Pop

11 Questions with… Given Names

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Happy New Year to everyone! Welcome to 2024!

The new year opens with the return of our 11 Questions with… column. Given Names is an exciting new project from Dr. J’s home state of Minnesota. That state has always been home to thrilling music such as The Replacements, Husker Du, Soul Asylum, Prince, Semisonic, Babe in Toyland, The Jayhawks, The Suburbs, and many more.

Given Names is a group of friends who create music that combines elements of indie, rock, dream pop, and power pop, with hints of synth and dance. The group is an exciting indie pop quartet based in Mankato and Minneapolis, featuring Laura Schultz (lead vocals, rhythm guitar), Meghan Irwin (synth, backing vocals), Michelle Roche (drums, backing vocals), and Mandy Wirig (lead guitar, backing vocals). In 2023, they released their debut single, “Makin’ Eyes’ last year. It is a song that channels their influences while incorporating their distinctive musical vision. It is also one of our favorite singles from this past year.

Given Names creates a swirling yet solid indie dream pop that encapsulates the ethereal essence of dreams through a distinctly feminine lens. It is a musical realm where the boundaries between reality and imagination blur, and emotions cascade in a surreal mix of sound. The musicians collaborate to craft a sonic dreamscape that is both otherworldly and intimately connected to the intricacies of experience. It is real.

Dream pop is often characterized by its atmospheric soundscapes and lush melodies, sound becomes a canvas for these artistic collaborations to explore themes of loss, love, empowerment, and self-discovery. The almost ethereal vocals, layered and harmonized, transport listeners into a transcendent-like state where time seems to slow down, and emotions are amplified. The dreamy quality of the music is a manifestation of the artists’ collective desire to create a space that reflects the intricacies of the psyche.

Lyrically, ‘Makin Eyes’ delves into introspective narratives that navigate the complexities of relationships, self-realization, connection, and the pursuit of one’s dreams. Themes of resilience and empowerment seem to subtly weave through the verses, creating a tapestry of emotions that resonate with listeners on a deeply personal level.

The collaborative nature of Given Names fosters a bond among the artists involved, each contributing a unique perspective to the collective soundscape. This collaboration extends beyond the music itself, influencing the visuals, single art, and live performances. The result is a holistic artistic expression that celebrates the diversity of artists’ voices and experiences. As dreamy all-women-created power pop continues to evolve, it not only pushes the boundaries of musical exploration but also challenges preconceived notions about femininity in the music industry. It remembers and celebrates the creative prowess of women in shaping the sonic landscapes of sonic dreams and emotions, inviting listeners to immerse themselves in a world where the line between reality and reverie is beautifully blurred.

We contacted the band and Laura and Mandy kindly answered our questions for this column (LS: Laura Schultz; MW: Mandy Wirig).

Dr. J: What can you share with us about when and how you started writing music?

LS: I started writing music with a good friend, Laura MacDonald, in high school. She and I wrote songs about strange dreams we had or our World History Teacher, (some lyrics were “Mr. Schnieder, you’re a really cool guy. In World History, you taught us to ask why”). I started doing it more seriously in undergrad in Oshkosh, WI, where I played with some absolutely amazing musicians and friends.

MW: I started writing music in high school. I began playing guitar at thirteen and was in my first band, a punk band, at 16-17. I’ve always been influenced by singer/songwriters and the very melody-driven sounds of the sixties, particularly The Beatles and McCartney, and that influence can be found in almost all of my guitar parts.

Dr. J: What first led to your recording music? How do you approach production?

LS: I see recording as a snapshot of a song in a moment. It may not be how we always perform the song, but it is representative of that moment, with those players and resources that we had at the time. I think of a producer as an editor, someone who can look more objectively at the song and make suggestions, or provide an outside perspective that we might not have been able to access, since we are closer to the song itself.

Dr. J: ‘Makin Eyes’ is your most recent music, what led to the making of that song? What were the main influences on your recording this song?

LS: From the writing perspective, almost all of my songs are written the same way I wrote them with my high school friend, Laura. I free-write a full page of words, careful not to judge them as they come out, not thinking of them as lyrics but just as phrases or strings of words, then I go back and circle words or phrases I like, then I figure out how they all make sense together. The music comes last for me, but it comes easiest for me after I have lyrics.

MW: My love of melody is what inspired the main guitar riff in the song. I’ve always loved how “hummable” George Harrison’s guitar solos are, and how prominent melodic guitar work is in so much of the British Invasion and Power Pop songs that I love. I wanted a lead guitar part that could stand on its own as a melody while still incorporating that shimmery, jangly sound.

