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Why Incubus Is Number One

Since I was a young rock and roller, a guitar loving connoisseur of music, I have pitted my favourite bands unknowingly against each other vying for various coveted titles from best guitar riffs to the ultimate number one band to date. Throughout my lifetime bands that have sat atop the list at number one include Rush, Led Zeppelin, The Doors, the Red Hot Chilli Peppers and of course Incubus.

Some of you may look at my list and think, crap those are not hardly worth a number one spot, others still may be in total agreement, it is all really subjective to our own musical appreciation and development. These are the bands that pretty much still leave me feeling as they did when I ranked them number one. and likely if I were to create a top five fav bands of all those bands embody that list. So how the EFFF did Incubus rise above some of the greatest bands in the world to land on my number one spot.

First and foremost I want to thank the band! I am so grateful that you found your creative voices together and have brought so much great music for the world to hear and live vicariously through. It is a genuine gift to me. Please continue to play on!

Intro to Incubus

Incubus, an alternative rock band known for their unique California sound blending various musical genres and influences such as rock, funk, metal, elements of jazz and some scratchy electronic music. Their music is dynamic and textured, with a wide range of sonic elements.

One of the defining characteristics of Incubus’ sound is their ability to seamlessly combine heavy guitar riffs with melodic and catchy hooks. Mike Einzinger, lead guitarist for the band , often employs intricate guitar work, alternating between distorted and clean tones, creating a rich and layered landscape. His guitar parts range from aggressive and hard-hitting to more atmospheric and introspective, especially on the acoustical front.

Incubus is also known for their rhythmic complexity. The basslines are often prominent and groove-oriented, adding a funky and rhythmic foundation to their songs. The drums, played by Jose Pasillas, exhibit a versatile style, with both driving beats and intricate patterns that add depth and energy to the music.

Vocalist Brandon Boyd’s voice is another key aspect of Incubus’ sound. He possesses a wide vocal range and can effortlessly transition between soft, melodic singing and powerful, emotive deliveries. His lyrics often delve into introspective and philosophical themes, adding a thought-provoking layer to the music.

In addition to their instrumental and vocal elements, Incubus incorporates electronic elements through ChrisKilmore. His experimentation into of the use of synthesizers, samples, and other electronic effects, which can range from subtle textural additions to more pronounced and atmospheric sounds, provides another level of depth to the overall sound

Iwould describe the sound of Incubus as a fusion of rock, funk, and alternative. They combine heavy guitar-driven moments with melodic hooks, rhythmic intricacy, and electronic experimentation that is just incredible. This unique combination results in a sound that is both energetic and introspective, capturing a wide range of emotions and musical styles.

My “Intro2Incubus” playlist on Apple Music is how I would introduce someone to Incubus for the first time. The songs here provide a more mainstream example of their best. Some next level stuff combined with all the elements above. In fact I did create it to introduce my last girlfriend to Incubus while i was courting her. I should have known it would not last when she was clearly NOT a fan!

So here are my top 5 Incubus songs.

Drive
”When I drive myself my light is found”

Released in 2000, this song became one of Incubus’ biggest hits. It features catchy melodic sound with introspective lyrics, and a memorable chorus.

“Drive” a track from Incubus breakthrough album, “Make Yourself,” released in 1999. It was written by lead vocalist Brandon Boyd and guitarist Mike Einziger. The song showcases a melodic and introspective tone with a combination of acoustic and electric guitars. “Drive” became one of Incubus’ most successful singles, reaching high positions on various charts worldwide.

Drive comes in as one of my favorite songs because of the inspiration it conjures up. For me the words resonate the feeling of taking charge of your own life, ignoring the words of those around you and just driving for yourself. I mean what else is better right.

Stellar
”How it feels to be inside of you”

“Stellar” another song from Incubus’ third studio album, “Make Yourself,” The song brings to light the band’s alternative rock sound, characterized by a catchy and edgy guitar riff and energetic drumming. As Brandon Boyd asks the question, “How do you do it when…” The song’s lyrics explore themes of longing and connection.

