Choosing tunes for albums or live shows

The Evolution of Our Music: From Writing to Performing

During our tours, we create a set list, and for the first half of the tour, we're constantly adjusting it. Here's a closer look at our process:

Set List Adjustments

• We evaluate the flow of the set.
• Songs that feel slow or don't fit well may be replaced or repositioned.
• The goal is to keep the performance engaging by:
  • Changing tempos.
  • Varying focus from song to song.

Recording Process

When it comes to recording, I don't think about specifics until I start hearing sounds in my head. Eventually, we accumulate a lot of material and decide what's optimized for the album, keeping in mind that sequencing is the final piece of the puzzle.

Changing Album Lengths

• 10 years ago: An album typically aimed for 72 minutes.
• Current long-term goal: Albums like PAX Volume clock in at around 64 minutes.
• We've shortened the number of tracks, aiming for:
  • Four-minute songs.
  • Old tracks often ranged from six to six-and-a-half minutes.

This shift has necessitated more editing, leading to more concise song forms.

The Live Show vs. Studio Recording

In our earlier albums, we aimed to encapsulate the live show experience:

• Typical live performance: Songs featured multiple solos (often two or three).
• Over time, we learned it's challenging to fully capture that energy in the studio. Now, we write with both the studio and live performance in mind:
  • Newer albums tend to have one solo per song, occasionally two.

Writing and Performing

Previously, we developed songs through extended live play. Now, since we're often in different locations, the process has changed:

• We focus on writing the album, recording it, and then learning how to perform the new material live.

What Comes First?

The question arises: Do we write for the album or for live performances first?

• Creative Mode vs. Touring Mode: We oscillate between both states, making it difficult to pinpoint which comes first.

As I reflect on our newer work, it's different than past albums. For instance, the tracks on Younger Brass Bands:

• These songs didn't originate as live tunes. Instead, they came from years of writing, aiming to craft enjoyable material both for the studio and the stage.

The Challenge of Opinions

Managing a band with many opinions can be challenging.

• We need to collectively decide which songs to play, which can be complex.
• Ultimately, this responsibility falls to Dave and me:
  • I serve as the musical director.
  • Dave is the bleeder, guiding the band.

Together, we determine when a song truly becomes a "Youngblood tune."

The Collaborative Process

Having a collaborative approach is essential:

• It prevents the burden of creation falling on one individual.
• Cohesion in sound relies on someone determining when a track is complete, a role we often fulfill in Dave's basement.

Our process reflects our growth and adaptability in both writing and performing. While it can be complex, the art of collaboration ensures our music continues to evolve.