A Leaf Fell From a Limb

Over the weekend, I watched a beautiful movie called, “Extremely Loud and Incredibly Close,” about a boy with Asperger’s Syndrome, who loses his father in 9-11, and embarks on an emotional journey to find the matching lock to a mysterious key. Of course, the lock and key are symbolic of this boy’s search for meaning in a world where his father died an unjust death on what the boy calls, “The Worst Day.”

Having Asperger’s, the young hero is unbelievably organized and meticulous about his efforts to find what he is looking for. But what really moved me about his performance was the way in which he made himself believe that finding this lock would somehow extend his precious time with his Dad. Of his two parents, his Dad was the one who would engage him in intellectually stimulating conversation and play, making him feel connected, where he otherwise felt odd and alone.

Unfortunately, I know all too well the pain of losing a parent who you can really relate to. My own father was taken by cancer 9 years ago, and to this day I continue to look for ways to connect with him. Although not unburdened by doubt, I do believe that our loved one’s souls stay with us after their bodies disintegrate. But I also personally understand the motivation that would cause someone to search in the most unlikely of places for anything that could bring a loved one back, if only for an instant.

Sometimes, the loss feels so big and so wide that nothing could ever fill it up. But other times, I believe that it is this space from which creativity abounds. I often associate this belief with the works of Dave Matthews, because he writes so poignantly about embracing the moment, a skill that he seemed to develop out of necessity. Between the losses of his father, sister, and later LeRoi, Dave certainly knows about living at the corner of Grey Street and the end of the world.

Could it be that Dave started to play the guitar at age 9, in part due to his father’s worsening illness? Perhaps as a way to channel the many intense emotions that must have been arising for him at that time? We can’t be sure, but we do know that many of Dave’s lyrics have been influenced by his relationship with grief, and the inevitability of death. The one verse that is really standing out for me today, (possibly as a result of some intense imagery from the film), comes from the captivating, “You Never Know,” where he says, “Spinning on the wind. A leaf fell from a limb. But every day should be a good day to die. So play.” Such a poignant phrase, highlighting the fact that every leaf eventually falls, dizzy from all this spinning. But what if those fallen leaves continue to circle around us like particles of dust, visible only when we shine a direct light on them?

Right before I saw “Extremely Loud,” I went to the Ladies‘ Room where inside the stall I found these words staring back at me, “This is your father.” Turns out not where, but who you’re with that really matters.  

Hayley Bauman, Psy.D.

After All These Years

I hate New Year’s resolutions. Mostly because I feel like they put unnecessary pressure on people to do things that they believe they “should” be doing. It’s not that I don’t think people can change, or that I think trying to improve upon oneself is a hopeless endeavor, it’s just that it seems to me that people are more successful at making necessary adjustments when the impetus for change comes from within, rather than from the fact that it happens to be January 1st. That being said, I have noticed a very interesting yearly pattern in my own life, where I start new projects in September, which happens to be the Jewish New Year. But what fascinates me about this dynamic is the way that it occurs. It’s not like I sit down and plan for Jewish New Year resolutions. (Does anyone even do that?) They just happen, and then, days, or sometimes weeks later, I realize what time of year it is. You would think that after several years of this I would catch on quicker, but, as is often the case, insight doesn’t always follow a logical time-line.

In any event, this unusual process is actually a good example of synchronicity, a topic that I have lightly covered here before. Synchronicity is a unifying principle in the Universe that was given a psychological name by Carl Jung, the 19th century Swiss psychiatrist. The term synchronicity describes a meaningful coincidence, or an a-causal relationship between two events. For example, you think of a friend who calls you moments later, or you are writing a report and need a specific piece of information which comes to you as a result of a chance meeting with an old acquaintance. These “meaningful coincidences” happen to all of us, but they are most noticeable when we are open to all that life has to offer. And when they occur, we often experience a renewed sense of connection with all that is around us. It’s a lovely reminder that everything and everyone is connected, even if we cannot see what is holding us together.

I bring this up because I would love for 2012 to be a year where we all feel a little more connected to one another and everything that exists in our beautiful world. This is not a resolution! Rather, it’s something that I want to be mindful of, and it is certainly a theme that is very present in many of Dave Matthew’s songs. (Plus, what else was I going to talk about today. I doubt Chris wants me to mention the rumors that Dave and the boys are working with Steve Lillywhite on a new album, as we speak!!! So, no, I’m not going to talk about that.) Instead, I just want to wish all of you a very happy New Year, and I invite you to join me in my non-resolution to look for the love in here. Because, truly, it is love that treats us well and keeps us dancing.  

Hayley Bauman, Psy.D.

