Welcome to the
"Blue Views Forum"
The forum exists for well represented music fans that feel inspired to comment on songs,
performances and other entertainment related events and issues. Engage the fans and band
with questions & statements. They will be posted here within 24 hours of receipt. We
encourage intelligent, relevant communication. Simply type your thoughts and send them to BlueViewsForum@aol.com Thanks for taking
part.
FOR MORE COMMENTS FROM FANS VISIT
www.myspace.com/bluemeridian
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Wednesday, December 1, 2004
A big official thanks to all the Central
Florida fans and friends that made the recent trip to the east coast so
memorable.
Our beloved Florida bassist and friend Dean Pichette is finally moving to
Chicago at the beginning of May. Prior to parting after the Hard Rock show, the
four of us agreed to do one more show before it becomes geographically
challenging. Expect another Rockin' romp and fond farewell to the Florida lineup
that we've all become so attached to.
The summer of 2005, will bring with it an East Coast tour with the band I've
been gigging with in California. Until we meet once again...
Donovan
Raggedstar@aol.com
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Thursday, November 11, 2004
OK Orlando.. We have got to get together and show the guys that we still love and support them! I'll be down for Thanksgiving week, and i'm greatful that I get to see the guys perform, not once but twice... It's been awhile for me, so i'm reallllly excited! If there is anyone who can't make it out downtown, maybe I can help ya out.... I wanna make sure that the HRL show has a big turn out for the guys...... I'll do what I can...
Blue Love still lingers,
Mary
Minervamk@aol.com
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Saturday, Oct 16, 2004
Hey Blue Boys,
I should start off by saying how much you guys RAWK! Great show at the
hotel cafe tonight, and a great live CD too...had to pop it in right away to
re-live the amazing performance tonight. Keep LA rockin'!
CC
rosefire30@comcast.net
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Friday, Oct 15, 2004
there's this
great singer, donovan
in a
band, blue meridian
music is much better than words...so i'd def
suggest you
hear his shit!
with or without a band he rocks the stage!!
Sherry
sil26@aol.com
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Tuesday,
Aug 24, 2004
Just wanted to tell you that
I never get tired of seeing you play. Really just seems to get better...the
music and words you write are so beautiful and timeless. That's all.
Jo
funkiscarlett@aol.com
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Wednesday,
Aug 18, 2004
Orlando just isn't the same
without you. I haven't really found any local bands that I dig these days. I
hope you manage to come back sometime this year and play a show or two (even if
it's just a solo acoustic gig). I need a Blue Meridian fix.
MJS
mjs@mikestark.com
________________________________________________________________________________
Monday,
Aug 16, 2004
Dear Donovan,
Ok now that neither one of us are in Orlando anymore, if I don't come to Cali to see you, will I ever get to see you perform again? :-( I miss Blue Meridian. However, I have spread my Blue Love all over Virginia Beach. When I was in FL a few months ago, I had to get some BM cd's to bring back here, a friend of mine even asked when you were coming here in concert...LOL I could only reply, I wish soon, but not likely.
I hope all is well in Cali and that they appreciate you as much as Orlando does.
Blue Love Always,
Mary
MinervaMK@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday,
July 14, 2004
Donovan,
I have to say you rocked last night! Your voice was amazing, a win for Blue Meridian!
Later,
Victoria
victoria_bickford2@yahoo.com
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Wednesday,
July 7, 2004
Oh, how I miss hearing your voice. I will be sure
to be waiting for the next
album. I wish you all the best and I hope Cali is being good to the most
talented man I ever knew.
Janet
Oceanseaz@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Monday,
May 17, 2004
Nikki. Yes, I remember that one in the early
stages. It's looking like that will be the first video from the forthcoming
album. I have emailed you the mp3 of the song. If anyone else would like some
advance MP3s mailed to them, let me know. Request them here. Be sure you have an
internet provider that will accept 5 megabyte files in your box.
Sorry for the delay in getting this new album out. As stated before, we're
hoping to get some industry interest off it.
We begin shopping it soon. Either way, you should have it in your collection
before too long.
Thanks for the interest. And for you Cali fans, thanks for making the Roxy gig
last night. Great times. Gorgeous Cello.
Donovan
Raggedstar@aol.com
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Monday,
May 17, 2004
Hey Donovan,
Is Ghost in the Machine on your new demo? If so, can you please send me a
copy? The last time I heard that song was when you were still in the process of
writing it. I sat on the floor in your office or computer room as you were
playing around with it. I would love to hear the finished or at least a more
polished version of it!
Thanks!
Nikki
Herbey24@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Saturday,
May 1, 2004
So what's Kevin up to these days? Playing with
anyone? (musically, I
mean!) Anywhere? How's the art coming? -David
dgiard@harcourt.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Sunday,
April 18, 2004
Honestly
Donovan,
WOW! You have intrigued me since the day I came to your concert at House
of Blues. Since the show, I have listened to your music over and over. I find
something new in it with each passing day and as my mood changes, it takes a new
turn. Your music is the soundtrack to my life. Honestly. Your music has
something in it for everyone, whether a good something or bad something, it's
there. You are so intelligent in ways unimaginable. The band is absolutely the
greatest. The compilation of instrumentation on these new songs is amazing.
Guitars, Piano, Drums, tap dancing, Vocals, Tambourine, Tympani, Bass, Organ,
Strings, flute, horns, Backup Vocals. It's just amazing !! You seem to have a
love for music that I hope will never die and it lives and breathes in your
songs. I have a passion for music too. Your music! You see things differently
than most people. In ways I have never thought of.
"If no one will re-arrange
the view
outside my cage I'm leaving town today to the dark side of the moon with a
spotlight and a tune to embrace the days away."
To know what
that means, and feel it and follow it makes you amazing. You lyrics are poetic
and loaded with hidden meaning. I heard "Captain Courageous" for the first time
today and I literally broke down in tears. Thank you for making such wonderful
uninhibited music. You take everything you are and pour it into these songs. It
sounds "like an angel choir with a tongue of fire". To have that talent and use
it, it just so ....can think of a word that would describe it. You are a great
friend and a wonderful musician keep up the HELLA GOOD MUSIC!!!
- Jayden
ImtroublewithaT@aol.com
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Sunday,
April 11, 2004
Hi this is B Bizzy checking izzy.
Missed the St. Paddy's Day show due to other Celtic
responsibilities.
Will we see another O-Town show anytime soon? What
about Chicago?
May the fury be with you!
Cheers.
Brian Markey
bmoney22@yahoo.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Friday, March 12, 2004
Tish. Sorry for the delayed reply. Scott and
Chadwick have filled in with our friends in Pretty Sneaky Sis since late last
summer. I've been asked this a few times, so I'm gonna go ahead and explain.
Chadwick was one of the founding members of Blue Meridian back in Orlando in
'96/'97. It's been cool regrouping with him. Scott is a longtime friend of
Chadwicks. They used to play together back in Ft Myers a coon's age ago. As far
as I can tell the pair of them have pledged allegiance to the Blue. We hope to
be adding a bassist shortly.
The song you asked about "Elvis/Jesus" is called "Crystal Clear". You can listen
to some of it on the audio page at
www.donovanlyman.com
Thanks for taking interest.
-Donovan
__________________________________________________________________________________
Friday, February 27, 2004
Excellent set at the ROXY last night. I'd never
been in there before. Adding the drummer was an excellent step. The music was
fuller than ever. But why are they in the other band too?
Also, What was the name of the "Elvis/Jesus" song? Awesome! I
missed the first few. Traffic was creeping on Laurel Canyon. I wish they didn't
shcedule you so early. Alot of people seemed to show up late. See you at the
next one.
Tish
Valleygurl78654@hotmail.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Monday, February 9, 2004
Donovan,
I’ve already played Pleasance 15 times at least – it is amazing. I played
the live version a couple more times as well to compare. I still think the live
version is damn good!
It is a haunting song. Thanks again for sending it to me.
Please let me know when the new album is available for purchase – I wish you
the best of luck with it!
Ian
ian@hockadayconsulting.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Thursday, January 29, 2004
Sounds like someone is listening a little too close to Juggernaut.
I'm a "tart" what can I say?
Oh and the new album will be done April 1st. Not sure when it will be
commercially available.
Check the "back in the studio" story on the news page.
D-van
Raggedstar@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Thursday, January 29, 2004
Donovan's British accent is
better- best I ever heard from an American actually, but his falsetto
aint bad either...
.....from a true Brit Chick
|
Funkiscarlett@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Tuesday, January 27, 2004
When do we get to hear this new album!!!
Rob
Huskerdunot@hotmail.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Thursday, January 15, 2004
yo D - what
up? it really was awesome seeing you perform at the Gig last night.
you belong up there, on the stage. you seem at home, comfortable.... it's like
it's your territory.. (does that make sense?)
maybe *commanding* is the correct word. like you're up there, doing your
thing, and we can't help but pay attention.
bravo! still cheerin' ya on...
nik
Globalnikki@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Friday, January 9, 2004
I met Donovan earlier this week in
Hollywood.
Cannot wait for the concert next week.
This will be my first full show. You long time
Florida fans have been fortunate. Till now.
