Art Mayes

about

Art Mayes started out as the singer/songwriter in Midian, then Midian Rose (both in high school). They wrote about the usual stuff, but didn't have a genre. Then, in college, Art started a band called Noon Blue Apples. His lyrics there bounced from God and religion to conspiracy theories. They were classified as a jam band, but weren't. Then he did some acoustic solo stuff-- his favorite songwriting, but poor recording quality. Art played at South By Southwest in Austin, the year after John Mayer got signed. Nobody got signed that year. He thinks the music industry just took the year off, and blames John Mayer for his lack of fame and fortune. When he first moved to Chicago, Art and Jason Tratta embarked on a year-long experiment called OtherLand. They played with soundscapes and different recording techniques, all based on their acoustic foundations. "Not Right" and "Self-Fulfilled" came out of that experience, along with a host of hybrids. They called them Napkin Mixes, like when you're sitting in a bar jotting down notes for something. Humble beginnings, as they say. Sadly, so far, they've stayed humble. When the money comes, so will the proper recordings. Art doesn't write casual-listening music. It's not music you can put on in the background; it demands careful listening and consideration. At least, that's how he feels about it. Art is currently a law student at Loyola University Chicago School of Law. His legal career will focus on: 1) saving

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