So Glad Our Paths Crossed This Time Today

Blame it on the holiday season, but lately I’ve been thinking about the unparalleled power of kindness. Paradoxically, this wonderful quality sometimes eludes us, as we rush around, under the stress of a deadline, worried that our loved ones won’t be sufficiently delighted when they open their gifts. Add a tight budget to this mix, and we might understand why otherwise sane people find themselves fighting over plasma television sets at 3 in the morning on Black Friday, when their tryptophan-filled bodies would clearly prefer a good night’s sleep. In depth psychology, we say that very strong energies often bring up their opposite counterparts. For example, after the horrific events of 9/11, the city of New York saw compassionate connections forming between people who may otherwise have remained distant strangers. In that same way, I wonder if the positive dynamics surrounding Winter’s festivities can also activate some of our negative human traits, like impatience, selfishness, and greed.  

It’s for this reason that what happened to me a couple of weeks ago remains at the forefront of my mind. I was walking with my husband and daughter through an upscale outdoor mall when we passed a young man sitting on a wooden bench outside a book store. I can’t remember exactly what the twenty-something looked like, except that he had a kind of grungy appearance, and was smoking a cigarette. Having suffered allergies all of my life, cigarette smoke is probably my biggest pet peeve, so I am sure that I immediately formed all kinds of unconscious judgments about this person. But then came the miracle. This kind soul turned his cigarette in toward himself, presumably so that we wouldn’t have to inhale the toxins. I literally stopped in my tracks and thanked him for his gesture. It may have meant more to me because of my own intolerance for that smell, but the fact that this person was considerate enough to shield my family from second-hand smoke floored me. It seriously made me reconsider my unfair assessments of people who smoke.   

I tell this story because I think it illustrates how beautifully affected we can be by simple acts of benevolence. This guy not only made my day, but he made me a better person by causing me to look deeply into my thoughts toward others, who, like me, are not perfect. And that’s how kindness works. It catches fire and spreads, just like love.

Dave says that “If kindness is your king, then heaven will be yours before you meet your end.” Especially during these hectic times, this seems like a wonderful mantra to live by. If every one of us performed just one small act of generosity a day, the results could be monumental, as big as a beach ball! So, let’s roll out the red carpet and let love shine. The world is a beautiful, strange, and forgiving place, full of gamblers, robbers, drinkers, and jokers, all soul searchers, like you and me. And still, love, love, love is all around. 

Hayley Bauman, Psy.D.

Author of Serendipity and the Search for True Self

Dreaming My Life Away

The other day, I came across an incredibly moving YouTube video of Dave Matthews singing “Watching the Wheels,” a song originally released by John Lennon and Yoko Ono on their 1980 record, “Double Fantasy.” Dave’s performance of this tune was broadcast on December, 8th, 2005, by a Sirius Satellite radio station, as a tribute to John Lennon’s life.

As soon as as I saw the clip, I knew that I would need to write an article about it. But for a moment, I hesitated, worried that my frequent choice of cover-songs, as of late, could indicate some sort of growing distance between me and DMB. Was I running out of things to say about their original work? As distasteful as that thought might be, I had to let it play out in my mind, in order to loosen it’s grip on my psyche. And, as so often is the case when we face our doubts, what I found, was just the opposite of what I feared. What’s happening, it seems, is that tracks that I may have heard thousands of times before take on a whole new meaning for me, once I experience Dave’s version of them. His voice resonates with me, and, surely, millions of others, in such a powerful way that new connections form in the shadowy synapses of our brains, making once hollow words sound like deeply profound phrases.

On a bio-chemical level, I’m really not sure if there would be any evidence to support the validity of what I’m saying. But on an anecdotal level, I can attest to having an unremarkable reaction to various lyrics, only to have the wind knocked out of me after hearing Dave sing those same verses. It may simply be that Dave’s voice triggers a relaxation response in my brain, making me more susceptible to important insights. Or, it could be that he is magic.

In any event, when I heard Dave’s rendition of “Watching the Wheels,” the lyrics, “I’m just sitting here watching the wheels go round and round. I really love to watch them roll. No longer riding on the merry-go-round. I just had to let it go,” suddenly clicked for me in a very poignant way. Although everyone can, of course, read in what they are needing to, for me this signifies the refusal to stay on the hectic rat-wheel that life in our society often prescribes. Too often, work, for the sole purpose of making more and more money, becomes the driving force behind our existence, and before we know it, these short lives of ours are coming to an end. As if to support this idea, the images in this beautiful montage feature both Dave Matthews and John Lennon with their beloved family members, reminding us of what is truly important. And too, we are taken back to LeRoi Moore’s tragic death, as a solemn depiction of our fragile states. Dave also introduces this number with a remark about the synchronicity between the debut of this melody and John Lennon’s death, which I believe, further testifies to the idea that these verses call for priority to be placed on love of life, rather than externally derived measures of success.

