Ah! Another fantastic weekend in Missouri at the Hamlet of Mid-Missouri Renaissance Festival. We got off the plan yesterday and said, "Man, it feels like it's been a year since we've been back in Austin." Guess that just goes to show how much Missouri is like a second home to us.

The festival was grand. This was the first time at this small fest that we had a great attendance at every one of our shows. It was a little tough considering I've been fighting a sinus infection. So Saturday was somewhat of a blur. But Sunday, I remember well and had an awesome time.

Saw lots of great shows including our eternal Celtic favorites, 3 Pints Gone. We at last got to see the new guitarist and third member, James Kuehl. He's a great addition. Awesome voice that well-balances Bill and Kathleen's vocals, and some cool arrangements to some traditional songs. I think "When Weill We Be Married" sticks out most in my mind. Very catchy song.

I finally got to see a full show of Tartanic with the new arrangement. I gotta say that the band is better than ever. I once heard a comparison of them as being like one of my favorite pipe bands, The Rogues. Well, whatever comparison there might've been is no more. This weekend's three-man setup of Tartanic is a formula for success: bagpipes, bombard, and drums. Great mix!

I was never a big fan of the bombard, but played with the bagpipes, it sounds amazing. According to Richard, that's a very traditional arrangement too. And of course, lets not forget Adrian. He is a genius performer, and really gives the band that extra edge that will drive the band to greatness.

And another favorite is Commedia Sans Arte. They're an improv comedy troupe that was out there last year as well. The group is absolutely brilliant! If you EVER get a chance to see them. GO! You'll laugh your arse off. I had fun being Jesusa's Cyrano as the she (with the audience's help) proclaimed my bum to be "like Alaska, frigid and unexplored territory"!

Any case, can't wait for next year, or hopefully sooner. Andrew and I talked about it, and he's trying to contact Kansas City Renaissance Festival. It doesn't look too promising. But after my successful solo show last year in Missouri, Andrew and I are looking into doing some gigs in December. If you're interested in helping make this a reality, please see our forums.

Oh! One final note, on the drive back to Kansas City to fly out, Andrew got a call from Bill Massino from 3 Pints Gone who had nothing but great things to say about our Memories of Middle Earth CD.

I gotta admit that I expected it to be cheesy like most of the other LOTR music I've heard. But I have to tell you I really liked this CD, my favorite song being "Weathertop."
--Bill Massino, 3 Pints Gone

It's always great to hear other musicians we know and respect enjoy our music. So thanks, Bill!