You know, sometimes being a music reviewer/interviewer sucks. Believe it or not, it's not that much fun to know all the insignificant little factoids about most bands that have appeared in the last 20 years. Sure, it's a cool party trick but it doesn't move me any closer to my goal of making a difference in the world around me. It also takes a lot of dedication and time. Have you ever listened to a band you didn't like? Imagine it being your job to listen to all of that band's releases multiples times over a decade. Not so fun. Those are the big negatives.
Other times though, it does not suck to do what I do. Despite the fact that it's your job to know as much as possible about a wide variety of music, you get pleasantly surprised 10-15 times a year by either a new band or one that finally comes into their own. That sort of makes the time spent with the things you don't like worthwhile.
10 years ago, when I was first starting 1340mag.com, I stumbled upon an Australian extreme metal band and fell in love with their music almost immedietly. Their name is Virgin Black and over the years I got to know their guitarist through email. After trading online notes for much of the aforementioned last 10 years, I finally had the chance to sit down with them after seeing them open for Amorphis and Samael in Cleveland, OH. It's weird meeting someone you have only known as an email address for so long but it was a truly amazing experience. Of course, their live show was jaw-dropping. Never have I seen a band command silence in a dingy rock club, and I have seen hundreds of shows.
So, thanks Virgin Black for reminding me why I still love music. Thanks for reminding me that music still matters. Thanks for offering me an experience I was priviliged to have, the kind that not every one gets to have.
So, as the music industry collapses around us, remember that music at it's best is still about connection. Seek it out. Invest in it emotionally. Invest in it financially. Become a part of what you love. That's how it used to be done. That's what created the classic rock of today. You won't regret it.
Mark
