3/16/2023 0 Comments Michael donovan![]() ![]() That machine opened up a lot of doors for poor SF rock and rollers 15 years ago. ![]() He would probably hate to hear me say that, since name-checking that machine has reached such corny heights, but it’s true. He was the guy who brought the Tascam 388 into the picture for the SF scene. He was really into pushing gear in harsh and un-tested ways. Teaming up with Adam Stonehouse of The Hospitals in the first incarnation of Sic Alps was very educational in terms of learning how to make it happen by just recording it yourself. I spent a long time in the wilderness of various SF recording studios, trying to get the sound right and failing over and over as the clock ticked loudly. Have there been technologies or instruments which have profoundly changed or even questioned the way you make music? I guess, like a lot of people who switch it up, I’m just looking for a way to make something new happen. I always wrote on guitar but I’ve been working on the piano for the last few years. Can you describe this path for you starting from your first studio/first instrument? What motivated some of the choices you made in terms of instruments/tools/equipment over the years? But I think in the best of times I've learned to use that to my advantage, like how in karate you use your opponent's own force against them.Īs creative goals and technical abilities change, so does the need for different tools of expression, from instruments via software tools to recording equipment. Lack of ability has always been the main challenge. What were your main creative challenges in the beginning and how have they changed over time? But nothing can beat the feeling, the sense of self, when I'm in the moment and the vocal take is going well. It can be a hindrance if the mood is foul. Sometimes it has me missing the boat entirely. How do you feel your sense of identity influences your creativity? For a very brief time no one was making music like Sic Alps because, in terms of song writing and playing, I got there on my own, inadvisable route. Eventually, because I’m stubborn and have a strong will, this worked to my advantage. I’ve never been interested in any of that. I’ve always done things wrong, without training and proper technique. ![]() It wasn't until my early 30s that I really started making what might be considered original music. What was this like for you: How would you describe your own development as an artist and the transition towards your own voice? Even though at the time I felt I was a relatively talented writer I chose music because I didn't actually have any real musical talent so there would be a greater distance to travel, with more to learn.įor most artists, originality is preceded by a phase of learning and, often, emulating others. I remember thinking I could write books or play music and that I should make a choice. The Wedding Present and The Velvet Underground were the two big influences. But it wasn't till I was 18 that I got into the music that would really inspire me to write my own songs, stuff that made me feel I had a chance at making my own music. In high school, I was a big Elvis Costello fan - I knew all his stuff backwards and forwards. I was always in a band from around 4th grade on- Noise was our name, I was the singer. I started writing songs the same time I started playing guitar, at 18. When did you start writing/producing music - and what or who were your early passions and influences? What is it about music and/or sound that drew you to it? Learn more about The Peacers on their mysterious website Recommendations: The Autobiography of a Super-Tramp by William Henry Davies is a great read / “Servant Cloth” by Run Dust is a stellar track for the ages. Current release: Blexxed Rec on Drag City ![]()
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