KIT HOLMES: News

DECEMBER 2009 EDITION

 

 

December – the season of Joy. Wouldn’t it be really cool if we made every month – how ‘bout every day – a season of joy?  If you spend any time watching the news it might seem kind of difficult to find a lot of joy these days. But I’ve found that it’s really easy to find it when I choose to limit my exposure to the squawk-boxes that spew doom and gloom 24/7. I mean, how many times a day do you need to be beaten over the head with how terrible things are in the world before you begin to believe it?

I’m not talking about burying your head in the sand and saying “bad” stuff doesn’t exist. I’m saying consciously choose to see the good – in every one and in every situation. It’s always there. With practice (and it takes practice – and patience) it becomes second nature. The key is to be genuinely willing to do it.

This holiday season, the gift of compassion (especially for yourself) can be a powerfully peace and joy-inducing thing. What extraordinary gifts each and every one of you are in my life. Thank you. You totally rock. (I like saying that…)

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The NEW CD...

 

…is finally coming to life! This Sunday (December 13) will be the first day of recording with producer/musician/songwriter Stephen Doster. The working title of the new record is “Shadows and Light.” That title has been kinda tapping gently on the back of my brain asking me to pay attention to it…we’ll see where that goes…

 

Contribute, Support, Pre-Order...

 

The “flying-by-the-seat-of-our-pants” team here at Kit Holmes Music is still finding all kinds of creative ways to entice/cajole/strong-arm you - the loving and way-cool fans of the music – into participating (ahem, financially…) in the new CD project. We’re giving a big, hearty shout-out to those of you who’ve already contributed generously! You’ve made it possible for us to get a couple of days in the studio. We’ve still got a way to go, but I trust it’s all going to come together perfectly.

Now, the rest of yous guys can still get in on the action: Pre-sales of the new CD are a happenin’ deal. For $15 lovely dollars you’ll snag yourself a copy. There are many, many more ways for you to support, too, at all kinds of financial levels – go HERE to check it out. Hey, how ‘bout hosting a house concert/fundraiser? Fun, fun, fun!!!

Gifts, anyone?

 The “Hey-this-new-CD-is-gonna-rock-and-it-will-come-to-your-doorstep-when-you-least-expect-it (long after you’ve forgotten I gave it to you)” I.O.U. note makes a great stocking stuffer.  (Kit’s other CDs make great gifts, too! Go HERE to find out where to get ‘em).

Gigs for DECEMBER: See the calendar!

More FUN stuff...

 

Hey, check these new logos out! You’ll be seeing a lot more of them – on T-shirts, stickers, posters, CDs and other way-cool swag. Thanks to the good

folks at Arsenal Brand, LLC, Austin Texas for the fabu designs. Check them out at www.arsenalbrand.com. You guys (Anne Marie and Jonathan and crew) rock!...and your little dogs, too!

 

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One last, little gift for y'all...

 

The other night I got together with “photographer to the stars” Steve Hopson for a photo shoot. Here’s one of the first posts. Give Steve a shout, eh? And check out his portfolio online. Good stuff. Here’s the link:

 http://www.flickr.com/photos/stevehopson/4174422510/

Thank you, Steve. Can't wait to see the rest of the pix! Thanks to Sondra for being such an awesome stylist and friend for the project.

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Please be good to each other and gentle with yourselves this holiday season. I mean, really...is it really worth gettin' all nutted up about? A month from now it will all be a distant memory.

I love you all, I thank you all and I wish you all the best and brightest this holiday season. Hang onto your hats, kids, 2010 is gonna knock yer socks off!!!

November is the month of Gratitude and I have much to give thanks for. I’ve started keeping a gratitude journal – just a few things written down each day to remind myself of how wonderful and precious life is. One thing I’m grateful for today is the “perfect” fall weather here in Central Texas.

Cool, dry air. Deep blue skies. A myriad of red, orange, purple, yellow, brown and green colors…and that’s just on some of the outfits being worn around downtown Austin!  

 

Remodeling work has been taking place around the ‘ol Kit Holmes Music home. Yeah, it’s pretty disruptive to the routine of everyone in the household (dog and cats included…) but we know it’s temporary.  

 

The progress so far has already put us in better spirits: more light in the center of the house, more move-around-able space with old dividing walls gone. Hmmmnnn, one might begin to think the place would be shaping up to be perfect for say…house concerts?….Stay Tuned!

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NEW CD UPDATE

 

Speaking of progress…the latest update on the new CD is this: Looks like the CD will not be ready for public consumption until early 2010 (which is really not that far off…). Arrangements (both musical and personnel-wise) are being mapped out as we speak. I’m still so very excited to be working with producer Stephen Doster. I know the end result will be worth the wait!

