New Commissioned Art: The Inebriations Bottle Logo

     I was commissioned to design a bottle illustration for a great new band, The Inebriations, to use as a logo. Please check out their music here: https://www.facebook.com/theinebriations or here: http://theinebriations.com/ and here: http://www.reverbnation.com/theinebriations

The Inebriations, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

Tony Moschetto: Profiles from the Quiet-D Illustrations

Tony Moschetto, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

     In his role as "The Tazz" on Quiet Desperation, Tony Moschetto expertly plays a stereotypical high energy,  loudmouth radio disc jockey in need of a tranquilizer. His inclination to inform musicians of their eligibility to win contests, while simultaneously putting them down is matched by his propensity to discuss oral favors, snort adderall and drop the radio station call letters in every other sentence. Tony brings a lot of energy and finesse to the part by way of his fine acting and comedic abilities.

Quiet Desperation Episode 19- "The WBCN Rumble"

Quiet Desperation Act Two- Episode One- "Drawing Up Circles"

     In real life, Tony Moschetto is a very talented stand-up comedian, performing all over. His website, http://site.tonymoschetto.com/ , states " Tony Moschetto is an established stand-up comedian/writer from Salisbury Beach,Massachusetts. Tony's mix of life experience and overall philosophy results in a truly unique, original, offbeat and quirky style of comedy that is getting him noticed from coast to coast. Tony has appeared on Comedy Central's "Stand up Stand-up" as well as "The Really Naked Truth" on the Playboy Channel. Most recently, he wrote and starred in "I Believe In The Bruins", a webisode for Boston.tv. He plays regularly inBoston, New York, Los Angeles and has also performed abroad in London, Shanghai andBeijing."

Tony's stand-up Comedy

Quiet Desperation #3, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

click here to purchase a print of this illustration

Justin Townes Earle: Behind the Illustrations

Justin Townes Earle, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

 
     I was someplace in Providence the first time I heard anyone mention the name Justin Townes Earle. My friend, John McCauley, was talking about him but I don't remember the context or how Justin's name was brought up. "Is he any good?" I asked. "Yah, he's awesome," was the reply. John's opinion on music is one of the few on which I rely and place credence, so I made it a point to give Mr. Earle a listen. I knew he had good musical pedigree, being the son of Steve Earle, and named after Townes Van Zandt. He lived up to it.
     His first two albums, The Good Life and Midnight at the Movies, were excellent, displaying his New Badass Country style with bravado. The more I listened, the more I liked it. So, when I learned that he'd be performing at Hampton Beach, NH in the summer of 2009, I jumped at the chance to see him live. Just before showtime, I was outside smoking a cigarette when Justin came out. I went over and introduced myself and we shook hands. He was very tall and thin, had piercing, steel-blue eyes and a pleasant, gentle way about him. The talk was very brief, though, as everyone was anxious for the concert to begin.

Justin Townes Earle, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

     The only criticism I have about that show is that there were too many headliners performing all at once, and I wish Justin had been given more time. Otherwise, it met my expectations, and I won't hesitate to go see him play again. His latest album, Harlem River Blues, is just as good if not not better than the previous two. As long as he keep all his demons in check, his future is bright.

Read more about Justin Townes Earle here: http://www.justintownesearle.com/

Joe Wong: Profiles from the Quiet-D Illustrations

Joe Wong (detail of Quiet Desperation #3), 2011. By Travis Simpkins

     In his role as an unwilling Asian rapper on Quiet Desperation, Joe Wong was against the idea of being stereotyped. His character was being pressured into singing "Ay yi yi yi yi ay yi yi" over and over again on the only track of the rap group, Tin Tin Buffet, called "Revere Beach." He sees little future in the endeavor and goes off to find other ventures.

Quiet Desperation season one: "Tin Tin Buffet"

     In his real life role as a stand-up comedian, Joe Wong has reached millions of people and made them think about aspects of their nature that often go unobserved. For a full biography, press releases and show dates visit his website: http://www.joewongcomedy.com/. His career really has gone into overdrive after appearances on The Late Show with David Letterman and The Ellen Degeneres Show. He was even asked to perform at the RTCA Correspondents Dinner, where he roasted U.S. Vice President Joe Biden. He has won comedy festivals both locally and Nationally.

