Letters to the Editor

Author: [no author name found]

To the Editor:

I was dismayed to come across the review [Mae-Shi concert flops and flails, Nov. 3, 2005] of the Mae-Shi concert in Coltrane Lounge. I found the criticisms to be narrow-minded and unhelpful.

It has been my pleasure to attend many diverse cultural events on campus over the years and I am always particularly thankful when an event succeeds in exposing the community to a new genre, form, or style of art. I enjoyed the Mae-Shi concert immensely and I applaud the staff of WRMC for their continued efforts to bring programming to the community that would otherwise be unavailable.

I respect the Campus for consistently putting forth informed art reviews and opinions with articulate and precise criticism. The Mae-Shi review fell short of the usual mark. I found the characterization of the show to be disturbingly trite and superficial. I also found her description of "electronic hardcore funk-rock" somewhat befuddling. It seems the reviewer is unfamiliar with punk rock music, its forms, traditions, and execution. The Campus would not send a reporter to cover a football game who was unfamiliar with the sport. I question the wisdom of sending a reporter unfamiliar with punk/noise rock to just such a concert.

The Mae-Shi were incredibly dynamic, experimental, and yes, fun to watch. They brought a genre of music to campus that hasn't been seen in years. During their last song they invited and encouraged audience members to take their instruments and play along. I wouldn't have expected Simon Cowell to give the show a ringing endorsement. But I would expect an open-minded music critic to at least examine the music of the Mae-Shi within the appropriate context.

Sincerely,

Kevin Peckham '99