...Recording Adventures In The Classic City...
2/9/07
Last weekend I returned to my old stomping grounds in Athens, Georgia. The purpose of the visit was to record spoken word material with Daniel Hutchens and Eric Carter of Bloodkin. I lived with Danny and Eric for years and during that time--in the tradition of the Beat writers--I'd read my poetry, short stories, or songs while they provided the musical backdrop. We called these encounters The Fandango Brothers.
Bloodkin ranks as one the greatest bar bands in the world, but songwriting remains their strength. At the moment, Danny and Eric are sifting through old, unreleased songs from the last 20 years for a 5 CD compilation release. Since Bloodkin records almost exclusively at David Barbe's Chase Park Transduction Studios, we thought it might be a good time to record some spoken word at this renowned studio. R.E.M. (except one member) were recording in Barbe's studio both Friday and Saturday, but on Saturday they finished early and we got the call to drive on over.
Studio wizard David Barbe (K.D. Lang covered one of his songs and The Drive By Truckers swear by him) remained occupied for most of the night next door with the new R.E.M music, but he stopped by a couple of times. His assistant Hunter proved a strong ally in the studio that night and I look forward to working with him again. We cut 8 tracks...five different pieces...three takes on "Waiting On A Bloodkin" in a fast and furious session. More news on these matters near springtime...
At Swampland.com we're building up new technical features. To all publicists, writers, musicians, and fans waiting for certain responses or additional site features--they're on the way. Peruse my January 29, 2007 interview with legendary Charlie Louvin. Other immediate personal topics include Music Maker Relief Foundation, Paul Hemphill, Stax Records, Kirk West, Bloodkin, Ornette Coleman, James Burton, and other vital subjects. Hang In and Stay Tuned...James Calemine
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