If I were born of a different time, perhaps the tenor notes of John Braham or the genius strokes of Niccolo Paganini’s violin would be the instruments that make my soul soar. But, as it were, only the penetrating sounds of Dave’s voice invariably shake up my bones and feet, leaving me right here, lying in the hands of God.

Hayley Bauman, Psy.D.

Author of Serendipity and the Search for True Self

Push Love! Occupy Your Heart!

Yesterday, I found out that one of my favorite movies of all time, “Titanic,” is coming back to theaters this April. At first, I was surprised, but then I realized that this makes perfect sense, considering the current state of affairs in this country. One of the most memorable scenes in this film has to be near the end, when the ship is sinking, and only the rich are allowed into the inadequate number of life-boats that were boarded onto the craft. Too many floatation devices would have dirtied the beautiful image of this boat, making it clear that the decision makers valued looks over lives. In any event, as chaos ensued, and people perished in the frigid waters of the sea, the small orchestra played as if nothing was amiss.

In some ways, this is exactly what I feel is happening in our society right now. America is sinking, and it seems that those in charge have only provided for the wealthiest few. Naturally, and finally, this has led to protests around the nation, urging law-makers to re-integrate fairness into our corporate systems. Some, like the musicians on the iconic vessel, are standing by waiting for the crisis to pass. Though, despite the peaceful nature of those speaking their minds, things have turned violent. 

On Friday, a University of California at Davis police officer was caught on camera as he doused several non-resisting students with pepper spray. In an excellent article about this event, “The Washington Post,” reports that this “non-lethal” weapon, “can cause tissue damage, respiratory distress, and in rare cases, death.” Why then, would a campus cop use such an instrument on people who were not posing any danger? Of course, this story, and the accompanying videos have caused outrage for many, and in at least one case, have served as the basis for some pretty amazing art.

In a famous study by Yale University Psychologist, Stanley Milgram, participants were divided into groups where some of the individuals were asked to deliver electric shocks to others. (This is the kind of thing researchers were allowed to do before we had ethics committees!) Anyway, the findings of this experiment showed that ordinary people, under the command of authority, would forgo their own morals and inflict pain on others if that’s what they were told to do. These results were imperative in understanding the mechanisms which led so many to obey the Nazi regime. And hauntingly, it seems that some of these same dynamics, which I believe become even more pronounced in a questionable economy, continue to be at play.

History aside, we all need to find a way to stop the violence now. Stefan Lessard has been very vocal about this on his facebook page, and probably on Twitter, but Twitter drives me to distraction. In a recent post, Stefan urged us to “Push Love. Occupy Your Heart.” Thank you, Stefan! At a time when it seems our grace is gone, it’s words like these that turn water into wine.   

Hayley Bauman, Psy.D.

Author of Serendipity and the Search for True Self

Live Release: Greetings From Bader Field, Atlantic City

What would be a DMB tour, (or Caravan Tour) without an official live release. This year Dave Matthews Band will release "Live in Atlantic City". This show take from night 3 (06.26.11) will be the next DMB live release available for pre-order now and in stores on 12/12/11.

When you pre-order you will also recieve a bonus 4-track release of live tracks from the Caravan stop. Warehouse members should pre-order via the warehouse store to recieve the same bonus disc, but with 8-tracks of live music.

If you are not a warehouse member, what are you waiting for?

There are mutliple packages to choose from including a DMB Caravan Poster Magnet Set, 2012 Calendar and an Atlantic City Caravan T-Shirt.

The Weight Of The World

Lately, I’ve been thinking a lot about karma. As it turns out, this simple word holds a plethora of complex definitions, but, to me, it symbolizes a Universal law of balance. In other words, for every action there is an equal reaction, on some level, although we may not witness said reaction. I like to think of it this way, mainly because it makes me feel that I don’t have to be the one to egg my neighbor’s house to show my disgust at their neglect toward their incessantly barking dogs. No need to waste my eggs. Karma will take care of it.

When we free ourselves of the need to be the ones to exact revenge on another person, we open up a resource of energy that can be utilized in a much more fulfilling way. Sure acting out may feel good at the time, and as Mindy Kaling, from “The Office,” jokes in her new book entitled, “Is Everyone Hanging Out Without Me?” we had better “push, shove, (and) scratch that person while they’re still within arm’s reach...(because)...who knows when you’ll get this opportunity again?”  But in reality, after the adrenaline has worn off, we still have to face ourselves in the mirror. And no matter how unfair the actions against us may seem, it is only our own deeds that determine who we really are.

