Es lebe Berlin

February 2004, I escaped dank wet London to go to Berlin for a weekend. Not much warmer, but I recall walking around upon arrival by a neighborhood park, and hearing and seeing birds outside for the first time in a long time. 

The other strong imprint was two buskers that got on the U2 from Nollendorfplatz, both with muted brass. They slipped into the crescendo of Take Five as the train slid out of the station. My skin contracted in a chill, and time bent around the sound and the place. I wasn't the only one to tip them well.

I can listen to this over and over, and that memory hasn't faded. I hope it doesn't.

http://www.last.fm/music/Charlie+Parker/_/Take+Five