| SEPTEMBER FEATURED MEMBER: SBeakon
Name: Stevo
Age: 24
Location: Boise, ID
What was the first single you bought? First album? How old were you?
When I was 10 or so, I had an Amy Grant cassette tape that I listened to constantly. Not sure what album it was, but it had “That’s What Love Is For” on it.
Who is your all-time favorite band or artist, and why?
That’s a tough one. I’d probably have to say the Cocteau Twins, because their music is magical and mysterious, and moves me in such a variety of different ways. Also, they’re always the perfect musical choice for driving, sleeping, relaxing, having on in the background while writing, and during sex.
What song always makes you happy?
“Star” by Erasure.
What song makes you cry?
“Song to the Siren” by either Tim Buckley or This Mortal Coil.
Do you think music and politics are a good mix?
Sure, if it influences people toward more progressive views, or inspires them to think about such things. I don’t generally listen to music for things like that, though....sometimes I WON’T listen to a band due to certain sociological issues, but that’s another subject, really...
Did someone in your life influence your taste in music?
Yes. Many, in fact, throughout the years. If it hadn’t been for them, who knows? I might still be listening to that Amy Grant cassette.
Have you met any of your favorite musicians? How was the experience?
I met Chan Marshall briefly in 2002. She was crying hysterically and jonesing for a cigarette, and after we gave her one, she thanked us for coming to the show. It was certainly....interesting. I’m glad she’s doing better now.
What was the first concert you went to? How old were you?
What was the last? What is the next one?
Favorite concert memory?
My first concert was No Doubt in Fresno, CA in 1997. I was 14 and very hot to trot for Gwen at the time.
Last concert I went to was Erase Errata in Portland, OR in 2005.
Next concert? I dunno. I’m back in the Northwest, there are bound to be plenty of good shows coming up...
The Cat Power show in 2002 definitely provided my favorite concert memory. It was a small venue, and the entire second half of the show was Chan playing piano and singing alone on stage. Most of the groovy hipsters left, and about 20 of us just sat around and listened. I was on ridiculous amounts of Oxycontin and Klonopin, yet I still remember it vividly. It was beautiful and very, very intimate.
What is the most embarrassing CD in your collection?
Wilson Phillips, “Wilson Phillips” or Paula Abdul, “Forever Your Girl.” Take your pick.
What are the 5 (only 5) albums that you would bring if you were going to be stuck on a deserted island?
Cocteau Twins, “Heaven Or Las Vegas”
Adorable, “Fake”
Erasure, “Pop! The First 20 Hits”
Hole, “Live Through This”
The Smiths, “Louder Than Bombs”
What was the last album that you bought? Was it online or in a shop?
Medicine, “Shot Forth Self Living” and the “If I Were A Carpenter” compilation, at a record store (used bin).
What are your thoughts about the digital music / mp3 format?
I actually think it will up the ante on good bands, since they will HAVE to be good live, or they’ll never make enough money to exist. Aside from that, I don’t know how to feel about it; yes, I download music illegally, and yes, I feel guilty for doing so. As for LEGALLY downloading music, I've never felt inspired to do that. MP3s aren't tangible enough to warrant spending money on.
Do you / Did you ever buy vinyl?
I love the sound of vinyl, and I used to buy it all the time....until my shitty roommate in Portland sold all my records (and my record player). The only one I still have is “Filigree & Shadow” by This Mortal Coil.
Is there a band or artist that you cannot stand, why?
Oh, yes. There are many, in fact. But most recently it’s Death Cab For Cutie and, to a lesser extent, the Postal Service, for no other reason than I think they are highly overproduced and overrated. They have some songs that WOULD be good if they weren’t so plastic sounding. And that annoys the hell out of me.
What pisses you off about record shops, radio, or video channels? Do you think the state of music is healthy?
I think mainstream music right now is fairly awful (the underground stuff isn’t up to par either, if you ask me), but I think a revolution is around the corner. At least, one can hope it is....
Are you in a band? Care to pimp 'em?
Nope. No band. Just me, and I’m not shamelessly self-promoting my mediocrity at the present time.
Thanks for getting this started again and for a great and interesting contribution. You rule! I hope everyone will nominate members and / or themselves for future features.
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