Not Alone

I got to listen to the majority of VPR's Switchboard program that focused on the best music of 2005. The two hosts shared clips of their favorites, emailed suggestions, and had callers provide their picks. As to be expected, the majority of the stuff played was typical public radio fair - easy to listen to, roots based, but polished and radio ready. The exception was Doorbell from the White Stripes' Get Behind Me Satan (some may argue it’s their most radio safe album to date). Most of the comments reinforced the easy listening genre - but with more of a focus on local acts (the exception being the woman who was into anime soundtracks and the middle aged fan of Matisyahu). Most, but not all.

The second largest group talked about the indie scene (of the Pitchforkmedia Best New Music variety). Someone called in talking about M.I.A., another about Arcade Fire (yes we all know it was from 2004, no need to get all up in her case), the New Pornographers/AC Newman, and Clap Your Hands & Say Yeah. No too bad at all folks - I'm very impressed. That proves that there are plenty of us out here. The individual recommending the New Pornographers & AC Newman, “Jeff from Montpelier,” even took a few moments to plug the movement to get more indie programming. Too bad the host just dismissed Jeff's comment with "we've heard so many different types of music tonight we wouldn't know what to play." Now that's just dumb.

I've said it here before and I'll say it again, Vermonters are ready for indie rock to come out of their radios. We'll sort of. One look at the list of upcoming acts at our regional music venue, Higher Ground, and you'll realize the dearth of indie shows. If the indie acts aren't supported when they come to town, then doesn't that reinforce current VPR programming?

Speaking up on the radio tonight was a great step. I'm thankful for all that went through the trouble to get your voices heard. Now let's just don't forget to support the live acts.