The world of ideas continues to move forward. I spoke with Fripp and Singleton about a collaboration album, based on soundscapes combined with drum beats, and hopefully some unexpected, off the wall production techniques. A renewed collaboration is long overdue.
In the more mundane world of business, I met with Sean Fitzpatrick, A & R hero of the highest order, at Virgin records. I was shocked to see Nearly Noseless Nick sitting at a nearby table. His story bears repeating. A cautionary tale for all who make their living from musicians.
Nick was head of a now defunct US label, who had released three or four albums for an unnamed band, who needed the label’s support for a final push on the mass market. Nearly Noseless Nick, who still had his nose in those days, promised a massive advertising campaign, but then changed his mind, condemning the band’s career to a terminal nose dive.
Some years later, Nick bumped into the band in a studio in London, expecting a hostile reception. He was surprised when they welcomed him like a long lost friend, and invited him to attend their recording sessions. They even asked him to join them in a line or two of coke. (Sptt, I hear Fripp spitting disapprovingly). In fact, during the week he was in England, Nick joined them in more than a few lines.
Upon his return to New York, he began suffering from nose bleeds, which got progressively worse. By the time he visited a doctor, his septum had completely rotted through. The friendly boys in the band had been mixing white bleach with his coke.
I pass no judgement. Such is life in the rock n’roll business. Sitting no more than three chairs away from me.
Congratulations to KC for a "more than honourable" opening show in Cincinatti last night. I have heard it suggested that the last album was 'the map but not the treasure'. If so, it would seem that they have now found the spot and are digging joyfully.
"When we act as we like, we may get what we want.
But not what we need."
