MJ Tribute

I was sitting at my digital piano recently figuring out how to play the Jackson Five's "I Want You Back." As I thought about the thirteen-year old Michael Jackson singing the song, I thought of the even younger Lee Istrail (six years old), years later, listening to MJ for the first time. Michael Jackson's "Thriller" was the first album that changed my world. When I was six years old, my parents played it all the time. At night they would play the song "Human Nature" on the tape recorder in my room to help me sleep; I can still remember how the tune relaxed me. MJ was larger than life, and I miss him. And now I have a question for you, loyal Istrailtunes reader:

Q: What MJ song(s) should I add to my repertoire?

Mitch Marzec's Band

In an earlier post, I discussed Jeremy Barnes' band and reminisced about the good old high school days when he and I jammed. Well, now I've tracked down another high school buddy who played some tunes with us back then.

High school-era Mitch Marzec was a singer and hard-rockin' guitarist who knew how to put on a great show. In his less intense moments, Mitch would chill out and display unexpected skills. After one all-night party, Mitch made me a very tasty omelette.

Mitch is now in a band called "An American Chinese." (official website HERE). Based in Philadelphia, the band offers up whimsical and catchy tunes. And I have never seen a website designed like theirs; the sliding green dot is awesome. Check them out!

Lights in the Dark

"Lights in the Dark" is the 7th track on "Love Is Not An Open Door." Listen and download HERE.

This waltz is one of the very first songs I wrote. Think of it as a teenager's attempt to counteract naivete by trying to understand the apocalypse.

The image of me concentrating intently while playing guitar is by Portside.

Rock 'n Roll Live

This past Friday, I played some tunes for a friend's going-away party. The core of the set was early rock 'n roll (Chuck Berry, Jerry Lee Lewis) and Motown (Wilson Pickett). It was a great way to segue into the weekend, and a reminder that I need to get out and perform more often. The biggest hit was "Great Balls of Fire," which I played a second time as a special request. I feel more energized now, having gone back to the roots of rock 'n roll.

Happy Despair

This week's song is "Happy Despair," the sixth track on "Love Is Not An Open Door." Listen and download HERE.

As a high school student who suddenly had homework coming out of his ears, and who had to behave more "seriously" than before, I longed for simpler times. The theme is akin to the Rolling Stones song "As Tears Go By."

Photo by Portside.

Res Judicata: Reprise

This week, I am directing you to another video of a gig in front of some friends. The music is NOT mine; it is the best tune from the Lion King. I wrote the lyrics in collaboration with my wife Rebekka, concerning the great legal doctrine of res judicata. It means no lawsuits for the rest of your days (on the same grounds). Ah, but the antagonist in this story tries to bring the same case three times.

Watch "Res Judicata" HERE: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=U0KeHuBecQo

The Cliff Song: Harmonica Version

"The Cliff Song" is the fifth track from the album "Love Is Not An Open Door." Listen and download HERE.

I gave you a different version of this song back in September. This one has the only recorded Lee Istrail harmonica solo. The tale is about a friend who turns foe and tries to settle his argument with a gun. "The Cliff Song" is a flight of fancy which I wrote in high school. While I have never actually been chased by a gun-toting villain, this song captures my apprehension back in high school that my innocence would sometimes be dangerous. As Bob Dylan sang, "I offered up my innocence and got repaid with scorn."

Photo is by Portside.