|
|
 |
|
October 27, 2006
So it's been a while.
Shocker.
What's new in this land?
Well - a new project is slowly rising in the horizon. It is something I have thought about for a long time and it will hopefully be coming to fruition soon. I will provide more details when they come up, but it should be something special.
As for my shows - I am working on solidifying a mid-size show that I would like to announce in the next week or so.
I also have recorded a new song - "The Way That We Love" - which will be available for free download in the upcoming weeks. I will send out a message as soon as it's up.
In the meantime, enjoy the grey skies. Could be worse - it could be a month from now.
Peace from this land...
m.
September 13, 2006
So last I wrote I was on my way to Borat, the movie at the Toronto International Film Festival. Here is the weird dream that transpired:
After waiting in a ridiculously long line, I eventually made it up towards the doors and the red carpet. At this point, however, we were stopped as Borat arrived on cart, with a donkey on the cart, being pulled by 4 peasant women. Absolutely classic. He did his interviews, etc, and we went in.
He came on and introduced the movie (all in character) - and the first 15 minutes were some of the funniest I have ever seen on film. I mean "I'm going to throw up from laughing" funny.
At this point, however, the projector broke. After Borat did a bit of improv to keep people's attention, there was a rustling in the theatre as they scrambled to fix the projector. Eventually, there was commotion around the projection room, as Michael Moore had gone into the booth to try and fix it - he was unsuccessful (had been a projectionist at some point in his life) but him and Larry Charles (Borat writer, writer for Curb and Seinfeld) came on stage to take part in an hour long Q+A. It was absolutely magical. The movie never started again and I was forced to come back the next night to experience the glory all over again - sadly, the second night was without Borat himself, but Dustin Hoffman came. Classic.
The movie itself is incredible - I don't want to say anything as it will speak for itself as possibly the funniest movie ever when it is released in November. The 10 minute chase scene is easily the best 10 minutes on camera I have ever seen.
Anyway - beautiful movie, great experience. If you live in the vicinity of Toronto and haven't been to the film fest, you are crazy. I will write with two more reviews in the coming days of "The US vs John Lennon" and "Out of the Blue".
Incredible.
September 7, 2006
Sorry about the delay - I'm on my way to see the North American premiere of Borat, The Movie in the Toronto International Film Festival.
I will report on this tomorrow.
I've never been so excited about a movie.
Sorry Ron.
July 27, 2006
So Floyd Landis just tested positive for steroids. Almost as shocking as Lance Bass coming out of the closet. What a crazy week...Next thing you know, we're going to find out that George W Bush isn't incredibly intelligent.
I don't know if I could handle the shock...
Seriously though - how many athletes have to test positive for steroids before other users start seeing the effect this has on the public perception of professional sport. I'll never forget the disappointment when I found out that Ben Johnson tested positive in the 1988 Seoul Olympics. I was 9 years old and had just written a speech on him for our school public speaking competition. I was destroyed.
Think about it though - a guy like Albert Pujols hits 50 home runs in a season and the first thing people think is that he's on the juice. Lance Armstrong wins the Tour De France and automatically, rumours swirl that he's taking roids. A guy runs 100M in under 10 seconds, and it is almost a given that he has been taking steroids.
This is the effect. The trust and admiration that existed in the relationship between the sports fan and the athlete is disappearing like Michael J Fox's family in his wallet photo in 'Back to the Future'. And I fear that there isn't a flux capacitor in the world that could take us back in time to repair this...
peace in the borough...
m.
July 20, 2006
So - most people who have seen me live know that I have gained a lot of my musical knowledge/experience through my family. My uncle has my favorite singing voice in the world, my dad is one of the finest classical musicians/music educators in the country, and my cousin Gregg has been a stalwart in the Canadian Roots/Folk scene for years now.
That said, due to a move to Jolly Ol' England, many of you have not gotten the opportunity to meet my other talented musician cousin, Dr. Mark Lawless.
Now working as a fluvial geomorphologist in Ilkley, England, Mark has started a new band called "Some Kind of Asteroid". They've just finished recording a great new EP and you can find out their info at http://www.somekindofasteroid.co.uk or at www.myspace.com/somekindofasteroid. Great EP - check out "Anywhere Else" - it's my fave.
Some of you might recognize Mark as he and I played together several times under the guise of "Floundering Platypus", "Simply Randy", "Simply Lawless", and "Ghosts to Be". You also might recognize him as his boyish good looks might be reminiscent of me.
Just a thought...
peace.
m.
ps - wrote a new heartbreaker for y'all last night. Will debut it on Aug.1. I like it.
