Five things #2

Scribbled notes for a set I'm learning for some gigs over the next few months — Emphasis on the scribbled.

Scribbled notes for a set I'm learning for some gigs over the next few months — Emphasis on the scribbled.

 

Here are the five things I thought were worth sharing this week: 

  1. Stefan Sagmeister on Creative Live — I'd not heard of Stefan or his work but I found this interview on his creative process fascinating, in particular his policy of taking a one year break every seven years... hmm tempting!
     
  2. I recently discovered the music of American contemporary classical composer Nico Muhly. This interview with him on Meet The Composer is fantastic. I'm also really enjoying his album Mothertongue.
     
  3. Over the weekend I started and finished reading Man's Search For Meaning by Victor E Frankl about his experiences in Auschwitz and other concentration camps. An incredible book, I struggled to put it down. Recommended reading.
     
  4. If you haven't seen this week's episode of Last Week Tonight With John Oliver, go watch it. Next time you see a news report starting with the phrase “Scientists say...” or “A recent study suggests” you'll know to approach it with a healthy dose of scepticism.
     
  5. Yesterday this video of Sting's Seven Days featuring Vinnie Colaiuta on drums came across my Facebook feed. The 5/4 groove on this track is a fine example of Vinnie's genius. He makes the odd time signature feel quite normal, so much so that most people wouldn't notice it. Sting knows how to pick his drummers! 

That's all for this week. Enjoy!