B-Side Guys

Mike Goodspeed’s “The Pedantic Autodidact” is a vibrant blend of acoustic funk and jazz fusion, crafted by a quartet of skilled musicians. This instrumental track showcases the power of collaboration, with each player contributing their unique voice to the musical conversation.

The song opens with Goodspeed’s bass, its melodic lines dancing nimbly over a bedrock of funky rhythms. Kevin Stahl’s drumming provides a dynamic foundation, his post-classical background lending an unexpected sophistication to the groove. The interplay between bass and drums creates a pulsing energy that propels the track forward.

John DiStase’s guitar solo emerges from this rhythmic landscape, its fluid lines paying homage to jazz fusion greats while carving out a distinctly modern sound. Mike Valeras follows with a contrasting solo, his Nashville-infused style adding yet another layer of complexity to the arrangement. These guitar features serve not as mere showcases of technical skill, but as integral parts of the song’s narrative.

The production on “The Pedantic Autodidact” captures the raw energy of live performance, with the barely-held-together guitar tuners lending an organic, slightly unpredictable edge to the sound. This imperfection adds character, mirroring the human element in the increasingly digital world of music production.

Goodspeed’s composition skills shine throughout, balancing complex musicianship with accessible melodies. “The Pedantic Autodidact” stands as a testament to the bassist’s growing artistic vision, pointing towards an exciting future of collaborative work. It’s a track that rewards repeated listens, each spin revealing new nuances in this rich, acoustic-driven fusion.