Craving self-expression and freedom, Clifford Frelix, 24, music major, would love nothing more than to spend his days strumming away on his guitar (for a living.)

Previously an art major, Frelix graduted from Carson high school in ’03 with hopes of pursuing a career in animation until he found the realm of music to be a more liberating and creative arena for him.

Frelix had dabbled a bit with the guitar in ’03 and years prior, and has since been studying and perfecting the art of creating positive vibes with his guitar.

“I got really tired of doing art because I don’t really like people to tell me what to draw,” Frelix said. “I guess you get more freedom of expression (with music) mostly.”

Frelix has just entered the music program, in which he is majoring in guitar.

Influenced by the likes of Sonic Youth, The Beatles, Tool and The Smiths, Frelix likes to combine some of his favorite sounds together to create his own, unique couplings of notes.

“I learn maybe a song or two, then I write my own,” Frelix said. “At first, they were really crappy, but it was a start.”

Although Frelix contends that he only registered at EC to appease his mother, he believes his path in life is becoming more clearly defined.

“Most importantly, what I would like to do is be a serious musician,” he said. “(Creating music) is kind of like reaching inside yourself and pulling out something you want to share with somebody.”

Aside from his music classes and guitar practices, Frelix maintains his employment at the local Target.

“Work sucks. If I didn’t have such a positive personality I would be depressed,” Frelix said. “I’m not really fond of Target but I’m lucky to have a job in this so-called recession.”

Akin to his musical predecessors’ punk-rock attitudes, Frelix cares not for money or the “main-stream,” and believes he is not a materialistic person.

“Money is overrated really,” Frelix said. “I only need money enough to survive. I don’t need a mansion and cars.”

With work, school and domestic obligations nipping at his calves, Frelix is hoping to transfer soon but enjoys the things he is learning throughout the process, he said.

Frelix also hopes to form a band and just jam.

“I see music as the strongest connection, like a bond with someone,” Frelix said. “When you sing a song with someone, that’s one of the most amazing things in life; it’s euphoric.”

Frelix implores those interested in puruing music to “go for it.”

“You should get out there (and play music.) I wont say it’s easy but it’s not hard,” Frelix said. “I always (leave) off saying: ‘Life is music, music is life.'”