July 17, 2006
Is there anything better than sitting by a fire on the beach at night in the summer? If there is, it might only be sitting by a fire naked on a the beach at night in the summer.
It happens.
July 14, 2006
In case you're interested, here's a little article that ran in a local Toronto paper and on insidetoronto.com
http://www.insidetoronto.ca/to/villager/story/3509632p-4055180c.html
June 21, 2006
Happy summer solstace. It is officially summer. I'm going to celebrate by getting Gandhi roti.
Also celebrating by booking my next gig - August 1, Toronto, Free Times Cafe, College Street. Small venue, cheap show ($5), just me and a guitar/piano. Hoping to debut a few new songs too.
Tuesday night, mid summer, what else would you want to do?
Go buy the new Keane CD too. Damn good.
m.
June 19, 2006
Open Mics...
After a bit of a hiatus of playing frequently, it's time to start playing more. I'm going to start hitting Toronto open mics a little more frequently - starting tomorrow at Gypsy Coop. Being away from Toronto for so long has allowed me to slip through the newer scenes in Toronto and I think it's time to start pushing it more. Plus, there is something great about just hopping onto a stage, playing a couple of songs, and hearing some other great musicians along the way.
I'm also on the verge of booking two smaller solo shows for later this summer. I'm thinking that they will likely be Thursday nights (too difficult for people to go out on summer weekends) but should have one of the dates confirmed by tomorrow. The other will likely be a collaborative effort. I'll discuss more later.
That's all for now but thanks for checking in and hope to see you soon...
m.
June 13, 2006
So 27 years ago my mom was probably cursing my near existance as she went into labour. And at about 5:30 pm, I decided I'd give this whole 'living' thing a shot.
Been a hell of a ride so far. Have met some great peeps, seen some great places, done some great things.
Guess more than anything, not being a big birthday person, I just wanna thank everyone I know for being a part of this adventure, and being a part of my desire to stick around this place for another little while.
I guess I don't have much else to say today, but I think 27 is going to be a big year. I feel due.
m.
April 26, 2006
Another review for you: Stephen Fearing, Yellowjacket.
If you're in Canada, go buy it. It's a mellow folky CD so if you're into that sort of scene, definitely check it out. On top of being an incredibly guitarist, performer, and songwriter, he has the finest voice of any Canadian musician I've ever heard. Will rip your heart out listening to it. So fantastic.
Fearing is a singer/songwriter who has been in the Canadian Folk/Roots scene for years, most popularly as a member of the Juno nominated "Blackie and the Rodeo Kings".
The CD, Yellowjacket, can be purchased at most record stores, and online. It also features some phenomenal Canadian supporting talent including, but not limited to, bassist John Dymond and Suzie Vinnick. You might know John Dymond from such phenomenal album work as "Mike Lawless, Patio Rock Star" and Suzie from phenomenal performances such as the bass player at Mike's last Rivoli show (April 29, 2006).
Name dropping aside, this really is a beautiful record. Some great rainy day music for you...
www.stephenfearing.com
m.
April 18, 2006
In case some of you are wondering - it's coming very soon, and it's going to kick your ass.
May 26th...official launch of "One Piano, One Mike".
Raw. Solo. Just Me.
You asked for it...
m.
April 13, 2006
Well, happy Easter to all of you (or happy whatever you plan on celebrating)...
I know my last posting was rather down but such are the result of some days we face. Without examining it any further, thanks to those who wrote me. Much appreciated - you know who you are...
On a different note - go buy a Ron Sexsmith CD today. I saw him for the second time last Saturday at Toronto's Massey Hall (basically, the Carnegie Hall of Toronto/Canada). Absolutely phenomenal. While some of you might not dig what he does (he has a very different voice, and quite a mellow feel), he is one of the finest Canadian songwriters I've ever heard. Count Coldplay, Elton John, and Paul McCartney among his biggest fans as well (actually, his song 'Gold in Them Hills' was recorded with Chris Martin).
Bottom line is that if you are interested in listening to singer/songwriters, Ron is as great a singer/songwriter as I've ever witnessed. Most importantly to me, his music searches for meaning and he finds a way to lament without trying to depress (something I could probably learn from!). It's inspiring, emotional, and ultimately optimistic in the most pessimistic of times.
That's my review this week. Take it as you like...
m.
April 4, 2006
Amazing how life can throw you for a loop sometimes. It sometimes seems like a weird sort of measuring scale. One good thing has to be followed by a bad thing. It's like nature is somehow trying to find a way to keep us from getting too sad or too happy...
