Zack Busick

ZACK BUSICK
Metropolitan Coffee,  Hutchinson, KS
 © Lydia Lowe  9/16/2011

ZACK BUSICK . . . I had the chance to meet Zack on Saturday night and hear him in concert at Metropolitan Coffee in Hutchinson, KS. I also got to meet his friends: Elizabeth, Jacob, and Garret who sat in on several songs.

Garret and Zack

This act had some interesting points and at the same time some interesting needs. 

Elizabeth and Zack

 The show was scheduled for 7:30 p.m. and Zack breezed through the door at 8:00 p.m.  He did no set up so there were no mics or PA system.  He didn't introduce himself but just commenced playing. Zack had friends join him to sing but he never introduced them.  Who were they and why were they singing with him?  It was never clear.  He brought a group of friends with him who whooped and hollared, asking him to play specific songs.  The audience was not familiar with the songs.  It wasn't until the last three songs that he introduced the titles and let the audience know he writes his own music.  And finally on the very last song he told the audience what prompted him to write the song.  He can play the guitar and can hold a melody but unfortunately the words were lost, I didn't understand a word he said.  The audience didn't know when one song ended and the next began so they didn't know when to respond.

Jacob and Zack

 Showing up early and setting up ahead of time would have been a good idea.  Zack definitely needs to utilize a mic.  He should introduce himself and give out information on where his music is available at, his performance schedule and other information.  Zack needs to introduce his friends, explain why they are there.  I thought this was a very unique idea, having the friends sit in and sing.  This is a strength that needs to be capitalized on.  I've never seen this before, it was new and different.  He needs to introduce his songs and explain what prompted him to write it.  He plays the guitar well enough but we need to hear the words of his song.

 Zack has a lot he needs to work on.  He also has some unique talents.  I hope he can get this figured out and put some of these suggestions to work for him.  I believe he has the talent.  Zack indicated during an interview after his show that he would like to record a demo and go on tour.  If he puts in the necessary work, I believe he can get to where he wants to be.