The Late Show with David Letterman

The Ellen Degeneres Show

The RTCA Dinner w/ V.P. Joe Biden

Congratulations, Joe Wong, on your continued success.

Quiet Desperation #3, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

click here to purchase a print of this illustration

Prints Are Now Available for Purchase

     By popular demand, 12x16 signed prints of some of my illustrations are now available for purchase. The print(s) will be rolled in mailing tubes and you can pay securely with a credit/debit card via Paypal. They can be had for the low price of $15.00 each (plus shipping). Just click on the "Add to Cart" button under your selection on the side column here ----------->>>---------------------------------------------------------------------------------->>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>>

*** PLEASE NOTE: If you are one of the people depicted in the illustrations, contact me directly to purchase- travisliam@aol.com .***

For the time being, only these illustrations have been made into prints. More to follow. I am open to requests as well.

Quiet Desperation #4, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

Quiet Desperation #3, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

Sophia Cacciola and Michael J. Epstein, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

Golden Bloom, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

Arlo Guthrie, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

Dan Burke, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

The Evolution of Deer Tick In Video

Deer Tick, 2010. By Travis Simpkins

     Many of the musicians I know now, I knew years ago. To think back on their past performances, to trace their development, requires an astute memory. Others, more technologically savvy, have left a video trail to follow. It's interesting and amusing to look at old videos of people you know and see how they've changed, to view their artistic evolution.
     Deer Tick is a fine example. In a relatively short period of time, they went from playing people's apartments to playing Late Night with David Letterman. Still, it's fun to see early camcorder footage of John McCauley compared alongside the more recently filmed performances:

2007

2008

2009

2010

2011

     You sure have come a long way, guys!

Read more: http://www.deertickmusic.com/

John McCauley, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me: Thoughts On The Art of Richard Farina

   
     Richard Farina crammed a lot of accomplishments into his twenty nine years, before dying in a motorcycle crash in 1966, just two days after the publication of his first and only novel, Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me. By the time I picked up the book 35 years later, much of what he did had either become a footnote in the careers of other artists or forgotten altogether. Whenever I cite Been Down So Long... as one of my favorite books, only a handful of people have even heard of it. Perhaps I'm traveling in the wrong circles, but it seems a shame to me that such a great work of literature should go unappreciated. It's so good it could be the crowning achievement in any author's life, but to have it be so good as a breakthrough novel leaves the reader with the ominous feeling of "what could have been." Look it up if you want a complete synopsis. Simply put- There's lots of drugs, lots of sex, art and philosophical, introspective thought.

purchase "Been Down So Long It Looks Like Up To Me" here

     All things considered, Richard Farina probably died a happy man. The publication of the book just prior to his death had been the culmination of years of sporadic work on it. In addition, he also found time to become a successful poet, songwriter and musician. He married twice. Both times to beautiful, famous women in the young Folk Movement- first to Caroline Hester, then to Mimi Baez (Joan Baez's sister). The two albums he released with Mimi on Vanguard Records while he was alive, Celebrations For a Grey Day and Reflections in a Crystal Wind, were successful. He almost singlehandedly elevated playing the dulcimer to a true art. And he penned one of my favorite songs, "Pack Up Your Sorrows."

Here he is playing it with Mimi and Pete Seeger

     Other great songs were on both those albums and are still covered by countless reputable musicians. After he died, there was enough recorded material left for one posthumous album- Memories, and enough written material left for one posthumous book- Long Time Coming and a Long Time Gone. Richard Farina definitely has a strong legacy, I just wish it was a more conspicuous one amongst the younger generation. He surely deserves it. 

Read more about Richard Farina here: http://www.richardandmimi.com/

Tom Dustin: Profiles From the Quiet-D Illustrations

Tom Dustin, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

   
     It must have been 2006, the first time I saw comedian Tom Dustin perform. It was at Jerkus Circus, a variety show put on by my friends- The Steamy Bohemians. Tom was doing his stand-up routine and had the crowd rolling, his great abilities and how he had perfected his art were apparent. For one, he had the unique personality trait of making the audience love him and hate him at the same time. This ability would prove useful a few years later, when he was cast as a slimy, sex-crazed lawyer on the Boston reality sitcom Quiet Desperation. His "anti-everything" rants, love of kickball, and penchant for unprotected sex have become staples on the show. And he is a damn good actor.

