five minutes rounding people up. And that rarely happens.

After another long one, we are pleased to see that the hotel is next door to the venue. That lets us relax a little.

The stage was extremely hot and that sometimes can be good for the body when you exert... it just feels good like dancing up a real sweat. Sometimes it feels so good that it's hard to control your enthusiasm. Anyway, the energy was really high and the band was tight. It left us with a really good feeling to take to bed.

Tomorrow we head to Helsinki, Finland.

29 July 2003 - Helsinki, Finland
Once again, the hotel and the venue are close enough that we don't have to arrange rides back and forth. It's good to be able to walk back and forth with or without someone. When you live with a dozen other people, sometimes it feels good not to be stimulated by another musician's conversation. One of the things that being on the road does is channel conversation and most of the time with us it's channeled toward music. Sometimes hearing conversation that has nothing to do with music can make you appreciate your situation even more. So we go back and forth in small groups.

Again, the stage is extremely hot. You don't forget you're working, as good as it feels.

The band is starting to come together well and that feels good too.

30 July 2003 - Oslo, Norway
This is the last stop in Scandinavia. The venue is Rockefeller, a place we're familiar with and it's also probably the last venue in walking distance from the hotel.

Because the schedule is so tight as this point, we'll be here only long enough to give the people what they've waited for so long and disappear quietly into the night.

The European leg of this year's tour seems to be flying by. Maybe it's because of the long drives, and ferry trips, maybe it's just because time flies when you're having fun. Either way, Burning Spear's fan base stretches into all parts of the world no matter how near or far.

These trips often highlight how much there is to learn and experience from people in different parts of the world.

31 July 2003 - Travel Day
The distance between Oslo and Chemnitz is major, so we have a day of close quarters in the bus. These drives are full of lively conversation, to say the least... anything from who's the best trombone player in reggae to why one country is better or worse off than another. We get to know each other a lot better on these drives as well as getting to know ourselves. Eventually we'll get around to looking at ourselves as a band. After all, we are here as a band more than anything else.

It's fun observing the differing styles of argument each person uses; Dave, the bassist, uses humor and Cecil has a quiet, efficient way of making his point. It's a kind of chemistry that finds its way to the stage and can make magic happen. The real trick is to duplicate the magic night after night...

1 August Chemnitz, Germany
Today's show is part of a festival that includes hip-hop as well as reggae. The mix brings together an audience made of people who would probably not ordinarily be at the same concert, but it also highlights the influence of the different artists. It's amazing how some artists can have a fan base that includes lovers of such different music.

Because of the festival schedule, we have a very short but sweet show. The crowd hadn't had enough, and neither had we. It seemed as if we'd just gotten warmed up. I guess we'll have to wait for another future, when we can do it again...

3 August 2003 - Travel Day
Travel days have become sleep days for some of us in the past ten or so days; at least for myself that's true. So today was different. I spent most of the travel hanging out with Tedo and Dave, joking around and just generally having a good time. Tonight, I outlasted them. Later some of us joined Mr. Rodney and Virgo and watched a documentary about Marcus Garvey. Of course, we wound up discussing... a lot of good points were made and a lot of knowledge dispensed. Mr. Rodney knows a great deal about Mr. Garvey and is always willing to share that knowledge.

We should arrive in Prague in about 10 hours...

4 August 2003 - Prague: Day off
Today is a good example of how traveling as a band is different from traveling as tourists. For starters, we just finished a 10 hour drive, and as fun as the guys are and as comfortable as the bus is, everyone is anxious to see a real bed. We all want to shower and eat. Clothes have to be washed

The fact that it is a day off, though, allows these things to be done without time constraints. And we are, in fact, in a fantastic and very different land, with a different language, currency, food and culture in general. The architecture is amazing; every building seems to have been erected by hand. They seem to radiate spiritual energy.

5 August 2003 - Prague
This year's European heat wave has left no one untouched. I don't know if it's relief that we expect to find or simply a place that has escaped the heat. In either case, it doesn't happen, so we stay mainly in our hotel rooms until it's time for work.

The venue is a converted movie theater, last used as such in the fifties, according to locals. They still have two large film projectors on the second floor.

I don't think they packed as many people in during its movie days as they will tonight. The place was packed to capacity with anxious Czechs waiting for the show of a lifetime. You could just feel the excitement in the air. From the very first note, you could tell the audience would bring as much energy as we could handle. It was as if we both each giving the other a show of our own. The exchange of energy was massive! Everyone was so hyped that the DJ had to spin for an extra hour just to bring everyone back to earth. I think we'll all remember this one for a long time.

6 August 2003 - Travel Day
We're halfway through the European leg of the tour and people are counting the days before we start in the States.

Tonight we start the drive from Prague to Biarritz, France. The 1800 kilometer drive will take about 24 hours and we're bracing ourselves... eating and sleeping patterns are drastically different and you find yourself trying to get just enough calories to maintain your body weight. Fortunately, we make a few stops along the way and at every point we get as much fuel as we can take. It seems the sitting takes a larger toll on us than working each night...

7 August 2003 - Biarritz, France
We arrive at the hotel early but the rooms aren't early. We're left to entertain ourselves until then. Cecil and Gillie lead us into a spontaneous jam session. It's a lot of fun and gives us insight into each other's musical tendencies...

The real show went really well. The crowd was into it... the band was really into it, and the energy just kept getting hotter... Spear Burning...

On to Spain...

8 & 9 August 2003 - Tarifa, Spain
After last night's show, we're all looking forward to tonight's.

The venue is a bullring; I won't call it a converted bullring, because it's still used that way and when we arrived, you could still see hoof marks in certain places. You can just imagine the atmosphere. The place is full of atmosphere and energy, even when it's empty, or when the crew is busy erecting the stage and mounting the lights.

