Criminally talented violinist, whistler, crooner and Squirrel Nut Zipper Andrew 'The Bird' Bird, as you well know, is one of the finest musicians to grace the world - possibly the universe. We all went cuckoo over his sixth full-length albumen, the wondrous Mysterious Production of Eggs [TMT Review], but now he's announced an abrupt change of direction, eschewing attempts to rule the roost of wistful, acoustic, jazzy musings.
Bird has opened an owl sanctuary to combat the so-called 'surname surlies' who have mercilessly subjected him to years of senseless abuse, based merely on his aviary-inspired moniker. This month, he embarks on a tour of the West Coast (with the San Fran date already sold out) to give a series of speeches and lectures marking the inauguration of the sanctuary.
In addition, Bird will be releasing an album early next year, showcasing the whistles and coos of his namesakes in the sanctuary. The album will be known as Armchair Apocrypha, due to Bird's penchant for sitting up at night in the sanctuary, keeping the owls company.
We at TMT would urge you to attend these essential meetings if at all possible. It is one of the most heart-rending and touching sights in the independent American music scene to see an artist so selflessly reach out to our buddies in the sky.
09.16.2006 - Denver, CO - Bluebird Theater*
09.17.2006 - Salt Lake City, UT - In the Venue (Club Sound)*
09.19.2006 - Tucson, AZ - Rialto Theater*
09.20.2006 - San Diego, CA - Belly Up Tavern*
09.21.2006 - Los Angeles, CA - Henry Fonda Theatre*
09.22.2006 - San Francisco, CA - Great American Music Hall*
09.26.2006 - Eugene, OR - Wow Hall Community Center*
09.27.2006 - Portland, OR - Aladdin Theater*
09.28.2006 - Seattle, WA - Chop Suey*
09.29.2006 - Vancouver, BC - Media Club*
09.30.2006 - Bellingham, WA - The Nightlight*
* Accompanied by Dosh, supported by Cass McCombs