Neilsa
N_Tavares@tradewindcorp.org
__________________________________________________________________________________
Friday, January 9, 2004
though
the famous Mr. D has departed our earthly presence, he still lives in
a nearby atmosphere. let us not forget he has a day of human birth
to reconcile his recent departure and re-entry soon... very soon...
January 11, D will wear another birth scar. rejoice and send
birthday wishes to him via email. his brother will remember this
not to subtle tactic. bluelove to ya, D
<3
T
trbl60@cfl.rr.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Friday, January 2, 2004
The countdown is
ended, takeoff complete. But this time the vapor trail is indelible.
FL became accustomed to the sonic boom, complacent maybe. The prediction
is Calif. won't sleep through reentry. The launching bay may be
repositioned, but we're still on the map for future missions, right? Has the
rocketship safely landed?
Fare Thee Well! Patsy
PASme@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday, December 24, 2003
you know,
they have earthquakes in LA. just something to think about before you move all
the way out there. we dont have earthquakes here.
-sarah
DramaQueen8504@aol.com
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Monday, December 22, 2003
Hey Donovan, I could not believe the ad for HOB "Farewell Show". What will Orlando do with out your musical talent (and tight pants)? I wish I could say that I was going to be able to make it to your last show in Orlando (for now), but best of luck to you in LA. I hope to say one day that I knew you when.
Linda
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday, December 17, 2003
The end? Nah. I think this is just the beginning.
rockorlando@yahoo.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Tuesday, December 16, 2003
Or Raggedstar stuff.
Thanks, me miss too
Raggedstar@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Monday, December 15, 2003
The
molecules of your body are the same molecules that make up the nebulae, that
burn inside the stars themselves...
....you are star stuff...
....rockstah stuff....
Much luv and best wishes, I'll miss ya...
phaedra32835@yahoo.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday, December 10, 2003
Thank you sir. But think not that the plight
is over. I've just moved to a larger ship. A rocket Ship.
Make way as I roll toward the launching bay.
I'll be back, should the local landing strips find the means to accommodate me.
The cock pit is roomy, the guitar fits next to the champagne
D
__________________________________________________________________________________
Monday, December 15, 2003
fare the
well..
only time will tell what we will become...
and all that we' ve begun.
here's to you...
one more little tune ...
a way to reminisce...
a good bye kiss.
fare the well.
not much more to say. for 9 good years the flag of the blue meridian has
sailed high, and after a long journey, land has been spotted and its time for
the men to be men and settle in for the night. thank you donovan, kevin,
manny, dean, and every other talent that has lent his or her trade to the cause
over the years. it has been a fun ride, but rest assured that it has been
an inspiration to the newer ships in the fleet of what can be achieved with a
bit of elbow grease and determination.
the flag still flys, but she wont sail no more.
god bless the adventure!
the ben
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday, December 10, 2003
See, now you're gonna make me cry. Really, I can't say how flattered and stunned
by all the mail I've received over this move I'm about to make. Remember a
few things before you break out in tears. 1) I'm not going off to war. 2)
I'm not quitting music 3) I'll be back eventually and you will get to hear the
ole tunes (as well as the new stuff) live.
This is just a change I have to make. I'd like to think this music deserves a
larger audience. Nice knowing I won't be the only one missing someone.
Big cheers,
Donovan
raggedstar@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday, December 10, 2003
ok so i've heard, fallen in love
with, and admired this band for about 3 years now. i don't know if this is
patheticness or true fanship or what, but reading the little news thingy of
donovan's parting has brought tears to my eyes. i've known about this for a
little bit now and i think it just hit me. no more intimate settings of
beautiful voice and melodious strumming, no more percussional excellence and
and lovely rhythm. A perfect harmony that has never been before. maybe
never will be again. i'll miss you don, good luck, have fun, come home
to us soon.
when i see your name on the hollywood walk of fame.... i'll miss you baby! good luck in cali hun....
~JENN~
__________________________________________________________________________________
Monday December 8, 2003
I just wanted to say good luck to Donovan
in moving to LA.
It was awesome getting to see you and the band perform.
Didn't get to as many shows as I would have liked but the ones I got to
see were awesome.
Take Care, Darlene
__________________________________________________________________________________
Monday December 8, 2003
Hi
Donovan,
I hope you'll remember me, since I know you see zillions of faces every week...A
couple years back I auditioned for the guitar slot for Blue Meridian. I'm
a tall skinny fella named Marc Cook...at the time I was playing a Fender Twin
and Peavey 5150, and using an A/B box to switch between them. I'll never
forget the look of horror on your faces when I hauled all that stuff in, ha ha!
At any rate, it was the best, but hardest, audition I've ever been thru.
And I still tell the stories to this day. It's a great memory.