Stellar was the song I picked for my wedding to my bride. It embodied the feelings I had for her at the time. The first time I experienced love like this. I still think of her when I hear this song.

Black Heart Inertia
”Yet I look for a bigger bang”

“Black Heart Inertia” is a track from Incubus’ album “Monuments and Melodies,” released in 2009.An up-tempo rock song that showcases the bands signature blend of heavy guitar riffs with catchy melodies. The lyrics touch upon themes of personal growth and self-reflection. While not released as a single, “Black Heart Inertia” is not only one of my favorites but also a well kown fan favourite.

For me the song has a personal meaning. I drew a Tattoo that encapsulates for me that growth or rather change we feel in the heart at different times. My tattoo is a “burdened black heart” that is morphing one direction into the cartoon bubble heart and the other into a anotomically correct heart. The words inspire the different phases of the heart. This is resonated in the lyrics for me. “Pulled by a false inertia, pushed out by circumstance” I love this song.

Summer Romance
”So I call you on the tin can phone”

“Summer Romance” from Incubus’ second studio album, “S.C.I.E.N.C.E.,” released in 1997. This song exemplifies Incubus’ early sound, blending elements of funk, rap-rock, and alternative metal. The track features fast-paced instrumentals, aggressive guitar riffs, and energetic vocals from Brandon Boyd. “Summer Romance” captures the youthful energy and rawness that characterized Incubus’ early career.

Because I did not get on the Incubus band wagon until Morning View and catching Wish You Were Here, This song was new to me on the compilation release. I was instantly smitten. I find this song almost a tribal rhythm for rock and roll courtship and romance. The sound of the sax the consistencey of the baseline both drum and base together. Brandons vocals. I mean it truly establishes the Incubus sound early.

Love Hurts
”Don’t wanna lose what I had as a boy”

“Love Hurts” is a single from Incubus’ album “Light Grenades,” released in 2006. It is a ballad that showcases a softer side of the band, featuring emotionally charged lyrics about the complexities and pains of love. The song combines acoustic guitar with atmospheric textures and Brandon Boyd’s heartfelt vocals.

I am currently learning the electric guitar parts of this song and the melodic feel to the arrangements is so incredible. Simple yet… This song also resonates with me. Love has always eluded me, and this is the closest that I have ever found the words to describe it. I dont know what keeps me from love, though every single time I have experienced love I have grown, no matter how much it has hurt. “Without love I wont survive”

There you have it. Listen to the Intro 2 Incubus playlist on Apple Music. LMK what your thoughts are in the comments below. These songs demonstrate the diverse musical styles and thematic range that I believe embodies who Incubus are as a band. Over the years Incubus has continued to showcase their ability to create both deeply introspective and energetic tracks that take you into your own life and gorwth.

September 17, 2024
1984, When I was 16 Years Old!

How my Music Tastes Have Changed in 40 Years

First let’s begin with 1984 …. THEN
These were what I would say were songs I remember making a HUGE mark on who I was. I immediately loved guitar driven rock ballads. I was young and full of passion and music found its way to viariously describe feelings and moments I could not find the words to do so alone.

L.A. Woman, The Doors
Released: April 1971
Writing Credits: Jim Morrison, Ray Manzarek, Robby Krieger, John Densmore
Label: Elektra Records

I’ve always had a soft spot for Jim Morrison and The Doors, especially their iconic track “L.A. Woman.” From the moment the bluesy guitar riff kicks in, it’s like being transported to the streets of Los Angeles, where the city’s pulse beats in rhythm with the music.

Despite living in LA for almost a decade, the allure of the city has somewhat faded over time. Yet, every time I hear “L.A. Woman,” it’s like rediscovering the magic of the city all over again. It’s a reminder of why I fell in love with LA in the first place and a testament to the enduring power of music to evoke emotion and stir the soul.

I named my family dog Mrs Mojo Rising or Mojo for short.

