Hey all! I'm competing in a remix competition. I'm remixing the song 'I Want You to Know' by Zedd, featuring Selena Gomez. It's been a lot of fun. Part of the contest involves earning points on my video channel.
Please, click the link below, check out the video, and share it with someone else!!! Every little bit helps.
http://zedd.amplifiertv.com/channel/Zolt3ch
Tuesday, June 23, 2015
Saturday, April 25, 2015
Whatever Gets You Pumped!
Hey all!
I'm so excited to be continuing on this blog. This is my first time blogging, I've learned so much and the feedback has been moving and heartfelt. Don't worry, I won't be going away anytime soon! I've got LOTS more ideas for music related posts. The post today has to do with working out. Yea I know, you're busy, there just isn't any time for working out. Well...the president does it! Even a brisk walk is something. If any effort is made I commend you for it! I hate running and I dread the thought of leaving my couch, but I feel so great after a workout.
We can all agree that it's tough to get up and go outside or to the gym, so sometimes we employ a little help: MUSIC!
In the podcast at the bottom of this post, I discuss what tunes I crank through my ear buds at the gym. You might be surprised what I have to say! Do you have a playlist made for the gym, or do you just shuffle your tracks? Do you prefer a certain genre? In this podcast I give my two cents about what works best for me when struggling through a workout. I call the Topeka Southwest YMCA my workout home, I've been going there for years and it's run by a bunch of great folks. (See Google Maps picture below for YMCA directions).
Stay tuned for more posts, and don't forget to check out my fun podcast below.
Cheers!
I'm so excited to be continuing on this blog. This is my first time blogging, I've learned so much and the feedback has been moving and heartfelt. Don't worry, I won't be going away anytime soon! I've got LOTS more ideas for music related posts. The post today has to do with working out. Yea I know, you're busy, there just isn't any time for working out. Well...the president does it! Even a brisk walk is something. If any effort is made I commend you for it! I hate running and I dread the thought of leaving my couch, but I feel so great after a workout.
We can all agree that it's tough to get up and go outside or to the gym, so sometimes we employ a little help: MUSIC!
In the podcast at the bottom of this post, I discuss what tunes I crank through my ear buds at the gym. You might be surprised what I have to say! Do you have a playlist made for the gym, or do you just shuffle your tracks? Do you prefer a certain genre? In this podcast I give my two cents about what works best for me when struggling through a workout. I call the Topeka Southwest YMCA my workout home, I've been going there for years and it's run by a bunch of great folks. (See Google Maps picture below for YMCA directions).
Stay tuned for more posts, and don't forget to check out my fun podcast below.
Cheers!
Saturday, April 11, 2015
The Loudness War
So I've discussed a broad spectrum of music related things so far, and it's been quite a journey. What stood out to you most? You may recall my post about my band Monk's Wine (click here to revisit this post). Maybe it was the post about finding my old iPhone and listening to tunes that brought back touching memories (click here to revisit this post). It's been quite a blogging journey indeed, and it's been a fun experience to say the least. So, you're probably wondering what in the heck my title is talking about.
What is the loudness war you might ask?
Well, the loudness war is one that is affecting everyone all over the world. Musicians, music lovers, you, your relatives...everyone who listens to music! The loudness war refers to audio engineers boosting the volume of their tracks to insane levels over the years. Producers today feel that to be competitive they need their tracks to be released as big and as loud as possible, with no regards to musicality or dynamics. How does this affect you? You only have one set of ears! Your favorite tunes on the radio have been cranked to levels that are more excruciating to your ears.
A very bad offender and casualty to the loudness war is U2's song 'Vertigo'. Listen to the track via the YouTube link below. It sounds like one big jumbled mess! Everything is offensively loud.
What is the loudness war you might ask?
Well, the loudness war is one that is affecting everyone all over the world. Musicians, music lovers, you, your relatives...everyone who listens to music! The loudness war refers to audio engineers boosting the volume of their tracks to insane levels over the years. Producers today feel that to be competitive they need their tracks to be released as big and as loud as possible, with no regards to musicality or dynamics. How does this affect you? You only have one set of ears! Your favorite tunes on the radio have been cranked to levels that are more excruciating to your ears.