Whether you remember or not, I just want to say that since we crossed paths,
I've kept up with the group, seen you on numerous occasions, and have been
mesmerized by your music. You are a true giant, my friend. I was
willing to lay aside a great job with Wachovia (First Union at the time) to play
along side you - that's how strongly I believe in your talent. I look
forward to hearing about you lighting up LA with your work.
Thank you for never giving up!!!
All the Best,
Marc
__________________________________________________________________________________
Thursday December 4, 2003
I wish you continued success, D. Please keep me in the loop and I will do my best to offer support from afar.
I'm anxious for the new music.
I will still distribute it in my meager way. 
Your talent is amazing, D, and I admire your pursuit of your goals.
I feel strongly you will achieve your heart's desires! Keep the
positive, plug the music, and fuck the rest. I hope the distance doesn't
stop us from being friends.
thanks for the tons of Bluelove, and... I still can't believe you're leaving... and, kick some ass out there!
Ciao, Tara 
__________________________________________________________________________________
Thursday December 4, 2003
How does ones voice hold up all night like that...put me in a voice lesson for a couple hours and my voice gets tired. I give you a lot of credit for how driven you are with your passion for what you do! If I had any type of super powers I would grant you all your wishes to come true! You deserve it for your unconditional devotion to your craft!
I guess I am in inspirational mode today! So that is all I have for you....I could go on for ever but I know you have other e mails to attend to!
Have a great day!
Lisa
__________________________________________________________________________________
Thursday December 4, 2003
OK, so I've been out of the loop for awhile! Donovan, I REALLY don't want you to go! But it's something that you must do, and I applaud you for doing what makes you tick, and I wish you all the best in your future endeavors. Your music will live in my heart forever, for I have tied many of my life's makings to your lyrics. You better come back and see us, specially when you make it BIG, and I have no doubt in my mind that wherever you go, that you will.
Blue Meridian will always be alive in Orlando!
Best of luck and lots of BLue Love,
Mary
__________________________________________________________________________________
Thursday December 4, 2003
Donovan, any chance of emailing me one or two of those mp3 demos that are transporting your fans on the views page into inexplicable sonic transcendence? much appreciated. i have all albums except one and I promise i'll have the next.
So, moving to Cali and a screenplay in hand, Blue in the visual medium is what i thought on so many occasion.
you have the true voice of a poet and songwriter, your songs engage the listener much like a great film, drawing upon the most powerful emotions, and in a very filmic sense great albums become the soundtrack to a person's life, i'm sure many of your fans can relate an important moment in their life and a lyric or song that is tied to that. for me it's that one song that begins and within the first two bars the hair on my arms stands up and the memories & emotions begin rushing in.
licensing and publishing is a logical step in a most promising and uncompromised career. if not for a few and thier myopic tendencies not to have all but kidnapped you and tortured you to sign the dotted line into national stardom (mb20, 7m3) your incredible Orlando fanbase would not have had the privelege to enjoy your music so personally for this long.
in the future to hear your music in great films or to watch a movie that was written by you would not be surprising in the least, it would in fact be a natural extension of your creative talents, that reservoir of creativity is a bottled ocean my friend. i can hear it.
just words on paper, -dan h
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday December 3, 2003
I have been in love with Blue Meridian for at least 5
years now and will continue to do so for the rest of my days. From the
first time I saw them I was taken. Year after year they just got better
and the music has always made me feel deeply. I will never, ever, ever get
sick of listening to everything they ever made. Donovan has always been
such a great guy, not to mention handsome, and it will be really sad to lose one
of the few good ones, but I am just being selfish. Donovan & Blue
Meridian are too talented not to spread their wings and fly. Good
Luck....and come back to me someday.......Janet W.
OceanSeaz@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday December 3, 2003
Hey D,
I see things are going well for you.
You have been blessed.
I hope your talents and good fortune continue throughout your career and
life.
Rock On!!!
Shelly, a.k.a. The Rockvixen
Rockvixen@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday December 3, 2003
I have been following BLue Meridan
for unfortuanatly only a year, but love
your music. Good luck Donovan, I lok forward to hearing more from you i the
future, including the new album.
Bradley
Miami, FL
bstevenson@bellsouth.net
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday December 3, 2003
That's a
powerful image on the show poster.
and you could imply that "matchless" isnt just an amp brand, its a
description of the band.
-Dave Holt, Mastering engineer
EmailDaveHolt@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday November 26, 2003
Hey Donovan, I hope you
don't leave without saying goodbye old friend.
You have impressed me since day 1, you have always been timeless.
Love
always,
Janet W
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday November 26, 2003
D & band,
I'm blindsided. I've read this post and the news page story. I guess no one has
replied because they're speechless.
I will defintely be at the HOB show. I will have my brother and all his friends
go see you in So Cal.