Thank You, Led Zeppelin
Released: October 1969
Writing Credits: Jimmy Page, Robert Plant
Label: Atlantic Records

“Thank You,” nestled within Led Zeppelin’s second album, is a cherished gem that has etched itself into the fabric of my being. Its ballad style, adorned with the signature grit of Jimmy Page’s guitars and Robert Plant’s soul-stirring vocals, struck a chord within me during my formative years.

What truly sets “Thank You” apart is its lyrical depth and emotional resonance. Plant’s heartfelt lyrics express gratitude and longing in equal measure, creating a sense of intimacy that transcends time and space.

3. Live Wire, Mötley Crüe
Released: January 1982
Writing Credits: Nikki Sixx, Vince Neil
Label: Leathür Records

“Live Wire” by Mötley Crüe is the epitome of unadulterated metal energy, pulsating with relentless speed and power. Featuring lightning-fast guitar riffs and Vince Neil’s gritty, electrifying vocals, the track delivers an adrenaline-fueled punch that leaves listeners exhilarated.

And let’s not forget the iconic cowbell, adding an extra layer of intensity to this headbanger’s anthem.

But beneath the surface of its raw energy, “Live Wire” also boasts a level of musicianship and craftsmanship that is often overlooked in the metal genre. From the precision of Tommy Lee’s drumming to the intricate interplay between the guitars and bass, every element of the song is meticulously crafted to create a wall of sound that is as powerful as it is infectious.

4. Foolin’, Def Leppard
Released: July 1983
Writing Credits: Joe Elliott, Rick Savage, Steve Clark
Label: Vertigo Records

From the seminal album “Pyromania,” Def Leppard’s “Foolin’” emerges as a prime example of the band’s unique fusion of melodic sensibility and hard-hitting rock.

This power ballad epitomizes their distinctive style, blending narrative-driven lyrics with energetic guitar riffs. As the track unfolds, it takes us on a captivating journey through the highs and lows of love and life, all underscored by the band’s signature sound.

I always was a sucker for a good power ballad.

Watch for my list of top power ballads coming soon

5. You Think You’re Tough – Ratt
Released: 1983
Writing Credits: Stephen Pearcy, Robbin Crosby, Warren DeMartini, Juan Croucier
Label: Atlantic Records

Emerging amidst the vibrant melodic metal scene of the early ’80s, Ratt swiftly claimed a spot as one of my personal favorites with their release “You Think You’re Tough.”

This track embodies the quintessential elements of the genrethat I love. Things like infectious hooks, anthemic chorus, and driving guitar riffs that instantly captivated my youthful spirit. I absolutely love how Warren DeMartini plays guitar. And in this song well… It’s a song that resonates with the rebellious energy of the era, fueling my passion for the electrifying sound of classic metal.

As I listen, I’m transported back to those exhilarating days of my youth, where the music was loud, the energy was high, and the Ratt and Roll was blaring in my sony walkman!

Let’s sum it all up!

In ’84, Ratt shot up to the top of my favorites list with their infectious hooks and driving guitar riffs, capturing the essence of the emerging melodic metal scene. Def Leppard’s melodic yet hard-hitting style, especially in tracks like “Foolin’,” resonated deeply with me for their ability to blend storytelling lyrics with energetic instrumentals. The Doors’ timeless classic “L.A. Woman” remained a constant favorite, reminding me of the allure of Los Angeles despite its fading glamour over time. Led Zeppelin’s soulful resonance in “Thank You” and Mötley Crüe’s raw energy in “Live Wire” rounded out my top bands, each offering a unique sound that spoke to me on a personal level

July 18, 2023
Moving Back to Mexico

Written By Sam Martin

Calling Isla Mujeres Mexico my Home!

Already a remote worker and familiar with the digital nomad lifestyle, when the pandemic hit, I was in Portugal with my girlfriend and made the abrupt decision to exit our month long plans to head back to Toronto. Entering into a 14 day quarantine when we landed on March 1 2020, and before our quarantine was over, it felt like the entire world shut down. I was locked down in a 480 square foot apartment for almost 2 years when it became apparent I had to get out.

