Not mounted like trophies. Stacked — dozens of them laid horizontally under a wood cap rail, shafts out, so the whole seat back is brand names at eye level. Sher-Wood. CCM. Titan. Reebok. Bigshot. Model numbers that meant something to whoever bought them: 5030, T20, 7000, TPM 1010, 10K. Words that were once features — Heat, Ultimate, Top Prospect, Street.

It reads as decor. Look at it a second longer and it reads as a list.

The list

The thing worth writing about is that a wall of retired equipment is also a record of an industry consolidating. These sticks are wood. Almost nobody plays with wood now. The brands printed on them went through the same twenty years that the material did, and several of the names on that wall no longer mean what they say — bought, retired, or licensed onto something else.

Titan is the clearest case. Gretzky won in Edmonton with a Titan, the 2020 model. Titan belonged to a Montreal company that renamed itself The Hockey Company in 1999, and it sat in a portfolio with Canadien, Heaton, Jofa, Koho and CCM. Reebok bought the lot in 2004 for 329 million US dollars. Adidas bought Reebok the year after. Everything except CCM was phased out. A Titan on that wall is a name that was retired by a company that was itself bought twice.

Reebok is on the wall as well, a few sticks along, which is the part that makes me laugh. Reebok put its own name on hockey sticks after buying and shelving the brands it had paid for. Then Adidas sold CCM in 2017, for 110 million, to a Toronto private-equity firm. CCM changed hands again in 2024.

Sher-Wood is the Canadian one, out of Sherbrooke, Quebec. It sent composite stick production to China in 2011, which cost about forty jobs; the Sherbrooke site stayed on as head office and distribution with around a hundred and ten. The name belongs to Canadian Tire now, along with Hespeler and Victoriaville.

CCM is the survivor. Of the six names in that 2004 sale it is the one that still fronts a full line of sticks.

Then there is the material. Easton released the Synergy in 2001, the first one-piece composite that NHL players actually took to, and within a few years most of the league had switched. Every stick on that wall is from the losing side of that.

Nobody assembling the wall was making that point. They needed a back for a bench and had a supply of dead sticks. The meaning is accidental, which is the part I like.

The room it is in

Saturday, one in the afternoon, late May. On the big screen: PSG and Arsenal, 1–1. That is the Champions League final, in Budapest, and one in the afternoon in Alberta is nine at night in Hungary. It finished 1–1 and PSG won it on penalties after extra time, so what we were watching over lunch was a European club final going the distance.

On the screen beside it: hockey.

Two sports, two continents, one room, both being watched at once by different tables. That is not incidental to the format. The room is built for it — kegs cut down into light fixtures, bottles lit along the wall, screens angled so that no booth has a bad one, and a floor plan that swallows a group our size without anyone having to ask.

Our server ran the whole table without it ever feeling like work. Drinks kept coming, she checked in often, nobody waited. Feeding a large travelling group fast, while a game is on, is a specific job, and this is a building designed around it.

What we ate

Burgers, poutine, fish and chips, a Caesar salad. The fried pickles were delicious. Everyone enjoyed their meal.

I had the steak bites and a side salad with balsamic, to stay off the carbs. At a Canadian brewhouse. Where the menu is poutine and fried pickles and the fries come in a bowl the size of the salad plate.

There is a whole small piece in that and I am not sure it belongs in this one.

Nothing fancy.

Just one of those little sets with chunky knobs, rabbit ears, and the kind of glow only an old CRT could make.

On a set like that, you didn’t just turn it on and go. You had to work for a picture. Nudge the antenna. Turn it a few degrees and wait. Sometimes hold it yourself, because at that point you were the antenna. When the picture finally locked in, it felt like something you’d earned rather than something you’d switched on.

There was no guide. You turned the dial and took what was there.

Often, what I found late at night was Taxi.

Sunshine Cab Company

I have fond memories of staying up way too late watching reruns of Taxi.

That opening theme. It’s permanently burned into my brain. I can hear it now just thinking about the show.

The late-night quiet.

City lights.

The slow shot of the cab crossing the bridge.

The song is “Angela,” by Bob James. I went looking for it online and ended up deep in his catalog. It’s an electric piano, a bass line that walks instead of hurries, and no jokes anywhere. A half-hour comedy that opened on a tune that sounded like the end of a very long shift.

The cab crosses the Queensboro Bridge. Then you’re inside the Sunshine Cab Company, a dim Manhattan garage.

The show ran from 1978 to 1983. Four seasons on ABC, a last one on NBC. It came out of the same school of television as The Mary Tyler Moore Show, with James L. Brooks among its creators, and it carried the same idea. People spend their lives at work, so that’s where the story is.

