Excellent. Just when I thought my Monday would be boring, I get to read such a great thread!!!
First off...
...I respect the fact that the promos are old. And I respect the fact that they aren't for everyone. But I did the ones for Gnosis and for Progressive Shores (and Interzone), and the parties involved were very satisfied. First and foremost that is what matters to me. But yes, they are old and I will talk to those involved about changing them.
So that no one will be offended, I will do the next batch of promos as vanilla and monotone as humanly possible, and without such gratuitous compression. You'll be happy to know that I had the turnip surgically removed, but it's left a big scar and I occasionally create an involuntary gurgling sound.
Personally, I'm going to have fun with any/every promo I make and every show I produce. I prefer to approach it with a sense of humor but also be informative. I'm sure I speak for most of the other radio personalities here as well (at least Gags, Prog Shores, and Gnosis). And you know....if the style doesn't suit your critical taste, you can always turn it off. I for one am very thankful for the individual approach of each of the DJs and wouldn't want to see any of them compromise their style.
Re: Sean's mic time... Sean McFee is just about one of the most articulate, most knowledgable music fans I know. He's also done a great deal over the years to support the progressive rock community including co-producing festivals and co-running a record label. If he comes off as snooty, lecturing, or "in love with his own voice", I can tell you that's merely your perception. I know him very well, and know he's not that way.
Re: talking in general.... For every person that (as was so eloquently stated) wants the DJs to "shut up and play yer guitar", there are at least 5-10 others that appreciate the DJ's perspective on the music and the information they convey. After all, a monkey can merely program tracks into the system, but how much of a show is that??? On the avg, my entire talking portions run about 15 minutes during a 3-hour show.
Lastly, while all the radio personalities certainly appreciate the need for criticism (personally, I ask for it at the end of every one of my shows), I know it would be taken more seriously from those who don't exclusively focus on what is *wrong* with something.
- Cozy