One of the best things about running a recording studio is that it makes you a better listener - you develop a knack for picking apart recordings and appreciate things most people wouldn't. Of course, the same can be said for anyone who does music regularly - which is why last night's Guild get-together was so insanely fun for me. A hearty crew of us regulars gathered round the speakers to listen in complete silence (how often do you do that?) to songs for which we'd be given little or no prior explanation.
Then we responded. What makes a song sound "80s"? When is recording "live" a good idea? What's the place of ambient sound? Should music be categorized? Who does and does not have business trying to sing gospel?
For those keeping track, below is a list of the recordings we enjoyed. But as I've said before, if you missed it - you missed out. You'll have to join us next time.
Speaking of which - in light of the holidays and various other impending obligations (translation: I'm getting married!), the Guild won't meet in November or December. There will be other opportunities to connect at Backthird Audio, so stay tuned - and plan on joining us when we resume in January.
Last night's music:
1. "Spiralling" by Keane from the album Perfect Symmetry
2. "Those Who Trust" by Waterdeep and 100 Portraits from the album Enter the Worship Circle
3. "Moving Mountains" by Thrice from the album The Alchemy Index Vol. 4: Earth
4. Track 2 (sorry, I didn't get the name!) from the album Diplomat VI by Diplomat VI
5. "Blue Ridge Mountains" by Fleet Foxes from the album Fleet Foxes
6. "Hide and Seek" by Imogen Heap from the album Speak for Yourself (find the video here)
Benjie, I learned so much last night about listening to music with a critical ear. I'm sure I'll be able to apply some of that as Phil and I continue to work on our first CD. Thanks for hosting such an awesome night! Sharon
Posted by: Sharon Slaughter | October 28, 2008 at 12:15 PM