Q&A with Crafty Bastards Silver Spring Welcome Mat Performer Arthur Harrison
Arthur Harrison, a member of “The Cassettes,” specializes in the “theremin.” He’s performed extensively throughout the country providing the public with the unique experience of this seldom-seen instrument. Check him out online at www.harrisoninstruments.com and June 28 at Crafty Bastards Silver Spring on the Welcome Mat Stage at 12:15 pm!
Explain your band/stage name and define your sound.
Well, I actually use my REAL name when I’m doing solo gigs like this appearance for Crafty Bastards. Otherwise, I appear with my three comrades as “The Cassettes.” My sound is best described as “early electronic,” as the theremin is indeed one of the earliest-invented all-electronic instruments. As for style, my solo performances, as I will be presenting for this venue, embrace mostly American standards from the 1920s to the 1960s, and variations thereof.
What are your influences and worst equipment experiences?
I was born and raised in New York, so the influences of Broadway have made their indelible mark on me. I am also influenced by the avant-garde electronic genre, such as work by Ligeti; and the experimental genre, such as work by Cage. I also like many Rock classical sounds as offered by groups such as Led Zeppelin and Pink Floyd. My worst equipment experiences are related to radio interference at my theremin frequencies, but my present instruments are specifically designed to avoid these problems.
What’s your favorite local hangout and best stage you’ve played?
These days, there’s hardly any time to hang out, but I occasionally catch a friend’s show at places like Galaxy Hut in Arlington.
How do you feel about being a Crafty Bastard?
I appreciate the opportunity to be here, and to support community artisans!
Where can the adoring public see you next?
My group, “The Cassettes,” have big shows planned for Richmond (”Toad’s Place”) on June 14, and in Arlington at “IOTA” on June 15. Our NEW Album is being mixed!
