One of the funny things about tour a long way from home is that by the time the jetlag eases and I'm sleeping ok, and the upheaval of emotion that always seems to come with the start of a tour has settled down, it's almost over, and then I have to reset all over again back at home. Back when I was touring a ton for short stretches so that I wouldn't be away from my daughter for too long, it was a real strange rhythm.

Anyway, today feels like that axis day that the rest of tour revolves around. I feel well-rested, with many fun memories from the shows that have happened, and excitement about the last handful. I'm happy balance day arrived in Edinburgh, at Bannerman's, which is one of my favorite tour homes ever. The bandflat above the venue is something I wish every place had. Christian, who runs the place with my perfect combo of simple kindness and efficiency, made some perfectly-spiced curry for me to heat and eat. So here I am, plopped down on the couch, thinking thankful thoughts. Not just for this place, but for all the venues and promoters on this tour (and ever, but especially this kinda-post-pandemic run). The 229, The Hope & Ruin, 2000 Trees (the fest equivalent of an indie venue basically), Cobblestones, The Victoria, Gulliver's, The Tunnels, Broadcast (really hoping they sort out their struggles), The Parish, Running Horse Live... and also to Liam Echelon, who put the adventure together.

I've never been a big money-maker, so I just do my best not to lose anyone too much money, and to give it my all whenever I'm given the chance. However the shows go based on whatever's going on, many of these places keep having me back, and I'll never take it for granted. As we all likely know, small venues like this have had it about as tough as the musicians who play in them. I've been watching the indie live music infrastructure get eaten by any number of forces (gentrification, wealth consolidation, cultural shifts), and to be real, I'm happy any of it still exists. Oh, and I've played two birthdays on this tour, too, so big love to people who have me in their lives that way. Whether venue, home, or other, say hi anytime at jonahmatranga.com/soon to help somethin happen.

I know it's still scary going out and getting together right now, and just kinda scary all around. Thanks for taking a chance with me, and keeping me and these places going. Dreaming of going through lots more with you, in whatever ways we want to.