It won Outstanding Comedy Series three years running.

Everybody Was Going to Be Something Else

And then the characters.

Danny DeVito.

Tony Danza.

Christopher Lloyd, long before he became Doc Brown in Back to the Future.

Judd Hirsch as Alex Rieger. Marilu Henner as Elaine Nardo. Andy Kaufman as Latka Gravas. Jeff Conaway as Bobby Wheeler. Carol Kane as Simka.

Here’s the part I didn’t understand as a kid, watching with the sound turned low so nobody would know I was still awake.

Almost nobody in that garage wanted to be a cab driver.

Bobby was an actor. Tony was a boxer. Elaine worked at an art gallery. Latka was Latka. Driving was the thing they did in the meantime, until the real life started.

Alex was the exception. Alex knew he was a cab driver, and he’d made his peace with it.

That’s the joke. It’s also the whole show.

Louie De Palma ran the place from inside a wire cage. DeVito played him small and mean and never once asked you to like him.

And Reverend Jim taking his driving test. Christopher Lloyd, all elbows and delay. What does a yellow light mean? Slow down. What does a yellow light mean? Slooow doooown. The whole joke is how long he’s willing to wait.

A show about people stuck in a job they didn’t choose, and it was warm instead of bleak. I didn’t have language for that at eleven years old. I just knew I didn’t want the episode to end.

The Faces That Followed Me Around

What’s funny now is how many of those actors became familiar faces throughout the rest of my life. You’d see them pop up everywhere:

• Who’s the Boss?, with Tony Danza a few years later on a much bigger stage
• Throw Momma from the Train, DeVito directing himself, that same coiled energy pointed somewhere new
• Back to the Future, where Reverend Jim turned into a scientist with a DeLorean
• countless reruns, movies, sitcoms, and late-night channel-surfing moments

Judd Hirsch kept turning up too. Ordinary People, then Independence Day, then a dozen other things, always with that same unhurried delivery.

Spend enough late nights with a group of actors and they stop being strangers. You just keep running into them for the next forty years.

Those memories still make me smile when they randomly surface.

July 19, 2022

So on July 19, 2022, I took the Warner Bros. Studio Tour Hollywood.

The Deluxe Tour, specifically. The long one, the version that gets you into the prop house.

That was the part I’d come for. Not the backlot streets. The shelves. Aisle after aisle of furniture and lamps and telephones and appliances, every piece tagged and waiting for something to need it again.

And somewhere in there I stopped dead in my tracks, because of this little television sitting on a shelf.

A tiny black-and-white Sears TV.

Old knobs.

VHF and UHF dials.

A worn screen.

A Warner Bros. “HOLD” tag taped to the front.

I had to take a picture.

Not because it was valuable.

Not because it was rare.

Because for a split second, it transported me right back to being a kid sitting in a dark room, watching late-night television long after I was supposed to be asleep.

Taxi was never a Warner Bros. show. This set never sat in the Sunshine Cab Company garage and never will. It was tagged and shelved for some production that has nothing to do with any of this.

Memory doesn’t care.

It saw the knobs and the dials and the little worn screen, and it went straight to a dark bedroom and a show about people driving other people around New York.

That might be the real magic of old technology.

Not the hardware.

The memories it carried.

A prop tag says HOLD because someone means to come back for it later.

Turns out that little TV had been holding something for me for about thirty years.

Watch It, Hear It

Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you buy through one, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

If any of this put that theme back in your head:

• Taxi on Prime Video. All five seasons at the Sunshine Cab Company.
• “Angela” on Amazon Music. The theme itself, three and a half minutes of it.
• Restoration: The Best of Bob James. “Angela” with no cab attached. James wrote it for the show in 1978 and it outlived the show by decades.

Start with the pilot. Then let the autoplay take you.

That’s the strange part. I know I was there. Oakridge Mall, maybe others. But I can’t point to a moment.

No high score.

No particular game.

No friend’s face, no specific afternoon.

What I have is sound.

Not a song. Not a melody. Just the wash of it. Overlapping attract modes, coin mechs, a dozen machines all going at once.

You could hear it from the hallway before you saw anything. Before the lights. Before the carpet. Before the rows of cabinets.

The sound reached you first.

And that was the threshold.

Once you crossed it, time worked differently. Nobody asked how long you’d been there. You stayed until your quarters ran out, or until you couldn’t hear the machines anymore, whichever came first.

Sometimes you’d scan the carpet near the end, looking for dropped quarters. Finding one felt like winning something.

I don’t know how many times I walked through that doorway. Dozens, probably. Enough that it stopped being an event. It was just part of what a mall was. Part of what a Saturday was.

The kind of ordinary that doesn’t announce itself as memory.