Tom is featured prominently in the first episode of the new season:

     According to his website, tomdustin.com , " In his first year doing stand-up, Tom Dustin won the Sam Adams Comedy Contest, beating out more than 50 comics and discovering a taste for Sam Adams. Since then, he’s toured the nation, working alongside some of the nation’s top acts like Nick Dipaolo, Jim Norton, Dave Attell, Doug Stanhope and Jim Breuer. At home, Tom has been a staple at the Boston Comedy Festival and a respected figure in the Boston comedy scene. Onstage, Tom's unmatched likeability allows him to push comedy to its limit without fear. Offstage, he’s a mean, self-hating manic-depressive who unsuccessfully tries to be a good person up to two days per week."

A short bit from Tom's act:

He also made some self-deprecating commercials for Quiet-D:

And another favorite Quiet Desperation episode:

Quiet Desperation #3, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

click here to purchase a print of this illustration

Golden Bloom: Behind the Illustrations

Golden Bloom (Shawn Fogel), 2011. By Travis Simpkins

     I was introduced to the music of Golden Bloom through the generosity of Michael J. Epstein. I had ordered an album from him by his band, The Motion Sick. With it, he thoughtfully included a second disc: a two song split-EP on which The Motion Sick covered Golden Bloom's "Doomsday Devices" and Golden Bloom reciprocated by covering The Motion Sick's "Thirty Lives." I had heard "30 Lives" before and was a fan of the song, so I was curious to hear what an objective, fresh take on the song would sound like. I was very pleased with what I heard. I got Golden Bloom's first album, Fan the Flames. Reading the liner notes was interesting... one line read, "All vocals and instruments played by Shawn Fogel." So there it was, Golden Bloom was a moniker, impressive considering the depth and virtuosity of the music.

     After listening to his album several times, I wanted to hear more, but couldn't find anything else available. Around that time I saw a post made by Shawn, looking for contributions so that he might make a music video for a song off his forthcoming EP, March to the Drums. I proudly support artists I believe in, and hence made a contribution to his cause. 

     Here's the music video he made:   

Golden Bloom- "Rhyme the Reason"

     I later made this illustration and Shawn commented, "Travis Simpkins took me by the hand and led me into Aha's 'Take On Me' music video, and I loved every minute of it."

Golden Bloom (Shawn Fogel), 2011. By Travis Simpkins

Read more about Golden Bloom here: http://www.goldenbloom.net/

Golden Bloom- "Doomsday Devices"

Never Underestimate the Charm of an Alien Named "Paul"

   
     Two weeks ago, my father was visiting from Arizona. On his last night here, we were looking for a movie to watch that everyone present would enjoy. My Dad's taste in movies tends to steer toward action/ war films... with any comedic elements kept to a minimum. So I was hesitant when my fiancee, Janet, suggested Paul (2011): a semi-animated Sci-Fi film about two geeks that, while on a road trip to UFO hot spots, encounter a foul-mouthed alien named "Paul," who desperately needs to return to his home planet. The animation is amazing in it and Janet was excited having just met one of the head artists responsible for the art and animation in the film. I had seen it in the theater and loved it, but I wasn't so sure my dad would feel the same. I crossed my fingers as Janet popped it in and hit play.
    My reluctant feelings proved to be unfounded, though, as I watched my father's reactions. I think the film won him over when they mentioned his small town of Camp Verde, AZ in the beginning. Then, Paul's cracks about religion were the icing on the cake, so to speak. I've never seen my father laugh so hard or so often. Much to my surprise, he even made note of the title and said he planned to purchase a copy for himself.
     So, I'm sorry to say, I underestimated Paul's appeal. I won't make that mistake again. Paul is a thoroughly likable film and is beginning to earn a high spot in my list of recommendations. At this point, I imagine the majority of people have already seen it. But if not, give it a chance. You'd be hard pressed to find a viewer who doesn't fall for the charm of this affable alien, and the two geeks that help him get home:

"Paul" Movie Trailer

Visit the official site for Paul here: http://www.whatispaul.com/

This Holiday Season , Give the Gift of Art

     On this Black Friday, shun commercialism and ordinary blandness by purchasing from independent, owner operated businesses.

