DJ Not So Much (re)Composition

re(view)

(re)Ality

One Sentence

DJ Not So Much brings studio knob tweaking to the DJ toolbox and applies the sensible creativity of a skilled jazz musician to create a live mix that makes feet dance and brains sizzle.

Haiku

Deejay Not So Much remixes
Using cuts, voltage, samples and great skill
All to melt your brain

Paragraph

DJ Not So Much is part scientist and part musician. A total reinterpretation of battle DJ skills meet a tight Ableton mix. The tasty loops, real musical arrangements, and a toolbox built from studio techniques delivers a new branch in the evolution of electronic music. Real time assembly and processing of the mix via low and high tech methods require custom built processors, substantial programming, and the desire to go where someplace totally new. The signal coming out of the speakers is a culmination of digital trickery, analog depth, and highly cerebral references allowing anyone to dance to and sing along.

Long Version

DJ Not So Much (Marc) has been producing music as a project leader and member in the Denver / Boulder music scene since the 1990’s. This particular story begins while working at a boutique synthesizer shop in Denver during close of the twentieth century.

The electronic journey begins with a project called Bugpowder followed by another electronically driven jazz project by the name of Vegas Trio (aka Vegas Witchcraft). [The] Vegas [project] kept steady residencies in and around the Denver / Boulder area.These projects enjoyed opening slots or shared the stage with national acts such as Garaj Mahal, Particle, Jachimo Gates, Cheb i Sabbah, Ron Miles, Particle, Cabaret Diosa, Lost at Last, and Robert Walters 20th Congress.

A frequent guest musician, engineer, and project leader through out the years provided a wealth of experience. Working in the music scene for a ’stint’ helped build network and reputation. But the ability to create something new in every musical endeavor created the most demand.

The (re)Creation into DJ Not So Much begins with considerable time logged in the development stage. Always looking to explore the musical fringe provided that music was never boring. Add to the equation synth-head status and exotic gear junkie, Marc soon same to realize that mixing boards and effects processors were instruments yielding truly unique voices and capabilities.

The mix remains approachable.

Complicated ideas are delivered via references and methods intended to engage and stimulate the musical orientation we all share.

In some ways, the final sound is never complete. Introductions of a new technology, instruments and methods became common practice for all shows. The shift from keyboards (Fender Rhodes / synth) to vibraphone and some bass kept the sound flexible and fresh. The ability to hold down jazz of the “gone by” era as well as progressive arrangements is the modern delivery.

From the fringe side, custom built and modified electronic equipment seals the deal. New hardware processing and one-off electronic controllers are a standard fixture. Shows often end with a 10 minute discussion with patrons regarding equipment used, how it was built, and what it does.

Fast Forward just a little bit…

New focus, production of new musical ideas, new skills, and a means to express trapped ideas. A combination of Ableton, custom electronics, deep programming, and unique signal handling.

This era does not start with gigs or club shows. Rather the project is rooted in and research. Time spent practicing includes rehearsing, building and researching equipment, writing, reviewing gear, teaching electronic music, and promoting Ableton and Electronic music in Denver and Boulder.

The music industry is changing very fast. Too fast to drop any anchor right now. So enjoy the ride and see where we go!

DJNSM Collaborators:

Space Bass: Chris is one of the rare bass players who is able to play on or in anything. Originally Chris and Marc played together in a fusion Jazz project in 2004, the music did not stop as the project fizzled. Chris was a main staple in the “Vegas Witchcraft” dynasty. His melodic bass playing is unique in the sense that he plays with the music rather than providing the rhythm role usually placed on bass player shoulders. Chris is traditionally schooled in jazz styles but prefers playing the jam scene (all types).

Chris’ tone has a “scooped out mid” feel with a ton of thump and rumble. Quick changes from melody bass to rhythm section is common. Always ready for the change, the short notice self centered nature of electronic music is a great fit. Chris has played in many projects such as Home, and Octopus Nebula while also keeping “day time gigs” in blues bands and other avenues providing music income. A great player and a damn nice guy – get to know him! His style of playing will leave you soothed!

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Electric Avenue Denver

I will be participating in the Creative Electronica Petting Zoo September 4 & 5. http://www.electricavenuedenver.com/

First Friday August!

August 6, 2010 I will be dropping some set at Lucid Gallery.

Ableton Meet-Up presenter

July 14, 2010 : I will be hosting the Ableton Colorado Meet up and social mixer. For details go here.