Blimey! Our latest album RUNES has been out in the world for almost two weeks now. It's satisfying to think that after many months spent in the studio the music we created is finally being heard. Completing the CD and actually having copies in our trembling hands was the end of a process that seemed littered with unanswerable questions. OK, let's get this into perspective, we're talking about recording some music, not solving the problems of the Middle East or planning your children's future, but nevertheless it had its moments. In the beginning there's the writing (is this good enough?), choosing the traditional tunes (can we do something interesting with this?) and the classic rock tunes (can we do this justice?) Then there's the recording, wondering if we've played the tunes as well as we can, and the anxiety over the artwork (Char was convinced that there'd be a massive spelling error and we'd end up with 'RUNS' by Wahbone.) Not to mention the bigger decisions that musicians have to face, like 'shall we have the last muffins now or save them for this afternoon?' or 'are there any biscuits now that we've run out of muffins?'
The final nail-biting moment came after the first orders had been posted. This can basically be summed up as 'will they like it?' For despite the fact that we're happy with the results of our labours, (and ultimately we have to make music that first of all satisfies us) it would be hugely disappointing if the folks who enjoy our music were less than impressed. And not just because of the knock to our collective ego, painful as that would be. One of Whalebone's core principles is that every time we record or perform we set out with the aim of making music that listeners and audiences will get a buzz from listening to. (If at this point you're thinking 'bloody oversensitive arty types, they should stop being so touchy and man up a bit', you're probably right, but nevertheless this is how we feel. Sorry.) Anyway, there it is. The big question. Will they like it?
To our great relief, it seems that quite a few folks do like it. We know this because many of you have been kind enough to take the time to email us or leave comments to that effect after listening to the album. It's hard to adequately express how much we appreciate getting this feedback, but believe us, we do, and it makes all the time spent writing, recording and developing a 'studio tan' seem worthwhile.
So, to everyone who has taken the time to send 'enjoying the new CD!' or a similarly worded message, (and all those who may do in the future, fingers crossed) we'd like to say a heartfelt 'THANK YOU' from Whalebone. Your words mean a lot to us. And not just because we're oversensitive arty types.