Chinapainting may be the world's first truly virtual band, who not only met in cyberspace, but rehearse, perform and record there as well.
In the fall of 2006, Jim Goodin (based in Brooklyn, NY) met Daryl Shawn (based in Oaxaca, Mexico) in the Looper's Delight online forum. Soon their common interests emerged, and they discussed playing together, though geographical realities prevented a traditional meeting. At about this time, a piece of software called Ninjam had emerged, which allows musicians to play together in real-time over the Net. Ninjam deals with the latency inherent in sending audio data over the web by slightly delaying each player's input by one musical measure. This new technology enabled Goodin and Shawn to do so without leaving their music rooms, though they were 4,000 miles apart.
They soon discovered a natural musical rapport, and developed an ethic and sound which has remained firm even as experimentation continues, which itself is a key component of the band. They play only acoustic guitars, from fretless to 12-string to flamenco instruments. Much of their sound is based on looping, or the use of technology to repeat and twist musical phrases in counterpoint or accompaniment. Though looping frequently involves sophisticated rack effects, the loops in Chinapainting are created with a cassette four-track and a dictating machine. Their use of additional effects is minimal, with just a couple of pedals between them. All of their material is improvised on the spot.
To date the members have never met in person.
The Sophisticuffs should have never met. They will try to display there softer, gentler side tonight.
Cost: $6-10