graag1949

I have the utmost respect for Craig Anderton for as long as he has been writing articles about electronics/gear...& fully realize that his ongoing support of advanced technologies makes sense, in that it welcomes new ways of creating music to new generations. But, I need to inject my "old school" mentality into the debate. I will semi-grudgingly admit that subtle use of backing tracks or background enhancement via samples/loops might have their place, but a performer should be able to get his/her point across with instrument & voice...alone. Yes, it's fun to hear something flown into the background, but not necessary if the raw talent is there. What pisses me off is the schmoe who set up his karaoke system, hits "Play", bangs on a few guitar chords, & sings on top of a completely pre-recorded backing track...to an audience of "low information" listeners that think, "Wow, this guy sounds just like the CD!". Umm, well, yeah...because it IS the friggin' CD.!!! Now, looping, via Kellar Williams, that's real-time creativity, but please...take it easy on using The Boston Symphony as a crutch.