Lots of Love from Down Undah!

Hey Hay Beer Lovers!

Wanted to give you a quick lead on a great beer. It's a limited time offering so I wanted to make sure that you got your hands on it!

Sierra Nevada's Southern Western Hemisphere Harvest is self defined as a "Fresh Hop Ale" which I'm to assume by the nature and flavor of the beer that it's not quite hoppy enough to be an IPA but hoppier than a regular beer. The "Fresh" comes from the fact that the hops were picked, dried, packed and shipped to the brewery in a matter of days FROM NEW ZEALAND! I'm certain that the terroir, as it usually pertains to grape varietal growing regions, has an affect on the taste of the hops. This is particularly the case here as the taste is like nothing I've ever tasted.

As usual, Sierra gives us a product that is of the highest quality and packs extraordinary flavor. The SWHH has very little in the way of malt flavor, not to say that none exists, but that it is not the predominant note. Light mouth feel and sharp notes of floral and citrus are however at the forefront. This beer differs in the fact that unlike some IPAs that try to pack in (and sometimes I feel over pack) hops into the beer, this harvest beer has a healthy hop flavor with a sweetness that other beers made in a similar fashion are missing. While I would hesitate to call this a balanced beer, it certainly is flavorful and quite tasty. This bottle rings in around $5 so definitely pick it up!

Cheers!

Rob

Grilling with beer

Hi everybody!! (HIIII DR. NICK!)

Just a quick post here courtesy of my friends over at Beer & wine.com over in Woburn, MA. With all of us in the thick of summer, I'm sure that everyone's grills are fired up on an almost nightly basis. I know that I'm always in the market for new ways to spice things up around the BBQ and particularly ways to use beer in the recipes! Below, please find a great, quick & dirty article on some grilling w/ beer basics!

http://www.beer-wine.com/features/grilling-beer


As a side note, for anyone who watched Master Chef last night, I was most disappointed that the only beer related recipe last night was generally despised by the judging panel. The only notable exception of Chef Graham Elliot who frankly, I find brilliant for his ability to take ordinary, blase comfort food and bring it to the level of a Michelin Star restaurant quality without sacrificing its accessibility. He shrugged off his decision in regards to the cheese & beer soup with chives as a "guilty pleasure". Bravo Chef Elliot... I appreciate your honesty. Regardless, I'll be researching recipes for Cheese & Beer Soup for my next post. Preferably ones that don't suck!

Say Thirsty (AND HUNGRY!!) My friends!

Rob

Hi Neighbor!! Have a "Gan"der at this!

Tisk Tisk Tisk... Again, it seems that I've neglected my blog and as a result, I've got a bunch of updates both in the field of music and on the brewery scene. I'll try to take it in small bites and keep it short:

MMMMMMMMM BEEEER:

So finally, I got around to putting my money where my mouth is and I brewed a few batches of my own beer. I decided on a Copper Ale and a Summer Ale.

Robbie A's Penny Pincher Ale:
I needed beers that were uncomplicated as I don't have a whole ton of time on my hands at the moment. A Copper Ale in theory was a good idea... the execution on the other hand, lacked somewhat. Dark amber hue as you'd expect with any copper, the head was a bit lacking, but I expect some of that due to the cold temperature it was stored at and my rather aggressive angle of the pour. Malty taste with a decent hop balance, but there was an odd aftertaste and I couldn't pin point it until someone else had a swig... pennies... I can't explain it, I have no idea how it happened, but... pennies... weird. Soooo that one was somewhat of a flop.

Robbie A's Citrus Summer Ale:
The Summer Ale turned out quite a bit better. It was far more drinkable albeit a bit less complex in flavor. Lemony citrus notes permeate the nose as well as a faint hint of hops. The beer is... well, beer... But it's a fine summer brew sufficient enough to have with burgers & dogs but I'm not about to write home about it. Better luck next time!

Nashoba Winery - Bolton, MA:
One of the tenets of creating superlative food, wine and beer is fresh ingredients. You're not going to get any fresher than right off the farm! I have to give this place a major thumbs up as it is a hidden gem in the heart of the Nashoba Valley. The Nashoba Valley winery is not just a winery creating vintages from locally grown products such as peaches, blueberries, apples & the like, but it is also the first officially licensed Farm/Distillery in the Commonwealth of MA. They've created an exciting line of Whiskeys, Liqueurs and Cordials, which, unfortunately were a bit out of my price range! The beer at this point is my focus and they had a great range to choose from. Most of them hit the ball out of the park including their Summer Stout which I found to be most unique in the fact that it had notes of espresso, cocoa and vanilla. In addition, one surprise was their IPA, the use of milder locally grown hops I think made the difference here. Their version didn't have quite the acridly bitter taste that some IPA's can take on. The line up changes frequently so I'd suggest checking it out yourself!
http://www.nashobawinery.com/beer.aspx
Side note: If you're looking for a GREAT date place, check out the adjacent J's Restaurant. Farm fresh food, locally caught fish & smoked trout, local cheeses. The place is a home run. Weekend brunch is also highly recommended!

THE COME BACK KID!!!!:
There is nothing I love more than a comeback story. Like my beloved Red Sox, we have another local underdog story that is taking shape, one that I hope will still be here come October! The 120 year old Narragansett brewing company, (once a long time sponsor of the BoSox) is under relatively new management, the brand name being bought back from the Falstaff Brewing Co. and is making major strides at regaining its formerly famous name here in New England. I for one am standing proud with the 'Gansett crew and have bought several sixers at my local packey over the last year. I think the thing that I like the most is the grass roots effort that Narragansett is working with to get the word out. The most effective tactic I've seen so far is the use of Non traditional media, Facebook, Live events and particularly the You Tube movies of new owner Mark Hellendrung searching recycling bins for old Narragansett cans, giving new 12 packs to those drinking the beer and leaving flaming bags of poo for those on the "Naughty" list. Classic junior high antics that definitely caught my attention. Also back are the 'Gansett Girls, a throwback to the 40's era pinup girls and ladies, you're just lovely! Still, the taste of Narragansett is what brings people back time and again. It's an easy to drink lager that goes great with almost everything. So far, they've hit 1150 establishments where 'Gansett is on tap. Do you part for a local institution, nay, for your local economy and help Mark Hellendrung rebuild the once famous Narragansett Brewery in Rhode Island!! Buy a case, check out the website, ask your local establishment to carry Narragansett Beer!! Go get em boys & Gansett Girls! I'm pullin' for ya!!



THE MUSIC:
I've had a few momentous occasions in my Bagpiping career over the last month.

1. I've finally popped my funeral gig cherry. While I by no means think that I did well, I have learned a few valuable lessons
-Turn off your Cell phone!! While this should be common sense... I totally forgot and my phone went off in the middle of the ceremony... thankfully I was in the balcony and got into my sporran in the nick of time.
-Bring Water: 80 degree days in a woolen Kilt, Glengarry and black jacket tend to cause a boy to sweat... phew... not only that, but I had a bit of a coughing fit and one woman was kind enough to grab me a bottle.
-RELAX!!: I found myself getting stressed out towards the end of a few of my sets and I had a few times where my reed dropped out for a note or so. In addition, my biggest failure of the day resulted from over-squeezing my bag resulting in not one but TWO of my drones dropping out during Amazing Grace... embarrassing to say the least.

2. Parade Season was a major success! On the 4th of July, I played the Bourne and Edgartown, MA parades resulting in over 5 miles of marching AND I played the ENTIRE parade AND a quick show on the Ferry back AND played a flyby of a bar that gave us a hard time back on the mainland. To that bar, I give you the two fingered salute and say, may you and your snotty, cranberry pants wearing, trust fund spending clientele choke on your assumed sense of superiority. Narragansett, don't bother trying to get into that bar, they're jerks, and frankly you could do better!! But I digress... I consider the parades a major milestone in my playing.

My take aways from this episode:
1. Relax when you play your pipes, practice like you have a gig every day.
2. Take your significant other to J's Restaurant and class it up a little, huh?
3. Avoid at all costs the Landfall Restaurant in Wood's Hole, MA. They're total tools.
4. Get a yourself some Cans of 'Gansett! Support your local breweries!!

That is all... I HAVE SPOKEN!!

-Rob

Summer Ales and Barleywines

DA BEER:
FIRST & FOREMOST:
Ladies and gents... I have a quick Kudos to give out in the name of progress. My buddy Dave... really a guy who I met for 5 minutes... at Trader Joe's in Framingham has proven himself to be a noble beer advocate. In the past I've written that Trader Joe's is a place to avoid when it comes to beer. They're still not putting out what I would consider to be true quality beers, however they're getting there and I applaud their efforts, particularly my boy Dave, an employee of Trader Joes who, on behalf of all the other beer geeks out there made a phone call to the senior purchasers at TJ's and demanded (not asked) that the grocery store carry more in the way of quality beer. THANK YOU, Dave THANK YOU!! Trader Joe's has always carried Chimay (trappist style ale), Magic Hat out of VT, as well as the Smuttynose brewing company. All are excellent ales, however the selection in general at Trader Joe's, frankly has been poor. My most recent trip to TJ's this past weekend, yielded a most impressive result. The store in Framingham, MA had more beer! Not only that, they had more QUALITY beer! I'm pleased to see that they made some progress and I look forward to what they come out with next. In short, THANKS DAVE!!