Which is maybe why I can’t find a specific one.

Arcades weren’t built to be remembered.

They were built to hold you. Loud enough to separate you from the rest of the mall. Dim enough that you lost track of time. Open enough that nobody was watching too closely.

You could linger without buying anything. You could stand behind someone playing Dragon’s Lair and watch all three of their lives disappear. You could be somewhere that wasn’t home and wasn’t school.

Every mall had one. Maybe not Aladdin’s Castle by name, but something like it. A room full of noise and kids and quarters, wedged between a Waldenbooks and a Sunglass Hut.

And then they weren’t there anymore. No announcement. Nobody made a thing of it.

I went back to Oakridge a few years ago. Not looking for anything. Just passing through.

The hallway where Aladdin’s Castle used to be is still there. I couldn’t tell you what’s in that spot now. Something quieter. Something with better lighting.

I stood there for a second, waiting to feel something.

What I felt was how quiet it was.

The Time Tunnel: A Sci-Fi Pioneer

The Time Tunnel (1966–1967) on IMDb

Synopsis: Scientists Tony and Doug find themselves flung uncontrollably through time due to a malfunction in a government time travel project. Each episode immerses them in pivotal moments of history or speculative futures.

Why I Love It:

• Historical immersion with a sci-fi twist.
• Episodic unpredictability: You never know where the Time Tunnel will send them next.
• Foundation of the genre: It set the stage for future time travel storytelling.

Voyagers!: Fixing History, One Episode at a Time

Voyagers! (1982–1983) on IMDb

Synopsis: A time traveler named Phineas Bogg and a young history buff, Jeffrey, team up to fix historical anomalies using a device called the Omni.

Why I Love It:

• Heartwarming dynamic between the mentor and the child prodigy.
• Ethical exploration of how small actions can shape history.
• Educational value wrapped in adventure.

Sliders: The Multiverse of “What If?”

Sliders (1995–2000) on IMDb

Synopsis: A group of adventurers “slide” between parallel Earths, exploring alternate histories and realities, while trying to find their way back home.

Why I Love It:

• Infinite creativity: Every episode brings a fresh and imaginative take on what could have been.
• Sociopolitical commentary embedded in alternate realities.
• Relatable stakes: Who hasn’t wondered how one decision might change their life?

Quantum Leap: Changing Lives, One Leap at a Time

Quantum Leap (1989–1993) on IMDb

Synopsis: Dr. Sam Beckett invents a time travel method that allows him to inhabit the bodies of others, correcting mistakes in their lives.

Why I Love It:

• Deeply personal storytelling with moral dilemmas at its heart.
• Compassionate hero who resonates as a relatable everyman.
• Focus on humanity over sci-fi spectacle.

12 Monkeys: Twisting the Threads of Time

12 Monkeys (2015–2018) on IMDb

Synopsis: James Cole travels back in time to stop a deadly virus from destroying humanity, uncovering a complex web of causality and sacrifice.

Why I Love It:

• High-stakes drama paired with intricate plotting.
• Themes of destiny and sacrifice: Every choice feels weighty.
• Complex narratives that challenge your understanding of time and consequence.

Common Threads: What Connects These Shows?

While each series has its unique flavor, they share these key elements:

1. Exploration of time and choice: From historical events to personal decisions, the consequences of actions are front and center.
2. Human connection: These shows highlight the relationships between characters and those they meet across time and dimensions.
3. Unpredictable journeys: The inability to control time (or reality) keeps the audience engaged.
4. Ethical and moral stakes: Whether it’s fixing history or saving the future, the characters’ decisions carry profound weight.

How These Shows Complement Time Travel Movies

If you’re intrigued by the themes in these shows, you’ll love my post about time travel movies. Movies like Back to the Future and The Terminator explore similar ideas of fate, causality, and alternate realities, offering a cinematic counterpart to these TV adventures.

Why Time Travel Stories Resonate

Time travel taps into our curiosity about what could have been and what might still be. These shows offer thrilling narratives and philosophical questions that linger long after the credits roll. For me, they represent the perfect blend of imagination, adventure, and emotional depth.

What Are Your Favorites?

This list highlights just a few of the incredible time travel TV shows out there. From classics like The Time Tunnel to modern masterpieces like 12 Monkeys, the genre offers a vast array of stories that captivate and inspire.

Which time travel TV shows resonate with you? Share your favorites with me on Twitter or Instagram, and let’s discuss what makes them timeless classics!

