artist-eja (asia) band-net

Aloha. Hello. Greetings. Yes, after trawling through numerous applicants, for drums and bass, I have two people left, one in each position. Both are most enthusiastic, and eager to begin working on some songs. You may know these : "Crystal Blue" (which I have re-written), "Lair" (which is now slower and sleazier), and "At The End Of The Rainbow". If bass does not work out, I will do it myself, and may take on keyboards too, then look for a guitarist. So that's Net, for now. I have also co-written a musical, which we were working on since '22. We performed it for the first time today, Friday, 26th April, to a standing ovation. There is now talk of further shows, and maybe, eventually, a tour. It's all about mental health, and is provocative, and passionate. It's 40 minutes long, and there is also talk of a sequel. Back to Net. I have loads of tunes in the bag, including "Wheels", a slice of rap rock, with a warning. Also "The Labourer", a prog rock piece. And "Broken", an alternative rock number. The first two there are fully written, I can't wait to get them to you, online. Again, I hope each and every one of you is keeping well. Thanks for all the plays, it means so much. Back to the musical. As I say, there is serious talk about touring, and we are all saying that we wonder where it will end. Logically, it would begin it's journey here in Ireland, and if successful here, then the sky's the limit. UK and Europe would be next, after that, who knows? Wherever we may go, I will have my guitar with me, to play some Net material. And if Net, as a group, is a going concern, then I'll possibly have the boyz with me. I don't see why not. Right now, obviously, it's in the balance, but stranger things have happened. I am keeping depression at bay, actually more than that, I'm in fine form. If you have this disease, my heart goes out to you. Things can seem downright impossible, I just hope you are surrounded by people that are good for you. We all need this, it's true. I hope for you that light surrounds you, and that good will is ever present in your life. I hope to see you, wherever you are in the world, and that we have enriched and happy times together. For now, I'm reaching out across the miles, in the hope that we will one day meet. Remember, I'm in your corner, and that's not going to stop. Warm Regards, Eja xxx.

Hey! How, how are, how are you, how are you all? I am good, thank the stars, and thank God. Every so often, I choose to listen to specific songs (of mine), and get inspiration from this. Right now, I'm focussing on just two, "Lavender", and "Be My Last". "Lavender" begins with some lovely, heartfelt arpeggio-play, then rocks, then back to arpeggio, then more solid chord play, and on like that. I think it's my best so far. It's a song about courage, a recurring theme of mine. It's also about why we choose to live at all, but in a positive light. "Be My Last" is about emotion in the face of loss (of love), and about hoping that the current love of your life will be your last, ie there will never be another. Band-wise, I'm still grappling with it, and in the back of my mind, I'm seriously contemplating going solo, as I have before. I will use loops, which, in case you may not know, means I can create backing tracks, drums and bass and stuff, and sing and play over them. Yes, I'm finding that trying to assemble an ensemble is abominable! Just really painstaking, you know? Going it alone would mean doing things exactly, and precisely, the way I want to do them. Plus, of course, all revenues amassed would be mine. Also, there would be no clambering for glory, attention, and adulation. I would stand or fall solely on my individual performance(s). And, I have become, little by little, a businessman, ie I know how to deal with venues, and club owners, regarding payment etc. I have put strategies regarding same into action, and I'm pleased to say, they work. If you play, I hope you're getting on well. Have recently been jamming, and talking with, a man named Brush Shiels, a great blues/rock singer/guitarist, who is famous in Ireland, and beyond. For four decades plus, Brush has fronted the original Skid Row, which once had Gary Moore and Phil Lynott as members. I kid you not. Yes, Brush and I played a 45-minute set together, and the man was a total joy to work with. We plan to do more soon. There's a tribute concert coming up, and we'll be meeting there. I am also reaching out to other known players, who are part of an emerging glam/rock scene. We'll see what happens there. Some of them remember me from back in the day, which is nice. It also ups the chances of scoring some support gigs. I seem to be held in a kind of legendary light by some of the younger rockers coming along. I can't help it if I inspire people! No, seriously, it's nice to be remembered. And young musicians now are totally clued-in. Thanks again for all your amazing enthusiasm, you guys rock! Lotsa Love, Regards, Eja xxx.

