steppingintorivers.com

As previously noted, I participated in RPM 2008, an annual community support project. Each member pledges the intention to record an album in the month of February.

Results varied. I did not finish the project, but certainly it was worthwhile in that it pushed me to generate. At times, generating the sound of me banging my head against the wall, the desk, the floor, etc. There’s no accounting for taste.

I have a few ideas as to how I could have improved my participation.

1. I really only began work on the project February 23rd. The first half of February was nuts. I have no transitioned into a more open schedule; I see no reason why I can’t “make an album in March, April, May, Etc.” Damn, I love the month of Etc.
2. I didn’t participate in the online community at all. What the heck good is that? Sigh. Well, there’s no reason why I have to wait for next year to look for a community with support and feedback. (And an opportunity to provide support and feedback for other struggling creators.) I found this awesome community at thesixtyone. Looks promising.
3. I got my pressure techniques messed up. And this has to do with anticipated audience. I think this deserves a separate post for deeper exploration.

Not to be too hard on myself, there were things to be gained.

1. I got my gear out, dusted it off, plugged it in, and played. It has been a long time since I let my curiosity out through my fingers, guided only by my instincts and ears.
2. I learned a ton in Logic Studio. This is perhaps the greatest thing that could have come of this. Greater than crushing out an album. I have a much better grasp of how to get into the environment and paint pictures. It takes a fair amount of time and practice to become fluid enough with the tools that they don’t get in the way of creation. I’m constantly finding ways to speed up my interaction with the software.
3. Not a full album, but I do have an EP to remember the week.

SketchMemory is a quick and messy glimpse of darkness I ‘d rather not rest in.