Is there anybody out there?

More than likely -- not yet. But that's OK.

This is my personal diary for all those who want to read. Even though it's titled The Jupiter Sound Clash, this won't be all about my band. If you know me though, you know that my band pretty much consumes my thoughts.

So here's the deal. I'm a singer, songwriter, guitar player, band manager, boyfriend, friend, son, biker, poet, and customer service specialist. Actually, scratch that last part. That's not "me". That's just something I do so I can afford to be those other things.

My band is The Jupiter Sound Clash. We're good. At least, I think we are. We are in a really neat period right now. We ditched our last band name, sat down and made some goals, and are working, working, working.

This is never easy, though. It's a shame I put so much effort into something and can't afford a meal or pay rent with it. But that's art, I guess. I spend hours in front of a piano and playing guitar and gain nothing but inner peace. You can't eat inner peace.

But when it comes down to it, that's not the point. For years, I didn't want to even be in a band, not along try and make a living doing it. Money and band drama always seemed to distract from what was at the core of making music. But I was talked into joining my first band, and I couldn't imagine not having one now. I realized, maybe four or five years ago, that as long as I was putting this much effort and passion into music, I might as well make it my career.

At this point, I'm more focused and trained than I have ever been. I know this band will succeed, I just need to convince everyone else that it will. I need to convince music listeners to come out to a show, and music promoters to book us. We have some shows lined up for September. The Beauty Bar has said they would fit us in an August show, but I have a feeling they'll be booked up through the end of the month. We'll see. Tim Pyles told me he'd like to see us in the Casbah. I think a CD release party there would be amazing.

This never ending album project my be coming to a close next week. There's not too much left to do. Just change and add some vocal tracks, some effects, and sounds and transitions, then go sit in the car and listen. Good times and celebrations will be had by all.

All in all, this blog will be a progress report on The Jupiter Sound Clash project, as well as a glimpse into my mental state. I'll try and update it once a week, but don't hold me to that. Hopefully, you'll find some humor or get to know me and the band better. For those pursuing music -- or anything difficult for that matter -- you may be able to relate to some of these rants.

To everyone reading, welcome. Hopefully, you'll be back again!

-Matty