There were reprieves, however, Toronto experienced what seemed like lockdown after lockdown which left me feeling depressed. Sure there were times we got out. Summer of 2020 we found socially distant ways to get out into the great areas around Ontario. The weekend warrior changes in surroundings helped a great deal. We visited Algonquin Park, staying at my favourite lake Cannisbay, (Yes it does kind of sound like that!) and explore some of the greater Muskoka area also camping at Arrowhead. One weekend we drove deep into the Bruce Peninsula hiking and exploring rapidly moving rivers. When the fall came we drove out into the Niagara escarpment around Hamilton exploring the colours of the fall starting to brighten up the forest canopies of fall. However winter was coming, which spoke to more lockdowns and socially isolated holiday festivities. Our plans to visit California were changed. It was just too risky to travel.

We made it through the holidays, I was still restless wanting to build a van or do something. My partner was as adamant as ever that building a van was not the right choice. Too many unknown variables during lockdown. We did find lots of new creative outlets. Tara edited her first short film in a long time and I was filming content. We bought tools to create more tangible things. Drawing and painting consumed me. However, by February, my partner insisted it was time for her to return to California to be with her parents. I was alone and still we were in a lockdown!

This is where I began to eat myself back up to almost the heaviest I have ever been. I was receiving eye injections every month for a burst vein and work was getting me down. with nobody to talk to some days I felt like I was slowly driving myself insane. Slowly but surely driving myself to the brink of more serious health concerns. Been down that path before and I don’t like it! More than ever, I knew it was time to change my surroundings. I wanted out of Toronto, I wanted to travel, interact with people and I wanted it yesterday. I was no longer happy with still. So I thought long and hard about what I really wanted to do.

I had 2 options that really resonated in my mind. The first was to be as trendy as eff and build my own van. Hell over the last 3 years Tara and I had gone back and forth on it so much there were plans, resources and many hours of builds watched. (Yes! We found ourselves often in the rabbit holes of our impetuous nature). My health condition at the time directed me as #SamSolo, building a van would be long expensive and arduous. (Turns out I am capable of more than you think an outta shape overweight 54 year old is capable of)

Instead I chose to move to Isla Mujeres, Mexico just a short trip off the coast of Cancun. This is not my first time living here. Spent nearly 4 years on the island in 2015. Leaving with Tara to try life together in the city. The pandemic has a way of reshaping your thought patterns and leaving was likely right for that time, returning was right for this time.

So I was living back in Mexico to escape the insanity of lockdowns and virus in Toronto. Here is a gallery of some of the journey from March 2020 until March 2022. Living now in Mexico since August of 2020 I feel I have made a fantastic home and cannot wait for life to open up more so I can explore myself and my passions a little more.

Viva la Mexico!!

The Isla Mujeres Photo Gallery

Whales Sharks on Isla Mujeres

Isla Mujeres Mexico Tropical Beaches Blue Flag Beaches Livingin Mexico

September 7, 2022
Top 5 Heartbreak Songs

This Is My Rock & Roll Love Letter After It’s Gone

Head over feet, I was deeply in love and would have worked through anything to have the relationship I believed we had. She was confused, always one foot just far enough out to find her escape whenever she needed. She could never commit proclaiming there was something missing, yet always staying. I always welcomed her back.

We had not seen each other in over 8 months. The most recent breakup before where we are now, I made a decision to move myself back to Isla Mujeres. I secured myself an apartment, booked a flight and was ready to move on. Except… the now ex partner wavered and we resumed our COVID 19 forced long distance relationship.

Fast forward… She was meeting me on Isla to figure it out once and for all. This time it felt different. This time we really were going to go our separate ways. Our journey together was ending. We would spend the month of October saying good bye, caught in the stalemate of wanting different things. This went back and forth, including a trip together to Toronto, before finally ending early April!