     I have some open time for portrait commissions, if you let me know soon. Please email me ASAP, so that I am able to complete your order in time for the Holiday. Original art makes a wonderful, unique, personal gift. One that will become an instant heirloom.
 
For prices and inquiries, Email me at: travisliam@aol.com
Please include a reference photo.

View examples of my work here: http://www.flickr.com/photos/tsimpkins/sets/72157628040632424/

Sarah Lee Guthrie. By Travis Simpkins

Dan Burke. By Travis Simpkins

Shawn Fogel. By Travis Simpkins

Justin Townes Earle. By Travis Simpkins

46 Years Ago On Thanksgiving...

     It was 46 Thanksgivings ago... 46 years ago on Thanksgiving, that Arlo Guthrie, made his ill-advised decision to discard the garbage that his friends had accumulated on the side of a road in Stockbridge, Massachusetts. Most of us know how the story goes after that. If not, hear it told by the man himself:

Arlo Guthrie- "Alice's Restaurant Massacree"

     I'm sure Arlo was thankful for the supportive friends he had around him at that time. Just as I'm thankful for the support given to me by my friends, family, colleagues and clients on a regular basis. 

     The Guthrie Center in Great Barrington, MA is having a Thanksgiving meal for people in the area. Started by Arlo Guthrie, in honor of his parents the late Woody and Marjorie Guthrie, it is a great organization offering all kinds of services to the community.

For more info on The Guthrie Center, go here: http://guthriecenter.org/ 

Here's giving thanks to Arlo for writing that wonderful song, Alice's Restaurant, inspiring people and serving the community:

Arlo Guthrie, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

A New Illustration for Quiet Desperation: Season Two

     After months of waiting, Quiet Desperation has returned with the first new episode since it was removed from network TV earlier this year over censorship disputes (to fully understand what was going on with the TV  station's politics and why the decision was made to pull the show, read the Quiet-D press release).
     Moving forward, show creator Rob Potylo has been busy compiling and editing material for a new set of shows, and getting ready to return the show to TV on a bigger Network. The first installment was unveiled on Monday November 21, 2011. It has Rob as the central character once again, trying to stay afloat and survive in Boston's tough music scene. As was before, many Boston area comedians, actors and musicians comprise the supporting cast.
     I truly believe Quiet-D is an important showcase for the diverse talent that resides in the area and deserves to be enjoyed, commended and appreciated. It really is a needed kick in the pants to the Arts scene as a whole.
     In celebration of Quiet-D rising again like a phoenix, I show here a new illustration I did of cast members: Rob Potylo, Joe Wong, Tony Moschetto, Chris Fleming, Frank O'Neill, Tom Dustin, Marnie Hall, Kevin Harrington, Nick D'Amico, Niki Luparelli and Chris Coxen.

Quiet Desperation #3, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

click here to purchase a print of this illustration

     And here, enjoy Rob and crew in the long-awaited first episode of the second season of Quiet Desperation: "Drawing Up Circles":

Read everything else about Quiet Desperation, and watch other episodes here: http://quietd.com/

Dan Burke: Behind the Illustrations

     The name of it eludes me, but in 2006 - 2007, Ralph's Diner in Worcester, MA had a semi-regular Wednesday night event featuring local songwriters. It was at one such event that I first encountered Dan Burke. My friend Dickie made the introduction, then later put on a song from Dan's band's CD. The song was "Someone Who Loves You," which had won a contest and brought Dan to London to record it. The album was Restless or Sleeping by (as they were then called) Walter the Orange Ocean. I was impressed.
    I was also impressed by Dan as a person. He was thoroughly likable and had a good story. He had studied at the Berklee College of Music, married his high school sweetheart and he was completely content to live in what most considered a bad part of the City. And now, as I think back, I can't recall ever seeing him in a bad mood.
     Around that time he deservedly won Best Singer/Songwriter in the local music awards, and began playing around the City more frequently. I saw him play numerous times, all great shows. One that particularly stood out was their CD release party in which  Elizabeth and the Catapult was the opening act.

