9 Comments
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Joseph Young's avatar

with rhythm one can be fearless. anything can be done. good piece.

Jolene Brink's avatar

That takes me back! Thanks for the memories.

Carl's avatar

Good memories backing Canty and Gates on drums. Glad to hear report of more writer bands in Missoula. Thanks for sharing!

Brett Puryear's avatar

That’s awesome, Carl! That was in 2013-15, so I’m not sure if there are any writer bands in Missoula presently, but I sure hope so.

Carl's avatar

Just missed you then! ‘12

Matt Cyr's avatar

Good stuff here, Brett. I haven’t read Barry Hannah but will after this. Did you take his classes? Was just looking at where he taught. That’s an amazing insert in the sample you quoted.

This also makes me want to reread Sonny’s Blues, which I’m sure has some kickass examples. Great post. Thanks for this. 🙏

Brett Puryear's avatar

I am LONG overdue for a “Sonny’s Blues” re-read. Incredible story. Hannah passed a few years before I took any workshops. He had a stint at Montana in the ‘80s—but I managed to hear some hilarious stories about him. Definitely start with Airships. Essential Southern reading. There’s really no other like him. When you get around to it, let me know what you think. I have a feeling you’re gonna like Hannah. Thanks for the kind words too, Matt 🙏