Quite often, side projects of good bands are less than noteworthy (i.e., Boxcar Racer, et al). Mad Season, however, was stunning, albiet short-lived.

The side project of Alice In Chains singer Layne Staley was spectacular, and it is still a cherished component of my collection. "I Don't Know Anything" was played on my Sirius receiver today, reminding me of how much I love this album.

What also came to mind, coincidentally, was the very idea of a "Mad Season," or better yet, an "Angry Season." As today is the summer solstice, the longest day of the year, I reflected on the impending string of 95-100 degree days that we in the Sun City will soon contend with, swamp-coolers working overtime. Summer in El Paso can be both glorious and sublime, but it is truly a "Mad, Angry Season" for the uninitiated.