A very bad offender and casualty to the loudness war is U2's song 'Vertigo'. Listen to the track via the YouTube link below. It sounds like one big jumbled mess! Everything is offensively loud.
While this song is loud and obnoxious, U2's newest album that was controversially released freely to iTunes users is far more tame and dynamic, making it much smoother and less fatiguing to the ear. While new functions like iTunes 'sound check' help to even out the loudness of songs, producers are still cranking their tunes to very high levels.
So in closing, you only have one set of ears. Use your volume knob with caution!
Friday, April 10, 2015
Soundtracks That Dig Deep
It's fun and healthy to completely shift gears sometimes! In the music world, I believe that keeps things fresh. We've covered band biographies, finding old iPhones, how to start a band, and a beginners guide to mixing a vocal track. Sometimes it's fun to just relax and share what music really warms your heart and makes you feel things outside the norm.
While 'soundtrack to my heart' may sound like a cheesy catch phrase or song title, there are several soundtracks that evoke incredible emotion for me:
Halo
If you're familiar with Xbox's successful first person shooter game series 'Halo', you probably remember how it was so big that it consumed every teenagers life throughout the early 2000's...yes, I was one of those teenagers. However, Halo has one of the most remarkable soundtracks I've ever heard. Charged with quickly releasing a soundtrack demo at a game convention, composer Martin O'Donnell was asked to produce something Ancient, Epic, and mysterious. Well, he did just that. The link below is a preview of the Halo soundtrack, and its truly magical.
While 'soundtrack to my heart' may sound like a cheesy catch phrase or song title, there are several soundtracks that evoke incredible emotion for me:
Halo
If you're familiar with Xbox's successful first person shooter game series 'Halo', you probably remember how it was so big that it consumed every teenagers life throughout the early 2000's...yes, I was one of those teenagers. However, Halo has one of the most remarkable soundtracks I've ever heard. Charged with quickly releasing a soundtrack demo at a game convention, composer Martin O'Donnell was asked to produce something Ancient, Epic, and mysterious. Well, he did just that. The link below is a preview of the Halo soundtrack, and its truly magical.
So enough about video games. The movie industry invests a lot of time and money in good soundtracks, and Howard Shore's soundtrack for Lord of the Rings helps drive the three films with vigor, passion and emotion. I remember some of the songs nearly bringing me to tears they were so well done. The link below is a preview of the Lord of the Rings soundtrack.
Imagine Halo or Lord of the Rings with no music at all? Imagine the impact on their audience if entirely different composers were used? The power of music can be profound, and It's certainly something we can all relate to.
Otherworldly
Okay, no more boring you with dense audio engineering jargon!
I'm very pleased to officially announce the name of the music project I've been so heavily involved with lately: Otherworldly. We are a unique fusion of electronic music, with each tune sure to be different from the next. Featuring psychedelic vocals from Mark (and occasionally from myself), we are Topeka's fresh new fix for electronic dance music.
I'm very pleased to officially announce the name of the music project I've been so heavily involved with lately: Otherworldly. We are a unique fusion of electronic music, with each tune sure to be different from the next. Featuring psychedelic vocals from Mark (and occasionally from myself), we are Topeka's fresh new fix for electronic dance music.
(image credit @Otherworldly Facebook)
Members
(left) - Mark Feuerborn, vocals/producing/mixing
(right) - Sam Zlotky, vocals/producing/mixing
Genre
As mentioned above, no song sounds the same! I can't stand genres, but for context I'll say we are an electronica/experimental group. Our tunes range from crushing dubstep riffs to tribal, atmospheric trance.
We can't wait to release a full ep!
For upcoming shows, tunes, and much more, see the links below!
Mixing Vocals: The Basics
I will preface this post by saying there is a lot of audio engineering jargon below that, while myself or other audio engineers may understand well, others may struggle to wrap their heads around. This is okay...audio engineering is like another language!