Dan Burke, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

     In 2008, his band, which had dropped the "Walter" and was now simply The Orange Ocean, released their sophomore album, Caught in the Air. They had won a Battle of the Bands contest in Boston, and one of the prizes was recording studio time. It had more of an R&B sound than their first... Different, but equally as good. The title track is my personal favorite. He began playing less with the Orange Ocean and teamed up with one of my best friends, Niki Luparelli, playing lounge songs and old standards as a duet. Their voices and styles were perfect compliments to one another. Other musicians joined them and they formed Niki Luparelli and the Gold Diggers. Keeping busy, another project, Gamble & Burke was formed with acclaim. Gamble & Burke contributed songs to a locally made feature film, gaining a wide audience for their soulful, experimental sound.

     Dan is an extremely talented, hard working, driven musician and he deserves every bit of recognition his talent rightfully receives. He's a good friend and a hell of a nice guy.

Read more here: https://www.facebook.com/GambleBurke

Leave Her To Heaven (1945): The Book, the Film and the Lovely Gene Tierney

     Having seen the film version of Leave Her to Heaven (1945) a long time ago, I was already familiar with some of the characters and the basic plot. However, enough time had elapsed since that I had forgotten a lot of it, so I had a semi-clean slate. The only thing that really stuck out in my memory was the fact that I was mesmerized by Gene Tierney, the beautiful actress who played "Ellen", one of the main characters. So, I brought that one little visual association and envisioned Ms. Tierney when, a few weeks ago, I decided to read the novel of the same name by Ben Ames Williams, upon which the film was based. As is the case, more often than not, the book was superior to the film (I re-watched the film afterward to fairly verify my opinion). The stories are more or less the same, but the book (obviously) gives greater insight into the characters. The major shortfall of the film is that Cornel Wilde, who plays Richard Harland, was so damn stiff as an actor. Tierney's wonderful visage, however, makes up for the minor faults the movie may have.

Gene Tierney

      The story centers on Richard Harland- a novelist, who, leaving his invalid teenage brother to recuperate at a hospital, boards a train to New Mexico on a much needed vacation. On board, he meets young Ellen Berent, who's unrivaled beauty leaves Harland to think about little else. Turns out they are both headed to the same NM ranch and, despite Ellen already being engaged to another man, they wed two weeks later. Harland soon learns that the enormity of Ellen's beauty is only equaled by her psychotically possessive personality. Quite simply- she wants Harland for herself and ONLY herself, and will do whatever necessary to get rid of any other person who makes the tiniest bid for some of his attention. This includes his young invalid brother. You might vaguely guess where the story goes from here... there are some twists and surprises, though.
     Consider reading the novel, Leave Her To Heaven. It's certainly not the best book ever written, but it's worthwhile. Then watch Leave Her To Heaven the 1945 film, if for no other reason than to marvel at the cute bundle of loveliness that was Gene Tierney.

Leave Her To Heaven (1945) Trailer

Read more about Gene Tierney here: http://www.cmgww.com/stars/tierney/

Friday Nights Are Decidedly Grimm

 
     I don't watch a whole lot of TV. Mostly because of the psychological commitment and time investment I need to devote to a series. In order to fully appreciate and understand a new series, I need to start watching at episode one. I have a hard time just jumping in on the fifth installment.
     Last month I saw an advertisement in Rolling Stone for a new series called "Grimm," Friday nights at 9pm on NBC. The small cottage and the strange clawed figure presiding over it caught my eye. I've long been fascinated by mythology and fairy tales. I showed the ad to Janet, and her interest was piqued as well. We agreed to give it a try and were not disappointed. Each episode is a detective story sprinkled with elements and references to the tales of Jacob and Wilhelm Grimm. It's an original, clever idea and premise to mix those two genres. Plus, from an artistic standpoint, they put a lot of thought into the look of the show. Lot's of bold colors. I won't spoil any of the plots here with detailed description. Check out the show for yourself. It's well worth it.