Resources and Links

• The Time Tunnel (1966) on IMDb
• Voyagers! (1982) on IMDb
• Sliders (1995) on IMDb
• Quantum Leap (1989) on IMDb
• 12 Monkeys (2015) on IMDb

1. The Time Machine (1960): A Classic That Started It All

Adapted from H.G. Wells’ iconic novel, The Time Machine (1960) is a cornerstone of time travel cinema. Directed by George Pal, the story follows a Victorian inventor who builds a machine to traverse the timeline. While his early experiments reveal the steady march of technological progress, the real adventure begins when he ventures 800,000 years into the future to discover a world divided between the docile Eloi and the monstrous Morlocks.

What sets The Time Machine apart isn’t just its pioneering narrative—it’s the way it reflects societal fears and aspirations. It explores themes of evolution, class division, and the ultimate destiny of humanity. The film’s striking visuals and timeless questions make it a must-watch for fans of speculative fiction.

2. The Terminator Series: Action-Packed Paradoxes

Few franchises have explored the consequences of time travel as thrillingly as The Terminator (1984). In the original film, James Cameron introduced us to a relentless cyborg assassin sent back in time to kill Sarah Connor, the mother of humanity’s future savior. The sequel, Terminator 2: Judgment Day (1991), deepens the story with its portrayal of a reprogrammed Terminator sent to protect Sarah’s son, John.

What makes the Terminator films so compelling is their exploration of fate versus free will. Can the future be changed, or is it predestined? These films also introduced the concept of “time loops,” where actions in the past directly shape the future, creating a closed causal system. Beyond the philosophical intrigue, the series delivers groundbreaking special effects and unforgettable performances, solidifying its place as a sci-fi masterpiece.

3. Looper (2012): A Modern Take on Ethical Dilemmas

Rian Johnson’s Looper offers a fresh perspective on time travel, blending noir aesthetics with intense ethical dilemmas. The film is set in a future where criminals send targets back in time to be eliminated by “Loopers,” assassins paid to kill without asking questions. The twist? Loopers must eventually kill their future selves to “close the loop.”

The film’s narrative revolves around Joe, played by Joseph Gordon-Levitt, who faces a moral crisis when his older self (Bruce Willis) escapes. Looper stands out for its gritty realism and focus on character development. It forces viewers to ponder the ripple effects of their actions and confront the idea of self-sacrifice for a greater good.

4. Back to the Future Trilogy: Gold Standard of Time Travel

Few movies have captured the imagination of audiences like Back to the Future (1985). Directed by Robert Zemeckis, the trilogy follows teenager Marty McFly and eccentric scientist Doc Brown as they journey through time in a DeLorean. From the idyllic 1950s in Back to the Future (1985), to the futuristic 2015 in Back to the Future Part II (1989), and the Wild West of 1885 in Back to the Future Part III (1990), the films explore the consequences of even minor changes in the timeline.

What makes Back to the Future timeless is its perfect blend of humor, heart, and adventure. The films also delve into the butterfly effect, showing how small decisions can have far-reaching consequences. With its iconic characters, memorable quotes, and an unforgettable soundtrack, the trilogy remains a cultural touchstone for time travel enthusiasts.

5. Interstellar (2014): Love and Time Across the Cosmos

Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar takes time travel to cosmic levels, incorporating real scientific theories about time dilation near black holes. The film follows a team of astronauts searching for a new home for humanity, and in doing so, it blurs the lines between science fiction and emotional storytelling.

One of the most poignant aspects of Interstellar is its exploration of how time affects relationships. The protagonist, Cooper, experiences years as mere hours due to relativistic effects, resulting in heartbreaking scenes where his daughter ages decades while he remains the same. It’s a deeply emotional take on how time connects and separates us.

Recently, I watched a fascinating documentary on a flight: Black Holes: The Edge of All We Know on Netflix. It delves into the science behind black holes and the efforts to capture their first image. Watching it gave me a deeper appreciation for the scientific accuracy and imagination behind Interstellar. If you’re intrigued by the mysteries of space, this documentary is a must-watch companion piece.

6. Primer (2004): The Puzzle Box of Time Travel

For those who crave complexity, Primer is a must-watch. Directed on a shoestring budget by Shane Carruth, the film explores time travel through the lens of two engineers who accidentally create a machine capable of looping time.

What sets Primer apart is its refusal to simplify the science or the consequences of time travel. The narrative is dense and intentionally ambiguous, inviting viewers to rewatch and piece together its intricate timeline. While it’s not for everyone, Primer is a testament to how thoughtful storytelling can overcome budgetary constraints.

Why Time Travel Movies Matter

Time travel films do more than entertain—they invite us to question our assumptions about life, history, and the future. They make us consider the consequences of our choices and the fragility of the world we live in. Whether they’re optimistic, like Back to the Future, or cautionary, like The Terminator, these films remind us that time is both a gift and a responsibility.