Dr. J: The song ‘Makin Eyes’ seems to capture a remarkable constellation of musical influences. The song seems to have an ‘80s pop feel. Is that a correct interpretation? If that is correct, did you intend to create a song that connects to that style? If that is not correct, how would you describe the feeling of the song?

LS: Well thank you! I think you can interpret the song however you like! ’80s pop feel sounds good to me! I try not to think about what style I’m writing songs in, just kind of letting the song ask for what it needs.

MW: I think it definitely hearkens back to bands like The Go-Gos and The Bangles, who themselves were influenced by a lot of Power Pop and earlier styles of music, and I love that you’ve grouped “Makin Eyes” in that category.

Dr. J: How did the song ‘Makin Eyes’ come together musically for you?

MW: Laura is our principal songwriter, and she brought the lyrics and chords to us shortly after I joined the band, so this is one of the first songs that was a true full-band collaboration for us. Within two weeks of our first rehearsal, I had brought the song home and developed what became the signature guitar riff, and the song has really fleshed out during the last couple of years as we’ve continued to perform it live. To see how it’s evolved into the multi-tracked studio version with all of its jangle and shimmer has been really gratifying.

Dr. J: Where do you often derive inspiration to make music?

LS: I think of my lyrics as a sort of amalgamation of what is happening in my life, the way I am consciously or unconsciously feeling about things; the worries or thrills or boredoms of everyday life. I think of songs as a container for my present moment experience.

MW: I’m also a visual artist in addition to a musician, and each medium has always influenced the other. I also derive inspiration from surrounding myself with art of all types—the books I read, the music I listen to, the films I watch, the events I attend. And as cliche as it sounds, there’s nothing quite like a hot shower, a weird dream, or boredom to spark an idea that can be scribbled down for creation.

Dr. J: What is next for you musically? How would you describe your thoughts at this point for your next project or release?

MW: We’re currently in the process of finishing up our first album and getting ready to choose our second single for release. The plan is to get those squared away, and then to start performing more often, hopefully expanding the areas we’re booking shows in beyond our southern Minnesota roots.

Dr. J: How would you describe the music that you create? How has that process evolved or changed over time (especially as you think about your journey in the last few years)?

MW: We describe the music we create as Indie Pop, which is a pretty broad category in and of itself. We originally began as a four-piece with a synth player, and that synth-heavy ‘80s influence is still prevalent in our work, but we also include influences like the Velvet Underground, Low, and reverb-heavy guitar work from the mid- to late-‘60s.

Dr. J: What is your favorite song to perform live? What is your favorite song to perform in general? What makes that song a current favorite in your performances?

MW: My personal favorite is “Game Was Rigged.” It’s a story of love gone wrong set to a bouncy melody that’s impossible not to dance to when you’re playing it.

Dr. J: What is one message you would hope that listeners find in ‘Makin Eyes’?

LS: Honestly what first comes to mind is that I’m interested in narrowing the gap between performer and audience member. I want people to feel as though they could write a song too, they could perform it, they could record it! If it’s something that inspires you, please let it! Let’s all make things.

Dr. J: a musician, how are you adapting to the challenges of creating music? What are your biggest challenges to creating music?

MW: We’ve got a somewhat unique situation where we don’t all live in the same location anymore, with Laura and Michelle living in Mankato while I’ve moved almost an hour-and-a-half away to Minneapolis. Things like practices and recording sessions definitely need to be planned out pretty well in advance to
accommodate this. We’re also three very busy women juggling full-time careers in addition to the band—I’m an artist, teaching artist, and gallery owner, Laura is a social worker, and Michelle is a full-time musician and music teacher who plays in several groups—which can make it challenging to not only coordinate our schedules, but also to make time for things like social media and finding new venues to perform.

We want to extend our sincere gratitude to Given Names and especially Laura and Mandy for answering our questions and continuing to make some really excellent music! Click on the links below the article to visit their social media or to listen to the song that we discussed! If any musicians or artists would like to participate in future ’11 Questions with…’ columns, please feel free to email us at drjytaa@gmail.com. All photos and images courtesy of Given Names.

Bandcamp  Instagram  YouTube

Best Wishes for Harmonious Horizons in the New Year of 2024

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As we stand on the threshold of a new year, 2024, let us consider the promise of discovery and the enchantment of melodies yet to be heard. This time of year we reflect on the past, let’s look to the future as well. Every year holds great songs, fantastic albums, and life changing concerts that we did not expect.