Hello all. How are you? I am good, and happy to be with you again. I'm currently looking at a few purchases, including a new sound system, which has a record player, a dual cassette deck, and a CD player. Also a new revolutionary guitar, which has an in-built amplifier, and an amazing array of effects. It is also light weight, and therefore easy to carry. And I'm thinking about buying a motorbike, though this will be quite expensive. I have harboured the idea for a long, long time. And a drummer might be about to happen, which would complete the band. As usual, I am writing away big time, but am also looking at some established tunes. Some very good stuff, I must say, which augurs well for the future. Now, a change of subject. For those of you who are feeling down with depression, and are finding it difficult to maintain any kind of hope, take heart. I was once suicidal, and tried it a few times. Suicide seemed the only solution. Let me tell you my theory : depression is a disease, which can spread from person to person. So, when someone says they are depressed, it is a real, tangeable condition, and should be treated as such. It is much worse than broken bones, or bodily malfunction of any kind, and should be taken much more seriously. People like us need to be understood, for some of us are on the edge. Know that I am thinking of you, and saying prayers for you. The fact of the matter is that, like me, you can, and will, survive, and indeed flourish. You may not believe it now, but you can do it. I thought it was impossible, no way was I going to survive. Nobody, and I mean nobody, understood. Before entering hospital, I was truly alone. Some people might think you are making it up, don't pay any heed to them. Believe in people, for most of them are good. Believe in, and love, yourself. You deserve better times. They are headed your way. It's true, the darkest dark comes before the light. Mind yourselves, and may your god go with you. Love, peace, and hugs, Kind Regards, Eja xxx.

Hello everybody. How are you doing? Yes, my writing is undergoing a bit of a metamorphosis, from metal to alternative/modern rock. It still has that 'oomph' though, what you have come to expect. Melodic, with that certain edge. I hope to get some of it up online at some point. You deserve that. I have also got my eye on a new, revolutionary guitar, which is lightweight, but powerful. The amp is built into the instrument, so you can play it anywhere. It also has multiple settings and sounds, and a footswitch to operate all of these. It is also capable of a very big sound, making it perfect for most venues. It has an in-built drummer too, which plays along automatically to your rhythm and tempo. For me, this is perfect, as I sometimes have back pain. Now, I can sell a few of my guitars, and indulge myself a little. After the times I've had recently, I think I deserve it. Just need a drummer, and the band is complete. We'll be a trio, bass, guitar, and drums. Thanks again for your support, really appreciate it. Mind how you go, All The Best, Kind Regards, Eja xxx.

Hello all. How have you been? I am good, and Net rises. Yes, I have bass and drums, to assist in my quest. Knowing you are out there makes it all the more exciting. Like many of you, I am saddened about U2 drummer, Larry Mullen Jnr. People tell me that things are not too hopeful. I can't imagine the rock world without this seminal music act. Fingers crossed, and lots of prayers. In between times, I am making the odd contact here and there, establishing friendships with like-minded individuals. Some people are sincere, some not. At this stage, I can smell a loser a mile away. This is essential, so as to keep the momentum at full throttle. But I believe in people, just the same, most relationships I find educational, and fulfilling. You know, people in general. I hope you feel the same. As usual, I continue to write, I can't imagine doing anything else. One of my latest, called "Be My Last", really is something. It's about hoping that this love will 'be your last'. To my mind, if I had to call it, I would say, guitar-wise, it's a little like Rush. And I am not displeased. It is not a carbon copy of the Canadian power trio, no way. The guys and I have similar tastes, such as Rush, Zeppelin, The Police, Talking Heads etc. But it will be all original music. We don't need covers, at least that's how I feel. One of our aims is to make people dance, you know, get the moves on. Rap is one genre we will employ to do this. "Funky Cold Medina" anyone? Yeah, guitar-based funkadelia! It should be very creative, and a lot of fun(k)! I'm gonna go now, I wish you all the absolute best in all you do, all you make, and all you wish for. Lotsa Love, Kind Regards, Eja xxx.

