Earl's Mailbox.

I tell ya, people are always asking me questions. It's cool though, I appreciate it. And I try and give an honest answer.

I've compiled lots o' questions from lots o' people throughout the years. Fly fishing questions, music questions, food questions, questions about this and questions about that. People that come into whichever shop I'm working at ask questions. People on the facebook asking me questions. People emailing me about one of my blog entries--asking questions. So I've decided to post some of these questions, along with my answers. As a general rule, I prefer to avoid too much seriousness in my writing by getting intoxicated.

So, I got me a day off today and have been drinking since 11am and listening to 80s metal. So here goes Earl's Mailbox.

(Please note that in order to protect people's identities, I've adjusted the questions appropriately.)

Q: If you're so damn all-knowing and particular about music, why do you listen to metal?

Earl: First off, it's 80s metal--not just metal. There's a big difference, which if you knew anything about metal, you would refrain from asking such a ridiculous question. Current metal lacks bandannas, spandex, partying all day, denim & leather, chicks, pyrotechnics, surprised guitar-solo faces, screams, kicks, songs about partying all day, fun drugs, triple-neck guitars, jumps, makeup, and partying.

So the reason that I listen to 80s metal is pretty self-explanatory...


Q: You say you like Scotch, what's your favorite?

Earl: I like the Johnny Walker Red. "Red??" you might ask? Yes, Red. It's only $30-$35 a jug--yes a jug (1.75ml), not a 5th (750ml)--and if you were to do the Pepsi Challenge with Red and Black, good chance you'd choose the Red. I'm not saying I don't like the Black, just can't justify paying the extra cash. More JWR for less money vs. less JWB for more money equals a no-brainer. If I've got a $60 bill in my pocket though, I may just buy me a bottle of Green Label. Mmmmm.

I tell ya, I've had some single malts that have blown me away. Sad thing is: can't remember the names of them and I'm sure I can't afford them. I do appreciate them, though.


Q: What's the difference between these pants and these?

Earl: Well, these are green and denim. And these are poly and tan. Both make you look fat and stupid.


Q: Are you ever going to move back to Missouri?

Earl: Hell, I don't know. Once I win the Mega-Millions I wouldn't mind buying a lake house there. But as far as an everyday lifestyle, I'm a bit reluctant. Creepy religion, humidity, bugs, not many trout, and the lack of good beer is definitely against MO.

On the other hand--my friends, family, great BBQ, the best Pad Thai, the Cardinals, Chiefs tailgating, Mexican Villa, and enormous lakes present a pretty good argument.


Q: What was your first live concert?

Earl: Kenny Loggins at Swiss Villa Amphitheater in Lampe, MO. That was with my best friend and his parents, though. First parent-free concert was Night Ranger with Great White opening.


Q: What was your favorite concert?

Earl: Wow, that's a great question. There are different answers based on different times and circumstances.

I've seen the Ramones several times, but the best was at Mississippi Nights, a small club that used to be on the Landing in St. Louis. Johnny Ramone spit on me. RIP, Johnny.

The first time I saw The Mighty Mighty Bosstones was very memorable. I was young and it kind of defined me at the time.

AC/DC's Razor's Edge tour was incredible.

Dropkick Murphy's at St. Pat's is always amazing.

Willie Nelson performing at Red Rocks ruled.

Seeing DLR back with Van Halen a few years back was a blast.

Motorhead...Black Keys...Ray Condo...BR549...NOFX...

To answer your question, I don't know. There are hundreds of them. If I would have ever seen Johnny Cash live, good chance that would be my answer.

But I didn't...so it's Stryper.


Q: What's your best recipe?

Earl: A dozen chicken thighs, salt & peppered, grilled on top of charcoal and hickory, basted with Oklahoma Joe's "Night of the Living Sauce".


Q: What would you do if you won the lottery?

Earl: Throw a party.

Well, that's just a smattering. Keep asking me questions, and I'll answer them eventually. Albeit, on my nationally acclaimed blog post.

Thanks for asking and thanks for reading.


.