Lotus. This is a band that I really feel perfectly exemplifies what my goal is with Electronic Anything. In a single word, Open-Mindedness. That is by far the one aspect of the EDM that I will always love more than anything else; The freedom to be an individual, the respect for others, and the willingness to expose yourself to something new, no matter how foreign or different. Sadly, I feel this open-mindedness has been slipping away from this growing community, most noticeably when it comes to the cross-genre hate especially between each genre's "biggest fans". There is absolutely no productive benefit in my eyes to that kind of elitism and unnecessary criticism when the alternative is just to simply appreciate each song for what it is. When you find a way to relinquish expectations you not only find more enjoyment out of the styles you love, but you also become so much more alert and appreciative of the effort some individuals put in to create something new and unique. I know not everyone will agree with what how I feel, and there is absolutely nothing wrong with that. It is just something I wish people would try because of how much it affected my life. In any case, Back to Lotus haha, Not only did these guys venture into electronic music BEFORE the new Millenium (1999), but they recognized the possibilites you encounter when you see past the limitations of a single style of music, way before the cross-genre experimentation that has emerged over the past couple years. I have so much respect for these guys for taking something they were so passionate about and building upon it to create such a one-of-a-kind musical experience before most people even saw the opportunity existed. Lotus is a name I know many have heard before but havent had the chance to look up, so before I link some music I'll give you a little background on what you can expect.
Lotus is described as 'Jamtronica' which simply put is a Jam Band with a strong electronic influence. I've never been a big follower of 'Jam Bands', but Lotus is far from what I would consider normal by "Jam Band" standards. What makes them so unique is the seamless fusion they have created between both styles of music that just sounds so natural. Their sound is absolutely unmistakable, and their live shows are nothing short of spectacular. The love and passion these guys have for music is so evident when you see the connection they have with not only each other, but with each and every song they play. (Here's a video from them performing last month)
If it isn't obvious already, I've always had such a special appreciation for the natural talent some individuals have been blessed with, and there is absolutely nothing more exceptional to me then seeing the real connection that exists between a musician and his/her instrument. As more and more shows come and go, it seems like such a shame to me that so many will become a forgotten memory because so many seem so identical, no matter who's actually playing. So its artists like this I try and take every opportunity to see, because they are able to leave you with a memory that will last a lifetime.
Please please come out and support the guys that are trying to bring something new and unique to Tally even though it comes with so much more risk, because most people around here dont take risks in order to bring you really quality music.
Here are a couple of my favorite songs and mixes from Lotus, if I missed any of your favorites be sure to share them in the comments!!! ENJOY!
Lotus - Spiritualize
Lotus - Spiritualize
Lotus - Golden Ghost
Lotus - In an Outline
Lotus - Massif
Lotus LIVE MIX 1-25-13
And for those of you who read that whole post, here's an AWESOME video of Lotus playing at the infamous 'Red Rocks' in Colorado!
GREET THE MIND :D
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