I just heard the Jim Hall Quartet last night – wow! There was an amazing amount of energy and yet the group practically played at a whisper. I was only three tables from the stage, and at times I had to almost strain to hear the guitar (Jim Hall). Terry Clarke on drums just floored me. He was musical, energetic and played very quietly most of the time.
This is something for which I have a lot of respect. It’s not easy and it’s something I work on and have my students work on, as well. Volume does not equal energy. I’ve heard many bands take the approach of playing loud – thinking that the energy comes from volume. I usually have to go before their set is over. It’s not just the volume that can make it less fun for me, it’s that it usually stays loud once it’s there. Dynamics are so key and to hear a band that goes overboard in the soft department AND create some incredible moments is truly special.
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