I like the idea of positivity movement. Throughout September I’m going to call out people who inspire me. Day 25 Today is about Simon Sweetman In my opinion a good critic in any medium be it Film, Theatre or Music needs a foundation of passion and knowledge for the subject, I guess that’s a no brainer right?..... well this is put onto a knife edge when you consider that a good critic also needs subjectively, the ability to step back and examine a piece of work that on the surface mightn’t strike the chords that invoke the passion at the core of their craft. Simon Sweetman is a music critic, a good music critic in fact. Reading his reviews it’s self evident that Simon has a strong passion for his chosen subject. I don’t always agree with his musings in fact id say its 50/50, It would be a little off putting if i did agree with him 100%, after all we all like to think of perspectives on the world as unique don’t we? Like any critic he is held to account in the court of public opinion when his insight mightn’t flow with the consensus of popular opinion, though in Simons case his trials are numerous and occasionally ugly. I would suggest that this doesn’t faze him, his inflammatory writings in respect of local musicians would be sufficient evidence of that. Like myself a lot of my friends are contributors to the arts in New Zealand, the subject of Sweetman is one I’ve learnt to stay away from in certain circles because honestly its a mine field of who he may have pissed off. Any of my friends from Musicians to Comedians to Film Makers may have been caught up in his web deconstruction so it’s a path I step on with a light touch. Creative folk can be un-surprisingly sensitive about their work. Recently through my own project I’ve become more aware the breadth of Simons writing talent. His eclectic set of literary skills is awesome. History may very well remember him as a musical reviewer who occasional put out to dry a few kiwi bands, but it shouldn’t overlook the other aspects to his creativity. A published author, music critic, creative writer, father and professional shit stirrer I’m inspired by Simon and would encourage you to read his blog (s) offthetracks.co.nz/tag/blog-on-the-tracks/
Posted on: Wed, 24 Sep 2014 22:17:46 +0000
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