Geographically, it's as close as one can get to Africa without actually being there, is what one person told me. We're only eight kilometers away. He also said that this venue was chosen because it's the least windy place available... I have my doubts about that, because it's the windiest venue we've played so far. When Macka B was playing, the whole right side of the drummers set was blown to the stage floor. Some of us expected the worst, but true to form, the wind quieted down the second Mr. Rodney took the stage. I wonder what that means. In any event, the show went really well and the audience was well ready after Macka B warmed them up.

The second night was slightly different, as the band that backed Macka B the previous night did it's show as an act onto itself. That tore the place up!! People sometimes forget the level of musicianship in supporting bands. They reminded them, for sure.

We came on after getting a great show from the opening band and proceeded to crank the audience up with some real Burning Reggae. There were several people in the audience from last night's show. Is it possible they didn't get enough? Even after the encore, which lasted close to thirty minutes, the audience was still screaming for more. The venue's curfew and the band's travel plans didn't allow that, but we gave the people a great show.

10 August 2003 - London, England
Once again, the last show of the European leg of the tour is upon us. Everyone feels that this one has to be special. We get our last real Jamaican food in Europe, complete with home made ginger beer. Once again, we hook up with Wilf Walker and Hans Peter, from the German shows is there, as well. We all want to leave Europe with a bang!

After a great dinner and a little quiet time, we hit the stage. The place is already hot... not only from the body heat of several hundred avid reggae fans, but also from the record temperatures that have been hitting England lately

The show was even hotter than the weather and everyone went all out to add some magic of their own to the night's proceedings. It all gelled so well and everyone was pleased. It was a fantastic transition show. There were so many transplanted Jamaicans in the audience, it felt like Brooklyn at times.

In just a few hours, we won't be far from Brooklyn. USA, here we come!!

11 August 2003 - Travel Day/Day Off
The European portion of the tour is finished and all that's left to do is head to the airport and board a plane headed for New York City. It's been an extremely exciting and enlightening experience. The shows all had a unique character, as did the people in every town we visited. Everyone showed us lots of love and it was great to see old friends again. It's also a blessing to make new friends.

There are particular people we'd like to thank and send greetings to: In France, there's Gaelle. A great friend and facilitator who really made things go smoothly, there's Hans Peter who served as guide, translator and friend in Germany, Tim in Scandinavia, Julian in Spain, Romano in Italy and of course, Wilf, in the UK. We love you all, as well as the people whose names I seem to have forgotten.

13 August 2003 - Martha's Vineyard, MA
It's official. The US leg of this year's tour has begun in earnest. The venue for tonight is The Hot Tin Roof, a place we're familiar with. The people are familiar with us, too. It's a good way to come home after six and a half weeks in Europe. The weather is hot, but not as hot as Europe. That's unusual.

We have a new drummer, Howard Smith. He's originally from England, but now lives in Florida. We're all getting used to each other and it's a good musical experience. Oh.I should also mention that he's one serious drummer! Check him out when you catch the next Burning Spear show.

14 August 2003 - Farmingdale, NY
This day's ride was rather short and it made for a very relaxed time at the hotel. Strangely, the lights don't work in my room and I find out that it's the same not only in the rooms of the other band members, but it's the same with a great number of people on the eastern seaboard and in parts of Canada. The blackout causes the first cancellation of a show since I've been working for Burning Spear.

15 August 2003 - Ortley Beach, NJ
It's really good that the first part of the tour is in familiar places. it allows us all to feel a sense of relaxation after several weeks in Europe. Knowing how to find food, places to do laundry and other small but necessary things can be calming.

After organizing ourselves, we head on to sound check and work on some other tunes that will become part of the show in the near future.

The size of the stage will create some real challenges for us; to begin, we have to be very careful about volume. It's easy for things to get too loud on a small stage. But if the volume is kept low enough everyone can hear everyone else and the band can create a nice vibe.

We give the people a good show and are rewarded with pleasantly cool night air for the winding down.

16 August 2003 - Providence, RI
We arrive at our hotel with plenty of time to shower and prepare ourselves for sound check. After a relaxed lunch, we head over to the venue for work.

Today has been punctuated at points by thunderstorms and brief spells of heavy rain. Luckily the hotel is around the corner from the venue. That makes it easier to control one's time and limits how wet we get from the rain.

The crowd is familiar with Burning Spear and they have come to get a good show. They won't be disappointed.

There are plenty of old friends there to greet us and spur us on.

The crowd responds enthusiastically to a couple of tunes from the new album, Freeman.

17 August 2003 - Hyannis, MA
It's hard to believe that the east coast swing of this year's tour is already coming to a close. Only one more show after tonight and we'll be working our way westward. There's a sense of urgency about leaving the east with some real Burning memories. In this reggae town, that will be a tall order, but I think we'll deliver.

Showtime finds the place packed. It looked like the people weren't coming out, but suddenly about 30 minutes before show time there was no place to stand.

The audience is as ready as the band. We give them a spirited show that included two tracks from the new Burning Spear album, Freeman. The people truly loved it.

18 August 2003 - Amagansett, NY
Our starting with familiar places has added another feeling to this part of the tour. At times, it's been relaxed, at other times, charged with the anticipation that comes from knowing that the people are familiar and that you may actually see personal friends there.

The venue is small, but spacious. And that's good since the show was sold out some time in advance. It took additional time for everyone to just get inside.

The energy was high and dynamic both to and from the stage. The audience and the performers made a great partnership.

21 August 2003 - Steamboat Springs, CO
Here we are after a drive of more than two days and everyone is anxious to get off the bus. It doesn't really matter that it's a luxurious specimen of a tour bus. It's time to stretch our legs and breathe fresh air. The mountainous landscape has gotten us psyched to get off the bus, as well.

The ski slopes haven't turned white with snow yet and the green hills inspire music and meditation. The biggest challenge could be the thin air. We'll see.

The enthusiastic crowd usually gets us so pumped we don't even notice.

22 August 2003 - Vail, CO
The second show of our six-day engagement, this should be one great experience. The people of Colorado always greet us with love. And we want to show the people our appreciation. This is the perfect way to give back to the people. Give them two hours of Burning reggae, Burning Spear style.

