Sideman

One of the most unique and enjoyable experiences I’ve had playing live music was in my neighbor’s band playing keytar and doing back-up vocals. It was the first time I ever got to be the sideman. In Heart Lake Owl, I’m the reluctant focal-point performing mostly original songs and baring my soul whilst maneuvering through complicated parts on a variety of instruments. As a sideman in someone else’s band, I relished being – literally – way off to the side. I felt relaxed and detached playing either covers or someone else’s original songs. I wasn’t responsible for booking and promoting gigs or hyping myself. I just had to show up on time and know my parts. I was a texture, a layer, a piece of something else. And playing at dive bars to remarkably over-served crowds is an experience every musician should have.