Saturday, August 16, 2008

Good and Bad News from the artist formerly known as JRL

Good and Bad News from the artist formerly known as JRL

So I'm listening to the rough versions of the new record and I'm in that phase where it sounds bad to me. Yes, it's not finally mixed or mastered yet. But it's my own weaknesses I hear -- vocal tuning issues, etc. This happens every time in the process -- I haven't found any way around it, just through. I guess that's not really bad news, but it's a hard part of the art-making process (or the process of doing anything really worthwhile -- read more about it in "The War of Art").

Good news, however, is here as well. Any of you remember the post I did in February about Community Supported Music? Well it's finally up and running and there are actual members from all over (Anchorage, Toronto, Dallas, DuPont -- of course that's all 4 of the current members).

All kidding aside, I think the first batch of songs is great. Some simpler folky stuff, some more experimental, some worship. If you're interested, sign up at www.communitysupportedart.com Click on Jonathan and then Sign Up. Annual donation amounts range from $30 to $500. If you do the patron membership ($500) I write an original song based on your ideas (an original song written for someone makes a pretty unique gift).

It feels good to be doing this -- there's a lot of freedom to try new things and just see what comes out (and it's interesting what's emerging).

PS: I was asked to sit in on electric guitar for a great "rock en espanol" band. What an honor.

PPS: Feel free to leave questions or comments about the CSM.

Sunday, August 3, 2008

After the Beginning of the End

So this end is really happening. It's sad and it's good. I just finished laying down the last of the tracks for the last JRL record. (Well, I may have to tweak a couple vocals in mixdown). This leaves mixing the record, designing the cover, and (possibly) a farewell concert. If we do the concert it will most likely be in Goshen and incorporate as many of the amazing musicians as possible who have been part of JRL over the years. That will be incredible if it happens. The record is coming along nicely -- it feels like in many ways it brings together things that emerged from each album before it and mixes it into a diverse but consistent whole (gang vocals-- S2S, a lyrical focus -- JRL10, unique instrumentation and good production -- CITP, and maturing songwriting -- Now).

Thanks again for your comments and encouragement. And thanks to you who continue the journey with me on the CSM.

Jonathan