None the less, I figured this is a good time to share some of my producing knowledge, seeing as I've been buried in my computer lately mixing tracks and correcting/manipulating vocal tracks from various singers...including myself!
In the photography world, even the video world, there is only so much one can do in the editing process if a photo or video had bad lighting to begin with. The same logic applies to mixing a good, full professional vocal track. If the audio of the voice you're trying to record has harsh sibilance (annoying frequencies), a lot of pitch errors, and a lot of outside interference like ambulance sirens or something, there is only so much you can do!
Ideally, there shouldn't be much work required if you get a good recording from your vocalist. However, there are some general mixing concepts that every producer all over the world utilizes when cleaning up vocals:
EQ - Properly eq'ing frequencies in/out of your singers voice is crucial. Less is more here!
Gating - Gating can be done with software or can be done manually, and just involves cutting out any dead areas or unwanted sounds or disturbances that aren't your singers actual voice.
Pitch Correction - Yes....we all do it! Pitch correction is self explanatory, and even your favorite singers are subject to this process. There is some mind blowing software out there that makes it an easy process that preserves the quality of the vocal even after much correction has been applied.
Compression - Compression is complicated, but in short it's a work flow utilizing 3 main parameters: threshold, envelope (attack/release), and ratio. Compression is a work flow that can help reduce the higher more abrasive areas of your vocal, while preserving the rest of the vocal. Compression involves a lot of finesse, and I'm learning more everyday.
Limiting - Limiting, when used lightly, can add some color and size to your vocal, though it's a quick way to ruin a good vocal if abused.
Those are all concepts utilized globally by producers in huge studios, or by guys like me on a laptop. There is so much to learn in the audio engineering world, and I like to think I'm improving everyday. Fortunately, there is a wealth of information on the internet for those (like me) with constant questions about mixing, software, etc.
Happy mixing!
None the less, I figured this is a good time to share some of my producing knowledge, seeing as I've been buried in my computer lately mixing tracks and correcting/manipulating vocal tracks from various singers...including myself!
In the photography world, even the video world, there is only so much one can do in the editing process if a photo or video had bad lighting to begin with. The same logic applies to mixing a good, full professional vocal track. If the audio of the voice you're trying to record has harsh sibilance (annoying frequencies), a lot of pitch errors, and a lot of outside interference like ambulance sirens or something, there is only so much you can do!
Ideally, there shouldn't be much work required if you get a good recording from your vocalist. However, there are some general mixing concepts that every producer all over the world utilizes when cleaning up vocals:
EQ - Properly eq'ing frequencies in/out of your singers voice is crucial. Less is more here!
(image credit @www.flsresource.com)
Gating - Gating can be done with software or can be done manually, and just involves cutting out any dead areas or unwanted sounds or disturbances that aren't your singers actual voice.
Pitch Correction - Yes....we all do it! Pitch correction is self explanatory, and even your favorite singers are subject to this process. There is some mind blowing software out there that makes it an easy process that preserves the quality of the vocal even after much correction has been applied.
(image credit @www.musicradar.com)
Compression - Compression is complicated, but in short it's a work flow utilizing 3 main parameters: threshold, envelope (attack/release), and ratio. Compression is a work flow that can help reduce the higher more abrasive areas of your vocal, while preserving the rest of the vocal. Compression involves a lot of finesse, and I'm learning more everyday.
Limiting - Limiting, when used lightly, can add some color and size to your vocal, though it's a quick way to ruin a good vocal if abused.
Those are all concepts utilized globally by producers in huge studios, or by guys like me on a laptop. There is so much to learn in the audio engineering world, and I like to think I'm improving everyday. Fortunately, there is a wealth of information on the internet for those (like me) with constant questions about mixing, software, etc.
Happy mixing!
Wednesday, April 1, 2015
Pierce
Okay guys! If you checked out my post last week A Team Effort, I teased that good buddy Mark Feuerborn and myself are working on some musical projects together. Mark is one talented dude! Audio engineer, guitar player, singer, and all around nice guy. Mark is involved in student media here at Washburn University, and his talents extend from music into other branches of the media world.
