I guess I finally ran out of excuses. It seems that I might
actually be making something happen the way I wanted it to; namely, I'm
starting a vocal rock band. Two of my new-found theater friends are
teaming up with me and a bass-playing friend from work to see if we can
rock people's worlds with nothing more than one electric bass, four
mouths, and some microphones. We're still short a vocalist or two, so if
you're interested, please give a
yell. If you want to know more about a cappella (which this new band
almost is): contemporary a cappella is the art of producing a mainstream,
pop/rock/other sound (or whatever sound is desired, really) with only the
use of the human voice. A much longer, better-thought-out, and clearer
explanation, as well as a host of related information, can be obtained
from CASA, the Conteporary A Cappella
Society of America.
Outside of the a cappella arena, my listening interests are pretty varied.
My much-bemoaned boy-band phase can't really be described as over, but I'm
pleased to report that the fascination "rhythmically insistent, lyrically
trivial funk lite" is finally starting to abate. I don't seem to be
doing much recreational listening these days, since I have potential
covers for my new band on infinite repeat (ah, the joys of arranging)
monopolizing my ears. My greatest love, though, has always been reserved
for Billy Joel. His brilliant lyrics,
unapologetic attitude, and intensely honest playing and singing have been
an inspiration to me for as long as I've been aware of them.
If I could only keep 10 albums for the rest of my life, they would be
(this week):
The ultimate thrill? Performing onstage to wild applause (approval junkie?
Where?). And the ultimate medium? Broadway. I've tried out for Rent now as many times as I've seen
it (4), but more importantly I've actually gone and done two shows now.
Not to mention all the auditions that haven't worked out, which in a lot
of ways are really more important. The nice thing about being out here in
the "real world" is that you have time and choices - if I really want
to, I can spend my non-trivial savings on voice and acting lessons, or on
a bartending class, or on anything that's going to make it easier for me
to be happy later. I feel like I've always got to keep improving,
because that big break is right around the corner - now I just have to get
busy building corners and looking around them. Wish me luck!
Head back home...