Although, surely there are many Dave Matthews songs that speak to this topic, the one that has popped out at me today is “Ain’t it Funny How Time Slips Away,” a cover, written by Willie Nelson, which DMB began performing in 2001. True, these aren’t Dave’s native words, but as I have previously said, I believe that the tunes that end up being played by the band must resonate with the artists in some way to make it into their repertoire. In any event, this ballad describes a man, (for simplicity’s sake), who runs into an old flame, and asks her about her new love. The lyrics suggest that the man in the story was dumped, traded in, or maybe even cheated on, by the woman. But the hero of this tale doesn’t waste his time or energy trying to make bad things happen to his ex; instead he tells her that “in time, you’re gonna pay,” and reminds her that “time slips away.”

Another good thing about just letting things go and leaving consequences up to the Universe, is that beating ourselves up over past misdeeds also becomes irrelevant. Of course, we strive not to make the same mistakes again, (which, by the way, is one definition of insanity), but believing in an all-encompassing balancing agent certainly takes some of the pressure off. This is what I imagine Dave to be speaking to when he sings, “I was just wondering if you’d come along, hold up my head when my head won’t hold on,” in “The Stone,” a haunting track about a man wrestling with his past. Clearly, one could make the case that Dave is pleading to anyone; a higher power, a friend, a lover, or some unacknowledged aspect of himself. But that is what makes music so beautiful and so strange. You never know.

But, for today, I will keep my eggs in their container, and try my hardest to only let my best thoughts become actions. Everything else is out of my hands.

Hayley Bauman, Psy.D.

Author of Serendipity and the Search for True Self

A Quieter Time

Sometimes, when inspiration seems a little sparse, I venture out to a movie in search of a thought, or a theme, that seems, somehow, relevant. Relevant to what, I’m never sure, but, inevitably, and, at times, in spite of myself, the dots always connect.

Yesterday was no exception. The feature was “Midnight in Paris,” a wonderful film, directed by Woody Allen, about a man, (Owen Wilson), who is convinced that living in an earlier, simpler, time would have been better for him. It’s a very entertaining 94 minutes, especially if you enjoy Parisian scenery, and/or the eternal wisdom of some of the greatest artists, poets, and writers of all time. Plus, most of the other flicks out right now stem from the horror genre, and I’ve just never understood why people pay to be terrified. Aren’t the trials and tribulations of every day life scary enough? But I digress.

The point that I’m really trying to make here is that “Midnight in Paris” showcases a motif that many of us can relate to, and, as usual, it’s an idea that is not lost on Dave Matthews.  Much of his work demonstrates a longing for a less complex existence. In “Proudest Monkey,” a song often considered to reference the band’s rise to stardom from humble beginnings, Dave talks about a “monkey” who leaves the safety of his forest for the excitement of the city, only to wonder whether he would have been happier in the woods after all. Then, later, in “Big Eyed Fish,” Dave decidedly swears, (pun intended), that the monkey should have stayed up in his tree. So, what does all this really mean?

As Ani DiFranco says, in her mind-blowing poem, “Self-Evident,” we are 90% metaphor, which, to me, means that everything that happens occurs on many different levels. (In other words, a cigar is not always just a cigar.) And, as luck would have it, this particular masterpiece, which according to Ms. DiFranco, is her attempt to wrap her head around the horrifying events of September 11th, also speaks of the innocence of a time before our reliance on fossil fuels became so pronounced. If you haven’t yet heard this piece, be warned, it is intense.

But what if there really is no golden age? What if, as Dave says, the future, (nor the past), is no place to place our better days? Is it possible for us to learn from our mistakes and look forward to tomorrow while still living in the present?

I believe that it is human nature to want to climb out of our safe limbs and explore. Yes, progress brings problems, but if we can keep our heads up, walking tall and singing, we just might see that what we have right now really is the best of what’s around. There may always be an imagined time, place, or space that seems better on the other side, and sometimes, understandably, we may want to run while we can, but in the end, only love will open our eyes. From the dark side we can see a glow of something bright.

Hayley Bauman, Psy.D.

Author of Serendipity and the Search for True Self

New Danny Barnes "Rocket" album on November 8th

ATO Records artist Danny Barnes will be releasing his new studio album "Rocket" on November 8th, 2011. Dave Matthews a long-time fan and friend of Danny provides background vocals on the title track "Rocket".

