Thanks to Barry Lamb and Peter Ashby for a copy of their annual report. Why is this post here? Because, for over 25 years now I have been reviewing and promoting small scale, independent music-making, an endeavour that represents the lifeblood of artistic expression.
I quote from the report: “Falling A is a legacy project. I am deeply proud of what we have done over the years and equally satisfied that we have never pandered to the whims of or aligned ourselves with the music business. We have quietly built our audience operating completely outside a system that is becoming less and less about music, and the music within that system is often sterile and soulless. We are attempting to present an alternative, a reminder back to the days when a new album by our favourite artist was greeted with curiosity and excitement. I think we are succeeding in that and even if the audience is just a handful of people it is very worthwhile.”
The key phrase there is “a handful of people”. This is sad. I remember the excitement at listening to the latest Island, Harvest (etcetera) samplers and discovering new artists; some of them went to find fame and fortune, many did not, but where do aspiring artists go now? I would add that some of the music was just plain weird, but in a nice sort of way. People opened their ears and their wallets because they loved listening to adventurous and progressive music.
All Falling A wants to do is break even. It doesn’t seem a lot to ask for. They do so much for others. Please think about, first listening and then purchasing (It won’t break the bank!) at least one Falling A release this year. It doesn’t seem a lot to ask. As Barry says even “the occasional note of appreciation from an enthusiastic listener provides its own reward.”
Comments