#2
Post
by Lawrence » Wed Mar 26, 2003 12:32 pm
Good question. I wouldn't call that an "encore," but, on second thought, I understand what you mean. More of a false ending.
I suspect that it would depend on the song, the vibe in the room, who is present (i.e., how they would respond), and the like. There's no hard-fast rule. For instance, if the encore comes at 6:24, then the song is probably already too long, and I would generally either end it before the encore or begin it (fade in or find a key "kick it" spot at the beginning of a paragraph) in the middle of the song. But then there's a live version of "Blues for Stephanie" by Basie where the song hits a false ending after 6 minutes, then continues after about ten seconds of roaring applause that is so loud you don't hear when the song restarts. But, as you said, the remainder of the song really digs into the rhythm.
Usually, I just let the "confusion" run rampid. No big harm. I have also shouted out a sort of nonsense, audible cue (like George Gee does in his recording of "Splanky" at a big break near the end of the song to rise from the break into the next paragraph), even though it sounds a little silly in hindsight. (My voice carries, so they usually can hear me.) Or just grab the mike and, with the right timing, say something quick like, "ohhhh, it's not over yet..." Sounds dorky, but being silly or dorky is often a trick of the trade.