If there is one thing about music that I dig, it’s that there is always something to learn about. Not only in the creation of it, but also in the aspect of what it can take to make it work for a living. So many people love to pontificate about what is the correct way to make art a viable commercial business. Seminar after seminar, convention after convention, it’s always the same type of thing. Do this (some magic formula) and they will come. On any rare occasion that formula is the actual music. Meaning that very often the music is never part of the reason to sell it.
My theory is, it can only be about the music. Not even only the music, but the song itself. I’ve met no shortage of really good players to really great players. The past weekend is a prime example. I got music handed to me by musicians I met who were looking for exposure here. It’s interesting when that happens as I feel like, hey, I’m only writing a blog. However, I’ve got a growing readership/listenership and it’s a good thing for music that gets thru my filter of taste because you’re here to find out about it and I make it easy for you to make a purchase of the music you come across on my site. All part of that win/win/win for everyone involved.
I also think the biggest factor to making things go round in music is developing a group of people you like to work with. A very tough thing is the number of musicians who feel owed a crown of rockgoddom, especially the ones that don’t have the songs. I appreciate the people who are courteous and grateful to be creating something that other people like. Especially those that want to cultivate a friendship rather than step on you. The infamous phrase of don’t forget the little people comes to mind. I know I’ve discussed the little people concept before and why some may get forgotten.
I’m noticing a positive change for 2009 so far and that has been one heck of a good learning experience so far.
I suppose it makes for a perfect background for a progressive rock band I dug as I was learning to play. They also hailed from a music school I attended, Berklee College of Music. It’s certainly not the most commercial music for the masses. But in the vein of musicians that really know their instruments and how to play them, they are some of the most musical that I know of in this genre. That’s a tough thing about progressive music. It’s a limited genre, so to do it well is about the only way to survive in it.
I’ve actually met John Petrucci, the guitarist from Dream Theater, at NAMM a couple of years ago. Very relaxed, very mellow guy. Extremely precise player, as is evident in the music you’re hearing now. Everything is very planned out, precise, and cleanly recorded. On thing about Dream Theater and their music, it certainly has a very journey based feel to it, at least on Images & Words. Lots of little parts and diversions in the songs. You definitely end up somewhere different from where you started. It’s adventurous music. Scenic or cinematic in quality. But fringe from the masses in that respect.
Enjoy the journey and explore more of their world. I’m darn sure you’ll dig the adventure. Buy it and take a trip once in a while.