In the meantime, you can get in on a great deal by Pre-Ordering the new CD now! For as little as $15 you can invest in an amazing new work of art! Production costs for studio time, musicians (I’m thrilled to say some pretty “A-list” players will appear on this record…), engineers, artwork, etc. can add up fast. With your support we can have the new tunes tickling yer cue little ears in no time!  

 

There are many, many ways you can support the project, so please click HERE to get the info. Visiting the website: www.kitholmesmusic.com will also get you there. Thank-you in advance. You totally Rock. You do. Really.

My shamelessly self-promoting (and quite gratuitous) rant...  

 

If all the retailers can jump on the holiday sales bandwagon right after Labor Day, why the heck can’t I? Pre-ordering the CD or showing your support in bigger financial ways (you get some cool stuff in return) may not get you the CD in time for gift giving this December but if you Pre-order or Donate before DEC. 15 we’ll send you a nifty little “I Owe You” card so you can let your gift recipient know how magnanimous and thoughtful you are for supporting original, amazing and wonderful music. (Yes, I mean, mine…). Plus, when that new disc arrives during the winter doldrums, your loved one(s) will thank you again for sending them such a cool thing after the frenzied holiday season is over.

SHOWS, SHOWS AND MORE OP's to Hear/See Kit LIVE!

 Okay, some good shows coming up, probably in your neck of the woods.

 

 

  Friday, November 13th, 2009
Coffeehouse Concert - 7 pm
Coffeehouse Concert - San Antonio, TX

8103 Broadway Ave
San Antonio, TX

Price: $Love

Back in San Antonio....finally! Kit will be singin' the Kit Holmes songs you love. Expect some impromptu guest appearances from fellow Light Travelers...There's no set ticket price, but bring your best love offering to the goodie basket. Cookies and coffee and madness will ensue...

Sunday, November 15th, 2009
Guest Soloist/Musician - 10 am
Downtown Unity Circle - Austin, TX

404 Atlanta ST
Austin, TX 78703
US

Price: Love

Oh, what a fun group of folks! Come get your speer-tual self all shined up...Kit'll be rockin' the house, of course!

Sunday, November 22nd, 2009
Guest musical Artist - 10:30 am
United Life Spiritual Center - Oklahoma City, OK

3332 N Meridian Ave
Oklahoma City, OK 73112
US
(405) 946-6753

Price: Love

Kit performs with the incomparable SuZ Ogden. Good times WILL be had, you can count on it!

Sunday, November 29th, 2009
Guest Musical Artist
TBA

It may be Traverse City, MI or it may be Louisville, KY...details soon! Check the calendar section of the website www.kitholmesmusic.com.

Saturday, December 5th, 2009
Holiday Stroll Event - Sound gig - Austin TX - 7 pm
Holiday Stroll - Sound Gig - Austin TX

Congress Ave
Austin, TX

Kit is pulling out the big rig PA tonight for this fantastic holiday kick-off event in downtown Austin. Great music from The Invincible Czars, Myrna Cabella and more! Stop by and say howdy. Kit'll be the one at the mixing board!

Thursday, December 17th, 2009
Solo Gig - everything holiday-ish! - 6 - 7:30 pm
Whole Foods Market - Flagship Store - Austin, TX

525 N. Lamar
Austin, TX 78703
US

Price: Tips are always welcome!

 Kit closes out the 2009 "Music at the Market" Concert Series with all kinds of songs about the holidays. Originals and covers. Stop by for some gourmet organics of all kinds, a nice glass of vino or a winter warmer brew...nosh, get wistful, sing a carol or two.

 Grateful...by golly, I am!

I'm looking forward to seeing you all down the road! Please mark your calendars! Please take a little time each day to thank whatever greater power you believe in for bringing you to this life. I’m grateful you’re in mine!

Be well. Stay tuned. Go for something really, really BIG when you’re breaking that wishbone…

From the crew at Kit Holmes Music (Kit, Cindy, Angel, Joe & Moxie):

 Happy Thanksgiving!

 

The FUNdraiser concert on Sunday, October 11 was totally awesome. A small but apprciative and generous crowd got comfy cozy in the large but truly intimate great room at the Colpaart's. Thank you Melanie and Dirk!!!

Some truly transcendent musical moments with the Light Travelers gang (Dana Clark, Kevin Lewis and Chris Pfeiffer) plus Roger Friend on percussion as my backup band. I can hardly call them "backup" because each of these fine people are amazing "stars" in their own right. Too cool.

I was pretty blissed out - of course that might have had something to do with the host's exemplary job on homebrew and the hostess's over the top munchies. One of those truly magical evenings you don't ever want to end.

