"Until you, as a listener, can hear music instead of categories, you cannot appreciate what you are hearing." - Paul Williams
In a time divided by titles and associations, I think this is such an important concept, especially when it comes to writing and talking about music. Music shouldn’t be boxed in and limited by definitions. The opposite is true. It should be liberated by experimentation and the ability to morph, change and evolve. And right here in Syracuse, it’s doing that all the time.
We’ve got venues ranging in style and size, demographic and location. And none should go unnoticed.
This is your invitation and opportunity to help me focus in on the key places and groups you want to see covered. No response to this is wrong or unwanted. Any and every idea is not only welcomed, but anxiously awaited. I hope I can get to every place and band you all suggest.
The dream is to make this a center, a community – one where musicians and music-lovers can connect, share, argue or celebrate what’s happening here and beyond in music.
If you hear me talkin’ to ya – talk back.
Comment below or e-mail me at jnovak@syracusenewtimes.com.
Watch out Syracuse Music Scene!
Hey Jess, it's great to see you on the blog here. I feel what you're saying in how music really has no boundaries. In the grand scheme of things, it really doesn't matter what people label it; every type of music is connected in some way, and it's often surprising how some styles revert back to older ones. I'm at the point in my life where I no longer label myself as a punk, a metalhead, or a hardcore kid. I love all music, and I don't see any point in limiting myself to only a few genres. I'm all about enjoying it all and exploring uncharted territory.
What I would like to see in modern journalism is more coverage of the best music out there. A lot of times, the best music isn't heard on the radio or even on Pandora. Sometimes it's still contained in a local venue or in the basement of someone's house just waiting to be uncovered. I think it would be great to see more writers and music lovers exploring these avenues and discovering something truly great. Fortunately, you seem to be on the right track with your motivation and ambition, and you've already uncovered many new artists that would've gone unknown otherwise. You are definitely a driving force in your scene, and I have full confidence that you'll get your name out to many other scenes.
I always look forward to reading more from you. Laters!