I guess, though, that it's not how we deal with the good times that matters - it's how we face the bad ones. Overcoming these things only makes the story that much better and isn't that what it's all about? The story?
I personally don't know - I just hope I guess...
March 5, 2006
I've been AWFUL yet again at posting. I know it's no excuse, but I've started back into the regular work world which has made things a little tough.
Anyway - things are going well here in the T-Dot. The album's mixed, though it needs to be edited, and the CD Release has been scheduled for the end of May (I'll send a mass email out real soon with details). Also should be playing a bunch of piano bar gigs really soon as well.
For those in the States - I mentioned for a while a gig I was going to be doing - unfortunately, for now, it has fallen through. In order to play legally in the US, I needed to get a VISA and after a lengthy discussion with the promoter/venue and their lawyers, we discovered that the VISA I was to be getting had reached it's annual limit (April - April) - SOOOO it looks as if I'll be sticking to Canadian shows for now. I'm hoping that these gigs will be rescheduled for the fall...
Other than that, just trying to adjust to land. Definitely miss certain things (people) at sea, and really miss playing nightly, but for now, this is the best place for me. I'll be moving into the city itself April 1, so anyone who comes to town (provided I know) has to stop by for a visit (I even have a guestroom).
Well - I'll be talking more soon enough, but enjoy the Oscars. I'm really hoping that Final Destination 3 shocks everyone and wins Best Picture by a write in vote. I think it has a chance...
peace.
m.
January 30, 2006
And so it went...
Almost 250 people, over $2000 raised for the charity, and hopefully 1 CD on the way.
First - thank you so much to everyone who came to my last show at the Living Arts Centre. It was one of the most special nights of my life and I thank you all for your support of me, Perry, and the CDA. I really hope I get a good CD out of all of this.
So - what from here - well, as I toil away trying to find a house and a job to keep this music thing going, I have a few plans set up.
Studio - I will go into the studio on February 8th to begin the mixing and mastering of my upcoming (hopefully) live album. My hope is to release it early May with a CD release to coincide. The venue hasn't been selected but it will be a great night, regardless.
TV - For those of you in the York region or above, I am hitting the airwaves on Rogers' Daytime Show - airs 11 am, 5pm, and 11 pm on Rogers' Cable, York Region and above. This will take place on Thursday, Feb. 2.
Shows - To coincide with the TV appearance, I'm doing an in-store show at Indigo in Richmond Hill on Tuesday, Feb.7 from 7:30 - 9:00.
In addition - I'll be doing a couple of Madison piano bar shows, Feb.16/17/18th from 10:30 onwards.
US - By Thursday I should finally have news on whether these 3 dates in the north US will happen. 2 will be piano bar gigs, one will be a full band, "Mike Lawless" original show.
That's it for now. I'm going to be updating as much as possible, and again, check out www.myspace.com/mikelawlessmusic as well.
Peace from the borough...
m.
January 19, 2006
2 days to go.
As you know, Saturday is gonna be my biggest show yet. I know some of you are making a trip up to see me, some might not. Either way, there will be a live CD to follow soon so you'll all have a chance to listen eventually.
I want to thank those of you who have bought tickets so far though - we're way past the break even point and it looks like the show is going to make quite a bit for the Canadian Diabetes Association. It really is a cool thing to be able to accomplish something by playing music.
I also wanted to let you all know I'm on myspace now. Check out www.myspace.com/mikelawlessmusic to add me to your friends. I'm still figuring out what this thing can do, but I will have more stuff up when I learn the inside scoops.
Well - hope to see you Saturday. If not, take care of yourselves...
cheers.
m.
January 16, 2006
I'm being punished for 2 years of summer.
Friday in Toronto it hit 10 degree celsius. Saturday it hit -15.
For those who don't use the Celsius scale - basically, -15 means that you walk outside and uncontrollably start crying solid tears of ice.
I'm so glad I left the Caribbean?
One more thing - I don't watch a lot of TV shows. I pretty much watch sports or movies. That said, I have gotten into "24" and watched the season premiere last night. Holy crap.
Were you all as upset as me that President Palmer was killed? Definitely in my top 3 American presidents of all time - followed by Chris Rock, and Kevin Kline, in the movie "Dave".
Am I also the only one who was slightly happy finding out Michelle was killed? I don't know why - I just don't like her.
Anyway - I'm sounding like a complete geek right now so I'm going to sign off and play some Dungeons and Dragons...
eeeeeeeee.....
m.
January 1, 2006
Well everybody - first things first, Happy New Year.
