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CHOW Tour: North America: Follow along with Chowhound cofounder Jim Leff as he crisscrosses North America on a monumental road trip in search of hyperdeliciousness. You never know where he might turn up...

Follow along with Chowhound cofounder Jim Leff as he crisscrosses North America on a monumental road trip in search of hyperdeliciousness. You never know where he might turn up...

Boone, NC

North America Dispatch #14: Mr. Hound's Wild Ride

Roanoke, Virginia, to Boone, North Carolina

No edibility to report, just a manic ride down the Blue Ridge Highway, fueled by extraordinarily sugary coffeecake. Come along for the ride via this video (blow it up to full screen for maximum effect). Special bonus: the onscreen debut of Eartha, my GPS concierge.

First Video

Then a stop to practice trombone (hotels usually discourage horn playing, so highway rest stops are the perfect rehearsal studios when you’re on the road).

Second Video

Note: Here are Amazon links for the Mexican banda compilations (both out of print but available used): Todo Banda and Todo Banda, Vol. 2.



Comments

Jim, I have a homemade compilation of all the uptempo cuts from Ivo Papasov's available CD's - I call it "Rabbits Chased by Wild Dogs" and it feels pretty much like your video when it's playing and I'm driving. Gotta watch that needle. Same manic feel, but in 2 + 3 + 2 + 2 + 2 + 3. Whee!!

There's a Mexican joint down here in Jacksonville called La Nopalera (aka laNop for the locals) that serves up good chow and has had its share of banda blasting away as I tuck into my carnitas. Just in case you ever get down this far. Big props for the banda tips - I'll be looking.

Ivo Papasov rules. Musicians are in awe of him. Not sure why he's never had mainstream success.

Do pick up that Todo Banda compilation if you get a chance.