The world of music is vast and ever-expanding, offering a symphony of possibilities waiting to be explored. In the coming year, let our aspirations harmonize with the rhythm of new beats and the melody of fresh voices, creating an orchestra of experiences that resonate with joy and fulfillment. We find that we are not alone in how we feel. Through music we can build community.

Here at Your Tuesday Afternoon Alternative we believe wholeheartedly that music is a universal language that transcends borders and cultures and has the extraordinary ability to evoke emotions, trigger memories, and connect individuals across time and place. Music helps us feel. It matters. It is a source of solace, inspiration, and celebration, reflecting the challenges we all face. When we feel passionately, music reflects and shows us that what we feel matters. As we extend our best wishes for the new year, let us acknowledge the transformative and important power of music and its potential to elevate our spirits, stimulate our minds, and unite us in shared moments of harmony and rhythm. The best music becomes part of who we are as individuals and members of a community. Music speaks to us.

The pursuit of discovering new music is like setting sail on uncharted waters, with each note and rhythm representing a new island waiting to be explored. In 2024, let curiosity be our compass, guiding us through unexplored genres, hidden gems, surprises, unexpected adventures, and emerging artists. Music is teeming with innovation and diversity, offering a rich tapestry of sounds that cater to every taste and preference. Explore our favorites of 2023 for just a few suggestions of where to start exploring if you need a place to start.

In the spirit of the new year, make a resolution to step out of your musical comfort zone. Whether it’s delving into genres you’ve never explored or supporting local, independent artists (And we cannot emphasize checking out local music enough! Do it!), the journey of musical discovery is as much about embracing the unfamiliar as it is about cherishing the familiar. There is so much music being made that is available to you wherever you happen to be, whatever you call home.

One of the most exciting aspects of exploring diverse music is the opportunity to appreciate the unique stories and cultural expressions embedded in each sound composition. In 2024, let us break down barriers and build bridges through the universal language of music, fostering a broad and rich music community that cherishes and respects the richness of our collective sonic heritage. Diversity is the heartbeat of the musical world. There is so much “out there” — whatever that really means — that taking risks with music you do not know can be the best gift that you give yourself. In the coming year, let us celebrate the richness of musical traditions from wherever they originate. The world offers a myriad of sonic treasures waiting to be uncovered. Your new favorite song is waiting.

The dawn of a new year brings with it the promise of new beginnings for aspiring musicians. As we extend our best wishes for 2024, let us also pledge to support and uplift emerging artists. The music industry is a dynamic ecosystem, constantly evolving with the emergence of fresh talents eager to share their unique perspectives with the world.

Platforms such as independent music festivals, online streaming services, and local music scenes are fertile grounds for discovering hidden gems. Make it a resolution to attend live performances, explore local music scenes, and follow independent artists on digital platforms. Sign up for their mailing lists and notifications so that when these artists release music, you will know and be able to listen to it. Give this music a chance, that is all we are asking, all we are suggesting. By doing so, you not only contribute to the growth of emerging talents but also enrich your own musical journey with the thrill of new discoveries.

Music is a communal experience that gains its true power when shared. In the coming year, let us make a conscious effort to connect with others through the joy of music. Whether it’s attending concerts with friends, participating in musical communities online, or introducing loved ones to your favorite tunes, the act of sharing music enhances its magic. Remember the first time you heard a song you could not get “out of your head”? Share what you find with others, ask them to share their discoveries with you. Build community, one new song, one unique album, one new found artist at a time.

Create collaborative playlists, organize music-themed gatherings, and engage in conversations about your favorite tracks. Visit your favorite water hole and share what you have found with other music fans. By fostering a culture of shared musical experiences, we not only strengthen our connections with others but also create a ripple effect, spreading the joy of music to those around us.

The advent of technology has revolutionized the way we discover and consume music. Streaming platforms, social media, and algorithm-driven recommendations have made it easier than ever to stumble upon new and exciting sounds. In the new year, let us not only embrace the opportunities technology offers for musical exploration but use these new tools to support artists directly through attending shows, buying merchandise and obtaining physical copies of the music whenever possible.

Strive to explore personalized playlists, discover artists through social media platforms, and engage with music communities online. Take advantage of the wealth of information at your fingertips to unearth hidden treasures and create a customized and adventurous musical journey that reflects your evolving tastes and preferences and do not fear going beyond the familiar terrain that you have so long enjoyed. Take a chance. Make a leap. Listen to something new.