I figured I'd start the year with a bit of an introspective posting. As I look at the date on this page, I still find myself (as I do every year) in shock at how quickly time is passing by).
It has now been (count it) 6 years, since Y2K:
6 years since George W Bush was/wasn't elected President.
6 years since Napster went to court and I could no longer download family friendly movies from the internet for free, without the fear of being prosecuted.
6 years since the Sydney Harbor lit up with fireworks commemorating the end of the Summer Games.
6 years since Survivor first appeared (please take it back) - thus launching the worst trend to hit television since the Olsen Twins - reality TV.
6 years since Jim Varney died, and with it my dream for another classic "Ernest goes Somewhere" movie.
6 years since I entered 3rd year University in London, ON, Canada.
6 years since I was 20 years old.
Some of these things seem like an eternity ago, others like they only happened yesterday.
I guess this is the thing about New Year's. Makes you stop and take a look at where you are now, what you've been doing, and where you're going. Sometimes yearly, sometimes every six. I suppose looking back, it's been a pretty great six years. I just really hope that I can keep the pace going.
2005 itself was a great one. For the second straight year I was able to work full time playing music. And while that is going to have to stop now (as my only source of income), I'm so proud to have had the chance. Hopefully it will happen again.
More importantly, 2005 was, to me, about people. I met some incredible people (many of you) this past year who have really made me believe that maybe there's a chance this music thing could work for me. The messages, emails, etc, I have gotten have been overwhelming and while I still haven't been able to write back to everyone (I'm still working on it), I can't begin to thank you enough.
Most importantly, I met a few people who changed my life.
I'm 26 and have the most amazing group of friends I could ever imagine. The fact that I was able to find others that could be as important to me still boggles my mind. While I do believe that we find our own destiny, sometimes you have to wonder if destiny might peak it's head around the corner every so often to make the search a little easier.
Anyway - I've rambled long enough tonight - I don't even know if there is any continuity to this all. I just wanted to share what's been running through my head these days.
Thank you all for being part of my 2005 and I hope you stick around for 06. I think it might be a good one.
Peace and love.
m.
December 25, 2005
Hey peeps,
Just wanted to wish you all a belated Merry Christmas and an early Happy New Year.
I'll write more soon but am busy hanging with the fam here. Hope you're all safe, happy, and healthy.
Peace.
December 19, 2005
Hey all...
I'm just about to send out another group email for a few things, but thought I'd post here first. Just a couple of quick things...
1) I have made a CD of my last night on the Glory (actually, 4 CD's). I'm going to post a few of the better sounding songs to my website in the next few days, if you're interested.
2) I've had a lot of people ask if I could send them my song lists, etc. Truthfully, I have a ridiculous number of songs in my computer, so I won't be doing that. Instead, for anyone interested in seeing what a regular night of me playing in a piano bar entails, check out the set list from my last night. For the record, let's see you find another musician who does this many damn songs in one performance...
NOV.26 - CARNIVAL GLORY, LAST NIGHT
Handle Me With Care – Travelling Wilburies
Life of I – Mike Lawless
Mr. Jones – Counting Crows
Great Balls of Fire – Jerry Lee Lewis
Eight Days a Week – The Beatles
Wonderwall – Oasis
New York, New York – Frank Sinatra
I’m Still Standing – Elton John
Piano Man – Billy Joel
Daydream Believer – The Monkees
Ants Marching – Dave Matthews
Steal My Kisses – Ben Harper
Brown Eyed Girl – Van Morrison
Sweet Home Alabama – Lynyrd Skynyrd
The Gambler – Kenny Rogers
What I Like About You – The Romantics
Have a Little Faith in Me – Joe Cocker
Drops of Jupiter – Train
I Still Haven’t Found What I’m Looking For – U2
Hotel California – Eagles
Free Fallin’ – Tom Petty
American Pie – Don McLean
TV Medley
Baby One More Time – Britney Spears
You’ve Lost That Loving Feeling – Righteous Brothers
California Girls – Beach Boys
I Wanna Hold Your Hand – The Beatles
Boulevard of Broken Dreams – Green Day
Yellow – Coldplay
Black Balloon – Goo Goo Dolls
My Girl – The Temptations
Tiny Dancer – Elton John
If I Had A Million Dollars – Barenaked Ladies
Afternoon Delight – Starland Vocal Band
Crabbuckit – K-OS
I Touch Myself – Divinyls
Mr. Brightside – The Killers
Piano Man (Remix) – Mike Lawless
Someone Else’s Dreams – Mike Lawless
Yellow Submarine – The Beatles
I Will Survive – Gloria Gaynord
Living on a Prayer – Bon Jovi
We’re Not Gonna Take It – Twisted Sister
Take On Me – A-Ha
Video Killed The Radio Star – The Buggles
Every Rose Has Its Thorn – Poison
Strawberry Fields Forever – The Beatles
Eleanor Rigby – The Beatles
Sweet Caroline – Neil Diamond
The Luckiest – Ben Folds
Pride – U2
Murder of One – Counting Crows
You and Me – Mike Lawless
Peace, and happy holidays...
m.