In conjunction with my first story, I grabbed two beers that piqued my interest. The Smuttynose Barleywine and the Sierra Nevada Summer.

The Sierra Nevada Summer was, in short, a delight. I've always enjoyed their products as they generally brew a drinkable beer for the masses, with a flavor that is interesting enough for beer dorks to love. Pick up the summer... that's all I have to say. I drank it a bit warm, and while I wish that I had let it sit for a while longer, the almost room temperature beer was not bad. It's a dry crisp lager with a snappy hop finish and in general is a delight to drink. Well done Sierra Nevada! I'll probably be sharing this one with friends as the season progresses.

Smuttynose has almost always pleased me with the product they put out. A Portsmouth, NH outfit, I've threatened among friends to visit the brewery out of sheer curiosity. This was a special recommendation by DAVE and frankly even as I drink it now... a great call. Barleywines in general are an interesting breed... they're technically considered beer, however they are called Barleywine for their unusually high alcohol contents ranging from 8 to 12%. Judging by the Tuesday night buzz I'm sporting, my guess is that we're in and around the 12% range... The thing I like about Barleywines is the complexity. There's a graininess to the Smuttynose but there are other elements to it that I positively love. There's a fruity nose to it, a citric, hoppy kick and an alcohol bite to the finish. In all, it's a great beer to have... with friends. This thing is kicking my butt even as we speak!

What to pair it with... initial thoughts are Carne Asada tacos... but there's already a heavy acidic tone to this... I'll swing completely opposite and suggest either a.) fish & chips as a nod to it's English heritage or b.) Death by Chocolate 8 layer fudge cake. It's a heavy ale with a need to balance it's bold taste with a bold sweetness. Either way, this one could stand on its own as a social beer among friends. Given that it's sold in the big bottle, I'd grab a pal to enjoy this one with.

Good luck out there, I'd appreciate any beers you'd like me to review and of course any feedback on these posts.

Skol!

Rob

Strong Ale & Sweet Surprises

THE BREW:

In the most recent edition of "The Improper Bostonian" I had a unique epiphany thanks to an article written by Erin Byers Murray and Max Toste. They defined what it meant to be a Beer Snob vs. a Beer Geek. As in the wine world, there are those out there who would seek to define what is and what isn't good beer. I may, on occasion have straddled the line and for that, I apologize! While there are some beers that I personally find repugnant and repulsive, it is my intent only to provide you with a forum where opinions can be read, digested and whenever possible, disputed. These are only opinions after all. I've sampled some of the best beers on the planet and I have a wide library of knowledge on the subject. My main goal is to show you what's out there, good, bad or indifferent and perhaps provide a little education. While reviewing Lord Hobo's (a new Allston, MA beer mecca) Mr. Toste has a great description:

""Snobbery Sucks," he said "Geeks are enthusiastic. They like knowledge, like to learn about things. Beer should be accessible.""

Truer words were never spoken. I of course prefer to think of myself as a Geek. Beer, like it's younger cousin, wine was found largely by accident thousands of years ago and has been drunk by Pharaohs and peasants alike. I've always postulated that there is a beer for every occasion and for every taste. My tastes, for example differ greatly from my wife's and from a number of my friends. Where I might like a dark Stout, my Dad on the other hand might prefer light lager. My opinions are merely a guidepost for beer geeks and beer neophytes alike.

That being said, onto the review!

More good news from John Harvard's! The misses and I recently hit up the local John Harvard's here on Route 9 and beyond our usual board of fare (Nachos for the table, Buffalo Chicken Sandwich for the misses and Chicken fingers for the kiddo), we were pleasantly surprised by a few choice beers on the menu. So much so, that we did something that we rarely do... took home a growler! I can count on two fingers, including this time, that I've ever liked a beer enough to bring home a solid Gallon of it... The last was a stout from the Kennebunk Brewing Company. The chosen beer today, however, was the Strawberry Ale draught that that my wife and I decided would be a good summer beer. Given that it was a BEAUTIFUL and pleasantly unseasonable 80 degree day here in the Commonwealth, I plunked down my cash and brought it back to the old homestead. One of the best parts of JH is that will let you have a small sampler for precisely $0 so we were able to give it a go without breaking the bank. One complaint was a bleachy taste that showed up in one of the other samples. I might have liked that one better, but for a relatively unrinsed cup.

Onto the beer!

The Strawberry ale: Light color, Hazy body and with a crisp zip, I liked this beer as did the misses, a intersection ne'er to be seen! The initial taste had a somewhat raspberry hint to it, which I've now come to realize is simply the result of fermenting strawberries. Either way, a tart, citrus albeit not unpleasant note. The body is thick enough to make you realize that you're drinking a hearty beer, but not heavy enough that I wouldn't break it out at the summer BBQ. The finish as a slight hoppy zing to it but not enough to cause puckering. All in all, a good suggestion by our waiter. Pairings: Any BBQ food will do, but I think that a cherry glazed rib & grilled Pepper & Tomato would do nicely with this beer. The cherry in particular should take the edge off of the fermented strawberry taste and mellow the tang of the hops a little.

The Celtic Strong Ale: This one tops the meter for complex tastes and for punch packed! I think I was buzzed about 1/2 way through my glass. Advertised as a Scottish style, this is a DAAARK ale. I held this one up to the light and I'm pretty sure I saw the suns rays start to collapse into the head. Suffice it to say, Black with a slight hint of brown. The menu (which is designed for beer geeks BTW) stated that three types of malt were used, although the varietal that shone through was the Chocolate Malt. There was a heavy chocolate/stouty flair to it. The body has a heavy texture as I thought it might have. I have to note that there are certain Scotch Ales that I don't like due to a heavy reliance on truly bitter hops and funky honeys as the fermenting sugar both of which are usually used in great abundance and often create a lack of balance in the beer. This was not the case with the CSA, While it did have a bitter finish, the heft of the beer and the sweetness of the other two malts (Pale and another which I don't remember) created a unique balance that danced all over the senses of the tongue, perhaps with the exception of salty. Pairings: I can tell you for a fact that this beer goes poorly with nachos... Don't do it! The Salsa and spicy food in general tends to over state the bitterness of the hops. The meal I had was an understated, typically American, but delicious Bacon Cheeseburger. The meat, veg, fries, cheese and bacon were more than enough to stand up to the complexity of this beer while still allowing it to maintain its balance.

That's all for now, I'll have another post for you tomorrow!

Here's mud in yer eye!

Rob

Holy Hilarious!

As many of you know, I am a huge fan of clever marketing for any product, most notably beer. The following review is, in part an homage to one such visionary brewer, marketer and dare I say... prophet?

As a former patron of the parochial school system, I have a certain appreciation for humor that some might find well... sacrilegious. It's not that I'm not appreciative of everything that the church has taught me, but I do find humor in places that others might not and things that perhaps I SHOULD not. Besides... who really needs a soul anyway? Bradley Ross-Patrick (which sounds like an evangelical name in and of itself) and I appear to be cut from the same cloth when it comes to parody laden humor. Check out this website and see what I mean:

http://sixpackofprayer.com/index.php

But is this more than just a clever marketing campaign? Could it be that salvation can come in a cleverly packaged bottle? I've heard more people pray to whatever god will listen after imbibing too much. The phrase "Oh God if you make this stop, I'll never drink again" has been uttered after dispelling many a demon on the porcelain altar so... could Rev Ross be on to something? It says in his personal notes that this Pastor of the Pilsner goes against the grain... Nay, my fellow sinners, (cue up the choir)I say he goes WITH the grain... combines it with malt and hops and turns ordinary water.... into revelation.

The Most Reverend Ross-Patrick creates a strong case for purchasing 6 to twelve bottles of "holy water" to wash away your sins and the sins of your neighbor. Although, if the beer is as good as the marketing, I might try to convert the whole neighborhood. Inspired by his proselytizing, my clicker zipped right over to the "order now" button. Sadly enough, religion aka the blue laws and popular legislation favoring liquor distributors here in the Commonwealth of MA do not allow delivery directly to my house... which means that I either need to drive/fly/pray myself to Nebraska to visit the abbey directly OR I need to find an alternate method of delivery...

I see that he has a "tour date" at the Berklee College of music in April and frankly I'd like to make sure that I try to hit that date. OR... if Rev. Bradley would like to swing by the greater Metro West area, I'm sure we could set up a revival tent to help save a few of my fellow sinners!!! TESTIFY!!

Your Holiness, I wish you the best of luck, the campaign for salvation is brilliant and I can't wait to try the actual product!!