As the clock ticks down to the beginning of 2024, let the promise of a new year inspire us to embrace the vast world of music with open hearts and eager ears. The journey of musical discovery should be a lifelong adventure, and in the coming year, may the symphony of new sounds resonate with joy, fulfillment, and the boundless possibilities that await.

In extending our best wishes for the new year, let us celebrate the transformative power of music, the diversity of sound and lyrics, and the talents of emerging artists. May the melodies of 2024 be a soundtrack to our shared experiences, connecting all of us through the universal and binding nature that is music. Cheers to a harmonious and melodious new year filled with the joy of discovering new musical horizons!

Embracing the Guilty Pleasure: Reo Speedwagon’s “Keep on Loving You”

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In the vast and diverse landscape of musical tastes, there are certain songs that hold a special place in our hearts, even if we’re reluctant to admit it. Reo Speedwagon’s “Keep on Loving You” is one such track that falls into the category of guilty pleasures. Released in 1980 as part of their album “Hi Infidelity,” the song encapsulates the essence of 80s power ballads of an era that reveled in that style. Despite its sometimes cheesy lyrics and over-the-top production, there’s an undeniable charm to the song that draws listeners in and keeps them hooked.

Before delving into the guilty pleasure that is “Keep on Loving You,” it’s essential to understand Reo Speedwagon’s rise. Formed in 1967, the band went through several lineup changes before finding success in the late 1970s and early 1980s. Their breakthrough came with the release of “Hi Infidelity,” an album that not only topped the charts but also became a defining record of the rock and pop landscape of the early 1980s. The album’s title was an awkward play on both ‘hi fi’ and the fact that so many pop songs were about relationships.

At its core, “Keep on Loving You” is a quintessential power ballad, a genre that dominated the airwaves in the early 1980s. The song is characterized by its emotive lyrics, soaring melodies, and a dramatic build-up that culminates in a powerful chorus. Lead singer Kevin Cronin’s soulful delivery adds a layer of sincerity to the track, making it resonate with listeners on a personal level. We could ask is the song about a real relationship? Is it Cheesy or Heartfelt?

One of the reasons “Keep on Loving You” falls into the guilty pleasure category for us is its unabashedly romantic and, some might say, cheesy lyrics. Lines like “And I’m gonna keep on loving you / ‘Cause it’s the only thing I wanna do” may seem cliché, but there’s an earnestness in Cronin’s delivery that transcends the lyrics’ simplicity. The song captures the universal theme of love and devotion, striking a chord with listeners who appreciate unabashed sentimentality. The over the top delivery of an over the top line creates a resonance, unlike the detached above it all approach of so many artists and band’s of the 1970s and early 1980s, Reo Speedwagon’s exuberant embrace of the exaggeration only makes the song land with even more strength.

Another aspect that contributes to the guilty pleasure status of the song is its production. “Keep on Loving You” is drenched in the sonic aesthetics of the early 1980s, with its prominent use of synthesizers, piano, power chords, and a bombastic drum sound. Some may argue that the production is excessive, extreme and overblown… perhaps even dated, but for others, it’s a nostalgic trip back to a time when music was unapologetically flashy and theatrical. The immoderate nature of the song is part of its charm, it is not subtle.

The term “guilty pleasure” often implies a sense of shame or embarrassment associated with enjoying something that may be considered outside one’s usual tastes. In the case of “Keep on Loving You,” the guilt may stem from a perceived lack of sophistication in its musical elements or a fear of judgment from those who favor more critically acclaimed genres. But we wonder why someone should feel the need to explain away the eye rolls and judgement of others. Embrace the love you feel for a song with a sly chagrin and acceptance, you love the song… even if it is not beloved by others. No one should ever have to justify the music that speaks to them.

However, guilt in this context is subjective, and embracing a guilty pleasure can be a liberating experience. In a world that often demands adherence to certain musical standards, allowing oneself to enjoy a song like “Keep on Loving You” becomes a rebellious act — a rejection of musical elitism in favor of personal enjoyment, you love the song even if others do not.

Part of the allure of guilty pleasures lies in the power of nostalgia. For those who grew up in the late 1970s and 1980s, “Keep on Loving You” serves as a time capsule, transporting them back to a period of big hair, neon lights, and cassette tapes. The song becomes a soundtrack to memories and experiences, making it more than just a musical indulgence, it is a faithless trip to the past.

