What a year, life changed (mostly for the worst) but there were quite a few silver linings. Amongst them were; pairing down to do some one on one sessions with new and returning clients such as Chris Goss, Anders Mouridsen, Pee Jay, Yawing Man and launching the Gatos Trail outdoor “on-location” recording service which completed 5 full length albums by Earthless, Nebula, Spirit Mother, Stoner, & Mountain Tamer for the Live In The Mojave series. I also picked up a plethora of new gear, updating the entire studio recording system and life slowed down which allowed me to dig into some personal music and editing projects.

Being sequestered in the Desert during this time is/was, in a lot of ways - same as it ever was… But of course there were the kicks to the gut, many losses and lots of heartbreak. Losing Neil Peart and Eddie Van Halen in the same year!!!! Canceling our Shakedown Summer Solstice event, ALL live shows ceasing to exist, missing out on family gatherings, socializing and on and on.

However, I am very grateful for the friends and clients that kept the studio rocking and the creativity alive. It fed my heart and soul AND allowed me to stay in business. Let’s keep it going, it’s hard to do but in many ways, it’s all we have. I love you all and thank you for making 2020 special, against all odds. Sincerely, DAN JOERIGHT - owner/engineer/drummer/good-time-giver @ Gatos Trail