It Must Have Been Love – Roxette

… but it’s over now!

This top 5 list kicks off in a place where I know both of us lived. What Tara and I had was definitely love. From that first touch until the very last. It must have been the most incredible love of my life, that is for sure. The type of love I feel deep in my bones. However when one person is not fully there, you have to let go and journey down a different road. While it is most difficult to accept, for you Tara, it was time for you to …

Go Your Own Way – Fleetwood Mac

How can I ever change things that I feel

Ironic that a Fleetwood Mac song would be on this list. But the song, appropriately enough describes the situation. We have to go our own ways. The journey has come to a stalemate and finally, a place where there is no other choice but to be apart. This was one of the most painful breakups I have ever experienced. It was so profoundly sad. Tara was my best friend, the person who lifted me up constantly and made me a better person. A muse who encouraged me to pursue my artistic side, to feel confidence in being me. Too bad she did not connect with who I truly was.. despite that time and again I said…

I Can’t Quit You Baby – Led Zeppelin

You build my hopes so high then baby you let me down so low

This is the crux of the relationship for me. I just cannot seem to find a way to quit you Tara. Every single time you leave, it cuts so deep, and every time you come back, well it builds my hopes up so damn high! You and I we were a happy home. Each others person. But I am going to let go! I am grateful beyond words for the time we shared together, for the gifts she gave me, her understanding, compassion and most importantly for showing me how much I could be loved. Sometimes I guess in love you need to….

Fall To Pieces – Velvet Revolver

…every time Im falling down, all alone I fall to pieces!

It was this song or Paul Young’s Every Time You Go Away! This song found the spot because of the dark pain experienced within the song. The best way to represents the pain in my heart. As though my chest has been ripped open time and again, sewn shut each time with empty words. The rusty old blade and needle that is trying to mend a wound so deep. It depicts the fragility of healing, a heart pretending to be not really be broken, merely on hiatus! Then you are alone in the quiet of the day, you crave a bottle of Don Julio to numb the pain all over again. Because the truth is I cannot seem to live right now…

With or Without You – U2

Through the storm, we reach the shore, You give it all but I want more

Two together has become one, SoloSam! Alone now for the first time in almost 6 years. It feels almost deafeningly quiet here in my room, the empty bed beside me a reminder that I wake up alone now. Not wanting to be with someone who could leave, giving them self away with every touch, every kiss and every moment we shared together. Unable to see, I know I am unable to continue to be with you… Except… I cannot seem to live right now without you. Stuck! Stuck in a moment of wonderful years spent together with you! Shared memories I cannot erase, a future where I still wish could see you there!

The Bonus Playlist – Find it on Patreon

August 10, 2022
My 5 Favourite Guitar Riff Songs

Saturday mornings are great for waking up to music. It’s always different because well, every Saturday is different. On this particular Saturday I started out with Counting Crows, “Mr Jones” and well the energy just kind of took me to The Strokes, “Machu Picchu”. Listening to the guitaring in that song, I realized that there were songs I enjoyed purely for the way the guitar was featured in the song,

Below are my top 5 all time favourite songs featuring the guitar. Give them a listen and LMK what you think.

“But he could play a guitar just like a-ringin’ a bell”

— Chuck Berry, Johnny B. Goode

#5 – Johnny B. Goode – Chuck Berry
To start this list right, I have to start with a song that probably is the quintessential guitar riff song. The fast real blast of a classic rock and roll song with a swaggering guitar riff is the sound of Chuck Berry’s “Johnny B. Goode. Taking it way back here to 1958. From the first chord played of the riff you can hear the energy. Right from the start the energy captures exactly what the song is about. A poor country boy who had one thing that he loved to do well, his ability to wail on the guitar and attract a crowd.

The energy carries you through the classic format for a great rock song, which is a firecracker, even by todays standards. Just imagine being in your home back in 1958 and hearing this song over the old radio. Chuck Berry was one of the first artists to tackle the writing a song that speaks so rawly about how much money a person could make playing guitar. Songs that came after like The Byrds “So You Want to be a Rock and Roll Star” and Joe Walsh’s , “Life’s Been Good”, did not have that same charging riff.

