Spring has nearly sprung here in the Northeast. Brown birds have slowly returned to leafless trees and bushes, tiny streams of melting snow run along roadsides, and New Englanders suddenly stir from their winter comas. Tonight’s house conert at the Puchlopek’s house in Newmarket, NH was an unleashing of pent up energy, all seemingly driven by the steep angle of the sun, the return of birdsongs, and increased daylight. The sap is flowing. People are moving. Let the fever be cured.

Bob and Janet Puchlopek have been frequenting Pondering Judd shows for nearly a decade, starting first with a visit to the Stone Church in their hometown of Newmarket. They’ve been nothing short of complete advocates for the band, often bringing as many as a dozen new folks to see our shows. When Janet approached me about playing their party in honor of Bob’s 50th, I could think of no better way to show my appreciation for their patronage and incredible support they’ve given us over the years than to perform in their house (or more specifically their basement pub) for friends and family. This night set the bar for all house concerts that follow. It was nothing short of bedlam mixed with an attentive listening audience, a wonderful cocktail of enthusiasm and respect.

It always amazes me when near total strangers know the words and music to my songs. Tonight was full of this amazement, as many folks had listened to our CDs many times over while frequenting the Puchlopek’s house, while still many others had purchased them at shows they’d attended. People sang along all night, rallying in spring’s return, and Bob’s 50 years on earth’s face. 

One thing that’s occured to me during this house concert series is that some folks definitely want me to favor older PJudd songs over the newer solo material I’ve recently penned. I’ve spent the last couple of weeks refining these relics into a shape that keeps them interesting for me, but still recognizable to the crowd. Many of these songs have taken on new life simply by moving the songs up by a key, or just by moderately adjusting their chord structures. Either way, it’s been a blast. In fact, I’ve now posted my setlist so that folks can customize their own lists at these events. 

Back to the party. Drinks were flowing all night, from Mai Tai’s to Washington Apples. I obstained from these spirits, as I realized a few shows back that I know prefer to play near sober. There’s a sense of control and command that you just can’t get with a head full of sauce. And for some odd reason, I enjoy watching people before me catch fire/get drunk. It gives me great joy to know I’m helping them enjoy life by supplying them with a soundtrack for which to consume. Maybe it also makes me a little sick, but that’s fine. After all, spring is here, and life begins again. There’ll be plenty of time for cocktails.

Thanks again to Bob and Janet for inviting me into their house to perform. I truly had a blast. I also truly enjoyed meeting and talking with their friends (especially Wayne, Tom and Fish).

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