"MMmmmm Sacrilicious... Gwaaaaaaggghhh" - Homer Simpson as it pertains to the Holy Waffle stuck to the ceiling.

AAAAMEN!

Rob

Take two Pils and call me in the mornin'

Sam Adams Seasonal: Noble Pils

When you think “Pilsner”… what do you think? Cheap draft beer at dollar night? A beverage that tastes like bitter swill? A frothy, pale glass of nastiness? Me too! In general I’ve steered clear of Pilsners simply for the fact that outside of the usual family barbeque or college keg party, I usually don’t enjoy the taste. I find the Pilsner as a style to be bland, bitter and somewhat fouled in taste and finish. Some of these beers are old favorites here in the States and by and large, so long as I’ve dulled my palate enough, I can sometimes choke one down… or switch to H2O… or battery acid…

Sam Adams, on the other hand has taken the style and given it a little class. As usual, Jim Koch and his team at the Boston Beer Company have injected a little love into a style that over the years has been pasteurized, over-processed and made simply for profit. Quality ingredients, and a proven brewing process yield a brightly golden bubbly beer that has an initial Pilsner scent, but not the usual Pilsner mouth-feel or taste. Slightly but not unpleasantly bitter, Sam’s Seasonal beer has a heavier feel than your traditional Pilsner, but still is light enough that I would not consider this to be in Sam’s usual wheelhouse of heavier ales and lagers. The finish is what is most pleasant. Years ago, Keystone beer put out a clever advertising campaign against “Bitter beer face”. I think that Sam Adams might want to borrow that from Keystone! The finish is pleasant, has a bit of a kick but a well balanced malt and wheat taste, a distinct piney note and a sweetness of honey that makes this an ideal summer beer.

Pairings:
As you may know, the Pilsner style comes from the Czech Republic (formerly Bohemia – yes, that Bohemia) and was transported over to the United States thanks to a few brave and rather thirsty immigrants. As a result, truly All-American brands like Budweiser (now ironically owned by international beer giant In-Bev) were born. It is for that reason that I’ve chosen a traditionally summer Czech meal to pair with this… it only seems right! I think that the peppery nature of paprika and the spice inherent in the Sam’s Noble Pils will balance nicely. Paprika is a big spice in most cooking from that area, Poland, Russia, the Czech Republic & the like. Unsure as to the historical reason, but I can find out! Most people use breast meat when making chicken dishes due to the preponderance of it in the grocery store as it’s considered one of the healthiest alternative in the poultry world. I would advise against it in this case as traditional Czech food (to completely over generalize) is a bit bland. The Chicken thighs will give you a bit more flavor and I tend to prefer them in general for recipes like this. The recipe for this says dumplings or egg noodles. However sides for this meat dish might be rice pilaf, asparagus, marinated mushrooms and if you’re feeling frisky; Borscht – a beet stew common to the former Eastern Block countries.

(Picture Missing, but I assure you it looks delicious...)

Czech Chicken Paprika

Czech Chicken Paprika Recipe
6 – 7 Chicken Thighs
2 Cups Chicken Broth
1 Cup Water
1 Cup Onion – Chopped
1 Cup Sour Cream
2 Tbs Paprika
2 Tbs Lard or Vegetable Oil - Yay Lard! Fat is flavor!
2 Tbs Flour
1 Tsp Garlic, minced
½ Tsp Salt
¼ Tsp Ground Pepper


1. Heat up lard or oil in skillet on medium low heat.
2. Spinkle paprika on both sides of chicken and place in skillet. Place any remaining paprika into skillet.
3. Increase heat to medium and brown both sides of chicken.
4. Add onion and garlic and lightly brown stirring occasionally.
5. Lower heat to simmer, then add flour.
6. Cook for 2 – 3 minutes stirring constantly.
7. Increase heat to medium and add chicken broth and water, stirring constantly.
8. Once a low boil is achieved add salt and pepper.
9. Reduce to simmer partially covered for 40 minutes. Stir on occasion.
10. Remove chicken from sauté pan and add sour cream to sauce.
11. Place chicken back into pan and mix.
12. Add additional salt and pepper to taste (if necessary).
13. Serve on dumplings or egg noodles.


Sam (And Jim), again, your experiments have paid off. Keep stretching yourselves. The chances you’re taking are paying off!!

Na Zdravi! (to your heath! – Czech)

Harpoon's Island Creek Oyster Stout/ Piping 101

THE BREW:
One word... WOW

Allow me to elaborate: I took the opportunity to cheat on my south beach diet to try a beer that I've heard a LOT of buzz about. The beer in question is Harpoon's Island Creek Oyster Stout. While I thought that the naming convention was just a name... I realized after drinking this dark hued velvety goodness that this beverage was in fact brewed with Island Creek oysters. The brew has an initial nose not entirely disparate from that of a Guinness or a Murphy's. It has a very standard Stout Smell. The taste on the other hand was remarkable. Dry and minerally upon first sip, this stout has a bit of a coffee finish and a faint hint of blackberry. I'm not sure if blackberry was part of the process, but there's a slight taste of it in there. This is a beer possibly best had on its own, but I would pair is either with wild game or with a Tarimisu if you're going to go the dessert route.

THE MUSIC:
The Pipes have been going better than in recent history. I've been taking the time to really run through my drills and I've gotten a number of tunes under my belt... on the chanter... Being on the bag, on the other hand, is another story. I've been making some progress there, but again, it's been slow. I can get some noise out of the chanter and I can get a whole scale out, but I'm a long way off from playing regularly. I'm a bit disappointed as I have a St. Patrick's Day Parade in a few short weeks. The biggest difficulty I'm having is getting the drones and the changer to roll all at once. I think my problem has been one of conditioning. I'm trying to get the bag to remain full. Again, I'm making progress, but it's slower than I'd hoped.

Banjo: I made the move today to try to play with a thumb pick and finger pics. I think now that I have these plastic picks, I should be able to progress towards more proficient play. I've essentially had to start from scratch with my technique as playing with the picks is far different from simply finger picking. One of the things I'm looking forward to is double picking with the thumb, it allows you to make the banjo rolls sound a lot faster by playing in two directions rather than one. My hope is to be able to master the basic technique and then hopefully take on a few Earl Scruggs and Bela Fleck tunes.

Coming soon: I hope to try to get a few ideas I have down on tape. At the moment, I have access to a MacBook with Garage Band on it. If I can get these ideas down, I have a friend with a Protools studio and I hope to be able to perfect some of these songs.

As random as these thoughts are, I hope that all of you are doing well.

Best of luck out there,

Rob

GREAT day!!

Today has been a GREAT day so far!

-Found a nickel on the ground at Walmart - YAY, my retirement is saved!
-Got through Walmart with my 2 year old and left early enough to avoid the usual redneck hoard that ends up rolling through about mid day.
-Grocery Shopping uneventful
-Visited the new Music store in Natick, Music Go Round and was DUELY impressed! More on that later.
-Had an open bluegrass jam with the makers of Becker Guitars

It's been awesome today. So, here we go!

Music Go Round is a breath of fresh air in what is otherwise a callus soulless business of purveying musical equipment to unsuspecting saps like me. I've been eyeballing the place for months as it's been under construction and right next to the Stop & Shop here on Route 9 in Natick, MA. On my way into the grocery story, I noticed they were open and stopped in more out of morbid curiosity than anything else. While the entry is a bit crammed with Drums etc, the place is well lit, well organized and stocked to the gills with all sorts of instruments, the most notable of course being the Acoustic Upright bass standing dead center of the showroom floor. Phil, the owner came up, introduced himself, shook my hand and gave me the lowdown on the place. The staff was pleasant enough and the selection of instruments varied WIDELY. The catch with this place is that everything in there is USED. In general, the gear is in pretty good shape and I found several selections that I liked. By and large the selection is good, they have a few oddball instruments and in true consignment store fashion, I'm sure that I'll have to pop in regularly to find what I like.

So the highlight of my day was a rather impromptu bluegrass session with the makers of Becker Guitars Ryan and a gentlemen who I think was named Mike. I started playing the Banjo just for laughs and it turned into an all out three chord jam session! Standup bass, mandolin, Banjo and "Mike" and I trading off to guitar later on. I'm sure I overstayed my welcome, but I think more stores need to have that open jam feel. There's a couch for example in the middle of the acoustics section and it just BEGS for people to come, sit and play. I then took the opportunity to chat them up on their product. They make a line of Basses and Guitars and recently have signed up artists to use their products from such notable bands as MOE. and Umphee's McGee. Not wanting to insult, I sat down with their 5 string Bass at the request of the Bass's Maker, Ryan. At first glance, it has somewhat of an odd beauty to it. The guitar itself is shaped somewhat naturally, if it's possible to describe it that way, it looks a bit like silly putty when you smash it with your hand and drag it across the table. The finish of the body was a dark sort of walnutty color and I'm not sure how he did it, but the neck was a deep woody purple. In short, gorgeous. Two REALLY clever items about this piece:

1. Wood volume and tone knobs. It fit perfectly with the theme of the Bass.
2. The battery case: The bass has active electronics so there is a 9 volt battery plugged into the back. To access it, there's a really clever design feature, you press a button (also made of wood) down and swing the casing out. This entire guitar is essentially wood and the design just flawless.