MMMMmmmmmmm. Life sure is yummy, isn't it? 

Seasons are changing. Traveling to places old and new, seeing old friends and making new ones reveal some interesting, changing perspectives on beliefs, values and the way one lives life altogether. 

I recently felt moved to send a “letter to the editor” via email to our local daily newspaper. Using a tongue-in-cheek approach to the subject at hand I guess it piqued the editor’s interest enough (or made him think it would provoke strong reactions on both sides of the issue – and it did - enough) to publish it. The content of the story/situation I was commenting on is not really important here but this is: other people’s reactions to my letter brought up some really interesting reactions in me.   

 

First of all, I made it clear (I thought) to the newspaper that I didn’t want my email address published. Well, they published it anyway. So, my email box started to fill up. The first few responses from other readers were kinda cool, like written “high fives” saying they agreed and wished they’d had the nerve to express their feelings publicly, too.

Today I got the first of the “other” sort of response that left me scratching my head, saying, “Wow, I had no idea I was the anti-Christ.” The reader had clearly missed my point. It’s amazing how angrily (and easily) some people will spew rivers of hate at people they don’t know.  

Can I really say I support and respect everyone’s right to their beliefs if they don’t agree with mine? In theory, it sounds easy - and noble, for sure. But putting it into practice is a whole lot harder.  

A recent road trip (re)opened my eyes to the sad fact that even in late 2009, right here in the good ‘ol US of A there are still places where homophobia, racism and general xenophobia are pervasive – and acceptable, even flaunted. It was really uncomfortable to find myself shaken out of the sense of peace and grounded-ness I’ve come to enjoy (and consciously create) in my life. 

 

After the initial disturbing wake-up call, I am grateful to have been reminded that the work I do, the music I make and the path I choose to walk is one of joy and love and knowing we’re all part of a greater whole – one I’m fascinated with uncovering the mystery of every day. No one can make me feel bad (or good…) about myself unless I allow them to do so. So, I choose to meet aggression with compassion. I choose to see my perceived enemy as a teacher…I choose to meet fear with its most powerful opposite: love.     

 

 

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 Feel the LUV... 

 

This Sunday, October 11 is House Concert Day and I look forward to seeing you all there, joining in the love and laughter and music and munchies…and, and, and!!  

 

Fellow Light Travelers Dana, Kevin and Chris (and other musical guests) will be along for the ride! 

 

Here’s the scoop:   

 

Sunday, October 11th, 2009
FUNdraiser House Concert for Kit's New CD - Doors at 4 p.m. - Show at 5 p.m.
FUNdraising House Concert - Austin TX 

 7441 Bonniebrook Dr
Austin, TX 78735

Price: Suggested $15 - More is always welcome! Cash, checks and credit cards (Visa/MC) accepted at the door.

Kit will be performing live, and outdoors at this FUNdraising house concert. A few of her musical friends are expected, too! The concert is open to anyone/everyone who loves Kit's music (and those you'd like to bring along to introduce Kit's music to!). All ages welcome. All proceeds go to financing the production of Kit's new CD.  $15 suggested donation plus additional opportunities for you to support (and get some great goodies in return!) financially. 

Organic snacks and munchies from Greenling, beverages and some adult drinks provided (you're welcome to bring your own special drinks). If you have a favorite dessert you'd like to share, please feel free to bring it to the party! 

 

SEE YOU THERE!!!

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 Progress Report: The NEW CD

 Speaking of the new CD, we’ll be heading into the studio (yeah!! finally!) the first week of November. Producer Stephen Doster is a busy, busy guy – but that’s a good thing! He's in high demand! We’re still shooting for a “before the end of the year” release, but I’m going to “release” this to knowing it will all happen perfectly at the perfect, right time.  

However, we can still use your help! 

We're taking CD presale orders NOW!!! For a mere $15 buck-a-roos, you can pre-order the new CD. There are many other levels of support you can give and in return get some really cool stuff, along with the new CD!!! Please visit: www.kitholmesmusic.com and go to the “Pre-Order/Buy CDs” page. You’ll see all the details there. Or just go HERE. 

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An Important Message from Agent Cindy:

Hey, yous guys (and girls): My phone ain't ringing and my email box is a little empty. Kit's gonna fire me if I don't get some more bookings for her pretty quick! 

Did you know that Kit's available (and loves) to perform at your special events and gatherings? She loves doing house concerts, private parties, holiday stuff and more. 

Did you know Kit's a pretty wicked good jazz pianist with a huge repertoire of classic pop and standard songs (and of course, her own awesome tunes)? And, she's still got some dates for the 2009 holiday season open. Great rates, great music. Contact me for more details:

Cynthia Millonzi

cmillonzi@kitholmesmusic.com

(360) 870-2592

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Well, kids,

 That's all for now. Please visit us at www.kitholmesmusic.com. We always love to hear from you.