As promised, here is a teaser (see bottom link) of one of our new collaborations. Entitled 'Pierce', it's a dynamic tune with tribal and atmospheric vocals from Mark, and combines intimate moments with pounding electronic moments.
As promised, here is a teaser (see bottom link) of one of our new collaborations. Entitled 'Pierce', it's a dynamic tune with tribal and atmospheric vocals from Mark, and combines intimate moments with pounding electronic moments.
Friday, March 27, 2015
A Team Effort
Hey all!
I'm excited to announce that I've been working diligently producing a track in a collaborative effort with Washburn University's very own Mark Feuerborn.
A member of student media and a kindled spirit, Mark is a multi talented instrumentalist and audio engineer. Not only is Mark proficient with his voice and with the guitar, Mark is a member of the active band Buyer Beware.
I'm excited to announce that I've been working diligently producing a track in a collaborative effort with Washburn University's very own Mark Feuerborn.
A member of student media and a kindled spirit, Mark is a multi talented instrumentalist and audio engineer. Not only is Mark proficient with his voice and with the guitar, Mark is a member of the active band Buyer Beware.
(image credit @Buyer Beware Facebook)
Mark and I have been working together on a track called 'Pierce' which will feature very tribal and atmospheric vocals from mark. I've produced most of the track so far, and I would say it's a blend of dark atmosphere, electronica, and...well I shouldn't spoil it anymore!
Mark is putting the final touches on the vocals now, and I can't wait for us to share the track with you all. Looking forward to sharing the track in a future post. Stay tuned!
Cheers
Monday, March 9, 2015
Jukeboxx Media: Kansas City's Jukebox Heros
It's time to break out of the Topeka music scene for a second and give these folks an introduction. Jukeboxx Media are a full entertainment company that has the Kansas City market nailed down.
They cater to any and every entertainment need you could possible imagine when it comes to weddings or events. Their services include but aren't limited to: DJ's, photographers, videographers, emcees, and even party motivators. A subset of Jukeboxx Media is their featured band Lost Wax. The talented local musician Ashley Reynolds (post coming soon) is a Lost Wax member, and also the founder and frontman of our band Monk's Wine. To check out the Monk's Wine post for our band biography, media, and more, click here.
Lost Wax assert themselves as Kansas City's go-to party band. From Bruno Mars to Daft Punk, their mashups are the life of the party. They're funky, on point, and just downright fun.
So whether you're needing a DJ, an amazing band, or just general help with entertainment, Jukeboxx Media are a group of serious professionals who give it their all to keep the party poppin'.
For upcoming shows, tunes, and much more, see the links below!
(image credit @Jukeboxx Media Facebook)
Lost Wax assert themselves as Kansas City's go-to party band. From Bruno Mars to Daft Punk, their mashups are the life of the party. They're funky, on point, and just downright fun.
So whether you're needing a DJ, an amazing band, or just general help with entertainment, Jukeboxx Media are a group of serious professionals who give it their all to keep the party poppin'.
For upcoming shows, tunes, and much more, see the links below!
Topeka Symphony Orchestra 'Woos' WU Students
Shout out to Topeka Symphony Orchestra! They have an upcoming show Great Sounds that you definitely don't want to miss. It will feature Washburn's Anne Marie Snook, chair of the music department. Having been a music major, I'd be absolutely delighted to see her perform. Her credentials are impressive, and she's sure to bring delight and talent to this show. I would urge locals (regardless of age or musical taste) to attend the show and indulge yourself in some top notch musicianship.
(image credit @www.topekasymphony.org)
White Concert Hall
Isn't it gorgeous? The design and acoustics make for stellar performances that you could never forget.
(image credit @www.washburn.edu)
Show Details
Saturday, March 14th
White Concert Hall
7:30 pm
For performance details and other information regarding the Topeka Symphony Orchestra, click here.
So You Wanna Be a Rockstar...
It's easy to fall under the assumption that modern day 'rock stars' are still trashing hotel rooms, mainlining illegal substances, and making more money in a year than I will in my entire lifetime. Unfortunately this lifestyle is becoming obsolete, except for the lucky few.