Chuck Berry wrote the song and it landed on the Billboard top R&B songs for 1958, it was also 8 on the Billboard Hot 100 songs.

As a huge old school rock and roll fan, the list would not be right without starting out right here. Take is away Chuck!

#4 – Celebrity Skin – Hole

Right, 1998 Sam would have never expected to be putting this song on a list of guitar riffs that moved me, but… It is EdgeFest and Hole are playing the main stage in late afternoon. Most of the friends I took this journey with were in fact going to see Hole. Yes! I was curious. However, I was still mourning losing Kurt Cobain and well… I was upset with Courtney for not saving him from himself.

Never the less I went to the show because there were all sorts of others artist I was interested in beyond Hole.

“Oh, make me over, I’m all I wanna be, a walking study in demonology”

— Celebrity Skin, Hole

So there I was on that hot Canada Day weekend in July, hungover from Pride and ready to get drunk again on bands like Moist, Big Wreck and Treble Charger. Of course I follow my friends over to listen to Hole. Who am I kidding, I was also incredibly curious. Everyone was claiming she was fluff and everything had been written for her. Reportedly it was Billy Corgan of The Smashing Pumpkins who was to have written the riff. Either way, when Hole took the stage and Courtney lifted her leg up onto her amp, raised up her arm to hit that first chord, my entire opinion changed. WOW.

Celebrating the songs 20th anniversary, Naomi Fry wrote in the New Yorker,

“What turns “Celebrity Skin” into an enduring artifact, though, is it’s aggressive undertone. Beneath the saccharine harmonies, there is a hint of darkness, placing the song in a lineage that proceeds from melancholy pop bards like the Beach Boys all the way to contemporary divas like Ariana Grande, who tends to mix her sweetener with a dash of poison. We can hear this right from the start, when the song begins in medias res, with a riff that becomes unforgettable after only a couple of listens, up until its end, when it abruptly cuts off, almost before you can catch your breath.”

#3 – Machu Picchu – The Strokes

The Strokes IMHO are a highly underrated band. I mean have you given them a listen lately. Their quiver of great tunes is loaded. However my all time favourite is this ditty that inspired this entire list. Machu Picchu.

The lead track from the Strokes 4th studio album, Angles, released March 18 2011 has a riff that carries through Julian Casablancas signature mumbled voice. Upbeat and melodic the song appears to be about finding things to accomplish. Climbing Machu Picchu would be a huge things to do and accomplishment. It also speaks to the humans need to wear dead animal meat on them as well as the burdens of a growing civilization.

On Billboard’s Hot 100 the song peaked at #26, 2 months after being released.

“Waves turn to grey, Life in the shade, A violent crime… And that’s the USA”

— Machu Picchu, the Strokes

#2 – Crazy On You – Heart

From the acoustic intro through the change into the electric intro, the guitar grabs you. Crazy On You is a hard driving song that really lets the guitar shine. Crazy On You, the debut Heart song from sister Anne and Nancy Wilson reveals a take on love and heart break, a wondering tale of feelings poured into a powerful song. From Anne’s powerful screams to the drive of the guitar howling right back, pulls you into the emotion.

Released in March 1976, Crazy On You is a fast and fiery guitar rhythm that just moved you into a beautiful and yet brooding momentum. The best part, the lyrics bring you along. Anne tells the story and you can feel it carry you through as her mood shifts and she feels completely at a loss.

The riff itself was created in the studio during the initial recording session. The band had been there in the studio listening to some Moody Blues and band member Roger Fisher just put it out there.

“With bombs and the devil, little kids keep coming. No way to breathe easy, no time to be young”

— Anne Wilson, Crazy On You – Heart

Peaking at number 35 in 1976 on the Billboard’s Hot 100, Crazy On You, is one of Heart’s best contributions to rock and roll and considered and evergreen classic rock song. Heart has had many fantastic songs spanning from the mid 70’s though to the 2000’s.

