Old Pawn – Seasons
The history of rock music is, really, one determined by how much free time audiences have and the way in which they wish to spend it. Some generations are enthusiastic about hearing 30-minute guitar solos, while others can’t stand for more than a 30-second hook.
The good news for those who feel like they’ve found themselves on the wrong side of history is that these preferences tend to move in cycles. In recent years, for example, few new bands have ventured to release songs that are longer than 2 minutes for fear of the algorithms opposing them.
But the same audiences, at least those who’ve fallen in love with the history of rock music, are casting a look back to the past. They’ve discovered groups that could mystify audiences through long, elegant jams and that stylishly showcase their musicianship without boring those in attendance at their shows.
Old Pawn delivers on the public’s re-established love for blues-based jams on “Seasons.” It’s a song that calls to mind The Allman Brothers Band’s psychedelic, pre-country excursions. The playing is fantastic, the tone is warm and inviting. But this isn’t a Retro Fest altogether. The production for Old Pawn’s music is modern and crisp. Things turn around eventually; this psych-jam band is taking advantage of these changes.
Some Distance – Unbalanced
Read through rock star autobiographies, and you’ll find the ways to “make it” in the music business. I do have to warn you, however, that most of these strategies are exhausting and time-consuming. Are you willing to try?
Ok. First of all, make sure to befriend influential people from the music world and always be nice to them. Next, make it a priority to attend every single party at which they’re present. Be fun! Make jokes! And, for heaven’s sake, indulge in some of the same mind-altering activities as the rest of them. You have to blend in!
Some Distance’s musicians would be just as displeased to learn of these rules as I was. But this used to be the reality. Timid, self-aware thinkers were rarely let through the gates and given the opportunity to share their music.
It’s a good time to be a wallflower and to make art. It’s a nice time to find like-minded people. The dreamy, lush “Unbalanced” by Some Distance tries to create an alchemical reaction whereby tension, anxiety and sadness are transformed into something beautiful, relaxing and nurturing. It’s music about feeling like you’re going to have a heart attack the next time you’re forced to talk to anyone. And, oh, it’s made to sound like a dream.
