aisyalam

Though Eric’s laptop had a few troublesome moments, we had a superb day of performance preparations and great comradery. First, we finished a soundtrack that we used at the opening reception at Bed Supperclub this evening, which wasn’t a typical type of performance but more like a party where a few things were happening simultaneously, many videos being projected on multiple screens, vj’ing, and lots of socializing (free booze for those so inclined). Our (three minute) presentation, which was the soundtrack accompanied by a very simple animation of pictures I captured during the past couple of days and a verbalization of the poem was quite imperfect, as unannounced changes to the schedule brought me to the microphone a few minutes before I thought it would happen (which also caused me to miss recording it, although that’s OK because the soundtrack and vocals in general was really muddy and only sounded so-so in my ears—we’ll make a studio quality version of it when we get together tomorrow and rehearse). In any case, it was a fine, upbeat occasion with positive vibes, a wide variety of visual (mainly video) expression going on, joined by audio (mainly club-like) mixes. (I'll post pix on Flickr when I return to Malaysia on Friday).

Our main gig is tomorrow, and today we were able to pull together a really strong set in the studio, all of which was a terrific experience (figuring out what to do, making the sounds sound excellent), using all sorts of backdrops and techniques, and tomorrow we’ll have a chance to do a soundcheck (nothing of the sort transpired tonight) and there won’t be a party happening simultaneously. We met the guys who are running the show, who seem to have it together, and we’re looking forward to working with them tomorrow. The main issue is whether or not Eric’s aging computer will hold up, which we certainly hope it does. Otherwise, not a lot happening at the Festival tomorrow, mainly seminars by visiting artists at the university venue, which I probably won’t be able to make it to. Anyway, we’re having a good time, enjoying the processes and processing, even if imperfections arise. Eric and I have been having a lot of great conversations, philosophical, artistic (all forms), and friendly. Nice to be catching up and jamming with him here…