A few years ago I met Joe West at the Continental Club - he and his friend were there to see John D. Graham and they were both intelligent, fun guys. I hung out with them a few times and was always impressed with their wit and perspective on life. Joe writes music and performs with his band which used to be Joe West and the Sinners when he lived here in Austin- unfortunately I only got to see Joe perform once - but his songs were fresh and wise and innocent and decadent all at the same time - I remember really liking a song about a big yellow tractor that he wrote for his nephew I think - but you could take the innocent words to a whole other adult level - cleaver. So Joe moved to New Mexico and he makes it back to Austin occassionally to play a few gigs. I got this Promo CD in the mail and I tell you - I just love it! It is sweet in that wonderful childlike way that reminds us of what is good and humble and quirky about life. Mike the Can Man is a real live person - Mike Burney - who shows us that life is what you make of it - not the limits you impose on yourself. Here is this refreshing character whose voice reminds me of Andy Kaufman - talking about his life - in these lovely melodies created by Joe. If only all the world was so simple and innocent - what a beautiful place it could be....
Mike the Can Man collects cans, copper or car batteries - if you have some business for him (Santa Fe NW) then write him at mikethecanman@hotmail.com Also on the CD is Dere Zelenka, Jennifer West, Kevin Zoornig, Paul Greetziner, and Ben Wright. Tara Gibbons took the photo for the CD cover.