December 13, 2005
Just so you all know, last night it was -17 degrees celsius when I went to bed. I guess this is fate's way of saying "welcome back to reality".
Damn you, fate. Damn you.
m.
ps - Buy your January 21st tickets already would ya?
December 6, 2005
The era has ended.
After almost 2 years, on and off, I have finally left my last ship for the foreseeable future. Honestly, it's a really weird feeling now knowing that I won't be wearing a nametag everytime I leave the room, won't be sleeping in a large walk in closet, and won't be eating leftover smelts.
That said, I will miss parts of it. I talked in an earlier posting of a top 10 things I missed about Canada last summer. Well, here are the top 10 things I'll miss about ships.
10) The "Save the Canadian Musician Fund" - isn't quite as appropriate here.
9) The warmth - minus 4 degrees celsius here today.
8) The "Deluxe" Jazz Trio - great musicians, even better to hang with.
7) Telling people I don't know how to play anything by Jim Croce. Damn I hate him.
6) Golfing in the winter.
5) One dollar beers for crew.
4) Playing music 6 out of 7 nights a week.
3) Some of the great comments people write in my guestbook.
2) Meeting a ridiculous amount of people each week, from all over the world.
1) British dancers from Robbie Williams' hometown.
I am home now in Toronto, so I will be on here WAY more frequently.
Hope to hear from you all sometime soon and see more of you in January at the next show.
m.
November 7, 2005
Anyone who knows me knows that I am as big a Will Ferrell fan as there is. That said, could someone please respond on the message board with his reasoning for doing "Kicking and Screaming".
I spent $15 buying this at Walmart and it was the worst $15 I've spent this year. And that includes the $15 hand I played and lost in 3 seconds at the casino in St.Maarten recently.
If you haven't seen this movie, apparently the producers decided to spend millions casting Robert Duvall and Will Ferrell, but neglected to spend any money on scriptwriters, supporting actors, a soundtrack, or even decent filmmakers. This movie could have just as easily starred Mary Kate and Ashley 0lsen.
Please don't waste your time, or money on this. Instead, take your $15, add $5 and buy a ticket to my concert in January;)
Just thought you should know.
m.
November 3, 2005
Find attached the latest copy of my newsletter - if you haven't signed up for mailing list, do so now fool!!!
peace.
m.
Happy November from Mikelawless.com!
I know it's been a while since the last update, but we finally have some news worthy of this mass email...
MAJOR CONCERT ANNOUNCEMENT
On January 21st, 2006, Mike will take the stage at the beautiful RBC Theatre in the Mississauga Living Arts Center for a solo, benefit performance in support of his good friend Perry Monaco and the Canadian Diabetes Association. For those of you unfamiliar with the area, Mississauga is located about 20 minutes west of Toronto, Ontario, Canada.
The performance is billed as "Mike Lawless and Friends" and will feature, primarily, Mike and a grand piano. He will also be calling on a couple of special guests to perform with him throughout the evening.
As was mentioned, this performance is a special benefit for the Canadian Diabetes Association and Perry Monaco. To learn more about his inspirational story and fundraising efforts, check out www.perrymonaco.com. In addition to getting to hear some great music, one person in attendance will win a trip for 2 to Reykjavik, Iceland in August 2006.
So, to recap, here is the deal:
For your $20/25 ticket, you get:
- Mike in his largest, more elaborate venue yet
- The ability to donate to a phenomenal charitable cause
- A wonderful night out in one of the Greater Toronto Area's most beautiful, acoustically pleasing venues
- Great odds at winning a trip to Iceland (the theatre holds between 300-400 people).
Tickets are ON SALE NOW through the Living Arts Center Box Office and online. Be sure to order yours today to get the best seats available!!! And if you're from out of town, what better reason to come to the city of Toronto for a much needed weekend away!
For the promotional flyer, please check out: www.perrymonaco.com/headlines/perry-monaco-fundraiser.pdf
For ticket orders, visit: http://www.livingartscentre.ca/event_calendar/performance_glance.php?month=1
Hope to see you there in support of Mike and the Canadian Diabetes Association.