 From the whole crew at Kit Holmes Music (Kit, Cindy, Angel, Joe and Moxie):

 Thanks for your support. Be well. Be the change. Spare the change. 

Happy September, you wonderful, you... 

No Place Like Holmes is the publishing arm of the vast, global musical empire known as Kit Holmes Music (hey, I can dream big, right?) and also the new name of the monthly (maybe more often - when the mood strikes) newsletter to you all, the friends and fans of moi and the music I am grateful to be able to create.

So, Welcome! I'd love your feedback on the new format. Shoot me an email, a Skype or Facebook message....(contact info below)

September is a rather transitional month, don’t you think? Even here in Central Texas where there are only two seasons – Summer and January – there is a noticeable shift in the air.

Everything has a season, of course: schools, music and theater, fashion, food, sports, gardens, life, love, etc. The season I find myself in currently is one of preparing for harvest…And I could use your help.

 

You see, I’ve got a whole crop of new songs that need to be shared so they don’t end up a moldy, musty old pile of fading sheet music synapses (or is it synaps, synapsis?) in the recesses of my brain.

 

Many of you have been asking (for a long time, I might add…) when I was going to record a new CD….well, the time is now and here’s your chance to get in on the action!

 

This is my personal invitation to all of you, with this caveat: if you’ve ever enjoyed my songs, my shows or just said to yourself upon meeting me for the first time, “Hey, I think Kit is a pretty cool, rockin’ chick and I love to support original, quality music and the person(s) who create it”, you can now PRE-Order the new (as of yet, untitled) CD.

 

We're shooting for a November, 2009 release but it all depends on how much moola/cash/coin we can raise for the project right now.

 

See this picture? It's me really workin' it....man, can't you just feeeeel the love? Don'tcha just wanna go to the website right now and order your copy of the new CD?

 

It's SOOOOOOO easy to do! Just go HERE. For as little as $25, you can be a part of history. Yes, I said it. History!!

 

You can sponsor by pre-purchasing the CD, hosting a house concert/fundraiser or even just donating to getting the CD recorded, produced and released. And even better, you’ll get all kinds of cool stuff for helping out (including that warm, fuzzy, good-all-over feeling – what could be better?). Your financial contribution can also be a great gift! (Holidays…hint, hint….)

Please go HERE or go to the “Go Shopping” page at www.kitholmesmusic.com. You’ll be glad you did. THANK YOU!!!

The moment you've all been waiting for: (okay, really, we know you're not always thinking about Kit Holmes' music, but it's not a bad idea!) Kit will be heading to the studio this fall to record a new CD (yet to be named) with esteemed producer Stephen Doster.

YOU CAN help this project come to fruition by PRE-Ordering your copies NOW!! Please visit the "Go SHOPPING" page at www.kitholmesmusic.com to see all the options you have to support Kit at various financial levels. You'll get not only some amazing new music but lots of cool thank-you gifts, too!

It will take $10,000 - $15,000 to produce this CD - From studio time, musicians and audio engineers to  artwork, printing, replicating, photography, promotion and more...it all takes time, talent and yes, money.

The estimated release of the new CD is November 2009 and we know that the perfect, right support is here now. Thank you in advance!

Please visit the "Go Shopping" page at www.kitholmesmusic.com. You can support at various levels (from $25 to $1000) or simply donate any amount you want. All funds are securely received through PayPal.  

Why not gather your family, friends, social group, business, or organization and pool resources? It's a great way to share something in common: enjoying Kit's music! And in return, your group will receive some lovely promotion and gifts!

Better yet, gather everyone you know and support at the $1000 level and get a house concert, FREE!

Visit the "go Shopping" page at www.kitholmesmusic.com for all the info.

Thanks, thanks and THANK YOU!!!

Hi everyone!

 

Wow! August already! So much to share! This is kind of like a Sunday paper version of the newsletter - lots and lots of fun, colorful and shiny features.

 

First and foremost, please check out the changes on the website at  www.kitholmesmusic.com.  New look, new photos, links to video (Yes! I’m on YouTube!) and a whole bunch of new show dates on the calendar. One of them is bound to be near you! (hint, hint…)

 

Yep, your piano girl is gettin’ all swanky on ya and has finally landed the assistance of an amazing (cute, too!) assistant. Please welcome Cindy to the Kit Holmes Music team! (stop by and say howdy: cmillonzi@kitholmesmusic.com). Cindy is handling the booking and promotion end of things and basically keeping me organized so I can (gasp!) spend more of my time actually writing and recording music!

