Jonny Olsen

The Khaen/Kaen/Khene/Khen is a free reed instrument from Laos (or Northern Thailand... there's an ongoing dispute over this it seems), and it's going to be kicking your ass all this year if I have anything to say about it. With one on its way from Thailand to the Platypussy Records Instrument Vault, the real question for 2007 is "Which awesome band doesn't play this hypnotic instrument?" Answer: Trick Question. All awesome bands have one.

Picnic Style in Laos

But what do you do if you wanna jam out old school in electric city? Well don't worry, you don't have to fly your gig out to Southeast Asia (even though the neon jumpsuits and pantsuits are calling out to you), because you can buy this instrument online through a few sources. Usually through National Geographic pimps.

Oh, but you're 2 Legit 2 Quit? You said a mouth full, hammer-pants. Quicker than your trained parakeet can squawk "Don't hurt 'em, Hammer," Jonny Olsen will give the inspiration and precedent you need to conquer the Thai/Laotian Molam scene. Nicknamed "The Farang Khaen Master" (Farang means foreigner), Jonny boy moved to Laos and took lessons on this country boy instrument and quickly became a darling in his own right.

Jonny Olsen is Big Pimpin'

You should take your own lesson from this video. But if anything, I want you to realize two things: 1) the West is getting its ass kicked by ignoring blue screen technology, and 2) if you follow your dreams, no matter how ridiculous or illegal they may be, you'll always be on the Platypussy path.