State of the Arts Blog

Gil Scott-Heron lays down the listening law

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It's rare to be chastised by a CD even before you listen to it.

However when you open the jewel case for Gil Scott-Heron's new album "I'm New Here" you are confronted by a set of instructions.

To quote them in their entirety:

"There is a proper procedure for taking advantage of any investment. Music, for example. Buying a CD is an investment. To get the maximum you must

LISTEN TO IT FOR THE FIRST TIME UNDER OPTIMUM CONDITIONS

Not in your car or on a portable player through a headset.

Take it home.

Get rid of all distractions, (even her or him).

Turn off your cell phone

Turn off everything that rings or beeps or rattles or whistles.

Make yourself comfortable

LISTEN all the way through.

Think about what you got

Think about who would appreciate this investment.

Decide if there is someone to share this with.

Turn it on again.

Enjoy Yourself.

Gil Scott-Heron"

I got this CD two days ago, and these words were a mighty slap at what have become my own bad listening habits. I have yet to find the time to follow the instructions properly. But today is the day.

Gil Scott-Heron plays two shows at the Dakota in Minneapolis on Sunday