Keep the Music Alive

Kristin Hersh‘s bus broke down in Idaho, jeopardizing the rest of her tour. Read about the debacle here and catch a glimpse of the current climate for the indie musician.

In certain respects, it’s never been a better time to be an indie musician. But for an artist of Kristin’s stature, who is trying to support her three kids, two dogs and a husband, it can get pretty bleak at times. In a better world, she and her family should be relaxing at the Hersh family compound, cashing royalty checks, instead of “holed-up in a motel” outside of Coeur d’Alene, Idaho, wondering if they’re going to be able to complete the rest of their tour.

It’s sad when an artist risks everything to bring a little light into the world, only to be discouraged by an indifferent public.

You might consider donating a little cash to help this family out and keep the tour alive. To do so, head over here and click on the tip jar link.

1 2 3 4

I’m officially mad at whoever is responsible for knowing about Feist yet not telling me about how good she is. Sure, there were clues abound: the Magnet and New Yorker articles I recently read about her, the Broken Social Scene album I own (she’s a sometime member), but no one ever grabbed me by the shoulders, looked me in the eyes and demanded that I buy all of her albums. Whoever that is, I’m mad at you.

Well, I took matters into my own hands this weekend and got two of her albums: Let it Die and The Reminder (out in the US on May 1). The weekend became a Feist-a-thon in themuy household. So good. I’ve listened to 1 2 3 4, off the new album, about 5 times today. It hasn’t gotten old yet. I also found the video on YouTube. It’s wonderful and seems so simple until you realize that the dancers in the video appeared out of nowhere at the beginning and then disappeared the same way again. Subtle goodness. Watch it now and then go buy all of her albums. Also, she’s playing the Variety Playhouse on June 15. I’ll be there.