#1 – Rock and Roll – Led Zeppelin

While some may claim it is in songs like The Immigrant Song or Whole Lotta Love that the true talent of Led Zeppelin’s quitar riffs lie. Both songs really let out a strong driving energy from their initial get go. However, for me, the best driving guitar rock song ever has to be Led Zeppelin’s Rock and Roll.

First released on their 4th album in 1971, the song included a guest appearance by Rolling Stone pianist, Ian Stewart. In 1972, music journalist Robert Christgau called it

“simply the most dynamic hard-rock song in the music.”

Like its title suggests it should, the song is based on the 3 chord traditional rock and roll structure for a song. With a steady tempo of 170 beats per minute you can understand when you listen why its called a driving rock song. Jimmy page holds nothing back in his playing. Developed from a spontaneous jam when trying to finish “Four Sticks”, Bonham began the drum intro from the Little Richard song “Keep a Knockin” and with the tapes rolling, page added a Chuck Berry style riff and Rock and Roll was created!

“It’s been a long time since I rock and rolled. It’s been a long time since I did the stroll”

— Led Zeppelin – Rock and Roll

Incidentally, the song was released on my fourth birthday, February 21st, 1972. Unfortunately, I was not yet appreciating the awesomeness that was Led Zeppelin. It would not be long though. Since I was in high school Led Zeppelin have been in my top 5 all time bands! List coming soon!

Like these picks? Think you have better picks? Comment in the section below, even post the video link, to your favourite rock and roll guitar riff songs!

guitar guitar riffs riffs guitar players learn guitar

May 28, 2021
Breakfast – The Most Important Meal?

Nutrition

Written By Sam Martin

Are You Getting A Complete and Balanced Breakfast?

Getting a complete and balanced breakfast is a priority goal I have set for this month. Part of that includes not eating it before 10:00 am, and choosing to eat foods that come from trees. In December I met a fellow who put some interesting ideas in my head regarding eating with by following the sun.

Consistently failing at breakfast, over the years I have learned to ensure I get the most healthiest foods first. Just like the trees which are first to receive energy from sun, breakfast is the fuel that wakes the human engine up and gets us moving. Trees produce all kinds of wonderfully nutritious foods, these same foods are said to be the best or when you rise.

That first cup of morning coffee, the bean is from a tree, breaks the night time fast. The fast of the night is broken by drinking coffee. Seeing how much I enjoy food, you would think after 16 hrs of fasting it would be the first thing on my agenda. Sadly, not so. I prefer to wait until after 10am before I eat. Which means calories cease to be consumed after 6pm.

Why breakfast is so important. Essentially you have just gone the longest period your body goes without fuel. During this time your body has been processing all the food you consumed the day before. When you awake your body needs the fuel to metabolize glucose, or blood sugar, all day. Prolonged fasting, leads to a greater boost in hunger hormones.

Drink Raw Fruit & Vegetable SmoothiesLoaded with fresh fruit combinations that set your palette and body alive with energy.

What are some of the components of a healthy breakfast?

To live a lean and healthy lifestyle, I have found that beginning my day predominantly with food that comes from the trees. So there is the shot of Apple Cider vinegar Apple Walnut Oatmeal or a Banana Smoothie. Both of these contain food from trees. Why food from the trees? Well…

Last December, I happened upon a gentleman running an AirBnB experience in Ojai California. I was quite taken with the way he spoke of life and food. You can view a the Pizza Experience on my youtube page. Anyways, When he spoke of his eating philosophy, he talked specifically how the body’s circadian rhythm is tied to the environment and if we follow the sun in our eating habits, our bodies actually process the nutrients better.

It all starts with breakfast. As the sun comes up over the horizon and you begin to rise yourself, start with water, the early mornings dew. The first thing the sun touches as it rises is the tops of the trees. So think apples oranges etc. Many trees in different areas produce fruit or nuts and this is where is it suggested we look to compile our first meals of the day. I will be researching and writing more on this in coming blogs.