Playability: I've played a lot of basses, some cheap and easy to play, others expensive and totally not worth it. The Becker is an absolute treat from head to tail. Good tone, harmonics spot on and the action was flawless. I tapped out a few tunes, played some straight lines and funked up some slap bass. It handled beautifully on all fronts. If I had $1100.00 to blow on this thing, I would! It beat out many of the other models I tried today hands down. Had I not just spent over a grand on my bagpipes this year, this Bass would have been high on my list. Well done gents and best of luck with getting the word out!

I think the bottom line for me today is that I met a lot of really great people doing some exciting things in a time where economically, some people wouldn't have the balls to do what these people are doing. Phil, Ryan and "Mike", Keep going, I love the vibe you're all giving off and I'm very excited to A.) save up for a Becker Bass and B.) visit Music Go Round again!

Well, more to come I'm sure... the beer is again on the back burner until my Diet tells me I can... or I get sick of eating southbeach food!

Cheers!

Rob Anderson

Burns supper and a bag of mystery beer!

Well... it's been a bit since I've posted. Work's been busy, I've been running like a madman and frankly until tonight, I've not had a moment to myself... However, lots going on and lots to go over!!

The MUSIC:

Random thought - GN'R's appetite for destruction - Great album that gets the week off to a good start!! Definitely worth a revisit.

Piping:
SLOW going on the pipes... I'm able to get the drones going and I can get a scale out on the pipes themselves... with all the drones going however, I'm finding that I'm rushing things on my chanter fingering. This of course will only result in some horrific playing once I really get going on the bag... I'm crushing my C throws for some odd reason and my version of Scotland the Brave would make William Wallace himself rise from the grave and slap me silly. The bottom line is that I HAVE to take my time and work on my problem areas. I've started playing with the metronome which is helpful and the constant nagging voice in my head saying "hit the breaks!!!" has been helpful.


Saturday 1/23/10: The Robert Burns Supper in Leominster, MA.
What a FANTASTIC time! We were lucky enough to be invited by the Scots Highland Pipe and Drums to play the Burns supper in central MA. The Scots Highland band runs a tight ship and they're definitely a class act group. I was most impressed by each member of the group. Not only were they exceptional musicians... they were, to a person, great guys! I had to Hollywood as my drones wouldn't stop when I told them to but we played the usual tunes, Rowan Tree, Scotland the Brave and a tune written by Mr. Burns himself (words as I understand it, not music), Scots what hae ye. I've never been to a Burns supper before and frankly it was right up my alley. Good beer, scotch (not a fan...), great food, Roast beef, Neeps and Tatties (Mashed potato, Mashed Turnips & Carrots) and of course the guest of the evening... the Haggis! For those of you not familiar with Haggis, it's a sausage-like food traditionally a stuffed sheep's intestine stuffed with oatmeal, onions and offal, aka What's left of the animal... heart, lungs, kidney etc... turn your nose up if you will but you've all had a hotdog and it's no different! Go ahead, read Upton Sinclair's "the Jungle"... you'll think Haggis is pretty straightforward! To take the mystery out of it... it has a similar consistancy to meatloaf and the horseradish they serve it with makes it more than pallatable. Frankly, I liked it!

AYE! The Haggis!


We had a GREAT time playing as a band ourselves AND playing alongside the Scots Highlanders, that was a trip, playing with some total 30-40 musicians at once. My wife has posted some video to Youtube and I may post that later, but it was an experience to say the least.

Late night! Of course we ended the night by marching en masse into the hotel bar. To the bar flys hanging out there: my apologies, but your reaction was priceless... How SHOULD one react when 40 bagpipers enter the room in full swing and regalia? suffice it to say, we, members of the Sutherland AND Scots Highlander bands closed down a bar in fitchburg. Great band playing by the way, whoever you are... your version of AC/DC's TNT was AWESOME. I'm sure that seeing 15 guys in skirts screaming "OI!" helped the performance. Of course, I have to salute our best fans... a little love to the cougars who kept hitting on all of us as the bar closed down... god love ya... You may not have heard us play, but you recognize a bunch of sexy beasts when you see them.

A pic of me and one of my boys from the Scots band


Me and the ever classy Mr. White - Yes, I'm wearing a Rowdy Roddy Piper shirt!


No, it's not just the picture that's fuzzy...


THE BEER:

This may be my last post regarding beer for a few weeks, so enjoy!! I'm attempting to lose a few pounds and fight generations of Celtic, starch packing genetics... see my progress at my new blog, Project: Antichunk.

I've decided to give Trader Joe's another shot regarding their beer selection... so far, I've not had the greatest of luck and frankly the TJ's own brand of beer is god awful by any standard and in any style. I grabbed a beer from Rogue Ales (to be reviewed later, and then saw a "mystery bag" on the top shelf. $7.00US for a 6 pack, not a bad deal. Considering that I'll not be able to have carbs anytime in the next two weeks, this, a whole baked potato and a pack of Ramen Noodles makes my 8 course meal for the weekend. I should have learned from the Family Guy episode... I could have had a boat... I can' totally complain, my wife, Laurie and I had a lot of fun tasting the beers and the brown bag presentation and anticipation that gave it a christmas morning feel. Sadly, out of the 6 beers, I found one to be completely undrinkable and a few others to be merely pallatable and two to be actually enjoyable. I've never gotten a can mixed in with a six pack of bottles, much less two... kind of disappointing at least from a presentation standpoint. Strike one...
I did get a few beers in the batch that piqued my interest, The Magic Hat Vinyl Lager seemed interesting and the Fat Weasel Ale from Steinhaus Brewing were two that caught my eye. Magic Hat was a MOST pleasant surprise. It was an odd flavor combination, but after ruminating on it for a bit, I recognized that it actually worked! It's got a dark brown hue, I could see clearly through to the other side of the glass and a good head. I did note that the bubble pattern on the glass was a bit weird... don't ask me why I noted that... What might turn most ordinary beer drinkers off is what gravitates me to this beer. It not only had a mid malt, light hop flavor, but the expresso taste added an interesting twist to this beer. They call it a spring beer... but really I would deem this to be an experimental anytime beer. Good buy, if you can get your hands on one, grab some Tiarimisu and have at it.

The Fat Weasel was what I consider to be a standard ale. Full bodied, well balanced and would go well with burgers and fries. It didn't knock my socks off, but compared to the rest of the pack, this one was still pretty good.

I did have one surprise in the sixer... The wife let me have a sip of her choice for the evening, the Newton's Folley Granny Smith Draft Cider. Normally I don't drink cider, due in part to a rather interesting day at the Scranton, PA St. Patrick's day. Another story for another time... However I was pleasantly surprised by this beverage. Clear apparance, some head and an eerie greenish hue. Interesting to say the least. I was most impressed by the lightness of the flavor. It tasted exactly like ordinary cider. The Granny Smith Apple has a bit of a bite to it and this held off the acidity and the achohol taste. Not a bad drink although given previous experience, I'd keep it to one.

On to the real folley... The Simpler Times Lager from the Minhas Craft Brewery was, in a word, UNDRINKABLE. I've powered through my share of crappy beers but I couldn't get beyond the almost skunked, acrid quality of this one. I've never been so vehemnently opposed to a beer so much in my life. I can't quite describe why it hit me funny, but it's taste from the front of my palate to the back of my throat puckered my face and set me into fits. It was simply awful. I had a thought to use the rest of this beer, sans my two sips, for beer bread, but I can't imagine that the flavor would bake well into my usually tasty bread. In short avoid this beer at all costs!!

So far, it's been a sort of 50/50 deal with Trader Joe's... I saw a few beers that I actually enjoy, the Duvel Abbey Ales, The Smuttynose brewery line and a few other notables. However, the bag of mystery beer is a gamble that I will not take again. Although I had some pleasant surprises, I would suggest going to your local package store and blindly picking a 6 of singles as opposed to letting TJ's do it for you.

I hope within the next few weeks to come back to you with more beer reviews, but in the mean time, please check out my newest blog, Project: Antichunk.

Check in with you soon! Nastrovia!

Rob

Tasters Choice... a week full of beer!

Great week overall!

Decent pipe lesson this week, not too much laughter and my teacher, Brian assigned me a few new songs including one of the band's favorites, the Rowan Tree. Very excited! Plus, I almost didn't pass out! I do have some minor maintenance to do this weekend on the pipes but beyond that, I see light on the horizon!

Enter the Haggis will be at The Center for the Arts in Natick next Saturday and I'll be doing some promotional work this weekend for the band. As previously posted, GREAT band and if you have the opportunity, check them out!

I had a LOT of beer since my last post! Let me clarify... In the past, I've expounded on the sampler platter of beers at brew pubs and I've hit three in the last week. Two for business, one distinctly for pleasure. The volume of beers might not be huge, but the sheer number of tiny beers is. I may not hit all the beers but, I'll hit the high and low points.

John Harvard's Brewpub, Framingham, MA:
I've reviewed this place more often than any other establishment. I've always been pleased by it and this time was no exception. Meatloaf was great, sampler was pretty decent overall. The one that sort of hit me funny was the "hop-chronic". It's another example of "how much hop can I pack in here?". Not a terrible beer when paired with something heavy, but on its own, it's like a slap in the face. The nut brown was well balanced and makes for a good pair with most anything. The Stout appeared to have some espresso in it and would have paired well with Tiarimisu. The Celtic red had a little zip to it. Interesting flavors... check it out and let me know what you think.

Boston Beer Works:
-Buckeye Oatmeal Stout: Not sure as to the naming convention but... Go blue! HA! This is by far one of the creamiest Stouts I've had to date. Sweet, malty and with a slight zip, check this one out. Pretty good!
-Pumpkin Spice: Not a terrible beer, but definitely mislabeled. Most pumpkin spice beers taste like pumpkin pie. Who could argue with that? DEEELICIOUS... This on the other hand tasted like one of those Cinnamon Red Hot candies. Had they labeled it as THAT, it would have been spot on! So again, not a bad beer, good body etc, but not very well balanced.


Granite City Food & Brewery, St. Cloud, MN:
Rarely is it that you can find a Brewpub that has both exceptional food AND top notch beer. John Harvard's is one... Granite city is its Midwest equivalent. Great beer and excellent food. I had the London broil with a red pepper & bourbon chutney. GREAT pair to most of their beers. If you're in the St. Cloud area, check it out. I was impressed not only by the physical plant, but by the growlers... I know, it sounds weird, but their growlers have a sweet handle and a grolsch style clasp top. If I had the opportunity to get it on the plane with me, I would have. Classy looking piece... By and large, the beers ran the gambit from a Miller light tasting lager (eh... fairly flat) to some pretty decent beers. The Broad Axe Stout and the Brother Benedict's Bock are two of the best of the house. Tasty beer, tasty food, great atmosphere: all in all a great place to congregate.

Attack of the Brit Beers!
This week, almost by accident, I picked up 2 different beers, both in pint bottles, both from the U.K. Coincidence? I think not.

-Wells Brewery: Banana Bread Beer: By far, one of my favorite beers out there. I had it first at the British beer company in Walpole MA and I've been a fan ever since. Spicy, complex and with a crisp and bitter finish, it's easily in my top 10. The best part is... it TASTES like Banana bread! I would pair this with... banana bread... To easy?

-St. Peter's Brewery: Cream Stout: Interesting bottle, interesting beer! I'm not sure if they could print the story on the label any smaller, but with my magnifying glass and an electron microscope, I found that the brewery has an interesting back story. I won't ruin it... Read for yourself. The beer itself had a chocolatey nose and again, an interesting finish thanks to the Fuggles and Challenger Hops. Their blend of grains made this again, a complex beer with a thick rich body, daaark color and a caramel colored head. If you're looking for something different in a Stout, check this one out.

Next post: Wachussett Brewery's Comeback beer!!

Check out Enter the Haggis!! November 21st, 8:00 at TCAN in Natick, MA!!

Prost!

Rob

Is it bad if your teacher laughs at you?

Sorry gang, no beer reviews this week... only a heathy glass full O'shame...

Wow... of all the instruments I've learned (Up to 12 if my count is right...) Bagpipes are by far the most difficult!! The fingering alone has been a process but WELL worth it. My goal is to get these perfected over time to Gordon Duncan like consistancy. I've gotten as far as the Lemluath and the Touralouath (sp), however this week, I recieved my first lesson in humility. The practice chanter vs. the actual pipes is a completely different animal. While I've done fairly well at the Chanter, the phrase "playing the pipes is more taming a beast than playing an instrument" has never been more true. My teacher Brian has been remarkably patient, however his sadistic side has now come to light. Ahhh sweet revenge for all my poor playing over the last 10 months. I received my new pipes, a set of Duncan Soutars, the news of which the Band responds with either quizzical looks or gazes of admiration. They are, in short an exemplary example of the Great Highland Bagpipes. So... that brings me to my lesson on Thursday. This by the way is my Second time inflating the bag beyond the day that I bought the pipes (being last Sunday...)

The most important thing that I've learned so far is that you don't blow the bagpipes, you squeeze them. This for me is like when I learned jazz music... it's about the notes you DON'T play. Equal parts enigmatic and rediculous. However, there is an ounce of truth to both sayings. Please don't ask me to elaborate. It's much like figuring out what the sound of one hand clapping sounds like... I can get the drones going and fairly steady for the most part thanks to my training as a singer (thank you Carol Ann, my chamber singer director). Diaphram breathing is MOST important as it allows for the most air to enter the bag. So long and short of it, the drones are going OK and somewhat steady.

Now comes the hard part. Fire up the drones AND the chanter... I only have so much air. I have to say, I've got a LOT of hot air to spare but this is was a challenge for me. This task was only made more difficult by the fact that my instructor gave me a hard reed to work with. Whoooooo! It's tough! On a medium reed, like the one that I tried at Dick Chane's shop, I could get out a full scale, with some difficulty. BUT... On the hard reed, it takes a TON of air and quite a bit of coordination to get this thing going. If I get one note at a time, I'm lucky at best. Suffice it to say... it will be quite some time before I get a full song on the books. I WILL tame this beast!!!

Cheers!

Rob Anderson

Sierra Nevada Porter

Last night was Halloween, one of my favorite Pagan Celtic holidays! Trick or treaters, please... give me something to work with next year. The effort level on our street was mediocre at best. However, iPhone guy was my personal favorite. Also, I had the opportunity to hang out with some of my neighbors and sip a few beers on the porch whilst we distributed candy to the greedy beggars at our door. Jason introduced me to what could possibly be my new favorite beer, the Sierra Nevada Porter. It's a solid beer! Dark, beefy and slightly malty, it's got a good body and a hoppy snap at the finish that makes it a more than interesting beer to drink! This will be a short post in the fact that I'll say, pick up a sixer of this one, you'll not be sorry!

Also, the pipes are in house and ready for assembly. A guy in my band has to help me tie in the chanter this week, but other than that, they're BEAUTIFUL and they sound great! I had the opportunity to play them on another bag (I'm switching the bag out for the traditional leather instead of the gortex that came with the set) and I could keep the drones going and if I really pushed myself, I can get the chanter going. It's going to be a process, however, as the technique is fairly complicated. I should get the basics down, I've got a good teacher and a ton of hot air to expel!

Make it a GREAT week!

Rob

Octoberfest, Enter the Haggis and Pipe Humor

Hidely ho neighborinos! (shut up Flanders...)

This has been a MOST Interesting week! I've got all sorts of news to post.

First, the beer: I'm currently enjoying a Sam Adams Octoberfest. Dark amber almost honey colored hue, great head (giggidy) and even though I gave it a sloppy pour, it looked like a beer commercial sitting in my Family guy "Hooray for beer" pint glass. To answer your question, yes, this is my finest piece of glassware second only to my Sam Adams bulb glasses. Truly Malty nose and a very light hop to it. I can't place the type of hop, but it's more sweet than bitter. The beer itself has a midrange mouthfeel, not overwhelmingly thick but not all that watery either. In all, this is a great beer! I'd pair this with something particularly German, Sauerkraut and a big salty pretzel to match the sweetness of the beer, this would go great with sausage and pork knuckle. No doubt, this was brewed specifically for Harvest festival season. Bottom line, DELICIOUS. I would suggest grabbing this as part of the Sam's Fall Brewers pack. The rest of the beers were fairly decent and in particular, the Irish Red might have been a bit better had I paired it with something, the Kent Golding hops gave it a bitterness that seemed a bit unbalanced on its own. Either way, a good purchase!

Second: THE PIPES ARE HERE!! Thanks you U.S.Customs for your expedient processing of my bagpipes. I pick them up on Sunday and by Tuesday afternoon, I'll have passed out from trying to play them! I'm buying it without the chanter (the musically dynamic part of the bagpipe) or the bag cover as both are provided by the band, we'll see how those go. I'm pretty gassed!! Although I may not be gassed or full of any air at all over the next week!

Third: Piping Humor... During the last few weeks, I've been chuckling at a few things I've heard during piping practice and of course during the purchase of my bagpipes. Like a teenager, I can't help but be amused by double entente, for example in Guitar, I always get a chortle when someone breaks their "G" String... so here we go... my top 3 sayings that have tossed me a yuck over the last few weeks.

