Scott Levy

Ideas collected.

Blast from a musical (1995) past

(download)
Wow: this project is 15 years old.  

At some point I need to get a DAT player to get the digital version. For now, this mp3 file is from something we used to use in the 1990's called a "cassette tape".

 

Recorded by Shawn Koonce, I think part of it was mixed by Charles Reeves aka Chicky (now in NYC somehwere?). Made possible thanks to Harold aka DJ Phyfteen (sp?) on turntables, Luis Guerra on bass , Jay Dennis and Bavu Blakes rapping, myself on keys, drums and vocals.    At various times I worked on this or played gigs with Edwin Livingston, Dr. James Polk , John Thomasson, Robert 'Dugans' Martinez, Fredrick Sanders, Arlington Jones, DJ Baby G, Carl Settles and Ephraim Owens all of whom influenced me in this time period.

The bass line was inspired by Ron Carter's work with a Tribe Called Quest on their album The Low End Theory and all the jazz and funk improvised with the afore mentioned players in the early and mid 90's.

It crazy to think of all the work this took due to the limitations of technology at the time - heck  original version was done on 2 inch tape.

 

Collaboration Caught In the Wild: Whitley, Lanois and Blade

Daniel Lanois has had a hand in many recordings that were favorites when I was coming up.  He has been called on by artists like Bob Dylan,  U2, Peter Gabriel and a host of others.    Brian Blade seems to be intent on reminding about  everything I love about the drumset - he is one of my favorite drummers. This lady Trixie is new to  me.  

In any case, this creative process is fun to watch.  It offers insights into the recording process of one of the arts most prolific and respected producers.  He is working like a conductor and providing an additional set of ears and energy.  It reminds me: while the musicians here are top notch in their skill sets, recording, producing a record is its own set of skills involving management, leadership and creativity in addition to the various technical skills required.   It also reminds me that even the best stand to gain when interacting with other equally committed individuals.  Makes me miss music recording. Hope you enjoy.