In a somewhat rare moment of pop exploration, we delved into the tepid waters of a genera previously avoided with the same ambivalence as, say, tinnitus. Where the ear rings with a monotony born of formula and drum machines. Almost as long as we have been enjoying recorded music, this particular debate has created friction between purists and dancers.
Pop music. Popular music. Full disclosure warning: I am a rock n roll guy. Deeper, a dedicated Deadhead. I like jams. I like musical exploration and the potential to fail. I like brave departures from the norm and the buzz of the attempt. I would rather burn out than fade away. I like explosive energy and I like exposition. I like variations on a theme as much as I appreciate the original score. I like virtuosity and I like musical craftsmanship. I am very fond of the pithy adage suggesting:
A wrong note played without attitude is an error. A wrong note played with attitude is an interpretation.
It may come as little surprise then when I proudly claim Jerry Garcia to be one of my musical heroes. He did so much more than simply play scales and soulfully sing meaningful songs. As witnessed by this:
"If we had any nerve at all, if we had any real balls as a society, or whatever you need, whatever quality you need, real character, we would make an effort to really address the wrongs in this society, righteously."
Does that ring?
This morning I sold out a little, something I am sure Jerry, upon learning of my intent, would approve. I needed to open it up a touch and add a (somewhat) contemporary accompaniment to the morning’s set. I knew without testing that the protocol was going to be an ass-kicker, so the proper musical stimulation needed to be up to the task.
As experimental as JG could be, searching for the sound, I borrowed a page from his composers playbook, more in theory than style and riffed on pop today rather than my go-to rock.
Here was the protocol, one that I called Relentlessly Racing:
10 minute warm up/stretch.
12 second seated sprint.
48 seconds recovery @ 7/120.
1.00 standing climb @ 15
1.00 seated climb @ 15
1.00 recovery @ 7/120
Repeat sequence adding one gear per rep to 20.
Execute two sets for an hour session.
Yes, not a lot of recovery, relentless.
If I had any nerve at all I would play all Dead all the time. As good for the heart and lungs as the soul and spirit.
Here are three of the pop tunes I chose to add a little yin to our spinning yang.
Tell me what you think.
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