VE*RI* TAS- [wey-ri-tahs; Eng. ver-i-tas, -tahs]
–Noun Latin: TRUTH
We live in categorized world.
As a species, we seem to have trouble grasping things without the aid of labels and categories. Yet as individuals, most of us aren’t easily categorized, as much as we pretend otherwise. As a musician who is frequently miscategorized, I know this phenomenon all too well (if I see the Alex Skolnick Trio, an acoustic jazz-based improvisational project, listed as ‘prog metal’ or ‘shred’ one more time, I’m going to scream).
Here is a universal truth: life is too complex to be labeled or put into neat little boxes. The same is true of anything in life that has substance, not just style. Music, like other art forms, is no exception to this truth.
Although I’ve been associated with a few different projects (most notably a great metal band- Testament), it is important for me to take time to step out, be a leader and do music which reflects the broad scope of my listening tastes. With my trio, I have the good fortune to lead a project of similarly diverse and like-minded musicians. This presents a rare opportunity to express who I am without prior expectations, conditions and limitations.
So while preparing compositions for this album, I was asking some really tough questions, such as: What do I really want to say? What is my truth?
The music on ‘Veritas’ is dictated not by labels or categories, but by feelings. In some cases, the compositions are deeply reflective and meditative. In others, they are playful and even a bit outrageous. But in all cases, they are the result of taking a deep look inside and channeling the feelings that were there. Indeed, the truth for me is represented in this recording.
I’m hoping that, at the very least, listeners are able to cast aside musical and stylistic prejudices, resist the urge to categorize and just enjoy. At the most, I’m hoping they are encouraged to look within, see what they find there and let that guide whatever they decide to do next.
Can you handle the truth?
(Veritas comes out March 29th, 2011. You can now pre-order through Best Buy and other outlets).