In this fast-paced digital era, you still have a keen interest in discovering beautiful and captivating music. The John Budnik Band presents their latest and third album, Beginner’s Mind, which displays an undeniable mastery of their craft. Let’s explore this further.
“Beginner’s Mind” is an album featuring 11 tracks. I must admit, I was somewhat taken aback since many artists tend to favour albums with fewer than 8 tracks to keep fans engaged in our fast-paced digital era, as I previously mentioned. Yet, this album defies that trend. When a band possesses confidence and experience, all you need to do is put on your headphones and savour the listening experience.
Usually, while I am writing about albums, I don’t like to write about each track separately, as I prefer to give the space to the listener to discover the beauty. However, I’d like to highlight more of the creativity here. “Beginner’s Mind” is a rock, blues, and soul album yet, I can see that it shows some contemporary elements which have been blended beautifully. The melodic riffs here are the key! I loved how they were well-crafted. Adding to this an emotive vocal style, vintage music structure, and tight rhythm. All of these elements create a masterpiece indeed.
The album opens with a track that immediately draws you in, setting the tone for the journey ahead. Each song is a new adventure, with the band exploring different moods and themes, showcasing their versatility. The use of instrumental layers is particularly impressive, creating a rich tapestry of sound that feels both fresh and familiar.
It is truly remarkable to learn that the tracks were recorded in the artist’s garage in Palmer, Alaska, drawing inspiration from Philip Toshio Sudo’s book “Zen Guitar.” This method highlights the importance of creating every sound element with an open mindset. It encourages the artist to let go of any preconceived ideas of what is considered “right” or “wrong,” enabling him to explore sound like a beginner, unburdened by the usual limitations faced by musicians. The influence of “Zen Guitar” on the album is undeniable. The philosophy of adopting a beginner’s mind shines through in the band’s approach to music, characterized by curiosity and openness. This mindset appears to have liberated them from conventional restrictions, resulting in a sound that is both innovative and genuine.
John Budnik, the lead guitarist of the Alaskan band Triple Black Diamonds, composes and records his own music. The John Budnik Band has graced the stage at Salmonfest, performing alongside renowned artists like Jason Mraz and Jewel. Budnik has also contributed music for the I-5 Corridor podcast. His distinctive style focuses on philosophical themes like acceptance and enlightenment, enabling a free exploration of sound that leads to a unique and authentic beauty.
As you listen, you can sense the passion and dedication that went into crafting each track. The album doesn’t just offer music; it delivers an experience that invites you to pause, reflect, and appreciate the art of making music. With “Beginner’s Mind,” the John Budnik Band has created something truly special—an album that resonates on many levels and will surely leave a lasting impression.