I will wait patiently for the next disc. From what I've heard, it's amazing.
Rob
Huskerdunot@rivercity.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Friday November 21, 2003
Hey, thanks for visiting. I've said it
once and I'll say it again, if everyone who IMed or emailed all of these great
topics of discussion regarding the band, simply posted them here... this board
would be flooded with life. My webmaster, Logansan thanks you for making his job
an easy one.
In other news, I leave for the west coast soon. I can't say enough about how
awesome your support has been over the years. I hope you'll continue to offer it
with the release of the next album. For those of you confused by all this, when
the latest update on Michael Jackson goes to commercials, visit the News page
and read the top three reports. All of them relevant to what's currently going
on. We hope to see you in proud numbers at the House of Blues show. Save the
last dance for me.
-Donovan
Raggedstar@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday November 12, 2003
So, just
when you think you are going to play a friendly neighborhood game of bingo,
somebody forgets the cards! While this may sound like a bad thing, I
can assure you it was the best thing that could have happened to the evening.
With no Bingo cards to entertain the masses Donovan, quick with crowd pleasing
ideas, rounded up a guitar and it turned into an evening of music from yesterday
and today. There was even a special appearance by Kenny of Cider. So
for any one who thinks bingo isn't their thing I strongly suggest showing up
because you never know when someone is going to forget the bingo cards.
Emily
Leadrole@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Sunday November 9, 2003
Thanks Chyanne. Glad you're enjoying the
preview of the new music. The feedback so far has been extremely positive. It
doesn't look like there will be a "CD Release" party before the end of
the year, as it mostly likely will not be available by then, but we're hoping to
have another "Album listening" event. Stay tuned for that. If it
happens, it will be near Christmastime.
In other news, I'm back at One Eyed Jax this Tuesday to fill in for Joseph
Martens at Maximum Bingo. This is one helluva good time. Its free for persons
over 21 and makes for a very memorable way to spend a weeknight. Stop in, win
some loot and get your drink on.
Off to the studio.
Donovan
Raggedstar@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Sunday November 9, 2003
I have been perusing the new mp3's again. I am really impressed (yet again) by what you got for new material here. All I can say is if the rest of the songs are of such caliber, you're going to have a great disc on your hands. : ) I hope it is coming along well. Have a good night.
Chy
ChyaneBBFH@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday November 5, 2003
I can't get over how awesome the tunes are for the new record. "The
Sun"? Man oh man - Have you ever heard of a group called the Beatles?
Because there's this group from back in the sixties that used to write songs -
in fact, the songs were almost as good as The Sun, Dakota, and California...
with love the neighborhood heretic... GAD
davi2335@bellsouth.net
__________________________________________________________________________________
Tuesday October 28, 2003
Honestly, I can find something personal that I can relate to in just about all
of your songs. Walk of Fame reminds me of a really hard time I went through with
a very good friend of mine, but in a good way. It helped me more than even I'll
ever know. I still miss the friendship I had with him, and the kind of friend he
is. Even though we still talk I miss him and Walk of Fame helps me cope with all
that happened to this day.
There is something about Captain Courageous, I think it's one
of these songs that every girl wishes someone was singing to them. When I was at
the show Saturday, I was hoping they didn't play Captain Courageous or Higher
than my Vertigo because I knew if I herd it, no matter how good of a mood I was
in I would cry, and that kind of says what kind of band Blue Meridian is and how
someone's words can make such a difference in just one persons life, think about
the other people that are touched by there music and might not even realize.
If there is one thing I've gotten out of Blue Meridian in the
five years I've listened and been a fan is there's always something, a little
piece left out, something there you don't see at first until you find something
or someone to help point it out or open your eyes to the hidden, once you see
what's there, you can never miss it again and are always looking for that unseen
something in everything.
Jenni Mac
Incubusgurl690@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Thursday October 16 2003
Donovan
for President! Cuz you're special.
XOXOXO
Sonialand@aol.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Thursday October 16 2003
If the song California was a movie it would be an
epic. Simple yet powerful. It's that damn good.
rockorlando@yahoo.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday October 15 2003
Uh, yeah, Donovan....I never gave you permission to use that photo - that was a PRIVATE moment! uhhahha. Please, if I looked like that, I would pay folks to put it up places! I hope all is well, looks like y'all are busy in the studio and I can't wait to hear what you have waiting for me when I return to the homeland for a visit the week before Xmas. My parents are visiting so that's that, the charming boy is still around. I think I might keep this one around for awhile because he carries things upstairs for me and thinks a woman should never weigh under 100 pounds...I'm trying to prove him wrong, but it's just so much easier to give in, especially when it involves eating bon bons and not exercising. I got a new toy for Johnny Rotten the Evil Punk Rock Kitty - a girl kitty....the Lady Serena Psycho leTigre. Thus far, they've only caused $43483294457983240.89 worth of damage!
