Papa Muse

What do you believe in? That’s the question asked by the new single from Papa Muse released today, just in time for Bandcamp Friday. “PM News” steps back to observe the “intense political division in the United States,” and looks at “the rise of activism and the passion and anger that has grown over the last several years.”

“The song doesn’t take sides, but begs the question, what makes a patriot? And it encourages folks to take a stand for what they believe in,” according to a statement from Papa Muse, also known as Way.

It’s got a driving bass pulse along with some prominent brass, and a soulful vocal that explores today’s scenario. The musicians managed to record their parts not just in different sessions, but in different places, as the pandemic presented logistical challenges.

The musicians recorded in their own homes or in local studios. The drums and rhythm guitar were recorded at Blackbear Studios in Danby, the recording was mixed by Russell Tanner in Austin, Texas, and the song was mastered by Dana Billings in Buffalo, New York.

“Joey Arcuri from the renowned band Driftwood provides a dazzling performance on stand-up double bass that creates an instinctual pulse deep inside the chest,” Way says. “Damian Dodge crosses the dexterity of Progressive rock champions with the feel and flavor of head-bobbing and finger snapping classic jazz aficionados. And Austin Texas based trumpeter Austin Johanning shaped the explosive horn section, adding a swing and cultural maturity.”

Find the new single beginning today on Bandcamp, which has continued its practice of “Bandcamp Fridays” into 2021. The first Friday of the month, Bandcamp is waiving its share of music sales through their digital music platform. That means after payment processing fees, an average of 93% of your money goes straight to the musical artist.

“Unlike streaming platforms, Bandcamp is one of the few places where independent musicians can have a chance of earning back some of their financial investment,” Way says. Music bought on days that aren’t Bandcamp Fridays glean an average of 82% of your purchase for the artist, which still isn’t bad.

Later in February, he says, the song will be released as “an emotionally charged music video,” and will become available on other music platforms. - February 5, 2021 by Mark H. Anbinder in 14850 Magazine

MuseFest founder returns to region for concert

JIM CATALANO, Correspondent

Until he left town in 2007, Way was one of the bigger movers and shakers in the Ithaca music scene for more than a decade. He founded MuseFest, the eclectic festival that used to wrap up the summer season, and he also played in several bands including Scratch and Sniff (known for their residency at the now-defunct Micawbers) and Papa Muse.

Flash ahead to 2015, and Way is back in town. And so is Papa Muse, which recently completed its debut CD, “Meaning Makers.”

To mark the occasion, Way has organized a big show at the Haunt for Saturday night. Not only will Papa Muse release its CD, but Vacuoso — the local rock band fronted by Mac Myers and Jimbo Scott — also will release its debut EP. To open the show, Way has recruited Misses Bitches, who have developed a unique, harmony-laden folk-rock sound over the past couple of years.

He’s also having psychedelic video projections, an ecology action table (he’s about to ramp up a campaign against plastic pollution), and beer pong tables. And he invited fans to “dress to impress,” as several cameras will be shooting footage for an upcoming music video throughout the night. “I like to go big,” Way said in a recent interview.

He noted the it took Papa Muse — which also includes guitarist producer Sean Kobuk, drummer Greg McClure and bassist Gary Hesselin — more than a decade to complete the new CD. “We’ve taken our time and really produced it,” he said. “It sounds like a major-label record, and I’m really proud of it.”

The new album ranges from pop to hard rock to prog rock to grunge, with strong melodies and hooks throughout the 13 songs. “At some point in the evolution of my songwriting, I made a conscious choice that my songs should be easily digested and enjoyed by others, not just designed for musical masturbation,” Way said. “I aim to both express and release my emotional and mental extremes, while allowing others to understand me. If my music cannot reach people and inspire them, it becomes a selfish venture unworthy of my life.”

Admission for the 9 p.m. show is $8, with $2 off if you purchase both CDs (for $10) upon entry (they’ll cost more inside club).

Way said this show will be the only place to buy a limited edition version of the CD. “We won’t be releasing the whole album online; instead, we’ll be making music videos for each song and releasing them throughout the year online,” he said.

To learn more, visit www.papamuse.com or facebook.com/PapaMuseMusic. - Ithaca Journal