Finally, I’m quite happy to present you the band version of my solo album. What started with an acoustic man-and-guitar approach (The First Acoustic Free Rock Relationship, 2007), continued with duo versions (The 1st Free Rock Duel, 2008) has now become 21st Century Free Rock Band. I played the drums, Danelectro six-string bass, Gibson Les Paul and sang lead plus backing vocals, thus making this an album that sounds like performed by a rock trio.
The Seventies rock influence is mainly heard in the drumming; I tried to make it sound quite acoustic, by using some old school recording methods. The album is also characterized by the bass, which sometimes steals the show: the arrangements allow it to become more a solo instrument, even with a slightly distorted rhythm guitar feel. Thirdly, the electric guitar is quite riffy, but I tried to minimize the solos, which gives more space for the other instruments. Lastly, I did lead vocals in the classic bluesy rock style, sometimes backed with two extra voices, to underline some parts of the lyrics. I believe this mixture of sounds became an album that sounds both old and new at the same time.
21st Century Free Rock Band was quite naturally divided into rock side, where the classic 70s influenced more straightforward songs were placed, and prog side, which consists of more progressive, alternative, even space rock influenced tracks. In other words, rock side is easier to listen to, whereas prog side contains more surprises. For additional commentary, please visit the previous album pages Enjoy listening!
AEP
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