Sunday, December 29 – The Mandurah Food Truck Frenzy
Since my last blog entry, the stage was set for a new chapter of musical adventures, starting with a bang at the Mandurah Food Truck Frenzy. The sun was setting, casting a golden glow over the bustling scene where food and music were about to blend in perfect harmony. I arrived with my gear, ready to turn the evening into a feast for the ears as much as for the taste buds.
The air was thick with the aroma of gourmet delights, and as I set up, the crowd’s energy was already palpable. My fingers danced over the strings, each note a flavor added to the culinary spectacle unfolding around me. This wasn’t just a gig; it was a celebration, a fusion of melodies and meals,
As the New Year loomed, I was all about keeping that momentum rolling. I used my van as a mini power station for my Bose L1, setting up right beside the glistening waters of Mandurah. The scene was picturesque – the sun dipping low, casting golden hues over the waterways, and the boats bobbing along, adding their own rhythm to my tunes.
Monday, December 30 – The Calm Before the Storm
In the scorching heat of 37°, I was sweating as I loaded my trailer for the big New Year’s Eve DJ gig. Each song I added to my playlist wasn’t just a track, it was a promise of celebration, a potential for magic. I could feel the anticipation building, thinking of all the positive vibes that could fill the night.
Tuesday, December 31 – Showtime at Jarrahdale Tavern
I woke up with a mix of nerves and excitement, knowing tonight was not just any gig but the event at Jarrahdale Tavern for New Year’s Eve. With my friend Dave Nolan, a seasoned roadie, by my side, we arrived at 3:30pm. Setup was a breeze with him. We had my Mackie SRM 450 speakers and a Yamaha 15-inch powered sub, ensuring the sound was nothing short of immaculate.
Under the gazebo, we crafted our little DJ sanctuary, setting up the mixer and controller, ready for the crowd that would soon fill the space. At 7 PM, as people started pouring in, the atmosphere was electric with anticipation. I kicked off with a low-volume set, letting the conversations flow, but my fingers were itching to mix, to blend, to captivate.
I played the crowd like a maestro, inviting song requests, which always feels like walking a tightrope – pleasing everyone is an art. But the feedback was my compass, guiding my choices, ensuring the vibe was just right.
As midnight approached, the excitement was palpable. I counted down with the crowd, and right on cue, the Rod Stewart version of “Auld Lang Syne” filled the air, blending with cheers, hugs, and the universal feeling of new beginnings.
After the traditional song, the night had to continue, each track a bridge to the next moment of joy. By the end, with equipment packed away and the night’s energy still buzzing in my ears, I knew sleep would be my next gig, crucial for what was to come the following day.
This wasn’t just about playing music; it was about creating moments, moments that would linger in memories, a soundtrack to the start of a new year.
The Gig That Almost Didn’t Happen
Newsday January 1, 2025
I had one of those nights where sleep was more of a myth than a reality, my internal clock completely out of whack. Waking up felt too early, and with a slight edge of anxiety. New Year’s Day was a hot one. By 11am after I unloaded the trailer and repacked the van I was drenched in sweat. I cold shower and a forced nap
I wondered if I could manage a 5 pm gig at Burns Beach Twilight Markets after an hour and a half drive with minimal rest.
Driving north on the Kwinana Freeway, I felt my eyelids getting heavier with each mile. But I arrived with some time to spare, meeting Paul, the event organizer. Despite fewer vendors this time around, the crowd was larger than at the previous event.
The sunset was spectacular, casting a vibrant array of colors across the sky, which seemed to energize the atmosphere. Surprisingly, my performance went well, receiving positive feedback from both Paul and the local attendees.
Driving back home, there was a sense of relief knowing I had the next two days off to recover and prepare for my next show. It was comforting to know I’d have time to rest and organize without the looming pressure of another immediate performance.
Saturday, January 4 – Dawesville Markets and Exchange Hotel
After a couple of days of much-needed rest, I was recharged and ready to dive back into the music scene. With no gig on Friday, my Saturday started with the Dawesville Markets, followed by an evening set at the Exchange Hotel. The weather was kind, with the sun not as fierce and a cool breeze making both locations quite pleasant.
By the end of the night, my legs were crying out for the comfort of my recliner, and some leftover pizza from the Exchange Hotel hit the spot perfectly as I settled in for an early night.
Sunday, January 5 – Madora Bay Markets and Old Courthouse Fremantle
The day was another double-header with gigs at the Madora Bay Markets in the morning and the Old Courthouse in Fremantle later in the afternoon. Both performances went smoothly, the kind of day where everything just clicks into place. I was back home by 9:30pm, treating myself to a long, soothing bath before calling it a night.
That wraps up this blog entry. Until next time, keep the music playing.