The album was produced by John Alagia (Dave Matthews Band, John Mayer, Jason Mraz) and features Matt Chamberlain (Pearl Jam) on drums.

According to Matthews, "'Rocket' is my favorite new music...the music is smart and soulful, and the lyrics are profound. It is heaven and earth. It is Americana, from the back porch to the pulpit, shattered dreams on angels' wings. I can't stop listening. In the haze of over produced, 'perfect' recordings, Danny Barnes spent less than two weeks banging out an album that may well save your soul."

You may recall previous work between Barnes and Matthews. Barnes is prominently featured on two tracks on Dave Matthews Band's latest album, "Big Whiskey and the GrooGrux King". Dave also lended his drawing talent on Barnes" previous album "Pizza Box" as well as backing vocals. In the past few years Danny has joined DMB on stage a number of times.

Pre-order "Rocket" today to win a custom Danny Barnes model Bishline banjo, a n Estes E-Kit Rocket, a skateboard with Danny Barnes custom artwork, an old-school cassette boom box, t-shirt with album themed artwork, and more! The album is available in three configurations (‘Rocket’- Studio/CD, ‘Angel’- Solo Acoustic Banjo w Vocals/CD, and ‘Poison’- Demos/Cassette).

Dave Matthews and Tim Reynolds announce shows in NY and CT

Dave Matthews & Tim Reynolds will be playing on Friday, November 18th at the United Palace Theater in New York City, NY and on Saturday, November 19th at Toyota Presents the Oakdale Theatre in Wallingford, CT.

The New York City performance will be a charity concert. Fans will be given the unique opportunity to help create a better world, by directing the full value of their NYC ticket purchase to the charity of their choice through davematthews.com/charity.

UNITED PALACE THEATRE - NEW YORK CITY, NY

Warehouse Ticketing Request Period open WED OCT. 19 at 10am ET through TUE OCT. 25 at 10am ET

Public On Sale FRI OCT. 28 at 10am ET

OAKDALE THEATRE – WALLINGFORD, CT

Warehouse Ticketing Request Period open THU OCT. 20 at 10 am ET through THU OCT. 27 at 10am ET

Public On Sale SAT 0CT. 29 at 10am ET

All The Colors Mix Together To Grey

Steve Jobs, 56, died, yesterday, after a year-long battle with pancreatic cancer. Oddly, I first saw this news on facebook, and suffice it to say, that it was quite a surreal experience to be on my Mac reading posts of remembrance to the inventor of all things Apple.

There are many reasons why I think a dedication to the life of Steve Jobs belongs here, on a Dave Matthews Band website. First, it seems to me that Steve and Dave have many things in common. They are both visionary geniuses who changed their divergent fields, and they both have a passion for detail. Today, I found out that Mr. Jobs designed the sleep light indicator for all Mac computers to illuminate at the speed of 12 glows per minute to match the average breathing rate of an adult person! Who thinks of things like this? Steve Jobs. And, as anyone who has ever tried to play DMB music can attest, Dave Matthews.

Steve and Dave also share an undeniable ability to inspire others, drawing fans from all walks of life to Apple, and the Dave Matthews Band, respectively. And they have both encountered criticism from those who would call their brand of wisdom “hype,” without substance. But it is, I imagine, their wish to believe in something greater than themselves that sets both of these men apart from other media icons. In a moving address to the graduates of Stanford University in 2005, Steve Jobs said:

You can't connect the dots looking forward; you can only connect them looking backwards. So you have to trust that the dots will somehow connect in your future. You     have to trust in something; your gut, destiny, life, karma, whatever. This approach has     never let me down, and it has made all the difference in my life.

This sentiment is reminiscent of so many of Dave’s lyrics, where he has expressed a hope that “there is someone out there in the heaven’s looking back down on us,” even if he concedes that we will “never know.”  

But perhaps the most striking synchronicity between the philosophies of these two leaders has to be their views on death. In that same Stanford commencement, Apple’s co-founder offered these profound words:

Remembering that I'll be dead soon is the most important tool I've ever encountered to help me make the big choices in life. Because almost everything, all external expectations, all pride, all fear of embarrassment or failure, these things just fall away in the face of death, leaving only what is truly important. Remembering that you are going to die is the best way I know to avoid the trap of thinking you have something to lose. You are already naked. There is no reason not to follow your heart. Stay hungry. Stay foolish.

In other words, take these chances, don’t burn the day, and above all, just look for the love in it, because in the end, naked you will see that we are all the same.

Hayley Bauman, Psy.D.