That is about all here,
but let me finish by telling you that I miss you dearly and as I write this
note, it is in the 40's outside and the driving rain is really adding to the
ambience here in Chicagoland. It makes bed a great place to be, but
let's face it - I knew that before I left Orlando! ehehahahahahaha...oh
that's right, I crack myself up!!!!!
breezygirl1971@yahoo.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Wednesday October 15 2003
Better to blow minds than donkeys
although some spam I recently received in my mailbox would probably argue that.
Don't ask me if I went to the website... "I don't wanna talk about it"
-Rob
Huskerdunot@hotmail.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Tuesday October 14 2003
Donovan:
Well, I am glad that you put I Don't Want To Talk About It on the album, as I love that song. My personal opinion is that it is the best one on Guardrail. And I cannot wait to hear the rest of the songs on the new album. If they have as much soul as Guardrail and as much experience and songwriting qualitiy as Minerva, it is going to blow minds.
Hugs,
Jenn
jennjacobsen@yahoo.com
__________________________________________________________________________________
Sunday October 12 2003
Thanks J. That's a better review than any of
the papers printed. Those songs were written from 1993 to 1996. Long before most
people in this music scene had much aspiration for making it to the big top.
Back then we played for fun and to meet people. Since then the stuff has grown
more radio friendly and produced. I haven't listened to "Guardrail" in
awhile, but back in March I began missing the freedom of writing music with zero
regard for what's currently topping the pops. The next work out of the BM camp
that you lay ears on will have all of the appeal of an album like
"Guardrail", but with more years of experience in the studio, on the
stage and as a person.
Funny, "I Don't Want To Talk About It" almost didn't make the album.
It's a scratch vocal. For those of you who don't know what that means... it was
a vocal AND guitar track performed live and was never intended for an audience
of more than three. The engineer, Kevin and Jason (our bassist at the time). It
was a roadmap of the song for them to follow as they recorded their parts. I
don't know if anything that raw and unfinished ever made it onto an album. Props
to another ex bassist, for insisting it make the track list.
In other news, we've settled on a date for the next concert. Come see us
Saturday 10/25 at Hard Rock Live. Visit the welcome and gigs pages for more
details.
with soul,
Donovan
Raggedstar@aol.com
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Sunday October 12 2003
I had never heard Bleeding on a Guardrail before, and after it was recommended to me, I went and picked it up. I had to let it sit with me a while as I was not sure what I thought of it as it was so different than anything else Donovan has written. And now, I have to say that I like it very much. To me, it is more personal than D's other albums. I Don't Want To Talk About It is my favorite song by far on the whole album. The lyrics are beautifully written and so is the song. The song has a very peaceful feel, and I find myself playing that song quite often when I need comfort, even though some of the lyrics are not very comforting but actually rather sad. But there are some beautiful lines. I love "When you're all but gone you'll find your God. He's got soft and gentle hands and a big back yard." It is a very beautiful and peaceful image. I also like Neptune's Drowning. It is a very true look at the things that we take for granted. Division is good too. The whole album seems to me to be a personal journey and a peek in to the soul, an exploration of God within and one's place in the world. I think that is why I like it. It is obvious that this album was not written for fans. It was written for Donovan. And his soul is very beautiful in this album. Thanks D for sharing these songs with us.
--J
jennjacobsen@yahoo.com
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Friday October 10 2003
My daughter Kaylee wants to join Blue Meridian! Her two favorite songs are “Month of Sundays” and “Danielle’s Bi”!
Reverend MD Nelson
mnelson9@cfl.rr.com
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Saturday, September 27 2003
welp...
what to say about the newest installment of blue tunes. first i want to
send kudo's out to the fans that have broken down how the songs make them feel
and where they take them emotionally. i cant think of many people that
take the time to do that and i love hearing how these songs affect others.
as for me, im stuck on "the river." a song that most (unless you
were at will's thursday) havent heard yet. the lyrics draw me in, and the
musical hooks give me chills. i see a huge maturity difference in this
album for donovan. its like he is looking at his same issues through
different eyes and reaching out to toy with his thoughts instead of wondering
why they dont stop taunting him.
well that is my take on things. i would love to keep hearing what the rest
of you think about stuff. there is a trend i have noticed over the last
few years... in some form or fashion blue meridian music has affected us all.
some people didnt like the affect it had and walked away from the band.
that is ok though, because those of us who hung around to see what was next,
have become better friends to eachother, better at searching out our own
feelings, and just plain better people through the vision of donovan and the
guys. for that i say thank you. and you know i mean it.
the ben
Badbeetnik1@aol.com
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Wednesday, September 24 2003
Thanks a lot for giving me the sneak preview of the new material. I guess you know how much I like that. Sorry it's taken me a week to get back to you. But Papa T. is a busy man.
