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Cleveland’s DIY Music Scene: Discover How You’re Among Friends Thrives

Update DIY Music Culture Thrives in Cleveland Cleveland's indie rock scene is vibrant and alive, especially with the emergence of bands like You’re Among Friends. Their latest album, As Normalcy Slips Away, highlights the burgeoning trend of DIY recording practices that many local musicians are adopting. The band's journey, from recording in professional studios to creating music from the comfort of their basements, reflects a significant shift towards creative autonomy in music production. The Relaxed Yet Professional Approach As described by singer-guitarist Anthony Doran, shifting to a more informal recording setup has transformed how the band operates. With no pressure from studio costs, members can focus on music-making at their own pace. This relaxed environment not only fosters creativity but also strengthens inter-band relationships, emphasizing the fun and communal aspect of making music together. As Doran puts it, 'Not paying for studio time has allowed us to work at a relaxed pace... enjoy hanging out together while we work through the songs.' Innovations in Recording Technique The band's method of recording has evolved, as they began crafting arrangements during informal Sunday sessions at bassist Kevin Trask's home. Instead of recording two songs at a time, they’ve recently ramped up to three songs per session, significantly increasing their output. This more efficient approach has made a remarkable difference in the sound quality of their tracks. With the flexibility to overdub at home, band members can perfect their contributions without the usual distractions of a studio session. The Sound of the Pandemic The opening track of their new album, 'All This Bending Over Backwards,' draws inspiration from the work conditions many faced during the pandemic. Doran explores themes of exploitation and essential work through catchy lyrics paired with a Motown-inspired drum rhythm. By integrating personal stories into their music, You’re Among Friends highlight the socio-economic issues that resonate deeply with people, particularly in these challenging times. Encouraging Local Collaboration This DIY trend isn't just a solo endeavor. Cleveland's music community is tightly-knit, where bands often collaborate, share resources, and uplift each other through shared experiences. Just as Jim Stewart, a noted producer from Cleveland, emphasizes in his work, the blend of enhanced creative expression and technical skills is crucial for local artists. With affordable recording options, bands can truly explore their sound and collaborate freely without financial burdens, which can be a common pitfall in the music industry. Future of Cleveland's DIY Music Scene As the trend grows, what does this mean for the future of local music? Cleveland music is on the verge of a renaissance as more artists gravitate towards DIY practices. With the right technology and a supportive community, budding musicians can harness their creativity and possibly introduce a fresh wave of sounds and styles that could gain national attention. Concrete Steps for Aspiring Musicians For those looking to dive into the DIY music scene, embracing technology like digital recording software and audio interfaces can be a game-changer. Taking the time to understand the fundamentals of sound mixing and finding a supportive network of fellow musicians can significantly elevate your production skills. As Doran suggests, working at your own pace with close friends not only builds strong relationships but also nurtures the essence of music-making. If you’re interested in experiencing these local sounds, mark your calendars for their release party on October 16 at the Grog Shop. Engaging with local music not only supports artists but contributes to a vibrant community culture.