Author of Serendipity and the Search for True Self

Rest in Peace, Steve Jobs (1955-2011)

You My Friend

Last night, I watched a fantastic documentary called “Music,” in which over 50 musicians from various genres discussed the subtle idiosyncrasies of their field. Bands such as Smashing Pumpkins, My Morning Jacket, Vampire Weekend, and Death Cab for Cutie were all represented, as well as, appearances from artists like Ani DiFranco, Lenny Kravitz, Ziggy Marley, Chrissie Hynde, Iggy Pop, and Fiona Apple.   

The film focuses on many untouchable aspects of this art, including that uniquely spiritual place where music often leaves the unsuspecting listener. Almost all of the creatives interviewed agree that they provide portals to an ongoing and everlasting stream of sound that exists outside, in the Universe, and that their best work is done when they remember to get out of their own way. In other words, after intense devotion to learning and practice, the ideal output only comes when one separates from her ego, and is open to the flow of energy that comes through organically. What a modest thought, and it is, I believe, not only the cornerstone of all great art, but also, the way in which Dave Matthews approaches his work. With Dave, there is a clear understanding that each song takes on a life of it’s own, which transcends the existence of the writer. Recently, I heard one of my favorite versions of #40, after which Dave says, “I keep working on it, hoping it will come back. This is my first most recent draft. Thank you for indulging me.” What a great acknowledgment, indicating that this track will only return as she so desires. Dave truly is a humble monkey.
 
Another point of consensus among the performers in the broadcast is that music is indescribable. After much thought, rock icon, Iggy Pop, finally named it as an activity that requires less concentration than reading a dense piece of literature, but more involvement than watching television or a movie. Similarly, Fiona Apple characterized it as an entity that falls somewhere between a conversation and sex, meaning that there is a level of engagement, an intimacy, and a knowing of each-other that exists someplace between conventional lines. And isn’t that how much of music is written? Between the lines?

Of course, this reminds me of Dave’s lyrics in “The Space Between,” where he points to the gaps inside of things like tears, lies, bullets, and smiles, within which he promises to wait and hide. But probably my favorite line from this piece reads, “The space between, your heart and mine, is the space we’ll fill with time.” Interestingly, DMB almanac has these words listed as “The space between your heart and mind,” which is equally insightful, but I’ve always considered Dave to be speaking of that luminous divide that exists where one person ends and another one begins. This is the place of communication, connection, and relationship where love adamantly finds her way. Just as the internal chambers of our own hearts are filled with meandering pathways, so are the spaces between loved ones. And within these sacred cavities, music lives and breathes. Always.

Hayley Bauman, Psy.D.

Author of Serendipity and the Search for True Self

More Cowbell!

As promised, the Dave Matthews Band rocked Washington State last weekend for the 15th consecutive year. Just a few of the highlights from the group’s most recent stint at the Gorge Amphitheatre include, surprise fan favorites, such as: “American Baby Intro,” “Big Eyed Fish,” “#40,” “Loving Wings,” “Shotgun,” “Raven,” “Halloween,” “Seek Up,” and a killer “Lie In Our Graves,” which, amazingly, wrapped itself around seven unsuspecting tunes. But perhaps the biggest bombshell was dropped during the encore of night two, when the band busted out Blue Öyster Cult's 1976 hit, “Don’t Fear The Reaper.”

Written by Blue Öyster Cult's lead guitarist Donald “Buck Dharma” Roeser, this song appears on their 1976 album, “Agents of Fortune,” and grew in popularity to the point that it is now listed as number 405 in “Rolling Stone”s list of the top 500 tracks of all time.

It’s always interesting to me to speculate the reasons behind the new covers that the band chooses to play. In this case, we know that this single has been performed by Yukon Cornelius, bassist Stefan Lessard’s ensemble; so it is possible that he introduced the idea to Dave and the boys. But still, there had to be something about this number that caught the men’s attention and motivated them to make it their own.

Besides the obvious fact that it is an awesome jam, we need not look too far to recognize the synchronicity between the theme of this ditty, and that of so many originated by DMB. With lyrics like,

    Seasons don’t fear the reaper,
    Nor do the wind, the sun or the rain,
    We can be like they are,
    Come on baby,
    Don’t fear the reaper,

it seems as if the message to live for the now, without letting the fear of death ruin your time on this Earth, comes through pretty clearly. Interestingly, some have looked upon these words and imagined that the writer was discussing a murder-suicide, but Dharma insists that he intended just the opposite. On this topic, he says:

"I felt that I had just achieved some kind of resonance with the psychology of people when I came up with that, I was actually kind of appalled when I first realized that some people were seeing it as an advertisement for suicide or something that was not my intention at all. It is, like, not to be afraid of it, (as opposed to actively bringing it about). It’s basically a love song, where the love transcends the actual physical existence of the partners."