What Are Your Favorites?

This list only scratches the surface of time travel cinema. From cult classics like 12 Monkeys to action-packed thrillers like Edge of Tomorrow, the genre offers endless possibilities.

Which time travel movies resonate with you? Share your favorites with me on Twitter or Instagram, and let’s discuss what makes them timeless classics!

Resources and Links

• The Time Machine (1960) on IMDb
• The Terminator (1984) on IMDb
• Looper (2012) on IMDb
• Back to the Future (1985) on IMDb
• Interstellar (2014) on IMDb
• Primer (2004) on IMDb

PBS, with its lineup of thoughtful, educational programming, became my after-school companion. Shows like The Woodwright’s Shop and This Old House didn’t just teach practical skills; they showcased the artistry and craftsmanship behind the everyday things we often take for granted. The gentle rhythm of these programs sparked my lifelong interest in creating things with my hands—whether in the kitchen, the workshop, or even through software development.

But it wasn’t just PBS that captivated me. National broadcast TV offered its own gems, from Saturday morning specials to shows that explored art, culture, and the mysteries of nature. Each program seemed to say, “The world is vast and full of things to discover.”

Fast forward to today, and the screens I engage with have changed, but the thirst for knowledge hasn’t. Instead of waiting for scheduled programming, I now turn to YouTube, where an endless array of topics is just a search bar away. Whether it’s science channels breaking down quantum physics, creators deep-diving into history, or practical how-to videos for mastering new skills, YouTube offers a level of accessibility and depth that younger me could only dream about.

The connection between those formative TV years and my current YouTube habits feels seamless. Shows like Connections laid the groundwork for the way I love to explore ideas today—seeing how seemingly unrelated concepts are intricately tied together. Watching This Old House likely planted the seed for my DIY projects and interest in woodworking. Even Newton’s Apple might explain why I still find joy in the “Aha!” moments that science YouTubers create so well.

What’s remarkable is how the spirit of curiosity has stayed the same while the medium has evolved. Instead of being a passive viewer, YouTube allows me to engage more actively with content. I can pause, rewind, comment, and even follow up with creators directly. The accessibility of this medium has also broadened my horizons; I can explore niche topics and discover creators with expertise I would never have encountered on traditional TV.

In many ways, YouTube is today’s PBS, offering free educational content for anyone with an internet connection. But it’s also more. It’s a space where creators—amateurs and professionals alike—experiment with storytelling, connect with global audiences, and inspire viewers to take on their own projects or explore new fields of interest.

Looking back, I realize how much those childhood hours in front of the TV shaped who I am today. They instilled a curiosity that continues to drive me, whether I’m tackling a DIY project, experimenting in the kitchen, or diving into a new coding challenge. And while the tools have changed—from rabbit ears and channel knobs to streaming apps and YouTube subscriptions—the purpose remains the same: to learn, grow, and marvel at the world’s endless possibilities.

What about you? What were your favorite shows growing up, and how have they shaped the way you learn and explore the world today? Let me know by sharing on X (Twitter) or Instagram —I’d love to hear your story.

As 2024 comes to a close, I find myself reflecting on a year filled with challenges, milestones, and meaningful connections. It’s a tradition I’ve grown to cherish—not just for its catharsis, but as a way to document the journey and share it.

This year has been a tapestry of creative projects, personal growth, and exploration. Here are some standout moments:

1. Embracing New Professional Challenges This year, I embraced new challenges that expanded my responsibilities and opportunities to lead. It was incredibly rewarding to foster collaboration, solve complex problems, and see the impact of our efforts. These experiences deepened my appreciation for teamwork, innovation, and the art of technical leadership.

2. Building My Digital Brand 2024 marked a pivotal year for my online presence. From planning a hub for tech content to conceptualizing niche YouTube channels, I’ve been weaving together a multi-faceted digital ecosystem. Watching the puzzle pieces come together has been thrilling, and I’m eager to keep building on this foundation in 2025.

3. Diving Into Creative Projects Creativity was a constant companion this year. I explored everything from producing AI-generated music inspired by the MTV vibe of the 1980s to designing recipes and tutorials for quick, wholesome meals. I’ve been reminded that creativity is not about perfection, but about showing up, experimenting, and sharing your passion with others.

4. Personal Adventures and Reflections On a personal note, I’ve embraced moments that matter—spending time with my family, organizing my workshop, and revisiting memories of the past. These experiences ground me and fuel the stories I want to share with you.

Lessons Learned in 2024

• The Power of Connection Whether through creating content, engaging with readers, or connecting with others in shared projects, 2024 reaffirmed that creativity thrives in community.

• Embracing Iteration From refining my websites to experimenting with content ideas, I’ve learned to trust the process and accept that growth often comes in imperfect, incremental steps.

