This is the third of three movements.
This was recorded on a Roland RD-2000 stage piano, Moog and Novation analog synthesizers, drum kit, and percussion. Presented in a rock-oriented style, this is mainly a parade of riffs accompanied by drumming which wants equal attention. My tipping-the-hat to the 1970s generation of progressive-rock artists.
The movement is 6.5 minutes and may be listend to here: https://soundcloud.com/mrray-3/mov-iii
Thank you for listening. --Ray
Replies
Ray - I somehow almost missed this third movement - too much traffic on the site lately, LOL! I don't know what I can say that I didn't for the other two movements, i.e loved the intricacy and inventiveness and creative daring of all three. Oh, and the vocal track on this one was unexpected - and a nice surprise, as I was expecting strictly an instruemental arrangement! So, once again, well done! What a talent you have!
I grew up on prog rock (first concert experience ever, as a 14 y.o., was seeing Yes live on their Going for the One tour in 1977 - toatally dating myself I know - and I will never forget that experience as long as I live) and though my listening interests have branched out into tons of other areas since, listening to your three-part suite is really making me want to go back and revisit that rich tradition.
Side note, I noticed in your text introduction that you're using Novation synths. Funny coincidence, I just acquired one of the Novation Impulse USB MIDI keyboards earlier today. Not a synth obviously, but same brand. First impression: totally impressed! Gorgeous build quality and great functionality, from the looks of things. Can't wait to put it through its paces.
Cheers
Hi, Frank - congrats on the Novation controller. I'm impressed with the Novation brand the same way you are. I looked at some pics and I like the square piano-type key shape. At some point when you post a piece using the device I'll be interested how it helps your work.
Thank you for taking the time to listen to the entire suite (the collective 20 minutes is not a small committment) and for the positive energy contained in all your comments. In 1977 I had just graduated from high school and spent all those years listening to the same stuff as you. I was taking piano and drum lessones so I was also having exposure to Bach, Mozart, and the rest of those characters.
I'll be on the lookout for new material from you. Best regards --Ray
Hi Raymond,
This certainly has a progressive rock vibe to it, and some interesting harmony. Overall it strikes me as a rhythmic track, not a whole composition. I wanted to hear some kind of melodic element on top of and higher in the register than what you have here. Thanks for posting!
Best,
Gav
Hi, Gavin - thank you so much for listening and for your critique. Some of my local people have said the same, “nice rhythm track…. now finish it!”
If I do add melody it will be, as you say, above the range of the riffing instruments, and I would reduce the texture of what’s already there. Yes, I do accept your point. –Ray