Read more here: http://www.nbc.com/grimm/

On Censorship...

     The first amendment is something that I truly cherish. I'm against censorship in any form. I don't like the idea of someone else deciding whether or not I'll be offended by one thing or another. Let individuals be the judge.
Here, my friend Rob Potylo, explains it with much more flare and eloquence than I ever could. Watch, listen and learn:

Visit http://robpotylo.com/ and http://quietd.com/

Jim Mueller: The Man Who Taught Me How To Draw

     "Don't get discouraged," he said. "You're very good at what you do, so you'll always run into jealous people that are determined to convince you otherwise." The man who spoke those words to me was Jim Mueller. The place was Camp Verde, Arizona. The year was 1998. 

     At that time, Jim had retired from his long, successful career as a Photorealist artist. Long gone were the days of commissions to paint a U.S. President (Richard Nixon) and movie stars, and big gallery shows. He had settled into a peaceful existence, content to fill his life with routine exercises. He expounded his exploits to me on multiple phone calls, face to face time, and jeep rides out to the middle of the desert. Speaking of his brief stint of teaching he said, "Those kids burned me out. They just didn't get it. But you... You I can show a few things." I was pleased that he had faith in me, and I gladly sponged up any information he saw fit to offer. In the end, I opted for a more restrained, relaxed approach to illustration, a sketchy black and white style, rather than the strict constraints of Photorealism. But I'll never forget and am eternally grateful for the valuable things Jim taught me. Rather than go into detailed lessons, I'll let the man's work speak for itself. Believe it or not, these are all pastel drawings:

Will Samson. By James Mueller

Main Street- Camp Verde, AZ. By James Mueller

By James Mueller

By James Mueller

Dunes. By James Mueller

By James Mueller

By James Mueller

Sarah Lee Guthrie and Johnny Irion: Behind the Illustrations

     I guess it must have been ten or eleven years ago, the first time I saw Sarah Lee Guthrie and her husband, Johnny Irion, perform. They were newly-weds and playing alongside Sarah's Dad, Arlo Guthrie. They seemed slightly nervous, and it was obvious that Sarah Lee was fairly new to performing in front of a crowd, but they had an undeniable, charming chemistry together.  They had both recorded separate solo albums, which were respectable, enjoyable efforts on both accounts. However, when they played as a duet, as a team, there was a certain modicum of magic to the music... an ethereal balance.
     Sarah Lee, being the daughter of Arlo and granddaughter of Woody Guthrie had tough shoes to fill from the start. Some second or third generation musicians can be too easily dismissed without a proper chance. But with Sarah Lee, that isn't the case. It's impossible to dislike her. She plays with a sensitive truth and directness that pulls the listener in, soothes them, and leaves them feeling like they've rediscovered an old friend. Plus, she's breathtakingly beautiful, with warm, glowing eyes and a smile that is contagious. Johnny is the ultra-talented cool guy, expert guitar picker, that never seems bothered by anything, but always understands the truth of the matter and lays it out in eloquent terms. Their talents and virtues are perfect compliments to one another. So ten years later, after meeting them both a few times, I decided to try to capture some of their respective aesthetic qualities and personality traits in an illustration:

Sarah Lee Guthrie and Johnny Irion, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

     I was pleased with the result, and afterward Johnny sent me a message saying he and Sarah Lee were very happy with the illustration as well. My only regret is that, at that point they had become parents, which was a huge part of their personas, lives and art. I think I could have included some aspect of their parenthood in order to make it a more true representation. Perhaps I'll do so in a second piece.

     Anyhow, after the two solo albums, they released three albums together- Exploration (2008), Folk Song (2009), and Bright Examples (2011) - all of them wonderful and expertly produced. Johnny also released another solo album, Ex Tempore, in 2007 that showcased his great songwriting skills. They've toured widely and are widely appreciated.

