Gillmor Gang: Off the Wall

Michael Jackson's 'Off the Wall' and Reflections on Loss

Many consider the peak of Michael Jackson’s artistry to be during his collaborations with Quincy Jones, specifically the globally successful albums Thriller and Bad. These records, propelled by numerous singles and accompanying music videos, achieved dominance across charts, radio airplay, and MTV. However, the foundational breakthrough in Jackson’s solo career actually arrived slightly earlier, with the release of Off the Wall.

Emerging during the height of the Disco era, the album wasn’t conventionally ‘hip,’ instead embracing a fusion of funk sensibilities and the polished production style associated with MGM. Yet, in the vicinity of Woodstock, the album became a constant presence on turntables. Now, a simple voice command to a digital assistant can evoke memories, dissolving the boundaries of time and circumstance, recalling years of dedication and effort. And the driving force of the bassline – it truly compels us to embrace life, to live it fully.

The Essence of Permission and Artistic Expression

We all require permission in some form. It’s a fundamental human need, regardless of what the future holds. The grooves of a record, like those on Off the Wall, can encapsulate our aspirations, unlock our innermost hopes, and amplify our intuition. Dare we contemplate the intricate interplay of vocals, horns, percussion, and the resonant bass lines?

A track reminiscent of Stevie Wonder’s work serves to revitalize and inspire. As the record concludes, it subtly prepares the listener for the experience awaiting on Side One.

Comedy, Technology, and Remembering Those We've Lost

Recently, we mourned the passing of a comedian, Norm MacDonald, who self-described his work as that of a nightclub performer. Like the masters of the craft, his humor unfolded organically, reminiscent of a 1950s detective show – deliberate in its pacing and possessing a veneer of naiveté. His comedic brilliance was evident in the appreciation of fellow comedians who featured him on their programs – Letterman, Leno, Conan, and the uniquely acerbic Dennis Miller on his HBO show.

Miller expertly defined the often-selfish nature of comedy, the sheer delight of being the funniest person in the room. In an era often lacking genuine humor, these performers engage in a playful battle with the unpredictable nature of laughter. MacDonald’s meticulously crafted delivery, seemingly meandering, ultimately led to a punchline that felt both inevitable and satisfying.

The Future is Now

As the world gradually regains its equilibrium, Apple has unveiled a new iPhone with the capability to manipulate perceived reality post-capture. Acknowledging the impossibility of truly reversing loss, I am profoundly thankful for the time shared with these exceptional individuals and the indelible marks they’ve left. The story goes that when a seeker reached the summit and asked a sage for life’s secret, the reply was, “Just a moment, I’m on a call.”

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The Gillmor Gang — Frank Radice, Michael Markman, Keith Teare, Denis Pombriant, Brent Leary and Steve Gillmor. Recorded live Friday, August 27, 2021.

Produced and directed by Tina Chase Gillmor @tinagillmor

@fradice, @mickeleh, @denispombriant, @kteare, @brentleary, @stevegillmor, @gillmorgang

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