 

New CD? No Way?!!!  Yes, Waaaaayyyyy…!

 

Speaking of, I’ll be heading into the studio this fall (just a few short weeks away!) with esteemed producer and all-around fantastic musician/songwriter/guitarist/good guy/Austin legend Stephen Doster. And guess what? You get to be a part of making it all happen!

 

We’re taking pre-orders for the CD as well as offering fun and exciting investment opportunities (do I hear “including one-of-a-kind swag”?) to finance and produce the new disc. Please visit the “Go Shopping” page at www.kitholmesmusic.com for more info on how you can get in on this foolproof (I’m totally serious!) investment in a fine new CD (estimated release in November 2009)!!!

 

In the Meantime,

 

Come On Up and See Me Sometime…(Gigs, today, tomorrow...soon...)

 

 

Thursday, August 13th, 2009
Music at the Market - 6 pm
Sound gig - Dustin Welch. Austin TX

501 S. Lamar - Whole Foods Lamar store
Austin, TX

Dustin Welch is the musical artist for this evening. I'll turn and tweak knobs and drive the sound board like a pro...

 

 

Friday, August 14th, 2009
7 p.m.
Coffehouse Concert - San Antonio, TX

8103 Broadway
San Antonio, TX

Price: $ Suggested Love $10

 

Spend this Friday evening with me doing a whole bunch of original songs and a few favorite covers. Expect guest appearances from fellow Light Travelers Dana and Kevin, maybe Chris? (always fun to play with them!). And, as usual, bring cookies! (Coffee provided)...
 

Sunday, August 16th, 2009
9:15  and 11 am
Guest Soloist - New Braunfels, TX
408 Greune Rd
New Braunfels, TX

Price: $ Love

I'm the guest soloist at both services today with guest speaker Victoria Moran

 

Saturday, August 22nd, 2009
7 pm
Private Party - Austin, TX

 

 

Sunday, August 23rd, 2009
Sunday Service - 11 am
Guest Soloist - Austin, TX

4804 Grover Ave
Austin, TX

Price: $ Love

I'm the guest soloist with guest speaker (the newly) Rev. Merry Shaver. Fun will be had...get on the path y'all...

Friday, September 11th, 2009
First Friday w/ George Ensle - 8 pm
Artz Rib House - Austin, TX

2330 S. Lamar Blvd
Austin, TX 78704

I'm playing the "break set" during the George Ensle show. Lip-smackin' good ribs and sides, cold beer, iced tea. Texas-style, y'all. Good music, food and fun. Yuuuummmyy. No Cover, but tips and love are always welcome!

Check out the Calendar page at www.kitholmesmusic.com for future dates...!

 

Or, Let’s Use Your House and Put On a Show…

 

I'm always available (solo or with band), as are The Light Travelers (www.myspace.com/thelighttravelers) for house concerts, private parties, special events, any event!! Have instruments, will travel. Please email Cindy for booking info at cmillonzi@kitholmesmusic.com

 

  

Yes, I'm Still a Sound Geek...

 

As many of you may know, I’m the house sound engineer for the Austin Music Foundation (www.austinmusicfoundation.org) and the Whole Foods Music at the Market Series. I like helping great musical talent tickle your ears.

 

Big news! The newest edition to the KHM tech department is a hefty EV sound system (including a 32 channel Mackie mixing board!). Indoors or out, the big rig is here! Road-tested for the first time on the 4^th of July with The Invincible Czars (www.theinvincibleczars.com) and their rockin’ version of Tchaikovsky’s “1812 Overture” - this system kicks!! Contact us for details if you’re looking for the best live sound you’ve ever had. Promise.

  

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 I could go on, but alas, time to get this newsletter to press. Thank you all for your amazing and constant support. I look forward to seeing you at a show (even if it's not mine...) soon! Live music is art in action. Participate and enjoy!

 

 

Providing low/no cost health insurance and services for working musicians

SIMS Foundation: http://www.simsfoundation.org

Providing low/no cost mental health and addiction recovery services for musicians

 

 Austin Music Foundation: http://www.austinmusicfoundation.org

Providing education programs and mentoring support in all facets of the music business - free of charge - for anyone in music business

 

 

Friend and fellow Light Traveler Chris Pfeiffer (www.chrispfeiffer.org) is the opening act for songwriter extraordinaire Peter Mayer (www.petermayer.net) on Saturday, September 12 at the First Unitarian Universalist Church in San Antonio. Tickets and info: 210-344-4695

 

New Thought performing songwriters Lisa Ferraro and Ericka Luckett bring their "Ruby - Songs Inspired by Rumi" show (from their newest CD of the same name) to The Bugle Boy in La Grange, Texas on Sunday, September 13 at 3 p.m. Tickets and info: www.thebugleboy.com.

