Nights @ Spectrum

This months cover design by Aleksandar Ares,
layout by K.K.W

The Western Enisphere + Ras & Shayna @ Spectrum. Article & photos by K.K.W

Ras (left) & Shayna.

The first act that evening, Ras & Shayna, was a lively and interesting combo - Jazz meets classical. The skill was there, although contrasting way too much at times resulting in off-beat sounds struggling to blend. It was an improv set, which is always in the moment, though it would have been better if both flowed together more harmoniously. Still it had its moment, and I think the two should have another set and try it again. 

Jeanann Dara

Melodic, somber, and seemingly introspective was the nature of her set. A throbbing, fluttering electronic humming accompanying the Erie, aching, careful sound emanating from her viola. At first it was hard to know where it would go and how to feel about it, however towards the end it became something...interesting. A brief bout of musical enjoyment rising out of the dullness of "manic Monday" expectations. It was good, though I wish it was more cheerful, more light then dark. I think this is an expression of part of her character, that which few really see and she keeps hidden from us. 

Jeanann Dara

A long uninterrupted sound Started off the 3rd act, one of those slightly annoying, vibratory sounds that could lead to "experimental music" that's full of itself. Though as the trombone eased in gently (like an eager lover in warm dim-lit room) there came a spark of hope and William Stanton's electronic sound(s) went very well with it. Jeanann touched bow to strings and gave it grace, her viola melding with the vibratory sound near perfectly, only to ease back leaving a strange sensation in the air(like the lingering feeling of kisses on the back of your neck). All the while David First held a cord that hummed softly and "straight as a beggar can spit" (1). The bass drum, Michael Evans, giving it the feel of a new age call to arm, the sound rippling through the room invigorating the crowd. 

The only real noticeable good part of the last set was Ras, whose playing really gave it some much needed fire. His flowery sounds rising out of his warm personality and obvious skill, and years of persistence in the face of a society that hardly knows how to value what he does.It was the icing on that cake that made it what it was.         

Sam Kulik

David First

Michael Evans

William Stanton @ the helm (laptop)

Ras on  Saxophone 

"Art is the reason, art is the way".  (1) Part of the dialouge spoken by Michael Caine's Character from the film,  "The Man Who would Be King" directed by John Huston, 1975.