Here is a leaked list from a record label of the demands per show for some of those lucky few:
(image credit @www.powerfm.com)
Even those lucky few tend to have very short lived careers, much like a professional athlete, and the nurturing and life span of their careers often involves making decisions or deals that completely do away with their creative control.
The digital age in which we are living has all but done away with album sales. The internet is one big cesspool of (largely) free information and file sharing, and just about every song recorded resides on the internet as an mp3. Even if the devout fan goes the legal route, iTunes offers purchases per song rather than per album. Almost no albums went platinum during 2014, save for Taylor Swift's '1989' and the movie soundtrack of Frozen. Even artists as big as Pharrell seem to be enduring hard times. Though 'hard times' for Pharrell may be good times for you and I, his hit single 'Happy' earned him less than 3000 dollars in songwriting royalties despite his millions of plays on Pandora.
So how do artists survive with the music industry on its toes? Tour!
Tour, tour, tour, tour, sleep (maybe), tour some more....and sell as much merchandise as you can.
Whether it be on a local or global scale, musicians supplement their income. They play shows, teach, sell merchandise, and much more. If you want to survive as a musician, it's very possible! Just be persistent, and never lose your passion for music.
Andy Mckee
I can't think of anyone who has embodied success, passion, and musicality with such charm and tact as Andy Mckee.
(image credit @Allan Torre)
A Topeka native, his success and musical prowess speaks for itself in some of his earlier YouTube videos. With smooth silky chords and a mane of hair, Andy was well on his way toward an illustrious career and quickly earned the title 'YouTube sensation'.
Andy Mckee - Rylynn
I'm fortunate enough to know Andy personally and he is not only a world class musician, but a kind and gentle soul. He has played along side such names as Prince and Dream Theater, and continues to tour the world showing no sign of letting up. If you haven't seen him live or in video, I urge you to watch the above YouTube video or book some tickets to go support this fine artist!
For upcoming show, tunes, and much more, see the links below!
Tuesday, March 3, 2015
Jarrod Guth: Guitar Extraordinaire
I can't refrain myself any longer. I've just GOT to introduce my dear friend and bandmate (and occasionally a sound life coach) Jarrod Guth.
(image credit @Jarrod Guth Music Facebook)
I consider Jarrod one of the most in demand and talented musicians in the Topeka music scene and beyond. For a brief recap of his role in our local band Monk's Wine, click here.
Aside from fulfilling his crucial role in Monk's Wine, Jarrod is tenacious and plays actively around town for weddings, corporate gigs, and other various events. Though he has a handful of guitar players whom he admires and pulls inspiration from, a continued influential figure for Jarrod is Topeka native Andy Mckee (post on Andy coming soon). His playing is dynamic and diverse, ranging from atmospheric melodies with very loose phrasing to heavier riffing and even blues. You'd be hard pressed to find a style of music that Jarrod couldn't play. Add in a witty stage presence accompanied by a fine singing voice and you've got Jarrod Guth.
The more I spend time with Jarrod, the more I realize his passion spills over into every aspect of his life: Fatherhood, friendships, work, you name it. His presence in Topeka is one to be reckoned with and he's an incredibly generous, approachable human being. I'm honored to call him my friend and bandmate.
For upcoming shows, tunes, and much more, see the links below!
Jarrod Guth - Groove for Maxwell
Culture in the Commons
This one goes out to all my fellow Washburn students!
As stated via Facebook (courtesy of good friend and musician Sage Cornelius), a free event is taking place on campus tomorrow called Culture in the Commons.
(image credit @Sage's Facebook)
The event will consist of three artists who will perform pieces that will showcase a range of musical styles, and following each performance will be a brief discussion of the cultural relevance of each song performed and a little history lesson pertaining to the style of music performed.
Sounds like something I wouldn't want to miss out on!
Lineup
Brail Watson
Brail will be singing, playing his cello and even rapping. I've known Brail for some time now, and he is hands down one of the most talented guys I've had the pleasure know. Click here for more information on Brail!
