There’s barely a leaf left on the trees on my street and the backyard is quickly going from flowery and green to branchy and brown.  There’s a snowstorm forecasted for tomorrow. My 9-year-old son is already planning our snow day activities. I’ve heard Christmas music playing in stores and restaurants for more than a week. Perhaps most telling, there is a wind shifting up form the harbor that announces, without question, Winter is Coming. Very soon we’ll have the dawning of a New Year and I’m hoping 2016 was every bit as adventurous and fun as 2015.

The SO LET’S GO tour has been the thrill of a lifetime, and the few weeks on the road with Barenaked Ladies was a dream come true. I got home in time to send off a hero of mine, and the Ron Hynes celebration at the Basilica was one of the most beautiful things I’ve ever been a part of.  I’ll have more to say about that in the future, as I need more time to consider the whole deal.

I’ve just finished a few back and forth texts with my manager, Louis, talking about some exciting Summer 2016 gigs that are already on the books. Most notably, a main stage Saturday afternoon slot at the incredible Boots & Hearts Festival in August. So thrilled to be a part of this amazing lineup, which includes some of the biggest names in country and roots music. Many more in the works for the summer, so stay tuned.

Thankfully, I don’t have to wait till the snow melts to get back out there with the beloved Beautiful Gypsies. By afternoon on Friday, December 4th, a pile of new shows will be up for sale. They go from Ontario and Atlantic Canada all the way down to South Florida.  Me and the BGs will be playing tunes from my two albums, some Great Big Sea faves, traditional Newfoundland songs, and even a fun cover or two to make for the greatest kitchen party in history. Rolling into some really new places in the southern US, so please spread the word to some new faces who might come along for their first time. I’m totally happy to sign a CD or book, take a photo or just say Hi after any of these shows. Just hang around and we’ll get together.

All the dates and venues are noted here.

I’ve got to put away the leaf rake and get out the snow shovel.  Loves it.

Cheers,
Alan