NEXT CD PROJECT
While it is not confirmed yet, Mike is hoping that his next CD release will be a live one. The intention is to have this out some time early-mid 2006. This is reliant on Mike not screwing up completely at his next live show. For those who have only seen Mike perform solo, this Live CD will be reflective of the solo shows you have seen, though it will feature mainly original music. For those who know Mike's music well, it will also feature several brand new songs written over the past 12 months so it will be a little bit of something for everyone.
MIKELAWLESS.COM
The message board on Mikelawless.com has been a huge hit! It's been a great way for Mike to be able to communicate with people while he's been out of the country. It has also been a great way for people who have seen Mike on cruises or on land to get in touch with each other. If you haven't signed up yet, go to the "Forums" section of the site today and get started!
In addition, we would like to thank all of you who continue to check the site, the message board, and Mike's online journal (which he is finally updating regularly!!!). Mikelawless.com has now well surpassed 30,000 hits! Not bad for an indepedant Canadian musician!
PATIO ROCK STAR CD STILL ON SALE!
For those of you who are yet to buy Mike's debut EP (what's taking you so long?) - it is still available online at http://www.indiepool.com/newsite/store/index.asp?n=31453
Indiepool is Canada's largest independant music services company. An order on indiepool.com is secure and serviced within 24 hours. Most orders within North America will be received within 3-4 business days.
Be sure to pick up your copy today!
FUTURE SHOWS
Mike is in the process of planning some future shows as we speak (he returns to Canada, December 1st). If you have any suggestions, bookings, etc, feel free to contact Mike directly. He is hoping to have some more news of some US based shows soon.
CONTACTING MIKE
If you are interested in contacting Mike directly, feel free to write to him on the Mikelawless.com message board, or via email at mike@mikelawless.com.
OTHER SHOWS
If you are in the Toronto area in January and would like to see another phenomenal musician (who also happens to be Mike's producer/guitarist/backing vocalist/cousin) - check out Gregg Lawless and his duets performance on January 28th, 2006 at Hugh's Room. While you're there, be sure to buy Mike a drink. More info can be found at www.hughsroom.com.
That's all for now. Thanks for your time and your support of Mike and Canadian independant music.
Cheers.
www.mikelawless.com
November 2, 2005
Hallowe'en was golden.
In a shocking turn of events, I was Ron Burgundy. The mustache was groomed, the hair was puffy, and I looked goooooood.
Hopefully you all had a great Hallowe'en and didn't get too many of those cheap caramelly candies that cost people .00003 cents each. I hated those. Weirdly enough, I played trick or treat with the bar and they kept giving me cold beers. So nice.
Anyway, less than a month out here. Weird knowing that at this time next month I'll be back in Toronto. Seems like an eternity.
In St.Maarten today - beautiful and sunny with a nice breeze. Oddly enough, I miss the cold. Too much of a good thing I suppose. I guess you can't appreciate the warmth til you have the cold.
Well, talk to you all soon. Hope you enjoy the beginning of the NBA season - I can't wait to see how bad the Raptors will be this time around.
Peace in Scarborough...
m.
October 30, 2005
Happy Hallowe'eve...
Hope you all are doing great out there. Just a couple of observations about Hallowe'en and life in general these days...
1) Why is that once a girl hits 19, every Hallowe'en costume automatically reverts to a "dirty" something. No one is ever a nurse, they are a "dirty" nurse. No one is a police officer, they are a "dirty" police officer. No one is ever a hooker, they are a "dirty" hooker. This last one is a shame, because we all love a prude prostitute now and then.
2) Why is this is such a great thing?
3) Am I the only one who feels the need to be Ron Burgundy tomorrow night? (The mustache is just about ready).
4) Why is the damn ship satellite down just in time for me to miss the Bills on Sunday night football?
5) Why is Wade Belak still in the NHL?
6) Is there any reason that it is so damn difficult for a Canadian guy to go to the US to play a few songs in a bar somewhere?
7) Does anyone read this besides Katie Algate and Jordan Lunan, by way of Katie Algate?
8) Why does my stomach hurt when I eat Soy cereal?
9) Is hockey so unpopular in the states that it belongs on the Outdoor Life Network? Isn't that the fishing network?
10) Did anyone really ever hide a razor in an apple at Hallowe'en and then give it to a kid? I wonder if someone were to do it today, whether they'd use a Mach 3 blade. If so, that would be a really great and pricey gift to receive while trick or treating.
That's all for now. Just felt like ranting.