Hello to all of you. Yes, I'm still struggling with the formation of Net. One good thing is that I continue to write, and rack up more great tunes. This keeps me alive, as I remain convinced of my musical abilities. However, a slight, nagging doubt is at the back of my mind, as I grapple with the ongoing ageism that exists in the rock and roll game. I have the songs, but I no longer have youth. There's a truth I have to face : I get tired more easily, and my weight is a big problem. I have posted multiple emails, but have got almost no replies. Still I carry on, still I believe. And hope. How are you all getting on? I appreciate you reading these letters, it's a great outlet, and is therapeutic for me. I wish you well, in all you are doing. And if you are suffering, know that you are on my mind, always. I count my blessings, that I have come through depression, and live to tell the tale. I'm still looking at putting my works up online, will keep you posted. I will do this music until I fall over, until I stop breathing. That's the deal. I will get Net off the ground, rest assured. This time next year, I intend to have recorded my first proper album, and to have put a tour together. Your continued support and enthusiasm is a shot in the arm, and keeps me going, more than you know. I have started a new job, meaning I have more disposable income, to spend on music. I have also begun giving guitar lessons, which is also a paying endeavour. Happy days. Last Friday week, I made my first stage appearance in years, which went down a storm. People were clapping me on the back, and shaking my hand. As a result, I have been offered solo gigs, and have been invited to parties, on the strength of the performance! Life in the dog yet. I also discovered a new strength, the strength of conversation. In former days, I would have been tongue-tied, but not any more! I really have come on, now they have to shut me up! ha!ha! Just kidding. I am also getting back in touch with old friends and relatives, in a big way. Yes, that is coming together. Still, I remain humble, I realise I have been fortunate, and I want to give back. No caressing of ego, or anything like that. I just bought a beautiful bass guitar, from a small company in the UK. If I don't get a bass player soon, I will do it myself. Enough said. I also, recently, gave a talk on depression, and again, people were coming up to me, saying that they got a lot out of it. My piece, and the conversation afterwards, lasted more than two hours. I didn't think I could do it, so it was a learning curve for me. I seem to be making good friends, which is an honour. I also bought a cool, black, distressed leather 'Brando' jacket, which I'd been meaning to get for a while. And for my brothers (2), I bought two Formula One model race cars, which they will love. I'll sign off now, I wish you good fortune, in life's daily trials, hold your head up, Kind regards, Eja xxx.

Hello y'all, thanks for having me again. Yes, I'm almost back to 100% after my accident, and am on the search for band members once more. I was going to retire, but I just couldn't do it. I mean, all those songs, that really must be heard. And your good selves, supporting me all this time. F that, no way. I have a drummer and bass player lined up, who really, really tick the boxes. And, of course, I have loads of brand new songs too. I apologise for not having more of them up online. I know I promised. It will happen, as long as I am breathing. Rock, funk, metal, progressive, it's all in the can. We should be rehearsing (in Dublin) in the next couple of weeks. I have rescued my releases so far, "Net", a 12-song CD LP, and "Net- A Tale...Of Two Sides", a 6-song, double CD EP. I hope to put them up online, for sale. There are some nuggets in there, these releases will mark the end of phase one of Net. Phase two will feature 3/4 musicians, bass, guitars and drums, and further recording will hopefully occur. That's the plan. New songs include "Fire Water", "Zephyr On The Breeze", "Ode (Nine Times Nine)", "Gentle Force", "Chime Of The Bell", "New Planet Eyes" (a slice of heavy funk), "A Hope In Hell", "Wheels" (a rap anthem), and many, many more. I'll leave it there, and I wish you well, wherever you are. As usual, lotsa love, Regards, Eja. xxx.

Hello all. Yes, as indicated above, changes are afoot. The main thing to point out, is that I am still writing, and then some. No band, as I have pointed out, and now no studio. The latter was costing too much, and they were doing nothing for me, ie promotion, radio, bookings etc. Still, I feel strong, and content with my lot. My injuries are still healing, and I have some new, if I may say so, classic material in the can. Also, I am co-writing a musical, which is a much-welcomed, fresh direction. There are about ten of us involved, with everyone contributing. However, the music side of it is coming mainly from a young lady, a very talented, versatile, and qualified musician, and yours truly. We have two acts completed, and two songs. We are aiming to double this, and that's just for starters! We hope to perform it around Christmas, or early New Year. We also have a jam once a week, where we do a mix of covers and originals. Yes, this is keeping me busy. As far as the whole band situation goes, I 'm a little bit tired of it right now. I thought Net was it, and I thank you all for your encouragement. Sadly, it was not to be. I do plan, however, to put a body of my work online, for you all to enjoy. Some slightly older stuff, right up to the present day. What would have been Net material. Titles including "Zephyr On The Breeze", specially written for the musical, but which I can also use myself, "Be My Last", "Mother Nature", "The Big Wheel", "Lock And Key", "Room Of Silence", "Vacuum Economy", "At The End Of The Rainbow", "New Machine", "Crystal Blue" (new version), "Awakening", "Dogs Of War", New Planet Eyes", a cool funk workout, and lots more. I hope you will all stay with me, you've been really great so far. I am also working on my weight, which has not been great this last while. I'm also letting my hair down, literally! I will post my new image at some stage. I do hope you are all doing well, I think of you often. I'm going to start something new here. Music recommendations. First up, check out, if you will, "Hold Your Fire" by Rush. Let me know what you think. Listen, I'll go, all the best, and mind yourselves. Lotsa Love, yours, Eja xxx.