Nico Williams
Nico will be playing Marimba style percussion will some jazzy vibes. Nico is a good kid and talented percussionist, and his performance will be noteworthy to say the least.
Sage Cornelius
Sage will be playing his violin in a very 'fiddlish' manner, and will be singing some Native American themed tunes accompanied by a hand drummer (unfortunately this will not be me).
There you have it! It's free, and the event will be held tomorrow in the dining hall of the union from 3-4pm. What better endeavor is there than to casually enjoy the fine artistry of these musicians while learning a thing or two?
Hope to see some familiar and unfamiliar faces there! Cheers.
Thursday, February 26, 2015
On The Shoulders of Giants
I've yet to introduce a metal band, and these guys showcase their genre exceptionally well. I know them personally and had an opportunity to help them as a drum tech for a show in Lawrence. They have opened for known touring metal bands such as Periphery, and their potential is huge. With bone crushing riffs played with precision and intensity, On The Shoulders of Giants owns every stage they stand upon.
(image credit @OTSOG Facebook)
Members
(left) - Sage Cornelius, guitar/clean vocals
(middle/front) - Aaron Denher, drums
(right) - Steven Perez, guitar
(not pictured) - Kyler Delfs, vocals - Grant Sunbye, bass
Genre
To reiterate, I'm just not a fan of confining bands to genres. I like to let the music speak for itself. That being said, these guys would gleefully tell you their music is a technical mix of hardcore and metalcore, maybe with a pinch of punk and oh....did I say technical?
Closing
On The Shoulders of Giants has quite a following here in Topeka, and it's no secret why. They're a bunch of fun guys who play metal, and they play it well!
For upcoming shows, tunes, and much more, see the links below!
Memory Lane
It's not every day you're going through your old suitcase and stumble across this:
Yes that is an iPhone. More specifically, it's the iPhone I was using to communicate with the world from 2012 to early 2014. Needless to say, I was delighted at the find having thought I'd lost it. Can you guess what happened next? Exactly! I wanted to see what kind of music I was jamming to back in the day! I powered it up, put my music on shuffle, warmed up my car, and hit the local road for a trip down memory lane.
This journey took me to all kinds of places, both in the actual world and in my head. Every song took me to a different place! Some of those places were very touching and brought a smile to my face, and some of those places were very dark and stained with a hint of sadness leaving me scratching my head asking 'what happened to the good old days'. Needless to say, words can't explain the power of music.
Like a book, I think music is one of the most precious things. Whether it be a vinyl record, cds, or old lost mp3s on an old phone, the music you listen to at any point in time will hold a special place in your heart. I think that trip down memory lane reminded me what was, what is, and what can be. For me as a musician this was quite a rejuvenating, spiritual experience. I hope everyone (musician or non-musician) takes good care of their music because it's precious in so many ways!
Thursday, February 19, 2015
Local Music Venues
It only seems fitting to write about some local music venues after discussing places where you can buy music and music related stuff.
Celtic Fox
First and foremost, this is the place where I've undoubtedly played the most gigs.
Celtic Fox
First and foremost, this is the place where I've undoubtedly played the most gigs.
(image credit @Celtic Fox Facebook)
Celtic Fox radiates a vitality that I've yet to find with another local venue. The atmosphere is welcoming and relaxed, but also energetic and the place is well maintained.
Tailgators Sports Pub & Grub
Aside from being delicious, simply stated it's just a fun place to be. This happens to be the venue where my band Monk's Wine won our first battle of the bands (See Monk's Wine post here).
The Boobie Trap
Aside from having a fun and exuberant name, what some might call a run-down hole in the wall I call an excellent place to hang out and play music. My band has performed here for a CD release party. If you live in Topeka, you've experienced The Boobie Trap. Great place, great people!
Check out the YouTube video below to enjoy a local band playing at the Boobie Trap here in Topeka, KS.
Local Music Stores
I'd love to take this time to give a shout out to some local music stores here in Topeka! They allow local musicians not only creative wiggle room by providing a variety of products tailored to their needs, but they also will give expert advice and quality music lessons.
