Chapter one features multi-instrumentalist and bassist for The Red Sea Pedestrians and The Brothers Kalamazov Jay Gavan. In an in-depth interview Gavan discusses his experiences playing bass backing up several bands and the language of music created as musicians come together from various backgrounds.
I was allowed to observe a practice ahead of a performance later that night in Kalamazoo, Mich. with musicians Seth Bernard and May Erlewine. Also at the practice was percussionist Mike Shimmin and bassist Andrew Kratzat. During the practice, I recorded video and audio focusing attention on Bernard and Erlewine, a duo in a committed personal and creative relationship. Following the practice, we sat down for an interview.
The Brothers Kalamazov, by and large, only play together in a live setting. It is on stage that some songs are created and take shape. Gavan says the communication in the group is what makes this creative feat possible. He says this live musical conversation is also one of the most fun things he does musically.
Who Hit John? bassist Ian Gorman discusses how the Kalamazoo-based bluegrass group brings together the musical ideas from five inspired musicans.
Exploring Conversations is a platform for examining the language of music. It was created as a graduate thesis project by Steven Davy