Hello y'all. Great to be here again. Hope you're in fine form. Hey, where's the time going? Some little snippets of news. I've made some new recordings, which I will soon post up, as usual. Titles include "Mother Nature" and "Be My Last". These are not as heavy as "Awakening" or "Dogs Of War", but they sure do rock. I am still without a band, but I'm enjoying myself nonetheless. I have many more in the pipeline, including "Another Time, Another Place", "Crystal Blue", (which I have re-worked, it's a true anthem now), "New Planet Eyes", a cool funk workout, "The Labourer", a prog rock piece, some 9 minutes long, "Lock And Key", "In The Evening", and "The Big Wheel". Some serious shit, I kid you not. Plus loads of others. Thank you all for your unwavering support, I really appreciate it. I love every last one of you. I continue to write every day, ergo I am not complacent. That's me for now, until next time, may the spirits go with you. Absolute respect, yours, Eja (Asia) xxx

Hello all! How are you doing? I am fine. Still writing and recording. I've just done a song called "Mother Nature", with the producers I've been using all along. As I have no band, my producers, who are also bona fide session men, have stepped up on bass and drums, to great effect. I have more tunes ready to go, including "Show Time", "Cut To The Chase", "Tyme Park", and many more. The fees for recording are reasonable, and the guys are super friendly, and professional. Whatever you're doing, I hope it's going well for you. I salute you, wherever you are in the world, I value your friendship. As you will have heard, we lost one of Ireland's greatest singers, Sinead O'Connor. A big, big loss. A one-off, we'll never see the like of her again. I am still recovering slowly from my injuries, but can play and sing, just about. I guess I'm a solo artist now, and my song writing approach has altered somewhat. Guitar wise, I'm using only a chorus pedal now, for the moment. I have put the heavier sound aside. I'll be posting the new material soon. I hope you will like it. Let me assure you, it still rocks, big time. Despite my physical state, I'm working harder than ever. My plan is for an album, ten or twelve tracks. All three of the aforementioned tunes clock in at seven minutes or more. I'm playing some lead guitar right now, which I'm enjoying immensely. Net is not necessarily over, it's just on the back burner. I'm gonna go now, I wish you all the best of times, be good to yourselves, see you next time. Losta love xxx

Hello. Hello. All well? Hope so. Recording on the 27th. Song-"Mother Nature". Lots more on the way. No band right now, but other stuff happening. A play about mental health, a condition/cause that is close to my heart. Lots of collaboration going on. I miss Rush. Neil (RIP). And Dusty, and Chris. Gotta go. See you next time. Lotsa Love. Eja xxx.

Hello!! I am heartened by all your responses, and your kind words. As you will see, I have posted up some rock and funk, to go with the country rock material. I must also mention "One Of Many Heartaches". I have made a professional recording of the song, but the original, rough version is actually better, something I think some of you have realised. I intend to re-record it, using the original arrangement. You live and learn, I guess. It was my own fault. I have a choice of tunes for follow-up purposes, none of which are on this site, or any other. You will be the first to hear them. No sweat. My new Gibson acoustic is a dream machine, I can't keep my hands off it! It is so resonant, and responsive, I just can't believe it. Yes, I've already written several pieces on it, and the tuning is spot-on. What a shame about Gordon Lightfoot (RIP), I was/am a big fan. The Man will be missed. Just lately I've been getting into Sting, and in particular "Fields Of Gold" and "Fragile". Also, I keep on re-discovering stuff that I wrote aeons ago, some of which, honestly, I can scarcely believe. Just really cool, chord after progressive chord. Recording at my current studio is costly, so I think somewhere new is on the cards. A pity, the guys are so friendly. Before I forget, my NETROCK Follower Of The Fortnight is Melanie, thank you so much Mel, keep in touch. And thanks to you all, you are special too. I am still free of depression, and am free to pursue my passion. If you have the disease, I am thinking of you. Be brave, because I need you. And so does the world. Do you know why you are ill? I'll tell you. It's because you care. This is true, and no one can take that away from you. All that you do comes from a good place, and you are special. Remember that. I love you all, each one of you has a story to tell. So hang tough, y'hear? To finish, my body is still in a state of major disrepair, it's gonna be a while, to say the least, before I'm back to my old self. Still I'm happy in my own skin. Definitely. I wish you well, and the best of things, wherever you are. Talk to you in a fortnight. Love and Peace, Eja xxx.