• The Importance of Focus Juggling personal projects and creative endeavors has highlighted the need to prioritize what truly matters.

Looking Ahead to 2025

As I step into 2025, I carry with me the excitement of new beginnings. This year, I plan to:

• Expand my Technical content with a comprehensive tutorial series and guidebooks.
• Grow my YouTube presence by launching niche-focused channels that explore topics like tech tutorials, creative projects, and personal stories.
• Continue sharing insights, stories, and creative experiments that inspire and resonate.

I’m excited to see how these goals unfold and to continue building on the progress made this year.

Thank You

To everyone who’s followed along on this journey, your support means the world to me—thank you.

Here’s to a year of dreaming big, creating boldly, and celebrating the connections that make it all worthwhile.

Wishing you a joyful, creative, and fulfilling 2025!

Cheers, Emmanuel

Tom Petty’s music has been a constant in my life—a reliable companion through the highs and lows. Yet, it wasn’t until about a year ago that I stumbled upon Mudcrutch, Petty’s often-overlooked first band. It was like discovering a hidden time capsule from an old friend, almost as if he was still here with us, sharing one more chapter of his story.

This rediscovery hit me hard, bringing me back to my first live experience of Tom Petty. It was October 1994, and I was lucky enough to attend the Bridge School Benefit Concert, hosted by Neil Young at the Shoreline Amphitheatre in Mountain View, California.

This particular concert—Bridge VIII—featured an incredible lineup: Neil Young and Crazy Horse, Pearl Jam, Mazzy Star, Pete Droge, Ministry, Indigo Girls, and of course, Tom Petty and the Heartbreakers. Seeing Petty live for the first time was electric. He performed with such ease, as if he were channeling the music rather than creating it. The combination of his signature drawl, Mike Campbell’s searing guitar work, and the band’s effortless synergy was something I’ll never forget.

At the time, I didn’t know the depth of Petty’s history, let alone that Mudcrutch even existed. I was just a fan soaking up the magic. Fast forward nearly three decades, and finding Mudcrutch felt like revisiting those youthful moments in the crowd—a reminder of how music can transport you, connect you, and surprise you when you least expect it.

The Roots of Mudcrutch

Mudcrutch was where it all began for Tom Petty. Formed in Gainesville, Florida in the early 1970s, this was Petty’s first serious band. Unusually, he played bass guitar instead of fronting the band as the lead singer. Joining him were future Heartbreakers Mike Campbell on guitar and Benmont Tench on keyboards, along with Tom Leadon and Randall Marsh. Together, they crafted a sound that blended country rock, blues, and folk—earthy and authentic.

While Mudcrutch quickly became a local sensation, their national ambitions fell short. After signing with Shelter Records, they released one single, “Depot Street”, which failed to gain traction. By 1975, the band dissolved, and Petty moved on to form the Heartbreakers, taking Campbell and Tench with him. Mudcrutch was seemingly consigned to the past—a forgotten stepping stone in Petty’s legendary career.

The Revival of Mudcrutch

But some stories don’t end—they simply wait. In 2007, Tom Petty reunited Mudcrutch, not out of necessity but out of a desire to reconnect with his roots. Petty himself said, “It wasn’t really about success or failure. It was about getting together with the guys I started out with and seeing what we could do.”

Their debut album, Mudcrutch (2008), wasn’t a nostalgic throwback; it was the sound of a band rediscovering itself. Tracks like “Scare Easy” and “Crystal River” had the raw energy of a group playing for the joy of it. The follow-up album, Mudcrutch 2 (2016), further cemented their legacy with songs like “Trailer” and “Beautiful Blue,” which captured the warmth and camaraderie of old friends making music together.

Unlike the polished albums of the Heartbreakers, Mudcrutch’s sound is more intimate and unvarnished. Listening to their music feels like stepping into a garage in Gainesville in the early 1970s—no pressure, no expectations, just pure, unfiltered creativity.

Rediscovering Tom Through Mudcrutch

What makes Mudcrutch so special is the way it strips Tom Petty back to his roots. Before the arena tours, the MTV hits, and the worldwide fame, there was just a young musician with a dream and a band that felt like family. Through Mudcrutch, you hear the raw beginnings of a voice that would later define American rock music.

For me, discovering Mudcrutch felt like finding a lost letter from a friend who had passed away. It was a way to reconnect with Petty on a deeper level, to experience his journey in reverse—from the larger-than-life rock star to the Gainesville kid playing in a small-town band.