3. "You need to get up under the bag and hold it tight" - Easily the most disturbing statement of the day!
2. "We'll fit you for a 10 inch blowstick" - Said during the fitting of my pipes.
1. "You need to blow out your "A" hole." - Said by my piping instructor during practice... by the time he said it, it was too damned late.


Fourth, Final and most important: ENTER THE HAGGIS!! I'm REALLY excited for this one. Over the last few days, I've been in touch with one of Canada's greatest bands since RUSH (too much? Sure, I went there...). Enter the Haggis is a phenomenal Celtic rock band and I am proud to call myself a "Haggis-head"! Their publicist contacted the pipe band to offer us a spot on the guest list for the show in Norfolk, Connecticut. Not living anywhere near there but living MUCH closer to the Center for the Arts in Natick (aka TCAN), I requested a few spots on the guest list for the more local show. Surprisingly, they acquiesced! As a show of my appreciation, I offered to help them out with their promotional material. Today, they sent me cards, posters and other assorted materials which I'll be distributing throughout the area tomorrow. A nice surprise with my packet was a copy of their new album, "Gutter Anthems"! Thanks boys! Like their previous albums, "Casualties of Retail" (a personal fave of mine) and "Soapbox Heroes", this is a tribute to traditional Celtic music and brings with it ETH's energetic modern twist to what is a noble musical history. No, not every Irish tune is about drinking... just the ones that are the most fun to "Dance" to! I'd attach a link to my wedding videos as an example of TRUE traditional Irish dance. That is of course, if my horrific pasty full body heave and those of my family weren't so god awful... Frankly, 'tis why I play music, just so I don't have to dance! But I digress.

Track 2, the "Little and the Leaves" is one of the best songs of the album. A little punk, a little rock and with a great hook, it's got a ton of punch to it. "Did you call me albatross?" is their most traditional sounding track and I think I like it for the fact that unlike some of their counterparts in the Celt-Rock community, they've not abandoned their roots. Good to show the trad chops now and again.

I have to say, there are two things I noticed on my third and forth listen through the album. (I only received this thing like 4 hours ago, it's THAT good). The keyboard work is for the most part phenomenal throughout the album but particularly on the Intro track with it's beautiful pairing of church organ and the Great Highland Pipes and on "Noseworthy and Piercy". Second, as a vocalist and a former Chamber Singer, the harmonies are remarkable! Rare is it that you actually have 4 distinct male vocal parts outside of the boy band or the old guy barber shop quartet circuits. To have a true Bass part like the one thrown down by Craig Downey is even more impressive. It sounds like they have both the Bass, Baritone as well as Tenor 1 & 2 laced throughout their vocal tracks. It adds a richness to an already full sounding arrangement.

Now, I may be a bit biased, but Celt rock is some of the most bad-ass sounding stuff on earth. You take traditional Celtic music filled with raw emotion; anger, pain & sadness and couple it drum work; pounding pulsating war-like beats, throw in wild pipe and fiddle accompaniments and then toss it in the blender with all that is rock and you can't help but want to just break something! The tracks "The death of Johnny Mooring" and "Murphy's Ashes" are perfect examples of what I've described. "Murphy's ashes" is reminiscent of one of my favorite Haggis tunes, "Congress". Traditional feel, modern twist.

ETH's slower songs could be the usual balladey crapola, but lyrically, they're beautiful, matched with Brian Buchanan's keyboard work, they become masterpieces. "Broken Line" in particular is awfully moving. I've come to realize as I reread this that perhaps I'm gushing a bit, but this really is an extraordinary band and an album to match. While I've only listened to them really on YouTube and on my "Chieftains" Pandora Station, I'm looking forward to picking up their other albums as what I've heard so far I've liked VERY much.

Gents, I'm looking forward to seeing you in Natick, MA on the 21st! Thanks in advance for what should be a GREAT time!!

-Rob Anderson


ENTER THE HAGGIS:
LIVE at THE NATICK CENTER FOR THE ARTS
NOVEMBER 21st, 8:00 PM
Buy your tickets TODAY!!
http://www.natickarts.org/tcan_artistdetail.php?artist_id=1367&event_id=1367

Or Visit them on the web:
http://www.enterthehaggis.com/

On the pipe

So I finally did it... This Thursday, I plunked down a deposit on a set of bagpipes. They're winging their way from Scotland as we speak!

The process for buying these pipes is as much as journey as my last 10 months have been. In January of '09 I've been working with the Sutherland Pipe Band in Newton, MA and they've been kind enough to provide me with free lessons, which some bands often do. Their only requirement is that I play with them in parades & special events, which, I already have and will continue to do so as I've enjoyed it greatly!

Events Thus far:
1 St. Patrick's day parade: Dummied on the bagpipes*
1 Memorial day Parade: Nahant, MA Dummied on the bagpipes*
2 Parades on the 4th of July in Bourne, MA and Edgartown, Martha's Vineyard, MA: Played the tenor Drum and finally got a basic twirl down by the end of the day.

*Dummied means that your drones and your chanter have been corked. You basically wear the outfit but don't make any noise. It's also known as Hollywooding

My teacher Brian has been most patient with me through several tribulations in my first few months of lessons. One sticky chanter, (the reed wouldn't play when I'd hit my grace notes) thanks to me cheaping out on my first run through. A word of advice, pay the money! I bought a John Walsh practice chanter with a water trap. (approx $100) Well worth the money if you're a drooler! Another embarrassing issue was that I broke Brian's chanter reed on a loaner practice chanter while I was waiting for my new chanter to come in. He's also been most patient with me as I've fouled up line after line of pipe music. Most days it doesn't sound like music, but we're getting there!

Now, I've hemmed and hawed about this purchase for several months and finally decided to sell some stock (GREAT time to sell, pardon the sarcasm) in order to make the purchase. It's a REALLY expensive purchase so I needed to be sure that I really wanted to do this. The band has a loaner set, but they're being used by another new guy. The funny thing about my decision making is that I decided to get some advice from the guys in the band first. I couldn't help but draw the parallels between my conversation about buying the pipes, and the conversations I had just before I got married.

"You can buy used, but I wouldn't recommend it, sometimes they end up being more expensive..." - So did she date a lot before she met you?
"You need to buy from a reputable dealer, make sure they know their stuff." - So tell me about her parents...
"Choose carefully, these pipes will be with you for life" - No translation needed!

There are only a few reputable dealers in the area and frankly, I think that the band pointed me to one of the best. Dick Chane up in Gloucester, MA is a master at his craft and was really helpful in the purchase process. His website, listed below is a good starting point for the process and I'd highly suggest that you read it if you're in the market. There's a lot of stuff on there that really you wouldn't think about. One thing you should know first and foremost is that you don't just walk in and BUY a set of pipes. The pipes are made FOR you. Dick took the time to measure me for bag size, drone placement, blowtube length etc. I've bought a LOT of instruments in my day and I've never seen a fuss like this This is a truly customized instrument. Every inch of this thing had questions from Dick. Imitation Ivory mounts, Nickel or Silver? Blackwood or plastic drones, stocks and blow tube? Leather bag or goretex?

My set up is going to be as follows:
Duncan-Soutar Blackwood drones - Very high quality competition level pipes according to Dick.
Poly blowstick (10") and stocks*
Most damage occurs due to moisture, these are the areas that end up attracting the most water due to the fact that these are the parts closest to the bag and to your mouth. Polypenco is a high grade plastic used to make the stocks & the blow tube as well as my chanter and practice chanter.
Nickel ferrules
Imitation Ivory Caps
Leather L and M Scotia bag
I've got to tell you, the bag is really cool, it's got a zipper on the side for easy maintenance and is already set up to accept the drones so that you don't have to cut into the bag when setting it up.
Soutar drone and chanter reeds
White silky cords - Matches the band for the most part.
Dick is also setting me up with a beginner's package that includes Corks, Hemp, seasoning etc. All the stuff that a soon to be asthmatic skirt wearing noise maker needs to get rolling!

Things I'm not ordering are the Chanter and the bag cover as the band will be providing those for me. It saves me a bit of money for now and I have no plans on leaving the band at any time in the foreseeable future. Most bands will provide you with a matched band chanter as they want to get the sound as close as possible to the rest of the band.

Either way, I'm really excited about this purchase and can't WAIT for my pipes to clear customs! Thanks to Dick Chane for all his help and thanks to the boys in the Sutherland Band for pointing me in his direction.

Rob

Here's Dick's Website. Read first THEN call him.
http://www.rchanebagpipes.com/

A tale of two Shipyards and a whole host of updates

SO much to update on!! If this post seems a bit frenetic, that's only because it is. It's been a busy couple of weeks!

First and foremost, I'm finally bucking up and buying my first (and hopefully last) set of Highland Bagpipes. The guys in the Sutherland Band have pointed me to a most reputable vendor in Gloucester, MA, Dick Chane at Richard Chane's Bagpipe Supply. I'm expecting to shell out a pretty penny, but it's worth it for a good quality set of pipes. My teacher is somewhat confident in my abilities to at least press out a tune so I'll take his word for it... Either way, I'm REALLY excited! It is my goal to be ready to play for St Patrick's Day.