Hope you're all doing as well as you deserve.
Peace in Scarborough...
m.
October 20, 2005
Hello folks...
Just a quick announcement here. I will be sending out a large email in the next little while to officially announce it but I thought I would post it here to those loyal peeps who check this every once in a while.
I will be performing in my largest and most musically pleasing venue yet, on January 21st, 2006 at the Mississauga Living Arts Centre, RBC Theatre. The show will feature a couple of guests, however, it will be just me and a piano for most of it. The show is a fundraiser for the Canadian Diabetes Association and tickets are on sale now through the website, www.livingartscentre.ca.
The show will be an 8:00pm start and for more info on the details, check out the website above, or sign up for my mailing list.
Anyway peeps, life at sea is coming to a close, only 6 weeks to go before I return to the homeland. Hopefully I will have a lot more news in the next few months and will be able to start making this blog a little more interesting. Maybe I'll need to do a little drunken writing on here.
Gotta jet...
peace in the borough.
m.
October 7, 2005
Well - I'm a slacker - it's that simple. I go to the trouble of getting a message board, a blog, and I don't write for a month. No excuse here guys.
Anyway - things at sea are going well - been quieter the last little while so I'm hoping things pick up in my last 6-7 weeks. That's it though - November 26, 2005 and I will retire from cruise ship gigs. I know I've said in the past that I wouldn't go back, but barring any emergency, I won't be back at sea for a long time. It's been a great experience, but I miss Canada, I miss my friends, I miss my family, and I miss land. I'm also ready to start playing some more "Mike Lawless" gigs.
On that note - I mentioned I had a big concert announcement coming up in September. We have since pushed the announcement date back for advertising reasons and should be announcing it in the next few weeks, along with a date for ticket sales (which will be online). In the meantime though, you can mark your calendars for January 21, 2006. It will be in the Toronto area, so for those of you from out of town, be sure to mark that down.
Stay tuned as there might be another concert announcement coming up for a little later in the winter as well. While it is still in the early stages and there are still plenty of obstacles to overcome, it might mark my first visit south of the border...
Well - that's all for now - oh ya, and I swam with sharks the other day. Just thought you should know...
Cheers...
m.
September 2, 2005
I'm going to keep this quick because Lord knows nothing I could say could possibly describe what is happening in New Orleans and the surrounding areas. I just hope to God that everyone you know in the areas are safe and sound.
Throughout my life I've heard countless explanations from many denominations of many religions about why things like this happen.
None of those explanations can justify this sort of disaster. Sometimes the world is just cruel.
Whatever you believe in, may he/she/it bless the southland.
m.
September 1, 2005
"Where have you gone summer, and why'd you let September through the door".
Seems like an eternity ago that the beginning of September was the most depressing time of the year. Sorta sad that it doesn't really matter any more.
August 28, 2005
This time of year in this place in the world, it's like a slalom course against these hurricanes. As many of you know, I'm floating around the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico these days and have been unbelievably lucky thus far in that very few of our itineraries have been changed. With the meteorological technology that exists, we are able to skirt most anything with the warnings we get. So, in case any of you are wondering, though I haven't written in a while, I am fine and these ships are sometimes the safest place to be. My heart goes out to anyone who is in the path of this beast.
On a completely unrelated note, while I don't know if much of my family reads this, I want to send my absolute best to all of them who are together to celebrate my cousin Rachel's wedding back in Toronto. Another one of those events that I get to miss being out here. Such are the choices we make I suppose. But best of luck to Rachel and Matt - hope the day is an amazing one.
Finally - on another unrelated note - I want to thank everyone who has been online, using the message board, checking the website out, etc. In August alone, we have had over 1200 visits to the website - not bad for an independant musician, if I do say so myself. I will be adding some footage to the site very soon (perhaps a movie clip) of a rock show we recently performed onboard for crew - I would also like to get a clip of my newest song online as I performed it with a few amazing musicians out here and think some of you would like it.
Anyway - hope this finds you all doing well and safe from this weather. Take care of yourselves wherever you are...
Peace in Scarborough...
m.
August 10, 2005
I had a posting on the message board regarding movies so here are my summer picks/pans thus far. Of course, I have seen 3 movies so it really isn't an in depth review, but it's all I can do out here...
i) War of the Worlds - Ok for a big, blow-em-up summer blockbuster. Unfortunately quick ending seemed to leave me wanting a bit more.
ii) Charlie and the Chocolate Factory - I really enjoyed this movie. Everything Johnny Depp touches turns to gold these days - I found it greatly entertaining and a truly fun movie. I loved the book when I was a child so it was really watching it come to life on screen once again.
iii) Wedding Crashers - The perfect summer comedy. I absolutely loved this and thought it was one of the funnier movies I've seen since Anchorman. It makes me all that more excited to see the 40 Year Old Virgin, coming out Aug.19.
