Bob Boilen is a person I consider to be a music evangelist–someone who promotes music because of a deep, heart-felt love for artists and all musical styles. In early 2008, Bob began a new series titled “Tiny Desk Concerts.” Independent and record label affiliated musicians alike were invited to perform live in the offices of NPR’s All Songs Considered. The performances were recorded and presented in audio and video formats to the public. The result has been intimate, authentic performances that feel much more personal and real–the tight office space does not accomodate the use of vast musical gear or production equipment. The artists often arrive in street clothes, voices ready, and acoustic instruments in hand. The sound of a small audience can often be heard, responding to the musician’s chatter between songs–and sometimes during songs as banter contributes to the overall groove of the performance. The viewer experiences a higher level of authenticity and originality than they are normally afforded by studio recordings or heavily produced videos–the Tiny Desk Concert experience is a setting, which I think, enables us to connect personally with the artist. Don’t mistake, studio recordings and music videos are still viable formats that are artistic and enjoyable. However, there is something special about the Tiny Desk Concert format that makes the experience personal–there are more skin tingling moments here than can usually be had elsewhere.

I applaud Bob Boilen for his ingenuity in creating this unique experience. Listening to and talking about music is probably something that seems old and familiar for him–maybe something that isn’t always as fun day-to-day because it is part of a job. Yet Bob’s insight regarding a unique way to share the performances of emerging musicians and experienced artists with the rest of us is simply brilliant and something that others overlooked. Bob, thank you for helping me to experience music in a personal, unique, and meaningful way!

Included below are a few examples of the wonderful performances that may be viewed by visiting the Tiny Desk Concerts website or the NPR Music YouTube Channel.

Raphael Saadiq performs on NPR Music Tiny Desk Concerts

Edward Sharpe & The Magnetic Zeros perform at NPR Music’s Tiny Desk Concert

Tom Jones’ Tiny Desk Concert at NPR Music

K’Nann NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

Jakob Dylan: NPR Music Tiny Desk Concert

The overall sound and feel of The Mynabirds’ music is a delight to listen to. The chords and lyrics evoke the sound of the 1960s and bands like The Mamas and the Papas.  NPR’s Ken Tucker reviewed the band and showcased several songs from The Mynabirds’ new album on May 18, 2010. You can listen to the story here:

Spinner.com also featured the music video for The Mynabirds track titled Numbers Don’t Lie:

A live performance of Numbers Don’t Lie was recorded at SXSW earlier this year too:

Holy crap folks, video effects killed the video star! I can’t decide if this is so bad that I like it. The have committed to the style and gone all the way. Is it the bomb baby? Help me make up my mind.

natalie portman’s shaved head – sophisticated side ponytail from thatgo on Vimeo.

Related posts:

• Creative sketchbook music video for Doors’ People are Strange

People are strange from Denis Fongue on Vimeo.

Related posts:

• Awesome 80s-style video from Noel Paul & Stefan Moore

I’ve always loved the feel of Journey’s 1980s hits. The particular track made me think about their song “Don’t Stop Believing” — a song used in the final scene of the Sopranos to bring an engaging story to a close.

As with a couple of other songs I mentioned in a post in recent weeks, I think this song has some good ideas and feelings in it.

I also like the dialog in the final scene of the sopranos: “Focus on the good times.” Indeed.