Supersonic Music
Supersonic Music caters to your drum and guitar needs. I've relied on them countlessly for sticks, drum gear, dvds, you name it. In addition to providing top notch products and personal music lessons, Supersonic generously provides gear and support during local music events.
Location
117 SE 6th Ave
Topeka, KS 66603
Supersonic Music
Supersonic Music caters to your drum and guitar needs. I've relied on them countlessly for sticks, drum gear, dvds, you name it. In addition to providing top notch products and personal music lessons, Supersonic generously provides gear and support during local music events.
Location
117 SE 6th Ave
Topeka, KS 66603
Manning Music
Manning music boasts a longtime presence here in Topeka, and you'll know why once you walk in. A helpful and friendly staff will be there every step of the way, whether you're in need of a new instrument or just starting out and seeking lessons. They've got you covered, and once again I'm fortunate to know much of the staff. Great bunch of folks!
Location
3400 SW 6th Ave
Topeka, KS 66606
Steam Music & Sound
Steam Music has been around since I can remember. My parents purchased my first snare drum from Steam Music! Their reviews speak for themselves. Wonderful staff, wide variety of products empowering you the musician to have some creative choice based on your needs and desires. Check them out! You won't regret it.
Location
5332 SW 17th St
Topeka, KS 66604
Thursday, February 12, 2015
Step by Step: Starting a Band
So having done a great deal of boasting about some local musicians, it feels appropriate to step back and reminise on my earlier days as a young drummer starting out. Every musician has to start somewhere, and one mustn't ever forget their roots.
How to Start a Band
Step 1: Practice your instrument! It's crucial to find a good teacher early on who can not only instill passion and drive, but one who can teach you proper technique. In doing so, you can explore your talent and won't be at great risk of injury.
Step 2: Get involved locally! No matter your age, go meet musicians or music enthusiasts. Go to shows. Go be as social as possible, get some names and numbers, and build a network!
Step 3: Hopefully by now you've established yourself in the local music vein. If you've reached a point of confidence in your instrument, call up some friends to jam! Discuss your musical styles, find common ground, and if it permits then begin composing some songs.
Step 4: If you hit it off with a willing member or two, solidify the group and discuss the notion of playing more seriously. Continue composing and learning songs, and practice practice PRACTICE!
Step 5: Get out there and be heard! At this point your group is rehearsed and confident, and you realize that you deserve more. Begin to utilize tools like social media and create pages, make connections, build press kits, get your music recorded, and begin booking local shows.
Step 6: Play play play! Continue playing shows, give people the time of their lives and word will spread that you're a musical force to be reckoned with.
Step 7: Repeat step 6, and enjoy the ride!
Closing
Well there you have it, a little friendly advice on starting a band from yours truly. Any accomplished musician can attest to a variation of steps, some going as planned and some throwing in curve balls. Even legendary bands have had their struggles. Perhaps the most valuable advice I can offer an aspiring musician, though, is this: Practice, and always play from the heart.
How to Start a Band
Step 1: Practice your instrument! It's crucial to find a good teacher early on who can not only instill passion and drive, but one who can teach you proper technique. In doing so, you can explore your talent and won't be at great risk of injury.
Step 2: Get involved locally! No matter your age, go meet musicians or music enthusiasts. Go to shows. Go be as social as possible, get some names and numbers, and build a network!
Step 3: Hopefully by now you've established yourself in the local music vein. If you've reached a point of confidence in your instrument, call up some friends to jam! Discuss your musical styles, find common ground, and if it permits then begin composing some songs.
Step 4: If you hit it off with a willing member or two, solidify the group and discuss the notion of playing more seriously. Continue composing and learning songs, and practice practice PRACTICE!
Step 5: Get out there and be heard! At this point your group is rehearsed and confident, and you realize that you deserve more. Begin to utilize tools like social media and create pages, make connections, build press kits, get your music recorded, and begin booking local shows.
Step 6: Play play play! Continue playing shows, give people the time of their lives and word will spread that you're a musical force to be reckoned with.
Step 7: Repeat step 6, and enjoy the ride!
