ByGD
Against all odds, Seattle Dance Collective is back for a second season with five new works. The first of these, Home by Penny Saunders, premiered on July 2. It was as artistically engaging as its backstory is bizarre. And in contrast to the challenges that had to be overcome to create it, there has never been a ballet with lower barriers for its audience. Home is free to view online.
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ByGD
It’s happened more times than I can count. I see a band that looks interesting on a streaming site. I hit play. The opening notes of noodly guitar or hooky riffage immediately capture my attention. Drums kick in, and my head starts to move. For a couple glorious, extended intro minutes I think I’ve found my new favorite band. Then the vocals start aaand I’m out. Nasal prog-rock vocals where I wanted a death growl; faux-demonic hisses where a scream belongs; emo screaming where literally anything would be better. Vocals are often an afterthought, especially in metal, and it often shows. Some people think they are required, but I prefer the honesty of a band that focuses on what they do well, and skips what they don’t care about. Especially when I’m working, I like instrumental music. But as long as the songwriting is there, I don’t care if the vocals aren’t.
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ByGD
I forgot to ask his name. Didn’t even realize until after I left town that I didn’t get his name. But I got his story, and even without a name, I knew I’d never forget it. How could I, when it was also my own? Read More