Last night I found myself shoulder to shoulder with man selling yo-yos for a buck outside the Fillmore. The worst part of the scene was, to the people walking out of the Medeski, Martin, and Wood show, the smelly yo-yo man and I were of the same ilk: street vendors. There was a moment when I thought to myself, "At what point in your life did you make a left when you most certainly should have made a right?"

I should clarify that I was not selling yo-yos, or superballs. I was not selling watches, or even t-shirts that read "Alcatraz Psych Ward: Outpatient." I, along with bandmates and buddies, was giving our EP to anyone who wanted it. The important distinction here is I was not selling, but giving. And giving some good tunes at that.

Reminding myself of the difference between the yo-yo man and myself, I slept pretty well last night. For more free stuff from Bloomsday Rising, come check us out at Ireland's 32 on Saturday, Dec. 6 (10 p.m.). Also playing: Martin Murray and Adam Diener. Free DVDs with our first music video, live performances, and pretty funny promotional skits included will be given to all those want one.

I hope this finds all well.

Phil and Bloomsday Rising