 

And please mark your calendars for the "Battle For Lyrical Supremacy - Round II" show with Kit Holmes and Jean Synodinos. Saturday, January 30, 2010 at The Bugle Boy. The first show in July was a knockout!! Don't miss this grudge match!!! www.thebugleboy.com

 

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OTHER SHOWS OF INTEREST:

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Please consider supporting these VERY musician-friendly organizations. They do wonders and awesome amounts fo good for many, for low or no fees.

 

Health Alliance for Austin Musicians http://www.healthallianceforaustinmusicians.org/

Bugle Boy Video

WOW !!! Check out this video of Kit Holmes and Jean Synodinos at the Bugle Boy in La Grange, TX June 22, 2009.
Kit and Jean performed a crowd pleasing show that was funny, inspiring, magical, and completely unscripted and unrehearsed.
Billed as "the battle for lyrical supremacy" Kit and Jean exchanged performances of their orginal songs building on the theme from each. The audience was on their feet! Kit and Jean will be back at the Bugle Boy on January 30th, 2010. The battle continues....you won't want to miss it!

The January issue of Sound Connections was just released and your's truly got her big 'ol CD, "It's a New Day" reviewed!
Thanks to Sue Riley for her very kind and supportive words!

You can check the whole thing out by going to the Press/Reviews page of this site.

Cool!

I'm excited for all the good coming in the New Year!

I gotta say, 2008 has been a pretty interesting ride in my life, here in Austin, in the good 'ol US of A and all over the planet. (You don't need me to re-hash the details, you're all right in the thick of it, too!)

Being forced out of our "comfort zones" wakes us up and shakes us up but ultimately moves us into being more of who we were put on this planet to be.

We really are all connected, gang, and everything we do affects everyone else...(before that one-on-one business meeting, consider a strong mint after coffee...know what I mean?)

Seriously...since I choose to focus on the positive aspects of our connected-ness it is my intention for 2009 to live even more mindfully about how I show up in the world.

I wish you all a year of thinking bigger, of trusting your creativity (yes, I truly believe EVERYONE is creative), finding more ways to be good to each other and being grateful for this good, good life.

Happy New Year!

Happy November all!

It's been an exciting one so far, eh? I'm a firm believer in the "you
get what you give your attention to..." (in fact, I think that's a
line in one of my songs -- wow, what a co-inky-dink!). In other words,
the more you fear, the more you b*tch, the more you gossip, complain,
live from a mindset of lack, etc. the more of it you get in your life.
Cool part is that it also works for love, prosperity, health,
happiness, fulfilling work and the like.

Several weeks ago I gave my attention to reading an article about
this cool musician who's internationally known as one of the most
prolific bass players in the music industry. He's recorded with Marvin
Gaye, Quincy Jones, James Brown, Santana, Cher, Diana Ross, Herbie
Hancock, Pattie Labelle, The Pointer Sisters, and on and on and on.
He lives in Las Vegas and recently became the Music Director at the
Center for Spiritual Living there.

I had already scheduled my trip to Vegas to do a benefit with a good
friend of mine and thought, "Wouldn't it be cool if I could schedule a
gig at the Center as well?" I made a couple of phone calls and sent a
few emails. The Universe cranked into motion and within a few days I
was given the news that while the Center was already booked during the
time of my trip that cool musician I'd read about was going to be the
co-headliner with yours truly (that would be me) for the benefit!
Pretty freekin' amazing!

Well, that cool musician and awesome human being is Eddie Watkins,
Jr., (www.eddiewatkinsjr.com). I must say I was more than honored to
be on the stage with him. The benefit on November 2nd was a smash --
and a blast! Props to Richel Kompst (www.soulsings.com) for making it
all happen and the good folks of Las Vegas for supporting it!

Now, pulling my head out of the clouds has been a challenge since,
but the life and work of a working musician must go on...

So, I went to a songwriter's open mic contest called South Austin
Idle last week and thought, "Wouldn't it be cool if I won?" And, yeah,
baby, I did! So now I've got a paid gig this coming Saturday, November
22 (see below). Don't ya just love how I segue in such a seemingly
effortless way.....Yes, I astound myself sometimes...

November is the month for Gratitude (what with Thanksgiving and all)
and I'm doing my part every day to remember to say, "Life rocks!" I'm
very aware of what's happening with the economy, the environment, and
the fear and ignorance that continue to prompt a lot of people in the
world to do really hateful things to each other. But I choose to give
my attention and gratitude to all the good in the world. And you know
what? There's still a whole lot of it and a lot more on the way.

