(EDITOR'S NOTE: This article is the latest in the Sun-Gazette's ongoing Uptown Music Collective series. Josh Hines is a UMC?student.)
Over the years, as I learn to better appreciate the sounds and expressions of music, I have come to realize that I don't just enjoy listening to music because of the sounds that are produced, but because of how the artist connects me to their personal experiences.
Music, to me, is so much more than waves of sound hitting the eardrum, causing vibrations; it is the conveyance of one's emotions, opinions and dreams all wrapped up into one ball of sound. As I listen to more contrasting styles of music over time, I continually find myself drawn to these three albums:
"Floating World"
Anathallo, a seven-piece group, originally from Mount Pleasant, Mich., has developed a very unique sound.
The percussive nature, elegant vocal harmonies and unusual song structure in this album has come to influence me in not only my musical experiences but also in my daily life.
"Akron/Family"
This group - now based in New York City and Portland, Ore. - is a three-piece band specializing in long psychedelic jams, interesting improvisations and unique vocal harmonies. Seth Olinsky, guitarist-vocalist, and Dana Janssen, drummer, are originally from Williamsport. I believe that their roots have a lot to do with the band's influence on myself. The success of Akron/Family gives me hope that maybe someday I can be a successful musician.
In this album, you will hear a wide range of sounds - from the crackle of a fire pit to the squeak of a rocking chair, all of the sounds are used to give a certain atmosphere to the album.
"Grace"
By far the greatest influence on my musical style, Jeff Buckley has become far more than just an idol - he's also a role model for my future in music. Buckley was born in Anaheim, Calif., into a very musical family. His father, Tim Buckley, though he only met him once, was a successful folk musician; his mother was a classically trained pianist and cellist; and his stepfather had introduced him to the music of Led Zeppelin, Pink Floyd, The Who, Queen and Jimi Hendrix.
At a young age, Buckley had become very interested in music and continued this obsession until his death in 1997.
In his only album, "Grace," Buckley expresses many emotions through his angelic voice and ingenious guitar playing. Buckley was an amazing songwriter as well. His touching lyrics, explosive hits and unsurpassed vocal melodies fill this album and never fail to give me chills. While listening to this album, you hear of Buckley's lifetime experiences while analyzing the beauty of his music.
Music is all about how the sound comes together to convey the emotions, opinions and dreams of the artist. I have learned many things about music in the past few years and I look forward to unwinding the mysteries of sound as I continue my musical career.