Closing
Well there you have it, a little friendly advice on starting a band from yours truly. Any accomplished musician can attest to a variation of steps, some going as planned and some throwing in curve balls. Even legendary bands have had their struggles. Perhaps the most valuable advice I can offer an aspiring musician, though, is this: Practice, and always play from the heart.
Slow Ya Roll
Slow Ya Roll is an accomplished local band, and their engaging stage presence is matched by very few. Not only am I fortunate enough to know these fine musicians but I've shared the stage with them several times, including a Battle of the Bands. They came in at a close 2nd to our 1st place snag!
(image credit @Kendollphotography)
Members
(far left) - Justin Fowler, keys/vocals
(left) - Bryan Schmutz, guitar
(right) - Sean Walker, bass guitar
(far right) - Elvin Graves Jr, vocals/percussion
Genre
Now I'm not one for confining bands to specific genres, as you may have noticed while reading my Monk's Wine blog post. These guys combine elements of undeniable funk and smooth silky soul, while experimenting with ambient and reggae....there, that was my best shot!
Closing
From a small local bar to a theater, Slow Ya Roll are some very well rehearsed artists who know how to please a crowd. Having been to several shows as an audience member, let me tell you there is never a dull moment when they control the stage. I couldn't endorse a more spirited local band.
For upcoming shows, tunes, and much more, see the links below!
Thursday, February 5, 2015
Monk's Wine
It gives me great pleasure to introduce my band, Monk's Wine. From the bottom of my beating heart I couldn't ask to play with a better group of musicians. These guys are more than just rehearsed professionals, they're dear friends and all around creative individuals.
(image credit @Kendollphotography)
Members
(left) - Sam Zlotky, drums/vocals
(middle) - Jarrod Guth, guitar/vocals
(right) - Ashley Reynolds, lead vocals/keys
Genre
....Let us get back to you on that one, we still aren't sure! The best I can do is say we have been affectionately dubbed 'piano rock' by some, combining the flavors of bands such as Dave Matthews Band and Ben Folds (hope that helps).
My Experience
Looking back over the years, one of my most treasured decisions still today is joining this band back in 2010. Much has changed in 5 years. At the time I was a music major at Washburn University, and I couldn't have been more eager to immerse myself in music. I'd heard from a drummer friend that a band needed a drummer, so despite being nervous, I went for it. Lo and behold, I nailed the audition!
Were it not for setting aside fear and just going for it, I wouldn't be the musician that I am today. We've played many shows, locally and beyond. Some of the shows went as planned, some forced us to quickly improvise! Along the way I've certainly grown as a drummer, and through experience I've learned to curb my performance anxiety. Even furthermore, I've had experience recording in studios since joining this band.
Closing
I've come a long way in 5 years. If not for my bandmates, I'm not sure where I'd be today in the music world. Chances are I wouldn't be qualified to create a blog about the local music scene. I'm blessed to be a part of this group, and I look forward to what the future holds for us.
For upcoming shows, tunes, and much more, see the links below!
Monk's Wine - Message 3 (music video)
(video credit @Jake Livgren, Britta Lee Productions)
Introduction
Hello all!
My name is Sam Zlotky and I'm a junior at Washburn University. Some would describe me as reserved and stoic, while others might describe me as crazy and outgoing. I like to think that I'm a nice blend of the two. When it comes to music, however, I'm about as out there as you can get! I've been playing drums and percussion since the 4th grade, and it's been quite the journey.
Looking back it's still hard to believe I was once a young boy learning the basics to the snare drum. Today, I find myself playing drum set/percussion for Topeka based band Monk's Wine. Furthermore, I enjoy producing electronic music both professionally and recreationally. Music is certainly my passion, that goes without saying. I believe that with that passion comes an innate responsibility to be aware of the local music in my community.
As a Topeka native and a long time Topeka musician, I'm blessed to be involved in the local music scene. I look forward to sharing with you what Topeka has to offer in the realm of music entertainment. It will be exciting to blog not only in an informative manner, but through the eyes of someone who is a part of the local music scene. Stay tuned (especially guitar players, yes pun intended).
Cheers!
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