Thanks for the update!
Man, I've only done a handful of outdoor shows.. I really do NOT like doing them, so, usually turn them down.. For one, its usually 110 degrees here.. two, outdoor sound - unless you have a major PA - isn't top notch.. three, lights usually suck and smoke gets blown away too easily.. I could go on.. That would be extremely difficult to play with the sun in your eyes..
Nothing I hate more than equipment failure.. It absolutely irritates the living crap out of me.. Wonder if the heat or anything had anything to do with the breakdowns? Sometimes that sorta crap, once it starts, just snowballs..
Other than equipment failure, after show injuries are the worst.. believe me, I know.. For years my wife had to help me get out of bed the day after a show.. I've tried to slow down the processes that lead to that, but as I get older, its gets harder and harder.. Yup, sneezing fits kinda suck when you have a neck issue - or a broken rib.. I've had both.. pure hell..
Well, hopefully that isn't your last show with the guys.. If the guys called it quits, would you continue to play? Alone or with other people? I've come to the conclusion that the former band is pretty much now the former band.. As I've said, after 20 years, you should go out with a free all out last bash that is talked about for decades.. apparently, I'm the only guy interested in that.. Sooooooooo..
I've been working on getting a new project going.. I have a singer and a drummer, so just need a bass player that, can, unfortunately sing harmony.. I write tunes with a lot of two part harmony and I doubt I could do it live.. for one, I play too loud to hear what I actually sing (its by design and for the best).. the drummer is super visual - a real Zoltan Chaney/Tommy Lee type drummer... the singer is a long haired dude who kinda claims to be a vampire (I don't know if he's serious) but lives 118 miles away.. Gonna be a bit on an issue practicing.. Haven't figured that one out just yet lol
Friendship is like peeing your pants.. Everybody can see it, but only you can feel the warmth..