23 August 2003 - Morrison, CO: Red Rocks
Reggae on the Rocks is the annual celebration of seemingly everything reggae. There are vendors selling virtually everything a reggae lover or Rasta could ask for, even good ital food. The concerts here feature only the hottest acts in the business. And the crowd is comprised of the die hard as well as the curious. The festivities start early and run late into the evening. Today's music comes courtesy of The Wailers, Israel Vibration, Jimmy Cliff and of course, Burning Spear. These events usually bring out the best in all the musicians, there's a level of competitiveness that almost comparable to the feeling of community amongst us. It's almost like the way friends compare their record collections. A lot of us know each other and feel compelled to follow one good show with another even better one. And so each band raises the ante until the closing band feels it must shine even brighter than all the ones that came before. At the same time, the whole evening is a joint effort, where any competition is only about us motivating each other. The result is something truly amazing. The setting virtually demands magic, from the physical layout of the place to the energy provided by all the musicians and fans here.

Burning Spear came and delivered a patented high quality show that all the people appreciated. You could see them moving in unison at times and mouthing the words to songs. In the end, no one felt disappointed. They'd gotten all they bargained for and more.

24 August 2003 - Boulder, CO
We seem to be carrying a lot of the energy from last night into town with us today. There are bound to be fans coming to Boulder who were at last night's massive event. Almost certainly, there will people comparing the two shows. (I don't know why they would want to, when they have two distinct experiences before them, but that's their choice.) The atmosphere will be different, for sure. But you can believe it will be something special.

25 August 2003 - Albuquerque, NM
We get a nice hot day after some rain coming out of Colorado. The hotel is also in walking distance to the venue, so our early arrival allows us to move about slowly and take in the quiet of Albuquerque in the early afternoon, maybe even get a burrito or something. The quiet will be disturbed soon enough, real soon. Sound check is in a couple of hours.

Sound check turns into rehearsal, turns into something really nice. Mr. Rodney has us working on some of the subtle stuff. In a way, it turns out to be like advanced ear training. He seems to hear everything. And once we hear what he does, well the rest is just Burning!!

We'll be ready for tonight.

26 August 2003 - Rico, CO
Rico is somehow unique amongst our regular venues. It's such a small town, it might be hard to see how a concert would sell out, but it does. But, the place is popular amongst people in the surrounding cities. The population is about 150 and people greet each other with a smile.

There's one main street that runs the length of the town. At this time of year, it's green and clean. The stars and moon are the only light it certain parts. It's the perfect place to get away to. So much so that many natives of Colorado have no idea Rico exists. Our hotel has no phone, so it's good most of us carry mobile phones. The post office is quiet when I go to send some things out.

The people start arriving about noon and we get so socialize with a lot of the residents and visitors. The venue is a magnet for reggae music, and good music in general. The walls are covered with photos of all the greats that have come through and played for the people of Rico.

Judging from recent history, Burning Spear is a favorite here. (What else is new?) The atmosphere is electric. There are a lot of people here who missed previous shows and have made the effort not to miss this one. It's a wise choice, because the show tonight will be especially hot. From the opening tunes, it was apparent we had a real party on our hands. The people knew many of the songs or were getting their first dose of live reggae music and the enthusiasm was high. As the show progressed, it seemed the only people partying more than we were had to be somewhere out of state.

Mr. Rodney was in his usual fine form and he brought the whole room with him for two hours of hard core roots music.

They say the Rico Theatre is about to be sold, so it was fitting that it's last concert event would be a memorable one.

27 August 2003 - Durango, CO
This is the last show in Colorado for the year and it's been an especially good one. The people here have showed us love at every opportunity. We've been fortunate to be able to give them something of real value in return.

Tonight's venue is the Community Concert Hall at Fort Lewis College. It will be the first live reggae concert for many of the people here tonight and they couldn't have picked a better artist to give then their first taste of roots music. Burning Spear and his Band will give them an experience to be remembered.

During the early part of the day it was unusually quiet for a college campus with the start of classes not far away, but within two hours of our arrival, the concert goers began to arrive. The good vibes began early with our introduction to members of the opening band. Casper, the leader took Gillie and me around town and to the computer store where we got some of the small things we needed. We hung out and had some really good conversation and just good times in general.

The show felt like one big kiss goodbye for now. The dimensions of the hall made it feel intimate. We could feel the audience immediately and everyone in the room contributed their own energy to the vibe. The show was energetic but mellow at the same time. As powerful as it was, it had a gentle feel to it. I think we gave the people a good farewell. Hopefully we'll do it again soon.

28 August 2003 - Salt Lake City, UT
Tonight, we'll be greeting the people of Salt Lake City from the Port O' Call, which some of the people inform me isn't far from the Zephyr, where we've played the last three times here. Burning Spear has built and kept a loyal fan base here for years and there seems to be no sign of letting up.

Sound check is unusually energetic, not to say that most of the rehearsals lack energy, but this is something different. For some reason, we get really up for this city and the people here. It becomes important to maintain a reign on energy so there will be some left for the show later.

The show is a rowdy passionate affair. The people get up for us, too. There was hardly any room to breathe, but the vibe in the house was totally cooperative. Everyone seemed to be going out of his or her way to provide space for someone else. What a loving environment they've created.

29 August 2003 - Flagstaff, AZ
The drive from Salt Lake City is full of natural scenery, mostly rock canyons and rock formations. You can almost imagine the changes the earth here has gone through over the centuries. You get the feeling you're watching the planet age right before your eyes. Flagstaff is in for a real treat tonight and they know it.

30 August 2003 - Avila Beach, CA
We arrive in California for about 10 days of shows. We're always well received here and the weather is always kind. The survival rate of vintage autos serves as testimony to the mellow lifestyle California is so famous for.