With that description on hand, we can absolutely see how this motif fits in closely with phrases that Dave has transcribed himself. When it comes down to it, it’s all about love. And part of loving life is accepting that death is the natural outcome of our existence. We don’t need to fear it, avoid it, or challenge it. We too can be like the seasons, the wind, the sun, and the rain, all of whom understand the cosmic necessity of change.

Hayley Bauman, Psy.D.

Author of Serendipity and the Search for True Self

Dave Matthews will perform Bridge School Benefit

Dave Matthews will perform at the Bridge School Benefit at at the Shoreline Ampitheater in Mountain View, CA on October 22nd-23rd.

This years concert will also feature Arcade Fire, Eddie Vedder, Foo Fighters, Tony Bennett, Mumford & Sons, Beck, Diana Krall and Los Invisibles, featuring Carlos Santana will also perform acoustic sets as part of the two-day festival, which benefits the Bridge School and helps children with severe physical impairments and complex communication needs.

This is the 25th Bridge School Benefit and you can buy tickets on September 16th through Live Nation. Information about ticket sales, pricing, seating charts, parking, etc. can be found on the Live Nation site.

Swimming In The River

It’s Labor Dave Weekend! That time of year when 20,000 dedicated Dave Matthews Band enthusiasts make their pilgrimage to Washington State for three days of camping, fun, friendship, awe-inspiring nature, and, of course, music. Sadly, I have yet to make this trip, but it is an absolute on my bucket-list. And although, I’m sure it doesn’t compare to the live adventure, this year, at least, I will be watching the shows online which is a fantastic option for those of us who couldn’t swing the travel.   

The Gorge, or “Heaven’s Amphitheatre,” as it is adoringly called by many, is one of, if not, the most, popular DMB venues in the world. Sitting atop a cliff overlooking the Columbia River Gorge, this particular spot lends itself quite easily to experiences that can only be described as spiritual. Although every Dave Matthews Band gig is unique and spectacular in it’s own way, there does seem to be something even more magical about this setting. It’s decidedly not a typical situation.

From rare set-lists, to the introduction of songs like “Blackbird,” “Stay or Leave,” “Road,” and “Caveman,” Gorge-goers are almost guaranteed uncommon treats at this locale. But perhaps the most famous example of what makes this outdoor playground so mesmerizing occurred on August 29th, 2008, ten days after the death of our beloved founder, and sax player, LeRoi Holloway Moore. Again, I was not a first-hand witness to this event, as I imagine some of you were, so I am unlikely to do justice to what truly happened, but I will do my best.

LeRoi’s passing was inevitably heavy on the minds of both the musicians and their listeners that Friday night. For the ensemble’s part, opening with “Bartender,” the same song that initiated the fateful Staples Center performance, the night that LeRoi took his final breath, was deeply symbolic. Along the same vein, those in the audience wanted to reflect their shared grief and support back to the men who had lost someone so integral to their very souls.

Somehow, as it has been described to me, thousands and thousands of fans attending the concert were able to come together at a simultaneous moment, lighting a multitude of glow-sticks, in remembrance of LeRoi. This is truly an amazing work of symmetry, as anyone who’s ever tried to coordinate the movements of more than two people can attest. To me, it sounds like one of those things that was just meant to happen serendipitously. The gesture was so widespread that everyone on stage took notice, and stopped playing for the better part of five minutes. During that time, Dave made several signals to the powers that be to let the moment last, while Boyd broke down and shed tears. Each person who I have spoken to was moved beyond comparison. It literally sounds like a circle was made around those who were present, taking all of the people in every direction, and lifting them up on loving wings.

And so, it is with this image of profound synchronicity that I, and probably thousands of others, will eagerly await this weekend’s extravaganza. Beyond question, it will be the best of what’s around.  

Hayley Bauman, Psy.D.

Author of Serendipity and the Search for True Self

NY Caravan rescheduled for September 16-18 at Randall's Island

Since Hurricane Irene washed out Governors Island, Dave Matthews Band has reschedule and moved to Randall's Island. DMB will play 3 nights at Randall's Island on September 16th-18th. Yes, that is 3 nights! So if you missed out on the solo show at Governer's Island hopefully you can make it to Randall's and the weather will cooperate!

All original tickets for the Governors Island three-day event will be honored on the rescheduled dates even if you attended Governors Island on Friday, August 26th.  All 3-day GA tickets and VIP Packages will be honored on the respective rescheduled dates.

