New Music (Free mp3 Download) - "Neda's Calling"

I've been riveted by the news and happenings in Iran over the past couple weeks, and feeling moved by the passion of the citizens of that country. Most of you by now know the name Neda. Neda Agha-Soltan was the 26 yr. old Iranian woman who was out on the street with her music teacher when a sniper shot her in the chest. She lost her life in the street, and over and over and over again on video on the internet and news programs.

I didn't use the word "die" on purpose because she is alive in so many people's hearts now, and has been an inspiration to many...giving courage to those who continue to fight for their freedom in the streets of Iran.

Watching her pass before my very eyes for something she so strongly believed in, and being so willing to put herself in harm's way was moving beyond words.

I composed a new piece of music for her. This is the demo version that I just finished writing, recording and mixing in my studio a few minutes ago. It's a free download. Please feel free to download it, share it, remix it, etc.

Neda's Calling (<- "save as" Free download)



Info:
In the beginning of the track, you'll hear audio from the video that was aired around the world. WARNING - the video extremely graphic:
YouTube Video

At 1:21 you'll hear a woman yelling at the police (military?) who are beating innocent people walking the sidewalk. She's yelling to them to beat her instead. Audio is from this video:
YouTube Video

Her translation from the youtube page:
"Hit me. Not hitting me now that Im filming?
Come on hit me. Hit me once. Weren't you just hitting me before?
How many people have you hit?
Hit. Hit him.
Yes, yes you must hit them."

They Say They Want a Revolution

Godspeed citizens of Iran.

Eric's Guitar Shop

Being a pianist/keyboardist, what do I know about guitars? Not much. But I do know a bit more today than I did a couple days ago. I always wanted to learn to play the guitar, so I bought a brand new black Gibson Melody maker guitar last summer. Why this guitar? Well, it looked cool, it's not real common, it was black, and the price was right. All systems go!

Sittin' like a proud papa

When you bring home a brand new piano, you need to have someone "tweak it out" and make adjustments because it's made of wood, strings and things that stretch and settle over time. I had no idea the same goes for a guitar, even though it's obviously made of wood and strings and things that stretch and settle over time. Ok, I just had my "duh!" moment.

So my my buddy Dean Cortez, who's also a kick-ass bassist, told me "Call Eric, he's a mo-fo and he'll hook you up. He does all my basses now."

I just picked up my guitar from Eric's Guitar Shop. Brent and Eric did their magic to my axe and man this thing feels good! I really liked this guitar before, but now I love it! Thanks guys!

Testing it out in the shop

Brent and me


Me & Eric - Hey, this Gretsch matches my shirt.
Can I take it home?


Eric and Brent...


...are busy dudes!

That time of the month? MEOW! HISS! My email to Senator Boxer

Dear Senator Boxer,
I was shocked to see your public display of total disrespect to Brig. Gen. Michael Walsh yesterday. As you know by now after being bombarded with letters from other embarrassed Californians, it is military protocol to address you in this manner.

You may be a senator, and "worked hard" for your title, but this man from whom you "asked a favor" in such a rude manner risked his life for you and our country. Your need to be addressed by your title over the consideration of who you were speaking to came off as elitist.

Please keep in mind the next time you consider taking this tone with someone that has served our country as he did, that you are not royalty, you are a public servant.

With respect,
Armen Chakmakian

Russell Martin Hits Home Run with One Drop Foundation

Russell Martin (L.A Dodgers) pledges $600k over next 10 yrs to Guy Laliberté's (Cirque du Soleil founder) One Drop Foundation! onedrop.org

Bathroom Humor

Soap dispenser in bathroom, Little Tokyo Los Angeles.

Double Take

Was Ricky Ricard's full name in the show Ricardo Ricardo?

Too Close for Comfort? Close-up Videos of Cirque du Soleil

ONE MAN, 4 KEYBOARDS, 11 PEDALS, A PIRATE COSTUME, LOTS OF MAKE UP, A ROCKIN' BAND AND CIRCUS FREAKS ALL AROUND. WHAT COULD BE MORE FUN?!?!

Have you ever wondered what it would be like to float over the head of a Cirque du Soleil band member, listen in on his in-ear monitor mix, and see the show from a whole new angle? Neither have I. But I posted these videos anyway that were taken almost exactly 2 years ago today - December 9, 2006 in Rio de Janeiro. Back then, Saltimbanco was touring in the "big top" instead of the current arena-tour format.

In Saltimbanco, the band is on stage with the acrobats and performers and part of the show. There are all kinds of antics and stunts going on around us. Sometimes you'll catch a glimpse of a performer, or a shadow. You'll see me at times looking out at the stage, checking out what's going on so I can figure out if we'll be switching to a new section of music. You'll hear our band leader give us a head's up or count us in to a new section several times. Enjoy!

For high quality, watch the videos at http://youtube.com/armenc

Barock (Russian Swing)


Pocoleta (Band and "The Dreamer" [character] warm up audience for Act II)