Today's show is an afternoon outdoor affair that will include Jimmy Cliff, as well as some local talent. The crowd is really up for the show and the weather is cooperating. The sight and sound of the sea adds to the atmosphere, the people are freed up for real. The audience looks like a sea of sun-drenched humanity that bobs in time to the music and works itself into a near frenzy by the time Burning Spear takes the stage.

From here, there's no turning back as the people are taken into the heart of a real Burning experience. The acoustics make it really easy for the band to establish a Burning vibe that takes the audience to a place that only Original Reggae Music can access. The communication is direct and the feedback is immediate. Everyone is into it.

What can I say? You just have to catch the Burning experience first hand to really overstand.

Check out the website for info about a show near you!!

31 August 2003 - San Francisco, CA
The first day of a two day engagement at Slim's, which has become a mainstay amongst the reggae venues in San Francisco. This is an anxiously awaited show, with everyone having gotten tickets well in advance. We're greeted throughout the day by familiar faces. It's a real challenge taking the time to catch up with friends and family while still staying focused on the work at hand. For me, it's especially true, since I grew up in the area and have many connections to the town.

But first, we have a publicity appearance to do across the bay at Rasputin's Records in Berkeley. There will be plenty of people there to have records and CD's signed, as well as to get a kind of preview of tonight's show. A sort of Burning Spear unplugged. We did a small impromptu set of about five tunes with two guitars and two horns backing Mr. Rodney. It was a real treat for the people and a real honor for us to represent him in such an intimate setting. Now, it's on to sound check.

The show was extremely well received and the band was 'on'. Mr. Rodney, as usual had the crowd in the palm of his hand from the very start, good hands, indeed. At times, his drumming had everyone entranced, nothing else existed until the band came back in to bring them gently to another place.

It was truly a special night. And there's more where that came from. Wait until tomorrow.

1 September 2003 - San Francisco, CA
Today, we'll pick up where we left off last night. The crowd response was fantastic and we hope to get that same kind of response tonight. Second nights are unique because there are always people in the crowd who were there the night before and they're looking to see what's different from one night to the other.

We're challenged to keep the show fresh, literally make it the kind of show one could enjoy night after night. The band came on hot, as usual and immediately gave the people what they came for. They also got to hear two tracks from the new album and they were extremely well received.

2 September 2003 - Santa Barbara, CA
Club 634 is the site of tonight's festivities. This is a kind of observance for some of us, of the events of September 11. It was the first time that I played here with the Burning Band and I always think of it when we come here.

The venue is located in what looks like a giant shopping district. It's hard to see where anyone lives, but there's no question about where they shop. The sidewalks are literally tiled floors. The look has a unifying effect that makes it feel like a community with no residents but plenty of shoppers and shop owners. But, back to the venue itself. It's small and intimate but with plenty of room for dancing as well as a comparably sized patio area.

The music filled the place, both inside and out; the people partied and celebrated all night long, courtesy of Burning Spear and his Burning Band.

4 September 2003 - Los Angeles, CA: House of Blues
This is the first of two shows at the House of Blues, one here and another tomorrow in Anaheim. The House of Blues is always a special occasion among many other special shows we do. There's such a legacy of quality presented by the top names in music. And that list wouldn't be complete without adding Burning Spear to it. Tonight's show will demonstrate why The World Should Know that the Spear burns on.

5 September 2003 - Anaheim, CA: House of Blues
Our second House of Blues performance in two nights will further emphasize the importance of these shows to us all. Every day is a gift that is to be shared through this medium of music. The current legacy of Burning Spear is in our hands and it's our duty to protect it with all our best efforts. Each audience is the only audience and every crowd needs to get special treatment.

We take the stage with this knowledge and every intention of living up to it. The audience was also in the mood to experience something really special. They got exactly what they wanted. Mr. Rodney was in his usual fantastic form and the band kept pace with his every move. The sight and feel of the audience taking it in with a joint movement was inspiring. Everyone was on the same page and we could all feel it. It was truly a night to savor.

6 September 2003 - Chico, CA: Chico State University
It's been three years since we were last at this venue. College audiences are true tests of an artist's appeal, the students are much more critical at times. They can be a really tough sell. Tonight they will have little to criticize.

The opening band, Mystic Roots, has a strong local following and they got the audience in the mood for some great reggae music. Tonight's energy was quiet, not low energy but a sort of calm. It had fire, but not the kind of fire that destroys the wicked, but a fire that would comfort the righteous. Mr. Rodney and the band made the audience feel that fire with all its heat and glow from the first tune and didn't let up until we got the word that it was time to bring the show to an end.

7 September 2003 - San Diego, CA: Street Scene
Today, the 42d anniversary of Street Scene will include a history making lineup that includes The Skatalites and Burning Spear, as well as Eek a Mouse and others. The people will really be up by the time we hit the stage. There are television crews and all kinds of other media people there as well. It will be well covered, to say the least. There are several stages with all kinds of acts performing. It's a real street fair on a grand scale that goes for three days. The final show on the reggae (Do Dah) stage will close with Burning Spear and his Burning Band.

By the time we take the stage, we've gotten to hear the Skatalites put on a vintage display of musicianship and a program that included many crowd favorites. That got us up to provide the coup de grace.

Mr. Rodney took hold of the audience immediately and they didn't let go even at the end of the night's show. His energy caught on with the band right away and we kept the flow going with a Burning groove. Even as we left the venue, you could hear vendors playing their Burning Spear tapes, because they couldn't get enough. It left us with a feeling that we had indeed given the people what they wanted.

9 September 2003 - Sacramento, CA
One of those recently confirmed dates...

We're in California's capital to bring some irie vibes and Burning Reggae. This seemingly sleepy town could use some fire to take its collective mind off the impending recall of its governor. I think we've got just what the doctor ordered. After an unusually restful travel day, we've gotten ourselves recharged and ready to give the people of Sacramento their dose of the Burning Experience.

10 September 2003 - Santa Cruz, CA
I think we're coming to view this as the next to last stop on the California leg of the tour. It's as if California got a tour all its own. The collection of dates we've had here has covered almost every region of the state and left them with some of the best times they've had in recent memory.

Every day brings another lesson regarding the magnitude of what we do as representatives of Burning Spear. When the tour is over, we will have visited many of the fifty states of this country and demonstrated the power of reggae music. We will also have helped to demonstrate the central importance of Burning Spear to the legacy of the music.

11 September 2003 - Redway, CA
Redway is one of those towns, like Rico Colorado, that doesn't seem to have many residents, but has a large following. People come from miles around to catch a good reggae show and there's no better reggae show than the Burning Spear show.

When we arrive, there isn't a person in sight. It almost seems as if everyone went to the same out of town function at the same time. You almost don't have to look when you cross the street. The quiet gives us some time to get some rest and find some food as well as listen to some more music and do homework for the shows to come. After a while you don't feel strange when there's no activity calling right away... you just use the time to get done what must be done and it makes for a more relaxed approach to the day's work.

Some time about an hour before show time there seems to be a storm that rained people down on Redway and deposited all its contents at the door to the Mateel Community Center. Instead of umbrellas, they came with tickets to the Burning Spear show.

Step inside and enjoy the shelter of the hottest fire in town.

12 September 2003 - Portland, OR
We've traveled from a town that seems to want to hide itself to a city that's known throughout the country and just as widely visited. Many of the people we meet today are from other parts of the country and have fallen in love with Oregon and Portland, in particular.

We spend the early part of the day in places like the post office, the supermarket and the laundry. By show time all the non musical tasks of the day will be done and the quiet of this town will only have been broken by a few who know that Burning Spear is in town tonight.

The crowd at the Roseland Theatre greets us with love... it's the beginning of a night of music and love all around.

The band is getting tighter all the time and the people will get to hear a true representation of the magic of Burning Spear at his best, backed by his very own Burning Band.

13 September 2003 - Vancouver, BC
We arrive at the border checkpoint at a very early hour and see people crossing the border in large numbers. The customs officials have their hands full with the half dozen or so packed busses, not to mention the many passenger vehicles entering their country. It's a surprisingly short wait for our turn to come and have our bags inspected and the bus given the once over, complete with drug smelling dogs. We pass, with no incident (we always travel clean) and roughly two hours are on our way to Vancouver. This is the kind of experience that finds its way into songs. Maybe we'll hear one in the future.

The tour is again taking a familiar shape. Part of that shape is our stop here.

The streets of Canada are kept extremely neat and clean... people don't jay walk or dump trash on the sidewalk. The people are friendly and speak to you as you pass. They will probably take in the show differently compared with audiences in the urban USA

Sound check goes really well and includes a Burning Spear classic, which features trombone. I'm personally looking forward to it.

A couple hours rest, and it's off to the office... God, I love this job!!

14 September 2003 - Seattle, WA
Once again, we arrive to great anticipation. People greet us in the streets, knowing that we're in town to bring some original reggae music. The shows have been going well and the band seems to have hit a stride that will carry us through the rest of the tour. This will be a real treat for everyone.

I think we've developed a closeness within the band that carries over into the performances. It's the kind of chemistry that all great bands seem to have and it's good to find that here now. It's even better for the audiences who get to benefit from it. Tonight the good people of Seattle will see it for themselves.

15 September 2003 - Eugene, OR
Today will mark the return and eventual farewell to the great state of Oregon. Our visits have been short and sweet, punctuated warm greetings and even hotter shows. There's great appreciation all around.

The weather is getting colder, warning of the coming end of summer and the arrival of autumn, which has already picked up a head of steam. That means some of us have had to buy warmer clothes and that air conditioning is less welcome, even if it's not less prominent.

The energy tonight is greatly influenced by the large student population. There is a different level of enthusiasm at this age; the people are much less subdued. That will certainly make for a different feel

16 September 2003 - Travel Day
Whatever happened today, it happened largely without my participation. I slept through most of the drive. The time that I did spend awake, was spent watching a video on my bunk's TV. I've just decided to use the time to regather my energy. It's so tempting to participate in every lively discussion or every game of dominoes, but ultimately we all need some quiet time here and there. Today is mine.

17 September 2003 - Sandpoint, ID
It's cold when we get in and it shocks the bones. At least those of us who live on the east coast were able to deal with it as being seasonal changes. The brothers who live in Florida didn't like it much.

Looking around the venue, it doesn't seem too friendly for those people who will undoubtedly be dancing the night away. It's a theatre and most of the floor space is taken with stationary seats. On the other hand, the acoustics are really good and everyone should be able to hear well. I guess that's just part of the give and take that is life in general.

During the show, it wasn't obvious whether the seats had been removed, or people were simply standing on them, but they were nowhere to be found. The crowd was moving and bouncing.

18 September 2003 - Missoula, MT
Our brief trip through America's heartland begins here. I enjoy observing the different forms of recreation and different personality types one finds from region as one crosses this country of ours.

The venue isn't far from the hotel so I take a walk along the strip that leads to the venue, just looking into shop windows and emptying my mind. Over time, we develop ways of clearing our minds and enhancing our concentration. We're quickly approaching that part of the day where the only thoughts in my mind should be musical ones. What a blessing to have a work day that doesn't require the kind of dividing of one's energy that is so typical of corporate America. As demanding as our work is, we have only one mental agenda: make great music today.

19 September 2003 - Bozeman, MT
Day two in Montana brings us to Bozeman, site of numerous past burning experiences.

Things are lining up for today to be one of those memorable days. To begin, our ride in from Missoula was a short one, so we got a relaxed start to the day. We haven't had to search for laundry facilities or grocery stores. Everything seems conveniently located.

Sound check turned into a very productive rehearsal, with some small changes made here and there. The overall groove is become more solid and we're starting to have more confidence in each other. All this makes for shows that flow more smoothly and allow us to communicate more readily with the audience.

20 September 2003 - Calgary, AB, Canada
After a customs glitch that consumed several hours, we arrive in Calgary about ninety minutes before sound check. We're all on edge, but the experience we get from our traveling work has given us the tools to maintain harmony amongst ourselves. When we travel, we don't only come into contact with adoring fans. There are also those people who have the unenviable job of securing their national borders in this post-911 world. The Canadian border is notorious for its strenuous border checks. We found ourselves on the business end of that today.

We ultimately got past the bitterness of the day's Customs experience and had a good sound check and an even better show. I guess adversity is only adversity of we let it be. Aside from that, it can sometimes be the catalyst for some good stuff.

22 September 2003 - Minneapolis, MN
The venue formerly owned by Prince is still pulling in the big shows and large appreciative audiences. It's still at the hub of the Minneapolis music scene. The people start milling around even before sound check begins. There are familiar faces amongst the staff and we spend a few moments catching up before the business begins. There's a lot of work to do for tonight's show and we approach it with extra resolve. The Canadian experience is still with us and it probably provides impetus for release through the music.

23 September 2003 - Lawrence, KS
We're here at the home of the University of Kansas and the university's influence is all over town. Without the influence of the university, one wouldn't imagine reggae music would be alive and well in this place, but it is. The appeal is universal.

It almost looks as if everyone over 22 is behind a counter of some kind. Every shop window has Jayhawk merchandise for sale; you almost expect a pep rally to erupt at any moment.

That pep rally energy erupted about two songs into the show. The audience sang along and danced to almost every tune. One woman found her way past security and onto the stage briefly. The vibe just grew more celebratory and intense right up to the end.the people of Lawrence know their reggae music and Burning Spear knows just how to give the people what they want.

25 September 2003 - Bloomington, IN
The Midwest is being kind, even if the drive from one place to another is less than kind. Actually, the drives aren't so bad, it just my inability to be en route to any place. I'd rather arrive than be on the way.

The populations are much younger than they are in urban America generally. With youth, comes energy and enthusiasm. It requires comparable energy on our part to engage and satisfy them, but there's no shortage of energy in this band. That's such a large part of our business.

The venue is packed at showtime, which is different from the places where the people slowly trickle in just in time for the main act of the evening. I was told that Bloomington's reggae scene is growing rapidly and the crowd seemed to prove it. The people are knowledgeable and eager to see their favorite acts. Needless to say, Burning Spear is amongst those favorites and they showed their appreciation with bodies and voices. It was a real Burning experience and all left the venue totally satisfied and drained.

26 September 2003 - Madison, WI
We're at the Annex tonight. It seems as if we forget the place until we walk through the doors and then the memories come screaming back at you as if to ask how one could forget the kind of vibes we get when we come here. Until then, you may remember the town or the people, but just can't remember the building until you're inside. After you remember and you begin doing your work, you can end up asking yourself if you can duplicate the experience of two or three years ago. But like the building, you never know until you're in it.

The familiar faces make it more comfortable, as with any place and that helps a lot.

27 September 2003 - Chicago, IL
Another of those important venues. They're all important, but some carry a name and legacy that remind you of how important your work here will be. The House of Blues has a long history of presenting only the best in live music to its customers and of course, Burning Spear has a name and legacy of comparable status. The people don't come out to the House of Blues for just another night out, they come for something special. Burning Spear has a history of bringing that something special that the people expect. Those facts come together to emphasize the smallness of each of us while at the same time reminding each of us how important our participation is in the whole scheme of things. The milestones in history are often the product the small people doing big things. Tonight is our chance as individuals to position ourselves within this history.

We seem to deal with the pressure much better as the tour goes on. It's like being on a professional basketball team, where you know every night calls for something special, but at the same time requires you to keep things simple. Play your part properly and let the energy of the night take you to where you need to go. The perfect combination of Works and Faith.

28 September 2003 - Detroit, MI
Today, we're greeted by an old friend who sees to it that we get some good Jamaican style food. It's always good to get that on the road. It's so hard to get if you don't know exactly where to go for it. Today is slightly different since we have a day off after tonight's performance. Our work tonight is in the heart of urban Detroit. Urban audiences can sometimes be hard to read, partly because the overall demographic is older than the more outwardly enthusiastic college audiences and more hardened by life. On another level, they are more familiar generally with reggae music and tend to be more critical. They have more experiences to compare this with. They wear their enthusiasm in a quieter way. The big challenge is to get them outside of themselves and into the show. A specialty of the man called Burning Spear!

The venue is packed at show time. The audience is shouting Burning Spear! Burning Spear! That goes on for some time between the opening band and the beginning of our show. The people have been waiting for some time. It's been a couple of years since we played here and there are several people who missed the show last time. We certainly want to make it worth the wait. Mr. Rodney always does his part in this effort, so it's up to us, the backing musicians to keep up with his energy, which doesn't seem to diminish no matter how long we've been on the road. His fitness level has spurred a few of us (Bassie, Drummie and myself) to get into better shape. Glen is always fit, so there are a few examples for us to follow.

30 September 2003 - Pittsburgh, PA
After a day off, we're refreshed and ready. We watch Karate movies and a comedies, as well as listen to lots of music and conversation, it's good to finally arrive. Some of us see more movies on the road than at any other time of the year. At least, that's true for me. I have Tedo and Virgo to thank for that and I do thank them. But today, my mind only has room for music. Much of the time on the bus, for me, is spent thinking about how to improve my execution and overall performance. A lot of Mr. Rodney's perfectionism is rubbing off on us. I can certainly feel it becoming part of my thinking and practicing. I'm just anxious for the improvement to be heard.

Before I know it, it's time for sound check and I find my self snatched back into reality; there's a long line outside for tickets to another show. From the way the people are dressed in line, it appears they're buying tickets for a rock concert.

1 October 2003 - Knoxville, TN
In a state known world-wide for country music, people probably don't realize there is more to the musical world of Tennessee. The people have an appreciation for anything musical.

We arrive just in time for load in and it takes some humor to keep things level. Sometimes things just don't go the way you want them, and when that happens you have to manage to stay focused on the work at hand. Anything that helps in the effort is more than welcome.

