I’m pretty sure the band broke up a long time ago. We haven’t played out in well over a year and we’re not even rehearsing or trying to book gigs. But no one has said it out loud. Maybe saying it out loud would make it official, and maybe we always want to be The Gun and Doll Show. Forever. I know I do.
I joined the Gun and Doll Show in 2006. Before that, I was a singer and songwriter for an indie pop band (who kicked me out for my lack of being friendly. Or something). Prior to that, I was the lead singer in a classic rock cover band (I still can’t figure that one out). And before that, a backup singer for Alex Dolan (you can hear me on his Americana album), and somewhere along the way, I produced my solo CD, More of You (okay, you get it: I sing).
You never know what you’re going to get personality-wise when joining a new artistic group. Or any group, for that matter. It’s a total hit or miss. But in a creative situation, the percentage of getting at least one whackadoodle in the bunch is very, very high (trust me). But the group that came together when I joined, just clicked. I’m not saying we weren’t passionate or dramatic or talented. I think we were all of that. But I think it worked so well because really, we just wanted to play good music and have fun (sounds easy enough. You’d be surprised).
The Dolls. 2010
The Dolls. 2014
What started as a creative outlet, has given me so much more. Last weekend we all got together (with our significant others, our kids) over food and drinks at Jen’s house in Napa, then headed to karaoke (minus the kids) at the infamous Trancas Steakhouse (oooh yeahhhh). As I write this post, I’m realizing that during the entire night, not one of us talked about the band. It just didn’t come up. We simply enjoyed one another and had fun. Like always.
The band, reunited. (minus Tom)
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We broke up?? :-/ Lani, I am going to miss you so much. We’ve shared this band, becoming mothers, turning 40…grateful for social media to at least keep you close in cyber space.
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Aww, thanks. Well, social media is going to be my social life for who knows how long, so stay close!
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Having a significant other who is a musician, I totally get what you are saying about the hit or miss and how good it can be when you do find that magic combination of folks that just really works. I am so thankful for the great group of guys John is currently playing with because not only is their energy together wonderful on stage, but it is also so supportive as a group of friends. And believe me, they have had their share of weirdos–a guitarist who truly believed he was a werewolf and a vocalist who turned out to be an abusive methhead are just of few of the ones they’ve had to help out the door. Anyway, I am really enjoying your blog. Best wishes on the move. I know it’s going to be a huge adjustment.
<3 Karen
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Okay, that is classic (werewolf). Thanks so much for reading and for the good wishes. And especially for sharing your thoughts/experiences.
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