People,

So, as you know, FXA has a weekend of big rock shows coming up. Now, not only are these shows in great venues with great bands, but they will also be the first time anyone outside of the band (and the girlfriends of the band, the band's close pals and the residents of the Somerville Rock House) sees the new disc. And I have to admit I'm pretty nervous.

This record has cost us an enormous amount financially, but even more so emotionally, mentally and physically. It is the culmination of almost a year's work and is the result of huge efforts by a LOT of people. I'm pretty sure everyone in the band has cried, cursed, lost faith and been overjoyed by this record at one point or another. It's not unfair to say that these 1000 tangible carboard and plastic things literally define a good part of the recent lives of four people.

You'd think that after working so hard, I'd be dying to get rid of this thing. But ironically, it's hard for me at this point to put the record out. I, and we, have put so much into it that I don't know if I'm ready for the inevitable criticisms and bad reviews that any record will get. With the last record I took all the good and bad opinions in stride, but I'm definitely more invested in this one. I don't want anyone saying anything bad about my baby.

So I guess what I'm saying is...if you insult the record tonight or tomorrow I will kick you squarely in the nuts. Kapiche?