Anyway, the trip actually didn't take as much of a toll on us as I thought it would. It just felt a little too long. Then again, any trip longer than thirty minutes takes a toll on me.

One good thing about this part of the country is the food and some of us got a good country style meal before work. How can you get tired when there's just so much to experience?

2 October 2003 - Nelsonville, OH
Amazed at the variety of people and types of reggae enthusiasts, outwardly you might make the people out to be rednecks or children of hippies, but you really never can tell. They're just people with a distinctive look. There were more than a few bikers in the mix. It makes for good conversation. There's so much everyone has to tell, it's just fun listening. Dave, Rex and Kevin have a lively conversation about the ways they each grew up. Dave's sense of humor is so on point, you laugh first, then you realize how true the 'joke' was. Meantime, Gillie is looking through a magazine as if he's not interested, but I can see a bit of a smile on his face. I'm sure he was thoroughly entertained. It's about two minutes to show time, so it's a good vibe to take onstage. We'll see what he crowd thinks.

3 October 2003 - Asheville, NC
Today will be this year's last festival show. The weather doesn't look festival friendly, so I'm worried. But we have until 8pm to be concerned about weather.

Sylvan shares some food while we wait for our rooms. Sylvan, Tedo and Dave can do thing with a microwave you wouldn't believe. It allows us to have 'home cooked' meals wherever we may be, as long as you remembered to shop at the last grocery stop. Showtime: The crew breaks out a number of outdoor heaters to take some of the edge off the cold that hasn't let up all day. They'll come in especially handy for the horn section who will have a serious challenge staying in tune as the temperature fluctuates. Horns are notorious for going out of tune in inclement weather.

As for the audience, they seem be quite warm. Mr. Rodney and the band kept them dancing enough to stay plenty warm. Some people even took off their shirts and danced that way till the end. Overall, it was a really hot show, despite the weather. And everyone felt it.

4 October 2003 - Winston-Salem, NC
Once again, our trip through the Carolinas must include a trip to Ziggy's. It's the area's hottest venue for live reggae music.

Let's see, hottest spot for live music... Burning Spear's in town. Maybe we can put them together and see what comes of it.

Those who knew where to go were well rewarded with one of the best shows to come though town in a while. As summer has gone and Fall has arrived, the people are glad to have the heat provide by the master of Reggae music.

Mr. Rodney's percussion playing was especially prominent tonight. I don't know how he came to interpret the vibe of the night that way, but it was definitely the way to go. That bond was created with the audience early into the show and the people wouldn't let go all night. The audience response highlighted Mr. Rodney's ability to be a cutting edge performer and still be true to the old school roots tradition at the same. As backing musicians it inspires us to crank up the quality just to keep up. It turned out to be pure brilliance. Everything seemed to line up precisely as planned and the door was opened for spontaneous musical combustion. From here, we're off to Chapel Hill.

9 October 2003 - Chapel Hill, NC
This will be our last stop along "Tobacco Road" this year. The Cat's Cradle is one of those venues we haven't visited for at least a year. The day finds us pretty fresh because we've had some short pleasant drives lately. The weather is good and the land is a beautiful sight as it passes into and out of view from the bus. We're relaxed and ready to make some good music tonight.

The venue is located in what looks like a mini strip mall. If you didn't know it was right there, you could easily miss it. It's only when the vibe of Reggae music makes its walls breathe, that you know you've arrived.

We've had a few days off and as usual, I'm worrying about how much energy I've lost if any. I like the intensity of playing every night and not playing makes me think I may switch gears or something. Fortunately the band's overall commitment to our job and the music keeps everything right. Rehearsal/sound check puts all the worries to rest. The energy level provided a small preview of what would come in a few hours.

11 October 2003 - Norfolk, VA
The first thing I hear upon getting up is laughter but I've slept through whatever inspired it. I don't want to spoil the vibe by asking anyone to explain the joke, so I just assume it's something in the movie they're all watching. It's a rainy day in Norfolk and for the first time in weeks it seems to be good sleeping weather. We're at that time when the weather changes drastically from one day to the next. We've gotten here before anything has opened and I wanted some food other than what I have on the bus. The venue has a great sound system and it's easy to hear everything. It's one of the best venues for live music and the room has a great sound and lots of space for people to dance.

The dressing room has the kind of creature comforts you could only imagine, like a Jacuzzi and sauna as well as several separate shower stalls. It's enough to make one feel like a celebrity.

In its short life, the NorVa has gained a reputation for showcases great live music, tonight will be indicative of that.

Sound check went by quickly. It seemed like fifteen minutes when it was really ninety. We're definitely ready.

12 October 2003 - Washington, DC
Our visit to the nation's capital starts with good weather. We've seen the gray changing of seasons, with rain and overcast skies. Today the sun makes a welcome return. Every day without sun feels like a week. But the sun provides a good start for the last portion of the tour. It's kind of strange the way the country sometimes seems split into ethnic enclaves, each having their own customs and culture, but still finding common ground in the house of reggae.

Tonight's show emphasizes this visually as we're greeted by a crowd as mixed as any we've seen. They expressed their appreciation for Burning Spear as one, united by all that reggae vibe.

The show is different each night and the people are getting to hear a wide variety of the tunes that comprise the huge body of work of Burning Spear. They also have an opportunity to witness his total command of the Burning Band and the audience he plays to.

15 & 16 October 2003 - Austin, TX
It feels good to be winding he tour down with visits to familiar venues like the Flamingo Cantina in Austin. The venue is situated in an area that reminds me of stories I was told about the bayou country in the Deep South where after hours parties were held in juke joints. The vibe is just familiar, everyone seems to know everyone else. A real home away from home feeling.

It's good to have our final two night engagement here and now. The people make it so nice to be amongst them and it's good to know we'll be able to sleep in after the first night's work.

