Blogging from the Shadows – Detroit to NYC

So.  I have taken up dancing.  Yes, this too shocks me.  In my old age, I have gained the wisdom and maturity (and street cred) to be able to start such a hobby and not worry about image or being beaten by thugs in an alley.  So worry not, I am still deadly and swift, but now I can kill my victims with the grace of a buttefly.

Why dance?  Well, as a musician who has a dayjob, I’ve found it increasingly difficult to find an outleft for such expression in the real world.  There is always the jam session, the occasional gig, and the practice…but overall, options are limited for one who is not wholly devoted to that craft.  Needing an equally valid and artistically minded distraction from work, the idea of learning to dance came to mind.  I’ve always been interested, and such shows as “So You Think You Can Dance” have opened my eyes.

So, I have chosen four styles of focus.  And they could not be more different from each other.  Argentine Tango, Salsa, West Coast Swing, and East Coast Swing.  I am also taking lessons in Argentine Tango.  They each have their merit, their strengths and weaknesses, but of all, the Argentine Tango seems to be the one for me.  More on this at a later time, but I find that the connection one gets when doing this dance correctly…it’s almost the same level of connection I get when I am enthralled by playing jazz with people of a high level. 

So, I wholeheartedly recommend this endeavor.  I’m meeting new people, learning to socialize with beautiful women with ease, and having a good time.  Dancing makes you a better ninja…so go ahead and learn, grasshopper!