It also brought back memories of that 1994 concert at the Bridge School Benefit. Sitting under the cool October sky, surrounded by fellow music lovers, I felt part of something bigger. Petty’s set was a highlight, but the entire event was magic. Sharing the stage with Neil Young, Pearl Jam, and others created an atmosphere of collaboration and artistry, much like Mudcrutch itself.

The Timelessness of Mudcrutch

Listening to Mudcrutch now, I’m struck by how timeless the music feels. Songs like “Scare Easy” carry the same rebellious spirit that defined Petty’s career, while tracks like “Crystal River” showcase the band’s ability to stretch out and explore. The albums aren’t about hit singles or commercial success; they’re about revisiting a moment in time when music was just about the joy of creating.

For fans of Tom Petty, Mudcrutch offers a chance to see a different side of him—one that’s raw, collaborative, and deeply rooted in his beginnings. It’s a reminder that even the most celebrated artists started somewhere humble, driven by passion and a love for the craft.

Tom Petty: Still Here, Still Resonating

Tom Petty’s passing in 2017 left a hole in the music world, but his legacy endures. Rediscovering Mudcrutch has deepened my appreciation for his artistry. It’s a reminder that great artists never really leave us; they live on through their work, waiting to be rediscovered by new ears and old fans alike.

For anyone who hasn’t yet explored Mudcrutch, I can’t recommend it enough. Start with their debut album and let it carry you back to Gainesville, Florida, where a young Petty first dreamed of a life in music. Close your eyes, and you might just feel like he’s still here, playing for the love of it, sharing one more story, one more song.

Music has a way of bridging the gaps between past and present, connecting us to moments we thought were lost. For me, Mudcrutch was that bridge—a way to revisit the spark of that October night in 1994, to remember the magic of Tom Petty, and to celebrate the enduring power of music.

So dive into Mudcrutch. Revisit Tom Petty. And let the music remind you that some connections are forever.

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• Visit the Mudcrutch Official Website for links to albums and more.
• Buy Mudcrutch on Amazon.com
• Buy Mudcrutch 2 on Amazon.com
• Buy Tom Petty Wildflowers on Amazon.com

I approached his table with a mix of excitement and reverence. As he signed a photo for me, he paused, smiled, and said something unexpected: “You’re the first Emmanuel I’ve ever signed an autograph for.” That small moment made an indelible mark. Here was an actor, known for keeping the Enterprise running, connecting with me on a personal level.

James Doohan himself was a master of connections. Beyond his role as Scotty, he was a real-life war hero, an innovator who inspired countless engineers, and a storyteller who connected fans across generations. His character wasn’t just about fixing warp cores; Scotty represented the ingenuity and resilience that are central to humanity’s progress.

Looking at that photo now, displayed in my office, I can’t help but reflect on how much it encapsulates. It’s not just a piece of memorabilia—it’s a symbol of the connections we make through shared passions. From the fictional starship Enterprise to the real-world innovations it inspired, Star Trek and its creators built bridges between science fiction and reality.

The ripple effects of those connections are profound. Consider how Star Trek influenced technology: the communicator inspired the mobile phone; its vision of a united, diverse crew foreshadowed societal progress. James Doohan’s portrayal of Scotty inspired generations of engineers who now tackle the challenges of space exploration and advanced technology.

For me, the connections don’t stop there. That autograph represents a moment when my own interests in technology, storytelling, and exploration converged. It’s a tangible reminder of how the stories we love can shape who we are and what we strive to achieve.

James Doohan may have signed his name on a photograph that day, but he also left an indelible signature on my journey—a reminder to approach life with curiosity, to connect seemingly unrelated ideas, and to boldly explore the unknown.

Some links in this post are affiliate links. If you buy through one, I may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.

If you’re a fan of James Doohan or the legacy of Star Trek, here are two books that dive deeper into the man behind “Scotty” and the universe he helped inspire:

• Beam Me Up, Scotty – James Doohan’s memoir, filled with stories about his life, career, and the role that made him an icon.
• Mr. Scott’s Guide To The Enterprise – A detailed and imaginative guide to the inner workings of the USS Enterprise, perfect for Star Trek enthusiasts.

These books are more than just memorabilia; they’re a chance to revisit the ingenuity and spirit of exploration that James Doohan embodied.

Thank you for reading this reflection. If you’d like more stories like this, stay tuned for future posts where I explore the connections between storytelling, innovation, and the human drive to explore. Live long and prosper.

As the Thanksgiving season comes around, I find myself reflecting on the opportunities and experiences that have shaped my life and passions. From the chance to grow professionally to the time spent nurturing personal projects and, most importantly, cherishing moments with family, this time of year reminds me to pause, appreciate, and give thanks.