An online sale for the Randall’s Island event for members of the DMB Warehouse Fan Association will begin on Saturday, September 3rd at 10 am ET. Tickets will go on sale to the general public on Saturday, September 3rd at 10 am ET.

If you need a refund or exchange of tickets click here.

Live Webcast from The Gorge

This weekend Dave Matthews Band will be at the Gorge for DMB Caravan part 4, September 2nd-4th and DMB will be webcasting the shows LIVE!

This is a perfect opportunity for fans to catch a live show from the comfort of their own home, and if you are like me who could not get to a show this year, this is something to take advantage of.

The webcast are available for a small fee. You can order 1 night for $14.99 or get a 3-day pass for $34.99 (which is clearly the better deal).

No ticket, no problem, check out the webcast live from the Gorge this weekend! Those fans who are going to the show you can check out the schedule.

For all the NY Governors Island ticket holders, tomorrow September 1st, the rescheduled dates will be announced. Stay tuned!

Order the Gorge webcasts.

DMB Caravan Governors Island Postpone two shows

Dave Matthews Band Caravan officially announced that both Saturday, August 27th and Sunday, August 28th shows will be postponed.

Hurricane Irene is making it's way up the east coast this weekend and the Governor of New York has declared a state of emergency, so Saturday and Sunday are out, but will be rescheduled for a later date, to be announced.

Ticket holders for Saturday and Sunday are invited to attend the Friday event tomorrow at Governors Island.

So if you can make it to NY tonight you can see part 1 of DMB Caravan Governors Island.

More update to come as they are announced. Be safe this weekend!

Cover Me

Pleasure researchers say that as humans, we tend to enjoy familiar sounds over new ones. Perhaps it is our fear of change, or the unknown, but numerous studies point to this finding. I believe that Dave Matthews is aware of this theory, because years ago, when he introduced his then-nouveau album “Crash,” he told listeners, “I hope you like it, but if you don’t, listen to it a few more times.” A wise man, Dave is.

And I can only imagine that knowing our innate and unconscious prejudices against novel material would naturally make a musician wary of bringing out his latest creation in front of a live audience. That’s why I am so grateful that Dave walks through his apprehension, and performs with all of his being. Every time.

Knowing the psychology of preferences, I’m also amazed when a new song cuts through the invisible barrier and reaches into my core the very first time that I hear it. Such was the case with “Sweet,” a tune that emerged as a Dave solo on ukulele at the Chicago Caravan, on 7/8/11, and has been played once since, on 8/20/11, with Tim Reynolds.

Dave introduces “Sweet,” by saying that it’s a song that he wrote the morning of it’s July debut, and that it is, but also is not, about his little boy learning how to swim. This is just one aspect of Dave’s lyrical prowess that I adore. Maybe because, as a writer, I can truly relate to what he is saying; that even if we start out with one goal or idea in mind, we will inevitably be swept away by the creative process, with surprisingly little knowledge of where the journey may end. And if we try to control the waves, or fight against the current, we will likely drown in our own confused thoughts.

So what is “Sweet” really about, besides the obvious references to swimming? I’m sure that we each could interject our own meanings here. But to me, it’s as Dave says, about “that feeling when you’re in too deep.” Who among us doesn’t know that feeling when life is presenting us with challenges that seem beyond our grasp? And when Dave sings, “If I could, I’d turn it around,” I imagine that he is at once speaking about the process of getting older and making mistakes, and also the wish to trade places so that he could swim for his son. As parents, we are constantly looking for ways to make our children’s lives easier, although most of the time we need to hold ourselves back, hoping that experience will be a kind teacher.

I think that one of the reasons that I gravitated so strongly towards this melody from the outset has to do with the fact that I was recovering from surgery when I first heard these profound words. The synchronicity with which Dave Matthews Band songs resonate with me, and millions of others, is, of course, a whole article in itself. But suffice it to say that when you are lying in bed, existing on boring and bland foods, without a clue as to how long recovery will take, the phrase, “Let me out, I want to go home now,” feels like it’s coming straight from the inner recesses of your own heart. Thankfully, like a thousand year old dreaming tree, DMB is always there to cover me.

Hayley Bauman, Psy.D.

Author of Serendipity and the Search for True Self

Still Here Dancing...

3 years ago Dave Matthews Band and fans alike lost a piece of their heart. The sweet sound of Leroi's Moore's beautiful saxophone melodies was silenced on August 19, 2008, but his music will never die. Today we remember as we do daily the impact and grace that LeRoi gave DMB, the music industry and fans all over the world!

Time will pass, but his music lives on. DMB walks on through a new era, but is always still here dancing with the GrooGrux King.

Explore our mp3s a download some DMB classics.

Chris - dptp.org