Mae is feeling the pressure. With studio time scheduled, a renowned producer at the ready, and several musicians on hand, she hasn't written any music.
The novel Unspectacular by Zaq Baker follows Mae and a few other musicians as they struggle with their musical goals and the balance of life. "Part of why it's called Unspectacular is because people are muscling through the difficulty of managing art - specifically music - with the rest of their lives," says Baker. This tug-of-war between profession and passion is perhaps most evident with the character Ajay. "He's this professional drummer, he's trying to put bread on the table as a session player, but like a lot of musicians he works in a pretty boring office by day."
As a musician himself, Baker knows the industry well and the struggles that often go with it. In his writing, Baker doesn't shy away from highlighting the humor that exists amid the challenges and inevitable tragedy. "A ton of that stuff is just hilarious, a ton of life is just bizarre," says Baker. "The events that happen to these characters are very psychologically disruptive to them... but at the same time, there is humor in it."
You can acquire a copy of Unspectacular through Zaq Baker's website. Also, on August 21st, Baker has an album release show at Pillar Forum in Minneapolis. Tickets and information can be found online. Singles and more information about Baker's music can be found at zaqbaker.com
Minnesota Reads is produced at The North 103.3 with funding provided in part by the Minnesota Arts and Cultural Heritage Fund.
