The Obelisk Questionnaire: Clifford Dinsmore of Dusted Angel, Seized Up, Bl’ast & More
The Obelisk Questionnaire is a series of open questions intended to give the answerer an opportunity to explore these ideas and stories from their life as deeply as they choose. Answers can be short or long, and that reveals something in itself, but the most important factor is honesty.
Based on the Proust Questionnaire, the goal over time is to show a diverse range of perspectives as those who take part bring their own points of view to answering the same questions. To see all The Obelisk Questionnaire posts, click here.
Thank you for reading and thanks to all who participate.
The Obelisk Questionnaire: Clifford Dinsmore of Dusted Angel & Bl’ast
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How do you define what you do and how did you come to do it?
I would never try to define what I do. I’m more of a “go with the natural flow” kind of person. I got into music through punk rock in the late 70s and early 80s. Steve, the drummer for Dusted Angel is actually one of the very 1st people I ever jammed with. Then I met the guys that I formed M.A.D. with when I was 17 and that eventually evolved into the band BL’AST!.
Describe your first musical memory.
One of my first musical memories was my uncle Steve and my Mom taking me to see Tower Of Power and Credence Clearwater Revival at the Oakland Coliseum in 1972. Totally life changing!
Describe your best musical memory to date.
It’s hard to pick from so many great musical memories. One that stands out is seeing Black Flag, Adolescents, Minute Men and China White at the Mabuhay Gardens in SF when I was 16 . We were at all those shows back then, but that particular night was absolutely amazing.
When was a time when a firmly held belief was tested?
Going through my experiences with cancer was definitely an ultimate test of will and my belief in myself. It’s definitely not for everyone, and is an extreme exercise in self-discipline, and that discipline is the key to survival in that kind of fucked up life-altering situation.
Where do you feel artistic progression leads?
Artistic progress eventually leads to self liberation and a more personalized view of life on earth and the universe as a whole.
How do you define success?
I would define success as being in a position of personal autonomy and still being able to get by and survive. Traveling and playing music with friends and making enough to get from one place to the next.
What is something you have seen that you wish you hadn’t?
The last presidential election!!! Sheer Terror!!
Describe something you haven’t created yet that you’d like to create.
Another Dusted Angel record!!
What do you believe is the most essential function of art?
The most essential function of art, in my opinion is to emphasize the incredible aesthetic of natural vs. unnatural in the world we live in. And musically, to create the soundtrack that moves through history. Imagine a world without art and music, it would be insanely bland!
Say something positive about yourself.
I’m kind of a nice person when I’m in a good mood?
Something non-musical that you’re looking forward to?
I’m looking forward to going to Hawaii this winter with my girlfriend to hang out with family and friends. Being in the ocean over there is always so revitalizing.
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