I’ve been itching to start a band for about five years now. This is, perhaps unsurprisingly, the same amount of time I’ve owned my bass guitar. But something now is telling me it’s time. It is time to call my allies to my side and form a truly righteous band.

As a bass player, I put myself closer to “tin-eared amateur” than “self-taught wunderkind,” but I have chops enough to manage most rock tunes, with Geddy Lee & Flea-style fireworks being above my level. I also own a guitar and keyboard, although my proficiency with them is far lower. However, I also know I am nowhere near as good as I would be if I were playing regularly, as last summer’s stint with the Stems proved to me. By August, I was probably the best I’ve ever been on bass. And I’m sure I could be better. This is how I’m going to make it happen.

So, I’m looking for a few good musicians. Correction: I’m looking for a few friendly, enthusiastic musicians. Technical proficiency is kind of a side concern at the moment. I’m after people who want to get together and write some songs, play music, get better at both of those things, and have a good time. I feel like I know enough people in NYC that this is possible. A recent poll via facebook revealed that I know many people who play instruments. Clearly it is time to tap this deep well of talent that is my circle of friends. I know I know a couple of drummers. I know enough singers to do a six part harmony, I’m sure. Let’s ferret out some guitarists, maybe some peeps on keys and some weird instruments and make this happen. If I know you and I don’t know you play an instrument, please make me aware.

My dream band sounds like: early B-52s crossed with 80s hair metal times Talking Heads weirdness, Bernie Worrell-style. But I’d be happy if we could just cover “Dance This Mess Around.”