The elusive parts I'm talking about are simple too. They are mainly when he drags out the notes after some of the phrases of music. Those drug out notes vary in duration and that's mainly what I find elusive. But how important is it to drag out those notes exactly how long Octa Clark did at the exact time and exact length each time?
I don't do that drag thingy because I can't make it work out right. I've long noticed that many of those old players often drug out notes. This seems to be a skill gone by the wayside in favor of fast and fancy thrills. To me it's very hard to put them in the right place and come out of it at the right time. If you watch Cory McCauley play much, you'll notice he does it quite a bit, especially in jams.
I think it's typical for Cajun music to be "crooked". Other kinds of music are very strict: for instance 16 measures, four counts per measure - not more, not less (like Irish traditional), but not so in Cajun.
Bosco Stomp, Mamou Two Step, and countless others are often played with a count or a half measure extra, mostly at the end of a phrase or part. That's why it's sometimes better in jams to make sure to play the same version. The same goes for Octa's version of Blacktop Blues. He does it his way, you can do it your way. You can replace the long drag note with a shorter one , or leave it away completely (in jams), just as you like it. It's a fun tune.
I made this up some three years ago.I wouldn't have the patience now! some of it I would play it a bit different now, but it may be helpful! Website #1.
Well gentlemen (still no ladies around ??), this is the definite version as far as I'm concerned. Very inspiring.
You don't even need a band when you can play it like this. Fabulous!
Thanks Chris! And good to see/hear you again.
Ain't that the truth, Peer? Chris wanders in and nails it again. His playing is simply beautiful, and rather mesmerizing. I just love to watch him play.
Thanks, Chris! Thank heavens you post versions that we can all learn from; they are pure gold!
But as beautiful as Chris' playing is, it's still fun to see EVERYONE'S version, because they are all different, and there's something to learn from everyone, from beginner to expert.