Blog archives for May, 2002

My band is on the verge of its next step: a CD. We have been playing together for almost 3 years now and have built up a large number of tunes and songs that we do in public all the time. However, it has been over 2 years since we have recorded anything (we did a demo CD about 6 months in which I HATE to send anybody now). Doing music in public is much different than recording something that will be (hopefully) listened to over and over. Live music is as much about the energy of the music and the band/audience connection and is very ephemeral. A CD has to stand on its own, multiple times, and is permanent .

Given these differences, the way we play all our tunes and songs need to be reexamined from a new perspective. We need to examine each number we do and see how it will stand up to close/careful/repeated listening. Each number will have to be adjusted and then practiced this new way till we can do them flawlessly (or at least as good as we can). We also need to pick which of our numbers will work best on a CD. For example, a sing along with audience participation may be harder to do effectively on a CD (maybe do a live version) than a more standard dance tune or ballad. We also need to figure out if we want any “theme” for the CD or if it is just the best music we have ready to record.

I know that much of this process will make our live performances better as well and will definitely make us a better band. I also know that it will take a greater level of commitment by the band members in practice time, arrangement sessions, etc. I know that much of the effort must come from me to lead the band through this process. And I have not event talked about the recording process yet!

All in all, this next step will lead us down a new highway which will have major effects on the band. Only time will tell where we end up.