The music scene is alive and well here in Aspen, Colorado. The Aspen Ski Company is even using music photography in its advertising for skiing. I was recently asked if I played an instrument because I knew about the artist being played on the sound system in the local establishment I was in. I offered to add to the play-list from my iPhone, which was warmly greeted by the few folks in the place. I am an artist, a visual artist. I love to make my images sing, to have a feeling about them. When speaking about my favorite images, I love to describe how they make me feel, not what is in them. I think that my love of listening to great music is closely tied to making great pictures.
Here in Aspen, we are lucky to have a great music scene with lots of talented artists. I could just imagine being an established artist and getting a call to ask if I would like to play a show in Aspen–lodging, meals, skiing and playing music. Yes, please. Over Labor Day, I took my camera and went out to see a few live shows. The first show was Trombone Shorty and Orleans Avenue. I was hanging out with my friends and was able to capture them in black and white:
The next show had you on your feet. When Mumford & Sons took the stage outside in the Colorado air, it was special. I’m glad I was able to spend this time with my wife and our friends. When I listen to great music something inside changes; I wish I could show this.
The last show of the weekend was amazing. Belly Up Aspen was the host for Buddy Guy! This Blues legend was able to come to 8000 feet and still did not disappoint. If you have never seen a show at Belly up you do not know what you are missing. It is a small intimate venue which allows you to get so close to the stage and the artists there it feels like they are playing in you living room. One word of caution, bring some cotton or ear plugs because the speakers there could fill a stadium and you are standing right next to them.
So many music artists come through Aspen. If you are one of them and you need photography for your next album or would love something for your promotional materials please give me a call. If you make great music, I make great visuals together we can show everyone what we as artists are about.
ML