Well - that's my recap. If there are any other suggestions of movies to see, let me know. Unfortunately the theater in Florida only plays the big Hollywood flicks so I'll have to wait til DVD to see any more of the smaller budget/indie movies....
Cheers.
m
August 5, 2005
Two quick things...
i) I'd love some advice on new albums to pick up. I don't get a chance to hear any radio so if anyone knows any good new CD's for me to buy, I'd appreciate the help. Post any replies to the message board.
ii) I'm gonna post some new lyrics in the next couple of days. I think I just wrote one of my best songs of the last year. Called "Someone Else's Dreams". Just thought I'd share cuz I've been fighting for inspiration out here and am finally getting back on track. Happiness can be a bitch for a songwriter.
Peace in Scarborough...
m.
August 1, 2005
Happy Civic Holiday Canada!
Being at sea has been a great experience but there have been days when I've definitely missed things about home (and having a home, for that matter). I've missed Christmas, Thanksgiving, Easter, May 24, and now the Canadian August Long Weekend. On the one year anniversary of "Lawlepalooza - The August Rendition" (a giant celebration held at our cottage with my friends), I've decided to share some of the things about a Canadian summer which I especially miss today...
1) Long Point. This is the home of our family cottage I have spent every summer at since the age of 4. Won't even see it in 2005.
2) Summer Concerts. Nothing better than seeing a band you love with your hometown skyline in the backdrop.
3) Watching golf on TV and being so inspired to go play that you can just hop in a car and be on the tee in 15 minutes.
4) Barbeques.
5) Naked swimming. Who doesn't love the freedom.
6) Mark Sasiela.
7) Canadian beer. Not this damn Labatt crap I have to drink out here. Alexander Keith's. Those who like it, forget it a lot.
8) The Canadian National Exhibition. Haven't been since I was 10. Still like having the option.
9) Patio Bars. Not some cheap rendition I'll find in Mexico or St. Maarten. A real Canadian patio bar that opens up in 10 degree temperatures in late April and runs until early November with heating vents. As long as there is sun...
10) Not eating cereal for dinner because the food is so bad.
11) Beach volleyball with Bizarro at the Toronto Beaches.
12) Tuesday night basketball.
13) An open air baseball game as the sun sets past the CN Tower.
14) Waking up to sunlight and not a TV alarm.
15) Playing a round of golf with nightcap and Alex.
16) Having to kick my best friend out of my sister's wedding because he is hitting on my 19 year old cousin.
17) Not having to think about writing a list like this.
As I said, life out here has been great. This contract has been the best by far. I just miss some things today.
Peace in Scarborough.
m.
July 22, 2005
The BLOG.
I have to admit, the first time I heard about the Blog, I figured it was a remake of some Japanese horror movie likely starring Jeff Goldblum as some sort of scientist/mathematician, and one of the girls from "That 70's Show".
Since then, however, I've learned about the online weblog (blog) that people have been using as a means to sharing their thoughts, ideas, views, etc, with the world. In reading a few of these blogs, I recently decided that it was something I wanted to pursue myself and, so exists my online journal through mikelawless.com.
This journal really is as much for me as it is for you guys. It's an opportunity for me to share my experiences, my thoughts, my views, with anyone who cares to listen. I've also added a message board to my website so that you guys can share your thoughts with each other as well.
More than anything though - I really want to be able to try and connect with those of you that have taken the time to visit my website, buy my CD, and check out my music. Being at sea and constantly floating into hurricanes, I feel a little disconnected at times.
So, what can you expect to find in this journal?
...I don't know.
Perhaps I'll write about a new CD I just bought, or a movie I saw, or about something that struck me in the news. Perhaps I'll share some new song lyrics I wrote that I really like, or tell you a stupid joke about midgets on tricycles. If people decide to use the message board on my website, I will definitely use the journal as a way to respond to comments, questions, views that you all might decide to post.
I guess I'm still unsure of what I'll say and that is the beauty of having this venue. If no one ever comes online to read this, so be it. At the very least, I'm going to be able to look back someday and see the path of destruction that is my mind and follow it's course.
I'll be on soon enough to post some more, but in the meantime, welcome to my mind. I hope that it is a little clearer to you than it is to me.
Peace in Scarborough.
m.
|
|
