In 1975, Brian Eno (Tape Op #85) and multimedia artist Peter Schmidt published their first set of Oblique Strategies: Over One Hundred Worthwhile Dilemmas. These cards work as creativity resets, prompting breaks in non- productive work patterns as well as inspiring new methods. As we’ve seen the tools of music recording become more affordable, and now in so many musicians’ hands, I think there’s also a need to examine the basics of music production. With that in mind, I present my version of their groundbreaking work. Let’s call it the Not So Oblique Strategies. Use these suggestions wisely!

Print out this PDF (download by clicking image below) to some card stock and then get to a paper cutter (most copy shops have them) and use the dotted lines on this page to cut these out. Have a nice session!

Tape Op is a bi-monthly magazine devoted to the art of record making.

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