March 2001

The Brown Cuts Neighbors
Music on the Web

Site: The Brown Cuts Neighbors
URL: http://www.wowcool.com/bcn

This site is the brainchild of Schenectady, NY's own Jason Martin. I first met Jason way back when in third of fourth grade when he would jam with my friend, Buddy Brown. I did not see Jason again until High School, when he was a junior and Christ figure. Seriously, he looked like Jesus in blue jeans. He made music still, but now as a member of the Brown Cuts Neighbors. BCN was one of two major bands in my high school, but while Skull Session (the other band) sounded like Rush if Jimmy Buffet was lead singer, BCN could not be bound by simplistic definitions.

From this site you can find information about BCN and its members along with the New York State Department of Experimental Services- another creation of Mr. Martin. BCN's site is full of music. In the MP3 section you can hear a couple song by BCN and one by Jason, "Raise Your Cape." All the songs are worth a listen (and a purchase), and I recommend you take the time to listen a few times. The depth within the tracks is stunning. I am impressed at how well the sound is on my dinky computer speakers. The sounds are terrific.

The Department of Experimental Services and the BCN delve into areas that are specifically in keeping with the philosophies of this web site. There is no doubt that an early BCN album such as, Broken Down Like a Bean, planted a seed or two in the mind of this ERI co-founder. Listening to the recent recordings I hear how different Jason and the BCN are, yet the message is still the same, at least I think the message is the same.

The guys are playing at the Lionheart on Lark Street in Albany, NY on April 8th. If you are in the area, be sure to check them out. As I remember, their shows have always been a kind of free for all between all the pre-determined sound and music. Going to a BCN concert back in the day required the ability to not only enjoy the music, but also at times stand in a make the music.

Art is very relative. One's creations should first and foremost be a reflection of oneself. For, as Jason says, in 50 or 1000 years no one will remember your music, much less your name, so there is no need to be perfect, or right. The point is to make the music, not to be some kind of music.

Lucky for us, Jason's music is not only honest, but also well crafted and genuinely good. Please, I know you may never be in Albany or Schenectady, so surf on over and give him an hour or so. You will thank me for it.