14 days and 14 nights

So, we finally made our way across the pond that is the Atlantic. First stop New York. Upon arrival at the venue we learned that hours earlier the Department of Health had shut the place down due to an excessive amount of fruit flies. Suck on that. The promotor was however nice enough about it and managed to squeeze us onto the bill of a bar across the street. We got to play four songs and everyone was happy. Next day was all about roaming the streets of Manhattan, trying our best to see as much as possible within our tight ass schedule. Later on jumping a train that took us to Asbury Park for our 2nd show. Pontus and Mathias were ecstatic due to being two huge Springsteen fans. Finally got to hang out with Baumer, the band that took us under their warm and fluffy wings. Much love to these four knights in denim armor, lending us their gear, making room for us in their car and making us feel at home. I miss y'all, my brothers from other mothers!




From here on the next couple of days were mainly about driving, making our way down to Colombia – Baumers neck of the woods. Had a few amazing days there, drinking, eating and shooting guns! Being a swede, it's not everyday you get the chance to shoot a Glock 9 mm, so shame on the one who passes on such an opportunity. I've never been more scared in my life, as the moment before letting the first round go off. My only regret is not shooting a revolver, but hopefully I'll have the chance again. Man, I loved shooting that friggin' gun. Tgr Lou proudly laid to rest 250 rounds of ammo and in the process managed to maim or kill at least three hostages and two terrorists. Thank you Colombia Shooter's Gallery for teaching us the Way of the Gun!




Down in Charleston – one of the most beautiful towns I've been to – me and Pontus hopped on the Kiss Kiss School Bus Deluxe. It was a real treat to get to know this lot of great people and great musicians. Also included in the Kiss Kiss funfair were Alex and Kenny from Invisible Children who's organization we were promoting each night – two amazing people working for an amazing cause. Please check their website out.


Austin and it's pride and glory – SXSW – was a real treat. Mainly due to its amazing weather but also because the festival itself being a display of human nature at its strongest and weakest. 1500 bands in 10 days – many of them playing several shows – an endless amount of parties, BBQ's, beers being drunk – putting out the hopes and dreams of many, refueling some – celebrities, wrist bands, iced coffee, walking, walking, walking and standing in line. We played two shows, whom were both great. So come next year, I'll be keeping my fingers crossed we get to return.


All in all, the two weeks we spent driving, stuffing our faces with waffles, pancakes, Doritos, Skittles, Bud Light, orange coffee and the occasional apple, were perfect in ever aspect. The total of paying people at the shows – for the whole tour – fell way short of 100. But Baumer and Kiss Kiss put on amazing shows each night and inspired me in ways I might have forgotten to tell them. So thank you Josh, Kenny, Chad and Nate. Thank you Josh, Mike, Rebecca, Sam and Jared. Thank you Alex and Kenny. And the Thank you to Mike and the Eyeball boys! I hope we'll meet again soon!



And from all of this:



… we came home to this: