Post #368719 by Mr. Ho on Sun, Mar 23, 2008 10:22 AM

My thoughts?

I personally don't like the electronica thing making its way into the Exotica area - I think it is one of the few genres relatively untouched and it would be nice if it could stay that way. I understand all the logistical issues present with it. That said, we added a little 808 bass ontop the real kick drum to one track on the latest WAITIKI record (The reggae-tiki-ton part of Choko Chuni-chu) but that was it.

However, I think as long as the performers are clear about what their project is and people don't show up at a show expecting to see a band and instead see a dj or musician playing loops at them , then it's fine. Plenty of people like to attend DJs and electronica events . Hopefully artists advertise clearly they are doing that so people can decide for themselves - in this case, it seems clear that not everyone understands exactly what this group in SF does (I havent looked into their stuff myself).

As a percussionist I can say that drum machines have no soul - you cannot reproduce the feel of real musicians with electronics (not that you always want to but in exotica...). And live music vs. recorded - live music always has environment as a factor - the moods of the players, the room, the audience vibe, the world around you - it all affects what happens esp if there is improvisation in the music (e.g. jazz roots).

And computers can't mix a cocktail for you after the set ends - nor can they enjoy it with a fan :wink:

Mr. Ho