Achieving a distinctive sound?

Jambands.com just today put up an article/interview with New York City based jam band Licorice that may or may not include a remark at our beloved Satan's expense. Near the middle of the interview, a question is postulated about the bands "distinct sound" and how it differentiates them from other jam bands. Granted, this is question lobbied at many bands, especially new or "up-and-coming" groups. In this instance, David Lott, the band's guitarist and vocalist, brings up moe. and Satan himself, Chucky.

The discussion turns to whether developing a distinctive sound, as a band or as a musician, is a boon or bane with moe. and their exceptional musicianship becoming a recurring example. “I think Licorice has a sound,” says Lott while we’re bantering the question around. “I don’t think I’ve reached the point where I have an individual sound. It’s the moe. thing,” he continues. “I can hear moe. a mile away and know that it’s moe. but if Chuck Garvey was in a band with 50 other musicians and all I was doing was listening, I don’t think I would be able to tell that that’s ‘Chuck Garvey from moe.,’ he explains. “I don’t mean that to sound disrespectful,” he clarifies. “He’s an incredible guitar player.”

Interesting quote, and one I have re-read a couple times. It seems to me that Lott is saying that Chuck doesn't have his own "distinct sound" and therefore blends into whatever he is doing to the point you can't differeniate him from the average guitar player.

What say you? Leave us a comment or send your own opinion to tips@moerons.com

For the original Jamband.com article, CLICK HERE.