My other purchase this weekend is one of my favorite movies about beer... Beerfest!! It was in the $5 bin at Walmart and I could not resist... I personally find it funny and even funnier after I've had a few. If you've not seen it, check it out. It's by the same guys who did SuperTroopers, an equally funny movie. Beerfest is a movie that takes me back to my college days. In fact, I'm watching it now for inspiration!

In other exciting news, the Pike Brewing Company's marketing manager, Linda Stratton wrote to thank me for my post last week. This is the second time that I've gotten a message back from a brewery and I have to tell you, it's both exciting and frightening to think that anyone is reading this at all!! I'm a bit jealous of Ms. Stratton's position at Pike's. I was a marketing major in college and I'd LOVE to work in a position such as the one Ms. Stratton is in at such a prominent brewery. She was most complimentary of my post and put me on their mailing list. I have to say, phenomenal newsletter! It's equal parts beer geek, foodie and advertisement for their beers and brewpub. In addition, she stated that the owners of the brewery, the Finkels are going to be doing an east coast tour to try and promote their beers. I suggested to her that she check out the Guest Brewer's night at Barleycorn's in Natick. It's an excellent opportunity for them to get to know true fans of beer. Either way, looking forward to them coming out and hope to meet them when they do!

I've got a few beers to review, I'll start with the Harpoon Octoberfest and then move onto the main event: Shipyard vs. Shipyard. A pumpkin beer battle royale!

Harpoon Octoberfest: ABV 5.5%, IBU 30 Marzen Style
The Harpoon Octoberfest is a beer which you might expect from Harpoon. In general, I love their beers and having had a chance to chat with the owners on one occasion, I can tell you that they take great care in the product they put out. The Octoberfest is a well balanced beer perfect for a long day of celebrating saaaaaay, the wedding of the crown prince of Bavaria for example. On the bottom of the box, they've paired it with pork or sausage and I agree, however this is the kind of beer you could mix with pretty much anything, Sauerkraut, Jaederschnitzel etc. Last night, for example, I had it with Kielbasa, meatballs, pepperoni bread, baguette and pub cheese. We did some eclectic (aka redneck) tapas with our friends Mark & Heather last night. Good times! Mark, thanks for leaving behind the Guiness by the way. Good man! Long and short, Harpoon Octoberfest is an excellent fall beer.

Shipyard Showdown!!

Before I get going, I have to comment on the Shipyard website. It's probably one of the most elaborate that I've ever seen. The sounds are a bit much but entertaining at least on the first run through. The beer bottle opening and the pour of the beer in particular was more that suggestive. One of the more interesting parts of the site is the video under the "What's hot" section. It gives a brief history of the company and I think most importantly, an introduction to the brewer, Alan Pugsley. This guy knows his stuff and I think the brewery has greatly benefited from having him on board. The only disappointing part about the website is the "news" Section. I would think with such a fine suite of beers and the attached brewpubs (Federal Jack's in particular) that Shipyard would have more press. However, at this point, the only thing they have is a link to their public relations person. Regardless, a great website. Pressing onward, Kommst du mit!

Never before have I seen one brewery put out two pumpkin beers, but less two beers that are so drastically different. The most famous of the two is the Pumpkinhead beer. It's Shipyard's fall seasonal beer and frankly it's not bad. It is not, however what I expected. There's very little in the way of pumpkin flavor and a hint of what I would consider to be traditional pumpkin spice flavor. Overall a light flavor and a somewhat uninspired finish. However for those that are looking for a light beer that fits with fall, this is it. I might suggest this for those that are looking to expand their horizons but aren't willing to really jump into the frey of truly experimental beers.

Beer number two is from the Pugsley's Signature Series. The "Shipyard Smashed Pumpkin" sold in a single 22oz bottle and perhaps is a bit more expensive than your average six pack at about $9 a bottle. Made with Pale Ale, Wheat and Munich malts as well as Hallertau and Willamette hops, it has a thick and rich body, dark malty hue. It also comes with a HEFTY 9% ABV. The high alcohol volume and the heavy use of malt helps it to have a full bodied character and frankly was a pleasure to consume. The interesting thing is, however that the alcohol is almost non present in the taste. This is due in part to the fact that they have flavors that really come through, Pumpkin, Nutmeg, Allspice. It TASTES like fall. The brewer states that this beer is best served at 55 degrees and pairs well with sharp cheeses, nuts, Lamb, Stews and deserts. They pretty much covered the bases for me as far as pairings, so I'll say no more. They did suggest that this beer be mixed with their Blue Fin Stout (another favorite of mine) to make a fall warmer. Interesting theory and I think I'm up to performing the experiment on my next go around. In short, I was REALLY impressed with this beer.

It think it's clear by my commentary that there is a clear winner between these pumpkin pugelists in this battle of the bier. The Pugsley's hands down is champion. Tasty, lovely velvety texture; this beer epitomizes fall harvest beer. Mr. Pugsely, both beers function well, but the Pumpkin Smasher is by far a better beer.

Gang, thanks for reading! Prosit!

Your Friend,
Rob

Shipyard Brewing Co: http://www.shipyard.com/
The Harpoon Brewery: http://www.harpoonbrewery.com/
Richard Chane Bagpipe Supply: http://www.rchanebagpipes.com/

The Pike "Kilt Lifter"

Soooooo, I did it again... I bought a beer because of a cute and funny label and totally underestimated the beer within. Amusing label AND great beer? Impossible said the me of an hour and a half ago... Today I sit again humbled by both extraordinary brewing and clever marketing. However did they know, that I, an aspiring bagpiper and proud Gael would find immediate connection with the "Kilt Lifter"? Yes, I have lifted my kilt now and again... and more often than not, yes I am wearing something beneath... I'm more modestly Irish than anything else I guess...

Despite my shortcomings and clear lack of good judgement, I have to tell you, this is a remarkably well balanced brew. They've named this a Scotch red or as they're calling it, a "Ruby ale", which is something I've not run across before. Generally, the scotch ales I've had previously have been a bit heavy on the honey (there's more types of bee barf than clover honey people..) and intensely bitter hops. However, this hidden gem greets you with a dark red/amber hue, hits your nose with a hint of hop and a sweet maltiness and has a thick, meaty character. In short, in a world of overhopped IPAs and mediocre, watery half hearted attempts at English Ales, THIS is the beer I've been looking for.

The Pike Brewing company has, in addition, piqued my inner (and outer) beer geek in two distinct ways.

1. The label: Ordinarily, a label is a label. It tells you the name of the beer, type, alcohol content etc. In this case, they've given those of us with enough knowledge to be dangerous something to chew on. In the lower left hand corner of the bottle, you can see, IBUs and specific gravity. Not that it means much, but the thought behind the label means quite a bit to me as it assumes that the consumer... you and me... know enough about the process to understand just how bitter tangy and thick this bad boy is going to be.

2. The website: different... in a good way!!! Check this site out. Beer geeks unite!! Pikebrewing.com gives not only the beer science specifics but also gives history of the style, flavor profiles etc. With names like the "Naughty Nellie" and "Old Bawdy" and "Monk's Uncle", I'm thinking that a field trip to the Seattle Brewery is in order... the draw at this point is inescapable. If the Brewery and staff are as good as their electronic representation, then I HAVE to meet the crew behind the brew!!

Pike Brewing and members of the Finkel Family, thanks a ton for a GREAT beer, I'm actively going to search out your other beers and will hopefully like them JUST as much as the one I'm drinking right now.

Pike Brewing Co. Website: www.pikebrewing.com

Slainte Here's tae ye, Pike...

Most appreciatively yours,

Rob Anderson

Hey Hey Federal Jack

I'm back! Refreshed and ready for a week of legitimate work! Now, onto my illegitimate work! I'm ready to talk about Beer and Music my people!

So... I'm watching Zane Lamprey on more editions of Three Sheets and realizing that its a special kind of stupid to take on a task in such away as he has. Again, highly recommended show per my blog last night and GREAT inspiration... To never touch beer again... HA!

Either way, I spent this weekend in one of my favorite places, Kennebunkport, Maine! Home of the Ex-president's questionable driving record, over-fished crustatians and water that freezes in November and thaws by August; this place is special and somewhat sacred to me as I spent essentially every summer here as a kid and I wanted my daughter, Emma to have the same beach and summer experiences that I did. Wait... are these the same events that made me what I am today? Maybe this wasn't such a good idea! Well, she's got my genes, so it's too late already! DOOMED! DOOOOOOOMED!!

PRESSING ON...

