Astral Audio Extra: Episode 10 (Right click, download,, and experience.)
An odd title for an episode eh? Trust me, I do have a reason for it. I have tried with each audio presentation to bring to you something that engaged me emotionally in some way. Even the themed ones have had something in them that struck a chord. So when I read a blog post regarding a contest that wanted people to write about such experiences, I became excited. The post discussed the wave of celebrities that have been populating Twitter as of late; most not caring to interact with people but to rack up a number of followers. While I could easily slip into a diatribe, I will instead take a different approach and highlight someone on Twitter who has used the given medium for what it is; a method of interaction between interested parties who follow each other. The band Collective Soul has broken the mold and remembers through each reply given or picture posted that it is thanks to their loyal fans that they are popular. So I did as that blog post instructed and followed @collective_soul, sent a direct message, and thus, the seeds for the podcast episode were planted.
The band reminds me of myself, and for you who may be knew, the reason why isn’t obvious. I can best explain it this way. When I was learning the ropes through various academic institutions, I had this desire to be different; not in the, “Hey, pick me!” attention-seeking way, but in the, “I’m Allen, and this is what I do.” The friends I did obtain or attract were drawn to my humble actions and not an arrogant attitude. Collective Soul can best be described as having the same general principle. Even with all the albums they have sold, the many tours they’ve been on, the awards won, you know when you are going to see this band live or here their latest single, you are going to get Collective Soul; rock that is going to energize you, evoke some kind of emotion from deep down, and get an ear-worm stuck in your head for days. It isn’t just the fact that “What you see is what you get,” but how approachable and for lack of a better word, normal they are; like the casual group of friends still trying to make their first album and playing more so because they love to play rather than earn money.
Furthermore, we both have an ear for the eclectic. Long time listeners of my podcast know that not every episode that has music is the same as far as genre selection is concerned. The band has given us something different with each album, and to narrow your vision for just a moment, every single they’ve released. Yet, there is something that reminds you of who they are, what they sound like, and the quality you are getting when you give them a listen. Good illustrations of this can be found in the songs “Gel”, “December”, “Why Pt. 2″, “Heavy”, and their first single (which appears in the episode) “Shine.” No matter how many times you hear each song, you take away something new. (Now that is ear candy you can enjoy!) As an individual who relies on hearing things, I appreciate the rich textures, where the instruments are placed, not only how the vocals come across, but what is said. Even though I haven’t attended a Collective Soul concert, I’ve heard that their live show is an experience you won’t soon forget; the band is currently on their 2009 tour so if you get the chance, check them out.
I’m going to do something a little different here and break down each song I played in this episode. I won’t go into overall meanings of the songs themselves but I’ll let you in on how I was impacted; thereby giving you a little insight as to why each song was chosen. Take from it what you will and let me know in the comments what you think; there is the voice mail option as well. Your feedback is what helps fuel the fire as always.
“All That I Know”
A song that has a somewhat lazy vibe. Picture a summer afternoon, you sitting on a wrap-around porch, and enjoying the scenery. Or maybe you are on a picnic with the one you care for; the two of you on a bright blue blanket under a shady tree. This is the song that would work nicely for both of those scenarios. It is repetitive but in a good way; leaving an impression long after the track is finished. Echos of a good tall glass of ice-cold lemonade; the after effects making you feel relaxed and refreshed at the same time.
“Shine”
A familiar desire of the eager student wanting to be enlightened; this song mirrors a cry for help. However, it is a hopeful urge; not a sorrowful declaration. I think we all want to shine in our own way. No wonder this song hit a nerve in the collective consciousness in the early 90s. It still speaks volumes today; hallmarks of good song writing in my opinion.
“Staring Down”
A song that hits home; it has a sort of Gospel tempo. Think of a guy praying in front of an altar or someone standing in front of the door to his house with flowers in hand; both images reflect humble attitudes. The song communicates a kind of sweet release from past held behaviors which hindered the individual. When we realize our mistakes and how we can break free from the vines that entangle us, we strive to go beyond our natural limits.
Final Thoughts
I thoroughly enjoyed this whole process; from finding out about the contest, to having interactions with the band, to picking the songs, and putting it altogether in a nice-sized audio package for you to experience. It is days like this when I can safely say I am doing what I love. So enjoy the tunes and leave me any feedback. Don’t be a stranger and get yourself subscribed to find out the latest happenings or hear what music I unleash upon your ears. There is more excitement ahead, and I want you to be a part of it. Call 206-338-2138 and leave a message if you’d like to be in the next episode.
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