In the realm of guilty pleasures, Reo Speedwagon’s “Keep on Loving You” stands as a testament to the enduring appeal of power ballads and the emotional resonance of nostalgic music. Whether it’s the cheesy lyrics, the bombastic production, or the unabashed romanticism, the song has earned its place in the hearts of many as a guilty pleasure worth celebrating. So, let go of the guilt, turn up the volume, and let the soaring melodies and heartfelt lyrics of Reo Speedwagon take you on a journey to a time when music was unapologetically loud, direct and bold.

Video of The Day: Super 8 – Take It From Me

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https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=XMkTuOEE6h0

On December 1st, The Plus Four released an EP. However, that band is actually a trick, a sly slight of hand from Paul ‘Trip’ Ryan of SUPER 8. All songs on the EP were written, performed, recorded, and produced by Mr. Ryan. The music incorporates love of The Beatles, a sweet nod to Donovan, early ’60s melody and melancholy, and an unflinching focus on pop songwriting. The music of the 1960s stands as a testament to a revolutionary era, marked by social upheaval, cultural shifts, and artistic innovation. Drawing inspiration from this golden age of music allows contemporary artists such as ‘Trip’ to tap into a rich reservoir of creativity, blending nostalgia with modern sensibilities.

The ability to take influence of the past and build on to it is a testament to enduring impact on the evolution of the music being made by Mr. Ryan. From innovative approaches to sound and studio techniques to timeless songwriting and eclectic influences, music of the 1960s and 1970s continues to provide a rich tapestry for artists and musicians to draw inspiration. As indie musicians continue to forge their own paths in the ever-changing whirlwind of the music industry, the bands and musicians of the past remain a guiding light, a source of encouragement to embrace experimentation, celebrate diversity, and pursue artistic independence. The spirit of The Beatles, The Rolling Stones, The Who, The Kinks, The Animals, The Searchers, Donovan and The Dave Clark Five lives on in the independent music scene via innovative artists like Paul ‘Trip’ Ryan. He holds a sacred testament to the timeless and transcendent nature of music that is catchy and thoughtful.

Remember that when the beat leads you to sway, clap and hum with a smile on your face — even if the lyrics are telling you terrible things can happen to all of us — it is because of the undeniable gravity of the pop hook. And, Trip is a master of the pop hook. Sometimes looking back allows us to move forward.

The elusive secret of the pop hook lies in its ability to transcend the boundaries of musical genres and captivate the listener’s attention with infectious melodies. Trip’s music, and especially this EP, stands in the present while looking back over his shoulder to a past that still sounds fresh and meaningful. A pop hook is that magical element that makes a song unforgettable, a snippet of sound that embeds itself in the listener’s mind and refuses to let go. It’s the sonic glue that binds the entire composition together, creating a memorable and often addictive experience. And that magic is the stock and trade of Paul Ryan.

At its core, a pop hook is a concise and catchy musical phrase that serves as the focal point of a song. It can manifest as a catchy vocal melody, an irresistible chord progression, or a combination of both in most of Trip’s songs. The secret lies in its simplicity and universality, making it accessible to a broad audience. Whether it’s the sing-along chorus or the infectious riff of a guitar, the pop hook has the power to resonate with listeners across diverse musical tastes.

The elusive nature of the pop hook is in its ability to strike a delicate balance between familiarity and novelty. It draws upon musical conventions and structures that are recognizable to the listener, providing a sense of comfort and predictability. Yet, at the same time, it introduces a unique twist or unexpected element that sets it apart from the mundane, ensuring that it stands out in the crowded landscape of popular music. This ability to hold these competing ideas together at the same time is a gift that Trip was blessed to possess.

The pop hooks of Paul Ryan whether we call him ‘Trip,’ ‘Super 8’ or ‘The Plus Four’, possess a magical quality that transcends cultural and linguistic barriers. It communicates directly with the listener’s emotions, creating an instant connection that transcends words. You want to sway, hum, and nod your head. The simplicity of a well-crafted pop hook allows it to become a universal language of emotion, enabling it to resonate with people around the world or across the years. Trip’s music is a carefully crafted combination of simplicity and uniqueness that transcends genres and cultures, leaving an indelible mark on the listener’s musical memory. As long as there are ears to listen, Trip’s quest for the perfect pop hook will continue to inspire anyone interested in great pop music regardless of the label we put on it or the time period in which it is generated.