Stefan Zweig once wrote, “Life is futile unless it be directed towards a definite goal.” Fair enough. There can be, nevertheless, a lot of value in getting distracted from that singular objective.
Some time ago I was listening to the Lala Schifrin record Black Widow, and this very over-the-top triangle part on the song ‘Flamingo’ struck a deep chord with me. Here was a piece of personal expression by way of auxiliary percussion ringing out so proudly that it made me realize that, not only did I share a rhythmic sensibility with this particular player but, further, I think we would get along just fine over a cup of coffee. It’s just that kind of triangle riff.
After consulting the record’s personnel, I found a shortlist of featured percussionists, but who exactly was on triangle remained a mystery. No matter, because in this process I came across a biographical tidbit that is endlessly inspiring.
Among the featured musicians on this record is Don Alias, who backed up all sorts of legendary figures over his long career. But this most astonishing discovery — that he had diverged from his path to being a medical doctor after falling in love with the bongos — is really one for the books.
Forgive me if I’ve gotten distracted.