Watch this space
little by little, sometimes a lot
Construction of our studio building has begun. Sadly, one tree, a cedar elm that was not in the best of health, was removed to make way for the structure. Lumber from that tree will become my control room desk for the music aspect of my studio (the other aspect is the woodworking shop—two activities in one space). Sara’s painting studio will be upstairs. The 50 foot commute will ensure we get a lot more done.
So far, earth has been moved and the forms for the foundation are in process. We have a huge pile of large limestone rocks that will find places to be at some point. I’m pretty sure they’re talking to each other.
Watch this space for monthly updates, which will feature a little or a lot of visible progress, but progress nonetheless.
We’re getting closer to the release of Mala Nota’s first album, Los Peores Éxitos Vol.1, which will coincide with the band’s third anniversary show at Sahara Lounge on August 25.
The next single to be released is “I Saw Your Picture” on July 21. Imagine coming across a photograph of someone that elicits not just a memory, but many memories and swirling emotions, all leading to the sudden realization that it's all in the past, and it's better left there. "I Saw Your Picture" tells the story of one of the more poignant moments anyone can experience, both sad and liberating—and perhaps a bit of a surprise.
We’re taking a slightly different approach developing songs for the second album, and some early results may be presented at upcoming shows. Every Mala Nota song has a life of its own, from planting the initial seed to how it is cultivated. The weather plays a role we cannot explain. We enjoy a sunny day, but when necessary we feel what it's like to be a rainy morning. The second album will continue to tell stories of where we find ourselves—as individuals, as a band, as a society—and perhaps point to where we're going. All of us.
August 25
Sahara Lounge
1413 Webberville Road Austin, TX 78721(512) 927-0700
Time: likely the usual, conjuring in the next day. But, maybe, earlier. Greater specificity next month.
Find “I Saw Your Picture,” a message from your memory, out July 21 on all streaming platforms.
Parting is such sweet sorrow, which is to say I’ve stepped away from Red and The Rebels. The band continues work on the second album while searching for the right replacement. If you know of any suitable candidates, they can contact the band at this email address: redandtherebels@yahoo.com.
This month I have the good fortune of beginning work with Todd Rogers (Channels) to track sounds for his second EP. You can find the first one, Departure, here.
I’ve been listening to the demos this week, and these are well-crafted songs. Readers of this newsletter are already familiar with this one. And while we can’t wait to get them in your ears, we’re taking advantage of the home studio affording that thing we call time. Meanwhile, do check out Departure, which will encourage good listening practices.
Houston friends: Next Wednesday, July 19, Atlas Maior will be playing a concert on the plaza at the Rothko Chapel. The link to register is here. It starts at 6:30 PM. I hope to see you there.
If you can’t make it, their new album is blowing up, getting airplay on NPR as well as quite a bit of ink in the critical press. Check it out here.
Thanks again for reading. Feel free to send questions or topics you might like to hear about from me.
Peace, Love, and Art,
Ralph
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Ralph Manak
Raking Light Studio
Austin TX
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