Day 7. We’re making our way, slowly, toward Raleigh, from Black Mountain. It appears, beyond a shadow of a doubt, that our van( or rather many of its parts) has conspired against us and our efforts to make it to places on time, or even make it at all. It started with sticky brakes, that only seem to stick when you REALLY need them to stop. Next, a strange noise from underneath quickly turned into transmission failure. The troubles haven’t stopped there, as just today, our driver’s side rear wheel nearly fell of while we were traveling through steep and winding Blueridge Mountain roads. A cautionary note from weary travelers: Quick service is only worth it when the service you receive is as good as service that would have taken longer. For instance, it is great when a mechanic can get your vehicle in and out in one day, so you can make it from Knoxville to Black Mountain for a gig that night. However, if the same mechanic fails to reattach the wheel he took off properly….well, you can see where this is going. One might assume we are driving a piece of junk around, from state to state. Well…….our piece of junk has a t.v., window shades, and limo lighting….there are naturally going to be trade-offs in these situations. All in all, band morale is perfectly in tact…if not strengthened by the ridiculous events of the past week.
Things we have learned on the road:
1. Maryland State Troopers DO NOT know what a “terrorist” looks like. They DO, however, know what a “stranger” looks like. It is for that very reason that EVERYONE who is a “stranger”, might also be a “terrorist” and should be treated accordingly.
2. It is VERY important, when trying to reach the venue that you are running late to, that you call the CORRECT number, rather than redialing the incorrect one…..many times…….over the course of several hours.
3. Giving a girl your CD does not mean she will take you home with her that night.
4. We have, collectively, discovered a fondness for hookah bars….and crazy Egyptian dance music.
5. It is always better to be a little late and arrive safely and without speeding tickets….
6. Falafil should not be eaten for more than two meals in a row….
7. It is imperative that you feed the meters in New York…a stitch in time saves nine, if you will.

Well…….that’s it for now. Stay tuned for more from TAF!