The first night's show is a major challenge because the stage isn't really large enough for a band of nine; there's also a woman up front who seems hypnotized by the motion of my slide. She actually made motions as if she would grab it, which is every trombone player's worst nightmare. With a little effort, we negotiate the space and get down to some serious playing. Virgo is in the sound booth skanking as he mixes; the crowd finds itself in the midst of a real Burning experience. It's hard to believe we'll be back tomorrow night to do it again.

16 Oct. (night 2) 2003 -
After a rare full night's sleep and slow day we try a new stage arrangement. The space issues from last night will be solved by re-orienting to the left on the stage, which will give every one room to move and will move the horns away from the edge of the stage. It will also give the left side of the house the view the front usually gets.

The house is even more crowded than last night. A good thing we had two shows. It seems some people like to wait for the second show. They were not disappointed.

These two shows leave us with two more before leave the South for another year. We say so long to our friends for now.

18 October 2003 - New Orleans, LA
This is this year's last stop at the House of Blues. We always have a few mixed in along the way. They keep us looking forward to the things they are so well know for: great food, good merchandise, a great room to play and a first class vibe all around. You always get the feeling that this is where it all started. What a perfect match; and enduring venue for one of the most enduring legends this music has ever known. Sound check is really laid back and the sound of the room is excellent. It's a good feeling to take to work.

The audience is as ready for the night as we are. There's also the fact New Orleans generally is used to great live music so we're challenged to really bring it on. We love the challenge and we met it head on, with the audience spurring us the who way. Great show.

Atlanta, here we come.

19 October 2003 - Atlanta, GA
This is our last opportunity to enjoy the southern hospitality that's such a large part of the culture here. It also seems like it will be the last sunshine we'll see for the rest of the year. I guess we'll have to supply our own heat.

The day is full of thoughts of my band mates. It's been such a great learning experience and the musical bond that's here is a unique one. I'm just hoping to find some magic for one more week.

21 October 2003
The feeling has definitely changed. There's a lot more talk of home, family and friends. The guys who live in Miami and/or Jamaica will be able to escape the arrival of winter weather. All of us will miss the stage and each other.

Sylvan is cooking at the microwave while Rex, Gille, Tedo and myself wait (Sylvan has developed a reputation for having serious microwave skills). Our arrival on the east coast almost completes the tour. It's almost as if we're picking up the people who missed us a few months ago.

22 October 2003 - Lebanon, NH
This is the first stop on the last leg of the tour. We're all back in familiar time zones. The general conversation is increasingly of home and the length of time since we've been there. At the same time, the fine-tuning of parts has the urgency that comes with knowing that there's not much more time and few remaining changes to get it as right as it will get. Everything has changed. The drives between shows is definitely shorter, we're all in our home time zone, there's no trouble finding Jamaican food and we're actually getting a good night's sleep after each show.

23 October 2003 - Boston, MA
This would have been the next to last show on the tour if not for the blackout of August 14. For me, it changes the way I'm looking at the night. It's just a little calmer not thinking that tomorrow is the last show. I truly love this job and will miss not having a show to do each night. When you feel yourself coming to the end of something you love, usually there's an all out effort to make the results reflect all the effort and growth that has happened since the beginning and one's love for the music. This is no different. You can feel everyone trying harder, listening more carefully and bringing more of themselves to the table. The past few shows have been so full of energy and passion, it's important that there's no let down. Considering the love everyone brings to this work, it's amazing there's any extra left at this stage of the game. But we see the bottom of the glass and we're making sure we savor every drop of the fluid that's left.

24 October 2003 - New York, NY
Our arrival in New York is much anticipated for both band and audience. The New York show is always a major event for reggae and for New York's reggae family in particular. That means we need to bring something that makes the people feel special and honored by our presence.

There's never a doubt that Mr. Rodney will bring something special to the table; that will set the wheels in motion.

Tedo has his merchandising strategy planned and everything looks good until Rex's snare head is broken. That means we'll be hanging out for a while as he goes uptown to get another.

The show went really well. The vibe was just right, blazing high energy that no one wanted to let go of. The night ended as high as it began. Two more to go.

25 October 2003 - Philadelphia. PA
The ride was surprisingly long from NYC. When we got into Philly we were pretty ready to do the final organizing of our things and get psyched and ready for sound check. We did get a chance to do some sight seeing and window-shopping in the area near the venue.

Aside from the energy during sound check the time leading up to the show was really calm, like the calm before the storm. It felt good after all the high energy of last night. We'll relax until show time, when there will be a burst of sound and energy that will leave no clue that we've been on the road for the last four months.

26 October 2003 - Farmingdale, NY
The last time we were here was August 14, when we were canceled due to the big east coast blackout. It resulted in our postponing the show that night but rescheduling it for tonight. The audience won't lose anything that might have been present in August. They might even reap the benefit of hearing a band that has been together four months longer and are therefore more used to each other. We won't save anything, this is it. The audience tonight, will certainly get a band putting it all on the line. No one wants to leave this tour knowing that they could have put more effort into their execution or some other aspect of their musicianship. It's as if everyone comes to the stage making the statement: This is what we're made of. It's now or never. We want to finish with as much fire as when we started.

The show went real well. A packed house full of enthusiastic and appreciative people spreading a contagious vibe that everyone just allowed himself or herself to bathe in. The feeling will stay with us for quite some time. It's good to be able to bring that kind of joy into people's lives, even if it is only a temporary escape from the hard knocks of life. Usually it's much more than that for any Burning Spear fan. More than thirty years of loyal following demonstrates that better than any words I can deliver.

But for now these words will have to suffice. There's simply no better way to communicate the message.

Afterthoughts
This has been a fantastic summer. How could it not be in the presence of the Original Master of Reggae Music? Mr. Rodney is the unquestioned leader in the business right now. Every album is greeted with enthusiasm and usually followed by Grammy nominations. The quality of the product he brings is the highest. His leadership, musicianship and humanity are true gifts that are shared by everyone he comes into contact. We, as band members, are a truly fortunate group. I can't imagine being happier in a job. Mrs. Rodney, as usual seems