Some thoughts:
"Pleasance"
I keep trying to draw a comparison to some other artist with this song, and I can't do it. I'm not able to say, "You know, it sounds kinda like (insert name here)."
There's a real timeless quality to "Pleasance." It reminds me of a sleepy Sunday morning when you're sitting on the back porch eating scrambled eggs and reading the paper. The neighbor is mowing his lawn, and he finally finishes the part closest to you and moves to the other side of the house. The sound of the mower fades into the distance, you can hear the birds again, and you relax a little bit more.
The feeling you have at that moment is sort of what I get out of this song.
You once again do one of those patented Donovan things that I like so much by including callbacks to your earlier work.
"Litte sins, Meridian, avalon, babylon and me in between."
"Adulteress, barely dressed, these sweaty linens leave me wanting it's ... sugarless."
I probably didn't get those exactly right, but you know what I mean. Over the years you've managed to strike a great balance by weaving in some common threads and recurring themes without making it obnoxious. It's only obvious to people who really follow you and listen to your music. It's like you're giving us all a little wink, and we're saying, "Right on Donovan, I caught that."
I'm not really sure what the song is about about -- but to me it talks about wanting, yearning, searching. But then again, don't all your songs? ;)
I like it.
"Saturday Girl"
It doesn't grab me quite as much as "Pleasance," but that doesn't mean I don't dig it. There's a lot going on in this song, and it's fun to listen to.
Within the first 90 seconds I caught influences from Paul Simon, Sting and Neil Diamond.
Not sure if I'm hearing a banjo, a sitar or something else all together. But I like the little underlying riff from whatever that is. I've been listening to a lot more bluegrass and mountain music in the past year or so, and I really get off on hearing a great mix of acoustic instruments. The strings are a really nice touch, too.
\I'm not sure if Kevin played live all the way through this or if he looped some parts -- but I really love the percussion stuff going on here. And kudos to whoever played bass, because there are some great moments where these cool bass licks are locked in with the drums and it sounds just awesome.
As much as I like the standard pop format, it's nice to hear something different than the normal verse-chorus-verse-chorus-bridge-chorus pattern. The last couple minutes of "Saturday Girl" take you for a really nice ride, and I'm still trying to figure out what instrument I'm hearing in there after the vocals end. There is some kind of lead part that is set back in the mix a little bit. I guess it's a guitar, but I don't know for sure. Sort of reminds me of "Sgt. Pepper" or "Revolver" era Beatles thing.
Nice work.
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Tuesday, September 23, 2003
Here you go. Hope I didn't screw up any of the lyrics.....
Pleasance: A slow-paced song, with a simple background music broken only by some
periods of emotional guitar work that puts Donovan's voice and lyrics on center
stage where it should be for a song like this one. "don't be like Eve/
don't be naive/ treasure's not the only thing you need." Think this one
would also sound great with just an acoustic guitar. (hint, hint)
Saturday Girl: I really like this one. Not your standard BM at all, but still
has the sound of the familiar. (banjo anyone?) "I could walk you to your
car/ what we don't like in ourselves/ we could leave back at the bar/ with
everybody else." Really excited to hear the final mix on this one.
Wondering if those chords in the end were meant to make me think of Brave Angel
; )
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Monday, September 22, 2003
Donovan
Both of these tunes are INCREDIBLE.
Your talent is growing AS your experimentation grows.
I like both of these tunes better than ANY song on Minerva.
Seriously, man. Your voice is haunting, man. It needs its own house!
Reminds me of Brave Angel a little more than I expected! (Which is my favorite
Blue Meridian Record)
Rock on, man.
I wish I had some of your studio connections
Great job, amigo.
Your voice still BURNS me, brother.
Makes me want to rerwrite the entire record “Ghost Signs.”
Your should cover the title track “Ghost Signs”.
Hot damn
Keep on keeping on
Zachariah Hedonistic
Zmack423@aol.com
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Tuesday, September 16 2003
I think Pleasance is an absolutely beautiful song. I am really impressed...I completely love it, and the more I listen to it, the more I like it. The lyrics are very poetic and beautifully written. As always. That is one constant thing I love about your music. This song makes me smile :) Very slow and melodic...captivating. Bravo!!
Saturday Girl....I had in my mind an idea of what this song was going to sound like. And I was surprised as it is totally not what I thought it was going to be. It is much more upbeat. The intro reminds me of a Paul Simon song :) and thus, hearing that, I expected the lyrics to be sung at a farily fast pace, and it was a pleasant surprise to hear the lyrics sung slower. I like the violin fading out at the end. That is very interesting.