I am grateful for all of you -- You who buy my CDs and MP3s, you who
hire me to play gigs all over the country and welcome me to stay in
your homes. Thank you to all of you who stay in touch, send
encouraging emails and call me up every now and then to go have lunch
or a beer or a walk on the greenbelt. And thanks to all of you who
continue to tell other people about my music!

Welcome to Autumn! Oh, wait, it's still hot outside. Oh, that's
right, I live in Texas...

Okay, so I haven't upgraded to the fancy schmancy email (HTML format)
I promised you...yet...

But, good 'ol plain text can still get the job done and that, my
friends, is all ya need to get informed on a couple o' upcoming gigs.

Simple is good.

I try remind myself of this as I wrestle my new Windows Vista-based
computer (feel free to share your "thoughts" on this "great"
system...) into cooperating with my old (worked perfectly well with
the old computer, before it made its passing, thank you, very much)
music recording system...

Simply put, I'd love to see you at the shows...may I tempt you with
new songs?

Hey! You can hear me on digital radio now at:
www.onevibrationradio.com...way cool!!!

As always: more shows to come, more news to share.....

Be well. Take a moment today to say "I love you" to someone who
hasn't heard it from you in awhile....I promise it will be an awesome
moment for both of you.

Kit
****************************************
I'll be off to Las Vegas again in just a few weeks - I'll fill you in
on the super-cool awesome gigs happening there...next time around...

Peace.

'Kenzers. Snorking. Missed.

Hard to believe I haven't journaled in more than a year!

I promise that is about to change. Stay TUNED!

Hi all!

Hope today finds you well with great, relaxing weekend in store.

We had some pretty exciting weather adventures here in Central Texas
this week with amazing, powerful and destructive thunderstorms and
funnel clouds.

At around 12:30 a.m. Thursday morning, the intense wind woke me and I
was greeted with a lightning show with colors (like fluorescent green
and purple) like I've never seen in a thunderstorm before. I was kinda
thinkin', "you know this probably isn't a good thing..."

While the part of town I live in was gratefully spared any damage
other places around Austin didn't fare so well. Thankfully no one was
harmed, but lots of windows and trees (and a few cars) lost their
valiant efforts to survive.

I hope the weather wherever you may be is of the gentle, peaceful
Spring variety.

This Sunday morning, I will be giving my first official "talk"
(entitled "Traffic Report") along with playing several of my songs -
at Celebration Circle in San Antonio (see the details below). This is
not a sermon (yikes!) by any means, but more of a companion piece to
the stuff I sing about. I'll share with you later how this all came to
be. Uncanny, some might say, but if you know me, you know I expect
everyday miracles and therefore, quite often get them...

The Light Travelers continue to chart new territory and this past
weekend recorded its first demo (four songs - my newest song "Return
to Love" is one of 'em!) CD. I'll be hanging out with my good buddy
Eric Calistri (who engineered the recordings) this afternoon to work
on edits and mixing. I'll keep you posted on when the final result
will be ready for your listening pleasure. In the meantime, we invite
you to take a peek at the still-under-construction MySpace page
(www.myspace.com/thelighttravelers) and take a look-see at our happy
faces, listen to some tunes, sign up as our friend, etc.

It's official! "It's A New Day", my motown-inspired gospel/feel-good song took 3rd place in the Inspirational Category of the 2007 Austin Songwriter's Group Song Contest!

This song has had a pretty exciting life of its own since I wrote it and released it in January....

What's really cool is that one of my new songs, "Baseball, Fishin', Boats and Beer" also nabbed a finalist award in the General Category.

All the contest finalists and winners were announced Sunday, June 24, 2007 at the ASG monthly meeting at Threadgill's.

Thanks to all the judges!

Got my "street cred" today with the arrival of my official membership card to The Recording Academy. (NARAS - National Academy of Recording Arts and Sciences) ....that would be the folks who bring you the Grammy Awards.

Okay, it's got some ego-tickling value, I admit ('cause you gotta have production/performance/writing credits on a certain number of commercially released projects in order to be a voting member) but it's really another step up for me in my business of music...

...yeah. It rocks...

The gig last night at Whole Foods was fantastic! I hope all of you who attended had as much fun as I did!
The weather was cool, dry and perfect for an evening show.
Thanks to my bandmates Eric, Dewayne and Fito - great guys and great musicians that make show like this such a pleasure...

Hey, if you missed it, stayed tuned...there'll be lots more to come...

Songwriter buddy Joe Strouse informs me that songs from my first CD "All I Know" are currently being played on KMIL radio 1310 AM (Cameron, TX), every Wednesday from 9 - Noon, (Central Time) on "Central Texas Sounds."

