Note: Feel free to skip the meandering middle paragraph and just watch the videos!
This collection of videos was brought to my attention a while ago on Twitter. The basic idea is that artists visit Lawrence High School in Kansas, play a few songs and have a chat with the kids about their lives and inspirations. It is a really effective way to learn a bit more about what makes songwriters tick. Add to this some great music in the sessions (and often new music too, I didn’t hear So On, Nevada until a few weeks ago when the new Jurado record was available for pre-order, this video was recorded in April!) and they are clearly on to a winner.
Take for example the conversation Damien Jurado. It really gives an insight into his way of writing and producing stories, you could say his outlook on life, which is valuable to anyone who wishes to pursue their creative side. We often hear brief interviews with musicians about their latest work, their methods of touring, their favourite music or whatever but it is rare to hear people talk at length about the worlds they create and why it works for them. Especially with song writers such as Jurado, who’s narratives are probably more comparable to writers than many of the mass-produced, painted by numbers music in the mainstream. Listen to the Q&A bit after Rachel & Cali, it’s a fascinating glimpse of his creative process. The way he leaves meanings and messages (and ultimately outcomes and conclusions) open to interpretation intentionally is something which I think is both admirable (because you take something personal but are brave enough to leave it to others to decide what it means) and important for the listener’s enjoyment if they are willing to think. How many films and TV shows are ruined by the creator trying to get a clear end? All my favourite stories end openly, messilly. The stories don’t really end, just we stop hearing what happens, which is much truer to real life.
I hope that Room 125 keeps this idea going and we see/hear more from our favourite artists in the future. Check the website now to see (PNW-flavoured) sessions with The Head and the Heart, Small Houses, The Civil Wars, Kelli Schaefer, Nathaniel Rateliff, Bryan John Appleby, Drew Grow, Chris Bathgate and many more.
P.S. I am undecided about whether or not to try and write about Maraqopa. I think I will just say that it is brilliant and I think you should all buy it.