I’m especially thankful for the chance to blend my interests around technology, creativity, and storytelling into meaningful projects. Whether it’s organizing my tools in the workshop, experimenting with recipes in the kitchen alongside my family, or working with my team at AWS to deliver innovative solutions, each aspect of my life feeds into the next, creating a patchwork of fulfillment.

Gratitude for Growth

Managing a talented team at AWS and delivering products and services for customers has been both a challenge and a privilege. It’s incredible to be part of something that impacts customers worldwide, and I’m grateful for the team’s hard work and resilience.

On a personal note, I’m thankful for the progress I’ve made in sharing my passions. Whether it’s starting to carve out a distinct personal brand, diving into YouTube, or refining my Hugo-built websites, every small step forward brings new learning opportunities and connections. But above all, I’m grateful for the unwavering support and love from my family, who keep me grounded and inspired.

Cherishing the Small Moments

Thanksgiving is also a time to celebrate the small, quiet moments that make life rich. I think back to moments in the kitchen, whipping up a bolognese for my family, or rediscovering my youthful fascination with film and photography. It’s in these shared moments—laughing with loved ones, experimenting with new ideas, or enjoying simple meals together—that the true spirit of gratitude shines.

Looking Ahead

As we enter a new year, I’m excited to see how I can dust off some old hobbies and bring life to new ideas. These are more than projects; they’re ways to connect, share knowledge, and hopefully inspire along the way.

Thank You

Finally, I want to express my gratitude to you—my readers and supporters. Whether you’ve followed my journey from my early days in tech to my current endeavors, or you’re just discovering this blog, your support means the world to me.

Here’s to a season of gratitude, growth, and giving back. Wishing you and your loved ones a warm and happy Thanksgiving!

—Emmanuel

It wasn’t just about hearing the band again after 26 years, though that in itself was surreal—it was about the way music has this incredible ability to hold time in place, to bring memories rushing back in the span of a few notes. As the band played Push and 3AM, I could feel the connection between past and present. These songs that were once the background to my younger years now serve as markers, reminders of everything that has happened since.

I couldn’t find a setlist for the San Jose State Event Center on September 16th, however, I did find a Matchbox Twenty Setlist for September 13 1998 at Concord Pavilion which should be pretty close. To compare, take a look at the Matchbox Twenty Setlist for September 13 2024.

Rediscovering Paula Cole and Dawson’s Creek

After the concert, I found an original poster from the 1998 Matchbox 20 tour, with Paula Cole listed as their special guest. How could I have forgotten that she opened for them? Seeing her name on that poster unlocked another flood of memories. “I Don’t Want to Wait”, that haunting melody that instantly takes me back to watching Dawson’s Creek.

I’m listening to “I Don’t Want to Wait” as I write this, and I can’t help but get emotional. That song, which was such a defining part of the late ’90s, has taken on a deeper meaning with the passage of time. Back then, the line “I don’t want to wait for our lives to be over” felt like a plea to seize the moment, to rush headlong into life. But now, as I’ve grown older, the lyrics resonate differently.

The impatience of youth has been replaced with an understanding that life isn’t something you rush through. It’s something you live, moment by moment, learning to appreciate the journey rather than just the destination. In a way, this song is no longer just the soundtrack to a TV show from my past. It’s a reflection of how life unfolds, how time slips by faster than we realize, and how important it is to savor every moment along the way.

A Time Capsule of Sound

Between last night’s concert and finding that tour poster, I’m realizing how much these moments of nostalgia matter. Whether it’s a song, a show, or a concert, these fragments of the past hold memories that shape us, long after the moments themselves have faded. The music, and the emotions it stirs, serve as time capsules—reminders of who we were, where we’ve been, and how much we’ve grown.

Looking back at both the 1998 version of myself and the person I am today, I can see how much life has changed, but also how the music has been a constant companion, marking the highs and lows, and reminding me of what matters most.

Though I stopped posting to the blog in 2012, I’ve kept it online as a resource for anyone seeking solutions and insights in managing Windows systems.

Highlights:

1. Reading the SCCM Client GUID (March 27, 2012): Discusses how to read the SCCM Client GUID using VBScript, WMIC, and PowerShell.
2. How to Troubleshoot SMS Client Install Errors (November 06, 2008): Offers advice on troubleshooting SMS client installation errors.
3. SMS SQL for Last Hardware Inventory (August 05, 2008): Presents an SQL query for retrieving the last hardware inventory date for a specific computer.
4. SMS SQL for Last Discovery (August 01, 2008): Provides an SQL query to determine the last discovery date for a computer.
5. VBScript to Set SMS Client Cache Location (July 24, 2008): A guide to setting the SMS Client Cache Location using VBScript.

For a complete list of posts and detailed information, you can visit DotVBS | Windows Systems Management.