I'm diving into the theme of "notes and noise"—or better yet, the music rests between when the next steps in creating music aren’t totally clear. Instead of focusing on finished singles or upcoming releases, this post explores how being in these in-between phases can deepen the creative process. Join me in embracing the unknown! Also, exciting news: I'm considering building an album that will be ready in the next six months. Stay tuned! 

Notes and Noise

Sometimes, being an artist isn’t about having all the answers but about standing in that field between the notes and the noise—that silent space where you’re not entirely sure what’s next or even how you feel about the last song you recorded. I have grown to not only tolerate this uncertainty but to lean in to it. In fact, this space is a unique part of my creative approach. I like to not only stand but wallow in that open field for a bit; full of questions and doubts and wait for strange inspirations to percolate out of the fertile soil. This space between the notes and the noise is my equivalent of a musical rest. A rest or a silence is just as important as the notes. It enables the rhythm and the emotion to shine.

Question: I am wondering, When you are navigating uncharted territories, how do you know what’s worth exploring and what to leave behind? I am sure it is very different from person to person. For me, it often means letting go of the usual markers of progress, like 'finished songs' or 'on-deck releases,' and diving deeper into the music itself, whether it’s learning a new technique, finding unexpected sources of inspiration, or reflecting on why certain ideas just don’t fit yet.

I recently stumbled across a podcast where the interview was with the two artists who make up the band called MGMT. I know of MGMT, I have even used one of their songs in the past as a reference, which probably means they fit in my general domain of DIY musical interests BUT I do not really know MGMT very well at all.  I listen to podcasts like this all the time to gain music skills or general knowledge. Most of the time it's a cursory glance and probably not much latches into my long term memory.  However, sometimes an interview does resonate. It resonated because of their audacity and authenticity.  They keep the way they create innovative and light. It sang for me in the moment. I will provide a link to this podcast below and let their approach speak for itself.

Here's to exploring how embracing these in-between phases can make the art we create even more meaningful. Maybe it’s in the questioning and quiet that we truly connect with the reasons we started creating in the first place. If you've ever found yourself in that place, stick around—I’m right there with you.

Sincerely,

Dave