CHAPTER 5 -  ZOOFEATHER

Nothing is meritorious if you don’t have some part of yourself in it.  I suppose the same holds true for song composition. Song writing is a process that makes plot and motive. Style and type is important. Some songs set a mood, some tell a story and some make mystery. The end process is simple formula – you like or you don’t.

Music should be understood as the language of the heart – the expression of the soul. It can be very powerful.

I don’t consider myself an autobiographic writer by nature but I do find it fascinating to discover the little hidden messages or forgotten meanings days or years after a composition.  A good recording is to find the right instrument or vocal or vocalist for a desired performance.  Music is a collective experience.

Many of the songs recorded to zoofeathers were written years ago.  I like to hold a song sometimes subtle like wine in a bottle.  A song should be uncorked for its full boutique as preserved for a special time and purpose.

I rarely compose as if from divine providence.  I really have to work for a lyric or a melody. It is a preponderance of the highest order. A good song plays melody to thematic thought. It is not all that easy to accomplish. 

I meet song writer’s young and old who make quick work with their creations – and – then divorce any long term relationship to a song. Churn it up and turn it out.

I am not sure that a song should be so impetuous.  Everything needs time as appropriate to grow. The zoofeather collection is progress in slow motion.  It is work for the love of it.  The music is nothing without you. Thank you for listening.

~Gary Lee Marsh~

Melody Maker----------------The Garage------------Ontario Snow----------------Dixieland