When I moved over from reporter to online editor at the Merc, one of the first things I wanted to do was build a site focused on the local music scene. Alas, because of the many distractions at the Merc, lack of resources, competing demands, etc., it didn’t get done before I left. As the online focus evolved more into video, we began talking about producing a regular series of videos with local bands. The pessimist in me never thought it would happen.

So I’m thrilled to see that the Merc has launched Merc Sessions, video interviews with local bands and musicians. I’ll get the nitpicking out of the way first. I wish the video player was bigger. I wish the interviews and performances were mixed together into one video (the Sound Opinions guys do a great job of this with their audio podcast). And ultimately, this video should live on a much more interactive site where music fans can be part of the conversation with each other and the bands.

But Richard Koci Hernandez is producing the videos with his usual flair. And Shay Quillen is a knowledgeable interviewer. Kudos to them and the others involved. I know how much effort goes into producing shows like these. Here’s hoping my compadres there can keep it going.