These two songs have a relaxing, gentle quality....I really like them. Very different from other Meridian tunes. But still unique and beautiful. Thank you for sharing them with me!
--Jenn
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Sunday, September 14 2003
You are welcome. Thanks for the glowing
review.
Well, it's Sunday and the last of Kevin's drumheads are ending on eBay in less
than a few hours. So, it's time to talk about the next thing. It's been over 2
months since our last show and that's a long time. I've gotten many emails
asking when we're playing next. Problem is, studio work is very, very different
from live performance stuff. I've made the new recordings my primary focus this
summer (and fall), and although the guys have expressed interest in performing,
I just haven't been able to put together anything suitable. We also lack the
time it would require to put together a tight live show (these songs haven't
been played in over 2 months). We'll get around to it eventually. This Fall for
sure.
In the meantime to keep your whistle wet, I'll be performing a solo acoustic
show at Wills Pub on Thurs the 25th. This will be a great chance to hear your
favorites performed live along with some of my new favorites from the
newly written gems. Steve Krone is opening, I'm on at 9:30. It's a weeknight,
but it's early. For you late-nighters, Amy Steinberg closes things out. For fun
we're also going to be recording part of this show for inclusion on a Blue
Meridian Rarities disc which should be available by the end of the year.
Lets see if you remember the lyrics to "Showdown @ Circle K".
Music for the Masses! Hellfire for the Asses!
Donovan
Raggedstar@aol.com
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Sunday, September 14 2003
...quite different.....quite surprising....incessantly moving..... Thank you, Donovan, for the sneak preview. - P
phaedra32835@yahoo.com
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Friday, September 12 2003
Thanks! Yes, it's true. A couple early mixes of the new material have made their
way to Minerva Associate Producers, Mastering Engineers and other VIPs. Just a
taste of what the new songs are all about. Super glad you like them. I'm sure
this project will keep us busy through the end of November. It should keep YOU
busy for months afterwards.
On another note... the last of Kevins drumheads end very soon on Ebay. We'll be
getting ahold of all the winners sometime Sunday eve or Monday.
RIP Jack Tripper, Johnny Cash & that cockface from asskiss magazine.
-D
Raggedstar@aol.com
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Friday, September 12 2003
Hey
Donovan,
Thanks for the sneak preview of new material. I'm diggin the new sounds!
The songs are completely different, yet both gorgeous in their own way. I
especially love all the different and unique combinations of instruments in Saturday
Girl. And as for Pleasance, I'm just in awe of the beauty and
truthfulness of the lyrics. I am so excited to hear what else you've got
penned for the new album. Feel free to send more mp3s as you finish them!
:)
Nikki
Herbey24@aol.com
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Friday, September 12 2003
Aloha from
beyond.
Having just taken my first listen to some rough mixes of a couple of the new
songs I have one nagging question...Why am I subjected to John Mayer on a daily
basis but not this?
Blue tune #1 sounds very sound-tracky to me. Very love scene/closing shot and
credits. Dono-V lyrics let the mind paint its own vivid picture of what the song
could mean to the listener.
Blue tune #2 reminds us that sound is an instrument. Lots of ear candy to be
had. A sonic piñata. This new stuff is a departure, but what a great road to
travel.
-HKD, Mastering Engineer
Emaildaveholt@aol.com
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Monday, September 5 2003
Hello
Everyone ,
I would like to thank Donovan for giving me the opportunity to sell my artwork
on ebay .
I also would like to thank all of the fine folks with great taste in art
for purchasing them .
I kid ya .
I'm greatfull , thank you ,
~kevin
KWKDOG@aol.com
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Monday, September 1 2003
It was nearly this quiet the
other day. I was in my backyard picking up some branches on the ground from a
big storm the day before. Then it happened again. I've got my faithful ears to
the ground.
Rob
Huskerdunot@hotmail.com
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Sunday, August 17 2003
As some of you know, I've been trying out most of
these new tunes at random open mics around here.
Not really to "test them out" or anything. Crowd reaction at those
things is hardly a good yardstick for
measuring the merit of anything. Mostly just to see if I can pull them off w/
out looking at cheat sheets.
Well, that and the fact that we haven't been gigging much, leaves me jonesing
for the stage every now and then.
Rehearsals have been spent working on the new material. I wonder how many of the
older songs we even remember
at this point. heh, heh.
Anyhow, the songs on this album are much more personal I think. They'll be more
intimate. Nothing so far about a midget, sorry.
I hope many of you
find this favorable. I shower now and head back in to sing some more.
Hope you had a great weekend.
Donovan
Raggedstar@aol.com
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Saturday, August 16 2003
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