You can also read about the delicious green smoothie recipe here! It’s really tasty start to the day. #wholefoodplantbased

Read Health.com’s great breakfast foods for weightloss article. Packed with real foods like blueberries, oats and bananas you can easily modify a number of these with paleo, vegan or gluten free options. Remember the key is to find the real food options that best suit your lifestyle.

That’s it for this breakfast. Wake up start your day with a hearty healthy one.
Best of luck on your path to Lose Weight and Be Fit!

breakfast apples green apples oatmeal

February 6, 2020
Johnstone Strait Kayaking

Written By Sam Martin

Kayaking in the Johnstone Strait. A bucket List Adventure

When you have an opportunity to participate in an adventure that helps you get closer to another bucket list item, kayaking off of Vancouver Island in the summer home of the Northern Resident Orcas, you go. In July 2018, we flew from our tiny home island home in Mexico to experience a 3 nights camping experience in the Johnstone Strait with Spirit of the West Adventures.

Spirit of the West Adventures and Trip Intro

First off, I cannot say enough about the group we went with and the guides. Spirit of the West Adventures provided an excellent experience. The guides were incredibly friendly and knowledgable. Not just about the Johnstone Strait, but also about the wildlife. At every meal they provided us with delicious food prepped by a very thoughtful and generous staff back on Quadra Island.

Not once did we feel like we were not welcome or accepted. While we were the only queer folks on the experience, from the first introductory meeting at the Heriot Bay Inn on Quadra Island the night before the trip through the drop off after the trip ended we were comfortable and got along great with everyone. We even made some new friends.

In case you are wondering. Quadra island is an incredibly gorgeous place as well. The sunsets linger long into the evening and the sounds of nature just appear to calm the body and soul. Across the bay from Campbell River, a quiet little Canadian BC town you can whale watch from in the summer.

The morning after the intro meeting we were picked up by the guides, grabbed other adventurers then headed to the dock, loaded up 2 boats with all the gear and off we went. The boat taxi ride was two hours north to the Johnstone Strait basecamp. This would now our home for the next 3 nights. Each group of 2 were assigned a tent (all of which had stunning views of the water), were prepped on how to be safe and the types of animals we could encounter. All of the tents faced the water where you could see over to the Robson Bight.

Early Morning at CampJohnstone Strait, Vancouver Island, British Columbia

It Was All About the Kayaking

We no sooner landed at camp and the first paddle was planned. From the first paddle until the last (the one where I fell in the freezing cold water) was a majestical and peaceful experience with nature. There were bald eagles flying around the camp, tales of wolves and cougars as well as the hope we would see the mammal we all came for… the Orca whale. After all, this was their favourite place to shop for groceries. The Chinook salmon spawning in the local waters close to the Robson Bight are the north residents favourite meal. The area also attracts the grizzly bears down to the pebbly waters edge in hopes of grabbing a bite.

Despite the excitement leading up to the trip. Despite the call within our hearts to engage with the mighty Orcas in their natural habitat, we never got to see any Orcas. During one of our paddles they were noted to be just farther up the strait at Telegraph Cove. Too far to paddle to make it back to camp before sunset. The rest of the days we all kept hoping it would happen. It just did not. Well, save for that magic early morning with Tara.

I am a person who will need to use the bathroom several times each night. So on the first morning around 4am when we popped out of the tent to relieve ourselves, we paused to hear this strange sound from below the cliffs in the water. It was in rhythm, consistent getting closer and then moving farther away. The mist prevented us from seeing what was making the noise, but we both knew. The Northern Residents were traveling right by our camp. Even better it was a beautiful experience shared by myself and Tara!

Snapshots from the Johnstone Strait Ultimate

4 days and 3 nights deep up in the British Columbia wild at one with nature, getting outside of my current comfort zone and challenging myself to grow. That was what this trip was about, in addition to experience in the wild.

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September 17, 2018