Jason Blake – Subsequent Prog Ruins

1. Can you tell us about your new album “Subsequent Ruins” and what inspired you to create it?

The origins of this album can be traced back to a writing session for my band, Aziola Cry. I began composing music for what I originally thought would be the next album for that band, but soon realized that the material was sounding different. Instead of trying to make that band something it wasn’t, I decided to record the music myself. 

2. You collaborated with drummer Marco Minnemann on this album. How did this partnership come about and what was it like working with him?

I have enjoyed Marco’s drumming for a while so when I finished writing this music, I immediately thought that he would be perfect for it so I reached out to him. Aziola Cry also played a show with his band, The Aristocrats, where we hung out after the show. As for the process, I recorded some scratch tracks of the music and sent it out to him. At the time, he was heading out of the country for some shows so he immediately got to work and had them back to me quickly. I was very impressed with his creativity and it became inspiring as I went back to work on the material.

3. What is your creative process like when composing instrumental progressive rock music?

I typically like to start with a story concept first. I know that can seem weird considering there are no lyrics to tell the story, but it helps guide me with how I want each section to sound based on the “plot” so to speak. For this one, I had this idea of retelling the story of The Pied Piper with the main character being replaced by technology or specifically screens that lead the children away from their family. With the idea in place, I was then able to create music that fit together to help tell this story.

4. What were some of the biggest challenges you faced while creating “Subsequent Ruins”?

I would say the biggest challenge was once I realized that I wanted to do this away from my band, I insisted on making sure the music could be performed without another melodic instrument. While I did use overdubs on the album, those were done more to make the album sound big versus requiring them in a live setting. I have performed each of these songs solo live and they sound great that way too.

5. How do you think your sound has evolved over the years, and how does “Subsequent Ruins” fit into your overall musical journey?

I would say that when I began, I saw myself as a bass player that had an extended range of possible notes. Over time, I began playing more in the guitar range and using the bass as accompaniment. Now, I would probably consider myself more of a guitarist with an extended low range. This has allowed me to write and perform music differently. Subsequent Ruins is a good example of this. I never felt like a guitarist was necessary for this music as I was covering that range already. 

6. What message or emotions do you hope listeners will take away from your new album?

I guess first and foremost, I simply want people to enjoy the complete listening experience. The songs were written in a way to have a flow that helped tell the story. Secondly, I am hoping that the story itself and accompanying art book provoke conversation and thought around the topic. This was a large part of the process for me so I’m hoping that people pick up on that part as well.

7. You have been playing the Warr Guitar for many years. What draws you to this instrument and how does it influence your music?

I made a conscious decision to switch entirely to this instrument many years back and quickly grew into a passion. I thoroughly enjoy the challenge of discovering new sounds and approaches to the instrument. It very much dictates the sound of my music because I think in terms of it now. For example, when composing, while typically creating the parts simultaneously, I have my left hand thinking about what the “bass player” would do while my right hand is thinking about rhythm or soloing. I feel like my playing continues to evolve and I’m really liking the direction that my recent work in the studio is taking.

8. How do you approach live performances, and how do you translate the complex and intricate sounds of your music to a live audience?

One of the things that I do when composing is I think first about how I could play each song by myself. This forces me to create parts that don’t rely on others, but also fill in all the holes. In fact, a lot of what I write has an “acoustic” version intentionally meant to be played solo if needed. I then use the studio to create a bigger sound with overdubs and additional layering. It all starts with a solo song though because a lot of the time this is how I perform the music live.

9. Are there any particular artists or musicians that have influenced your music, and how have they impacted your style?

I would say that my biggest musical influence is Jonas Hellborg. Not only do I enjoy his playing, but also was very inspired by the fact that fans never knew what he would do next. Every album sounded drastically different from each other. I love that about his music. I feel that I have that in common, where my music always sounds like me, but I  explore different styles and genres.

10. What advice would you give to aspiring musicians who are interested in pursuing a career in progressive rock?

My advice would be the same for any style of music. It all boils down to persistence. I think that quitting is the easy way out and so a lot of people choose it. This applies to the craft of your instrument, songwriting, and the business side of music. It is important to take the ups with the downs and continue no matter what. Eventually, things start to work out.

11. What’s next for you and your music career? Do you have any upcoming projects or collaborations in the works?

I always have things in the works, but I hesitate to speak about some of it until it is closer to completion. A few upcoming projects include a new Aziola Cry recording, a new trio project, and a handful of albums under my name. Up to this point, I would say that Aziola Cry was my main focus and the new album is sounding great. I am also working with a new trio called Backward Sky Falling and we have recorded an EP that is almost ready for release. Next up for my solo work is a collection of songs that show a very different side of my playing and writing. I plan to release it sometime in the summer.

For more information:
https://www.jasonblakemusic.com
https://www.Facebook.com/jasonblakewarr
https://twitter.com/jasonblakewarr