My wife, the kiddo and I had the opportunity to go to one of my favorite brew-pubs in the North East, Federal Jack's Restauraunt & Brewpub, home of the Kennebunkport Brewing company. Ah, the family that something together, something something together.. (DSS, please disregard. Em won't be drinking till she's forty much less dating...) It's a clean and funky establishment, family friendly etc. I told my wife "this is the kind of pub you could hold an AA meeting in". The food is more or less pub grub but the beer, for the most part is superb. As I've said before, they can't all be zingers! Federal Jack's beer menu is quite remarkable and in fact, they appear to have something for almost everyone. IPA's, Brown Ales, Fruity numbers, Weiss Ales, Stouts, they've got pretty much everything and they do most of them well! I'll start off with the food and service first and work my way up to the high points.

Service: Pleasant enough, our waiter seemed a bit tired... considering it was like 5:00 PM, I'm to assume it was a late night or a rough morning of...of... ummm... uhhh... This is the second time we've been and the waitstaff again are nice enough, but not exactly what I would call attentive. I don't want to have someone jumping all over me (hold that thought... it depends on the person...) but I do expect a check in now and again.

Food: Again, it's pub grub. I didn't have a huge expectations walking in the door and my personal doors were not blow off during the service. Chicken Nachos for the app was decent enough, hard to foul up nachos. The chicken was well seasoned and the guacamole was top notch. Baked & Breaded Halibut for the entree was OK, but honestly a bit dry and somewhat underseasoned. Didn't ask the wife about her meal, but she seemed to be enjoying it and my beloved offspring (I say with noted sarcasm, she's been an unholy beast all day), honestly fired hers down so quickly that I'm not sure she tasted it.

Das Bier!: Normally at a brewpub, they've got a lot of beers that you've never heard of and I've seen a number of situations where the beers advertised do not live up to expectations. If you're in a situation like this and not familiar with the local brews, order the sampler. It's a good was to get a lay of the land and frankly, I just like feeling like a GIANT among my wee beers. Although in this case, be sure that you've got a friend to taste with. Fed Jack's has one of the largest samplers I've ever seen and from experience, I can tell you that it is a formidable foe. They're such tiny beers... what could possibly go wrong?! The Federal Jack's website does not list all of the beers we tasted, but I'll do my best to at the very least get the flavors right.

Goat Island Light: This is a beer that my wife and I disagree on. I didn't think much of it as it was kind of flat from a taste perspective and I thought had a funny after taste. Laurie (the misses) liked it quite a bit. She tends to be a lighter beer fan and in general, assume that if I like the beer, that she doesn't and vice versa. Not totally true but it makes my blog a little shorter...

Export Ale: Again, good beer, solid mouth feel. I would pair this possibly with chicken or a fish & Chips combo. They describe it as a Canadian Ale and I guess I can see it. Again, good enough beer but I'm not on the rooftops about it.

The 'Taint(Girlish giggle)Town Pale Ale is one of my favorites merely by it's naming convention. I've always known the "'taint" as something else "'Taint your balls and it 'taint your... anyway I digress. However it's a fairly new England phrase. "It A'int" becomes "'Taint." The name comes from the fact that the brewery/ restauraunt itself is on the line between Kennebunk and Kennebunkport. What's the difference you might ask? Check the town tax rates and get back to me... The beer itself 'taint bad. A little bitter, mid range thickness and a good malt to hop ratio. A well balanced beer overall. I would get this one again... if for nothing else but to order it by name...

The Shipyard Brown Ale: Good 'nuff. I liked this one. It's a standard brown ale and on the whole... huh huh huh (Damn you 'taint Ale!... it's warm and familiar here in the gutter) is very good.

Old THumper: (hiccup) Are we done yet? I liked this one a lot. They described it as the 1985 British Grand Champion beer. It's an traditional english bitter. I liked this one a LOT. The Old Thumper a bit heavier than most beers but stays true to the old English style ales. Even though they call it a bitter, it's got a good balance but has strong enough flavors to hold up to some really spicy foods... that is to say... any food that is not English.

Fuggles IPA: EH... Good taste, true to the style... I'm just sick of IPAs in general.

Blue Fin Stout: I LIKE this one. Smooth, creamy, a little coffee flavor to it. I've had this one before and it was a good reminder. Love it.

Peach beer: Did NOT get the name of this one... it's not on the website and it wasn't on the sheet they gave us. You are a mystery, peach beer... what... is... your name?! I know that this is going to make me sound a little... festive... but I LOVE this beer! It's a lighter beer, amber hue etc. etc. The issue that I usually have with fruit beers is the fact that they're syrupy and stick to my teeth. By and large, there are very few I like. This one was pleasant, not overpowering and you can tell that they brewed it with real fruit. If I'm wrong, I'm impressed by their use of extract. Great balance. I would serve this peach beer with dessert. Pecan Pie, vanilla ice cream or a light sorbet would be appropriate with this one. Again, if you can track it down PICK THIS ONE UP. Great chick beer but 'taint bad for the boys neither... (sorry... sorry! This post is almost done... I promise.)

Summer ale: As far as summer ales go, this was pretty good. Crisp, refreshing and overall a good beer. I liked it enough to get a growler to share with my friends this coming weekend. I would suggest serving this with lemon as they do in the pub.

Either way, Federal Jack's, great time had by all, a winning Bo Sox score, great beer and an old style pub atmosphere made for an excellent evening. Thanks a ton!

Good night gang!

Slainte!

Rob

Three Sheets - Not me, the show!!

Wow... it's been over a month since my last post. Forgive me reader for I have sinned... although it would appear not enough to have something to write about!

I'm hanging out in Kennebunkport Maine for the weekend sharing the Cottage where I spent every summer as a kid with my own offspring and the misses. What a blast. I'll blog perhaps tomorrow about my experience at Federal Jack's (home of the Shipyard Brewing Co.). But right now, I'm experiencing a show that, if you're a beer fan or a fan of people who think they can handle their liquor, then this is the show for you. For those of you who are not familiar with "Three Sheets", it's an event, that I've been told, no legitimate station, cable, satellite or otherwise, will carry. The premise of the show is simple, guy goes around the world sampling the local brew (Beer, liquor or otherwise), learns general customs and to be more specific, learns the drinking games and drinking traditions of each culture he visits. Think of it as a truly international "Dave Attel: Insomniac". In short, guy flys in, guy gets plowed, guy learns drinking games, guy forgets drinking games rules, gets MORE inebriated and then learns local hangover cure. Recipe for hilarity, Done. Educational in more ways than I could possibly describe.

Zane Lamprey (GREAT name) by the way, I only wish I knew what it was short for. Regardless, Zane has a job that on the surface seems like a good time, but after watching 2 shows on Hulu.com, is already starting to look like work. If I were a betting man, I bet I can fill out his death certificate already! If only I could spell cirrhosis, (scirrrooskis, shirroseees, rock solid liver, stop of kidney function) Either way, I'm thoroughly entertained. Zane's delivery is nothing short of comedic genius and his deadpan humor is lost on those too drunk to understand him. Often times he's making fun of people right to their face and they have NO idea. All of this adding to my total amusement. So far he's made fun of an obnoxious American beer "officionado" almost fell into an Alligator pit, lit himself on fire and has tried some of the most potent beers & Liquors on the planet. Guys, if you get the opportunity to watch this show, check it out! You WILL be entertained. More on Federal Jack's tomorrow!

Good Luck, good brewing and good times to all!

Your Friend,

Rob

Harpoon: Catamount Maple Wheat

Boring myself with useless Michael Jackson coverage... I decided to finally write up my thoughts on the Harpoon Catamount Maple Wheat. Heeere we go!

I've been a longtime fan of Harpoon as many people in the greater New England area are. I worked not a block from the Brewery in South Boston and we had regular events there over the past few years. In fact, I've met the owners at a few beer release events and they could not be nicer. Their beers by and large are excellent, the Raspberry UFO, the UFO Hefeweizen, the Harpoon IPA, the Munich Dark are consistantly some of my favorites. They also have something called the "100 barrel series" which is kind of neat project that the owners of Harpoon started. Essentially, it's an opportunity for their brewers to take a chance. They make a "small" batch of beer any way they feel fit. If it's any good, they sell it! If it's not... well, I can only imagine that they "dispose" of it any way possible. (CHUG, CHUG, CHUG!!)

By it's nature, the "100 barrel series" is somewhat touch and go. I've had some bad versions, I've had some excellent ones and I've had some that are... well, beer. The Catamount maple wheat falls into the latter of these categories. It's not a terrible beer, but I will say, it's not quite what I expected. When you first open it up, pour it out, it looks to be a good beer. DARK amber color, crisp wheat notes and a good solid head. However, there's one thing missing... the MAPLE! I can understand that they probably used Maple sugar as a priming agent or as fuel for the yeast, however, there is a notable absence of that distinct flavor. I'll admit, I was disappointed. The beer itself is OK, but I probably wouldn't buy it again. Still love the Brewery and everything they stand for and I will definitely try their next experiment, but the Catamount Maple Wheat fell flat.

It's summer, I'm sure that I'll have more posts to give you!

Rob Anderson