     What I admire most about Sarah Lee and Johnny, and all of the Guthries for that matter, is their sense of tradition, their genuine caring for one another. Arlo was supposed to play a show at the Guthrie Center one night, but had fallen and gotten hurt earlier that day, and was unable to perform. I expected them to apologize and send everyone packing. Rather than cancel the show, however, not only Sarah Lee and Johnny, but Arlo's other kids and grand kids as well, stepped up on virtually no notice to play a stellar show in his place. It was delightful and inspiring. My mother and Janet, my fiancee, were there with me that night. I'm glad we were all able to share that experience together.

Read more about Sarah Lee Guthrie and Johnny Irion here: http://sarahleeandjohnny.com/ 

The "Quiet Desperation" Episodes Everyone Should Watch

     With Rob working on editing material for a second season of Quiet-D (hopefully coming soon), I decided to look back and list my favorite episodes from the first season. Go to http://quietd.com/ for more information about the show and a complete episode guide. All 25 episodes are good and have their own merits, but in my opinion, these ones stand out with particular gusto:

Episode # 12- "Annual Drugs Party." This is Mehran and Tom Dustin at their best. The exchange that begins with Tom saying, "I can tell you a little something about this guy here..." is classic.

Episode # 13- "The Comedy Studio." More tense moments with Tom and Mehran. Also of note is Rob's tactile way of explaining the realities of being an artist in Boston to a student writing an article for his high school newspaper.

Episode # 16- "A Line of Traffic." My all time favorite. Kevin and Marnie are two of my favorite characters. Chris Fleming executes some interesting dance moves. Aaron the King Wizard explores his duties in his new occupation as Robby's bodyguard.

Episode # 18- "The Baseball Card Show." The episode in which I first spotted Michael J. Epstein. Chance Langton is great as Steve "The Sniper" Foley, a retired pitcher known for his joyous tendency to hit other players in the head. His explanation for doing so is simple and elegant... "Because I'm a goon." Plus, we discover that Jolly Ranchers make excellent slingshot projectiles.

Episode # 19- "The WBCN Rumble." Mike Epstein and his wife, Sophia Cacciola can be seen here as well. Chippah gets kicked off the Noiseboard and starts his own "New Supa Dupa Noiseboard." Others are notified that they've been entered in the Rumble.

Episode # 22- "NERO." Role playing games in the woods. Doesn't get funnier than that.

Michael J. Epstein and Sophia Cacciola: Behind the Illustrations

     Watching the Baseball Card Show episode of Quiet Desperation, my aesthetic interest was piqued. "Who is that guy bearing such a strong resemblance to Groucho Marx?" I wondered. Is he an actor? A comedian? I wasn't sure. I was certain, however, that I wanted to include his intriguing countenance in my second Quiet-D illustration. I learned through the Quiet-D page that his name was Michael J. Epstein, that he was in several bands, and that he had the enthusiastic propensity to "like" and comment on every facebook post ever made.

     Here he is in all his mustached glory (top center):

Quiet Desperation #2- By Travis Simpkins

    In checking out his music, the first Michael J. Epstein song I heard was "Satellite" by his band The Motion Sick. I liked it right away. The songs were catchy and had very intelligent lyrics. Around that time he was starting a new two person band with his lovely wife, Sophia Cacciola, called Do Not Forsake Me Oh My Darling. A concept project, DNFMOMD was based on a '60s television show, The Prisoner. It was a quite clever idea, and they stretched the influence further by making their first music video a shot for shot recreation of the show's opening sequence. I knew then that I wanted to create some artwork based on this dynamic couple. I asked them for and was given permission to do so (although nearly a year elapsed before I actually made the illustration). We corresponded a bit back and forth. Meanwhile, just reading their facebook posts I got a sense of how creative, witty, entertaining and wonderfully weird Mike and Sophia were. They were quite unselfish too, which I admired, never hesitating to help other artists with the execution or promotion of their respective endeavors. I felt they were two of the closest friends I had never met in person. Along with DNFMOMD, they formed two new musical groups together- The Michael J. Epstein Memorial Library and Space Balloons. I used that as inspiration for a theme and produced the illustration featuring the three groups they were in together:

Sophia Cacciola and Michael J. Epstein, 2011. By Travis Simpkins

Click here to purchase a print of this illustration

Read about Mike and Sophia's exploits, hijinks and adventures here: http://blog.michaeljepstein.com/ or here: http://michaeljepstein.com/