Because after all, somebody has to go polish the stars. Since we are so passionate about music, however, we feel the need to share a few basic opinions and simple suggestions to perfecting your art before you begin:

1. Study your instruments from a traditional perspective first

Even if your sound and songs defy structure and revolve around atypical sonic elements, know how to play cleanly and write simply first. We believe that to thwart a system, you need to know that system -- that goes for the art as well as the business. You can’t make good abstract art unless you know from what you are abstracting. If you hate the current state of music and you want to turn modern songwriting and performance on its head, know what the head looks like when it’s right-side up. If you consider the greatest abstract/surrealist artists of all time and study their early work, you will see that they mastered the traditional elements of their art before pushing the envelope.

2. Consider lessons for technique, not just sound

Art is to some extent a learned process -- even prodigies can benefit from lessons. You may be a pro at playing your instrument or singing, but lessons can invaluably help with your technique, and they will provide saving tips -- so that when you go on a major tour and play five days in a row, you still have a voice, your drummer’s hands aren’t about to snap at the wrist, etc. Lessons can be expensive, but they’re worth looking into. At the least, books, though they can’t replace a real-life teacher, are better than nothing.

3. Study your favorite songs

There are many songwriting workshops and lessons that might be helpful in honing your craft, but we suggest that you first sit in front of your stereo with a pad and pencil, put on your favorite songs, and take notes. Ask yourself what is it about those songs that you like so much. It’s also useful to study songs that have been recent hits (even if you don’t want to write a popular hit, this exercise is interesting). Which of these hits do you like and which do you hate? Why? Are there any traits they all share? When doing these exercises, think not just about song structure and sonic elements, but about lyrics and content.