Just when I was finally getting used to Ian on Saturday nights, Art Bell makes his triumphant return to the show he created. No longer 'Live from the High Desert,' he's coming to us from 'The Capital of Something or Other in the Beautiful Yadda Yadda.' I don't remember what he said exactly, but from the get-go I was already turned off by the lack of mysticism of the new locale. But Art did sound enthusiastic (a big change from his first few post-Ramona eps), and that's what's important for a good host.

The first hour open lines were pretty entertaining, and provided a few surprises (like all good open lines segments should). The first of these was a big one --apparently Art is going hardcore Catholic. Wow. Didn't see that one coming. I guess Airyn has more sway over Art than I expected.

Then came the other big shocker of the night--rebuffering, Coast to Coast AM style. So because he must relay the signal from his new condo to the States, there's a chance he may lose the connection from time to time. Hm. That's kind of lame. It adds a sense of suspense to the show, but that's not really a good thing. Though it was marginally funny when a caller was talking to Art, but was instead left with dead-air. She asked "Art? You there?" before the show cut to Ross Mitchell's voice telling us to stand by. Poor caller. All alone amidst the sea of Coast to Coast AM.

Hopefully that connection issue gets worked out (I recall him saying something about it having to do with the increased phone activity due to Father's Day), but I'm glad Art is finally back. Say what you will about his new marriage, but he does sound happy--and this mood transferred over to the Russell Targ interview well.

Welcome back Art. Stick around a while, now. Oh, and happy birthday, too.