The official blog of Portland's Songwriter of the Year

Archive for May, 2009

The San Francisco Soft Show

Thursday, May 7th, 2009

I played a “soft” show last night in San Francisco at Velo Rouge. I call it soft because it was a rather unofficial last-second gig that I picked up in an effort to promote one last time before tonight’s show at the Rockit Room. Those that know me, know that I’m OCD when it comes to my promotions and this performance was just that.

Tyler Stenson at Velo Rouge

Tyler Stenson at Velo Rouge

Though the appearance was a bit under-the-radar, I had a respectful audience with great energy. I’m proud to say that I met some new people, made some new fans and sold a few albums, but most importantly, upped my numbers for tonight’s flagship SF performance at the Rockit Room.

TYLER STENSON @ THE ROCKiT ROOM
Thursday May 7th – 8pm

w/ Redwood Son and Dustin Shey

The Immortal Buffalo

Tuesday, May 5th, 2009

Between Rhetoric Tuesday, Lander and now with my solo career, I have been playing shows at the Buffalo Gap Saloon for almost six years. Whether it be musical or social, it’s safe to say I’ve reached the ranks of a Regular at my favorite neighborhood haunt. Nothing fills your heart like History.

Tyler Stenson at the Buffalo Gap Saloon

Tyler Stenson at the Buffalo Gap Saloon

Considering our past, I was honored when the establishment acknowledged our long-standing relationship with this immortal collage that rests on The Attic wall and simply sums up our history. I’ve experienced many emotions in that room and met many people along the way- thank you Buffalo Gap Saloon and the staff for the memories… cheers to many more to come.

San Francisco by Sunday

Monday, May 4th, 2009

I made the trip yesterday with the mental values of San Francisco by Sunday- Portland by June. Though Redding got the best of me on more than one occasion, for the most part, the first leg of my epic was without incident.

Whether it was the self-imposed challenge of “making good time” that helped pass the hours or the sensational scenery, the ten-hour trek seemed much closer to a five-hour jaunt and for the first time, I sincerely enjoyed driving. The only rush of my usual driving woes came when I pulled into the city. It took me more than a couple intersections to figure out the inconspicuously placed traffic lights and the fearlessly free flowing pedestrians.

Golden Gate Bridge

Golden Gate Bridge

That said, I’m safe and sound in San Francisco and ready to begin my journey. I’ve got 3 shows in the city before I head further south for more music. If you know anyone in the Bay Area, send them to the Rockit Room on Thursday!

MY SHOW SCHEDULE in SAN FRANCISCO:
MAY 4th – Ireland 32
MAY 6th – Velo Rouge
MAY 7th – The Rockit Room (w/ Redwood Son and Dustin Shey)

San Francisco

San Francisco

NOTEWORTHY RANTS:

  • Ashland, OR was gorgeous- a place I’d consider living and/or retiring.
  • Redding, CA Public Works needs to get their act together and post exactly which gas station is off of each exit… rather than just the presence of gas in general.
  • San Francisco, CA intersections are an inconsistent enigma.
  • Toll roads are for the birds.