Your best bet is to catch it on the internet: www.kmil.com
Thanks Joe, and thanks to Brian Smith (the DJ) at KMIL.

Now that a new album (yes, it's true!!) is finally in the works, the
first one ("All I Know") is finally available on CD Baby, ITunes and
my website...Yippeee!!! Go to www.kitholmesmusic.com... and check it
out. You'll also find some new tunes not available anywhere else.
Just go to the "music" page to listen to samples, then go to the
"buy" page to download.

In addition to all the writing and demo-ing of new songs I've been
doing lately (which is why you haven't heard much from me...) I've
joined a new musical project as keyboardist: The Duane Carter
project. Duane is a trumpet player who writes some fantastic smooth
jazz tunes. It's challenging and fun (and boy, are my jazz chops
getting a workout again!)...I'll keep you posted on those gigs, too.
(www.duanemcarter.com)

For the time being, here are a couple gigs coming up:

Thursday, April 26th, 2007
Cypress Creek Cafe -

www.cypresscreekcafe.com George Ensle & Friends - 9-ish
On the Square
Wimberley, TX
Price: free

I'll be an "and friend" tonight playing a few of my new tunes. George
and his band will play from 8 p.m. 'til around 9 p.m. or so. Check out
www.georgeensle.com while yer at it! It'll be worth your while...

Friday, April 27th, 2007
Unity Church of San Marcos - http://www.unitychurchsanmarcos.org New Thought Music Alliance Conference Concert - 7 p.m.
16870 N. Hwy 123
San Marcos, TX

NTMA conference attendees will be performing in this concert that's
open to the public. From folk to jazz and everything in between, this
should be an eclectic and intimate evening of inspiring music.

Thursday, May 17th, 2007
Whole Foods - Downtown
www.wholefoods.com Concert Series - 6 to 7:30 pm
500 N. Lamar
Austin, TX
Price: Free!

Join me and friends (Eric Calistri on guitar, Dewayne Morris on Bass)
for some springtime grooves (originals and maybe a couple of covers)
and noshing on the creekside patio! This series brought to you by The
Austin Music Foundation (www.austinmusicfoundation.org) and Whole
Foods.

My good guitar buddy Eric Calistri gently nudged me to check out playing in this new jazz project. Trumpeter Duane Carter (www.myspace.com/duanemcarter) writes some great "nu-jazz" (smooth/fusion/funk tunes and along with Dewayne Morris on bass and Fito Khan on percussion we're going to get things rolling for a demo, gigs and album projects.

hip. yep.

As I write this my CD "All I Know" is finally on it's way to CD Baby and will be available (with updated graphics) within the next two weeks. It will also be available through ITunes, Amazon.com and a host of other major distribution points.

As soon as I get the word, I'll put the links on the website so you can purchase it for all those folks you know would love to hear it!

In the meantime, you can still download the album, my meditation track "Bearden Creek" and the newest groove, "It's a New Day"!!! Just go to the "Buy" page. Simple, no?

Yes, it's upon us again. The annual SXSW (that would be South by Southwest) Film, Interactive and Music Festival here in Austin. I give a warm, Texas-size welcome to the tens of thousands (seems more like millions) of musicians, "industry" folks, papparazzi, glitteratti and hairdo/fashion statements who've descended on our fair city.

It's really quite something to experience. You should try it at least once in your life....really.

I witnessed a part of it perched from a tiny stage singing and playing Motown tunes with Austin Hot Trax at the Copa on Congress, as well as from the deep reaches of the Jackalope bar on 6th St. during Austin Music Foundation's party...by the by, when Guy Forsythe has a gig, make sure you catch it...

Finally, the moment you've all been waiting for: my music is now available for download and purchase directly from my website! (See the "buy" page). You can still listen to samples on the "Music" page, and open links to the lyrics. I can now post new material before it ends up on an album (Just check out "It's a New Day!....)

I haven't worked out all the kinks yet, but at least I feel like I've moved into the present technological century. E me and lemme know what you think!

The whole of the RSI (Religious Science Int'l) Minister's Conference this week was amazing. I played for so many amazing folks, sold all the CDs I had and made fantastic new friends from all over the country (and Canada!). Opening for and listening to Dr. Joan Borysenko was just one of the highlights...finding a whole new audience = priceless!

The radio gig today in little 'ol Cameron, Texas was a blast! The time just flew by. Joe, Terri, John and I did alot more talking than playing - we only did one song each during the hour! Terri and I were ready to keep playing all day.... Brad, the DJ, was warm, put everyone at ease and even played one of his original songs (...it was quite good!)... looking forward to more radio in the future...