The pieces on the new CD are all originals and at the same time
are eclectic in their range of styles and influences. They represent
the range of over an hour's finely crafted repertoire.
Here, Rob gives us some insights into what inspires the music.
These sound bites give a feel of what he does.
1.The
Highlife bows
to feisty Irish jig tunes using a plectrum style. Rhythm
is the essence of this piece and the title reflects the
mood I think.
2.Little
Train of Thought is
born from the sound of train and track and is carried by a clear
and regular picking pattern in the right hand. It's another impressionistic
piece; a metaphysical train ride in the mind (Wow!).
3.Night
Moves probably leans more towards classical influences
and the mood is somehow nocturnal. It was certainly a late-night
composition. There's no real fixed tempo and the piece flows
in waves rather than following any strict rhythms. All the pieces
use unconventional tunings but this actually drops to a C# in
the bass to get certain harmonics and a really low bass resonance
in places.
4.Ratton
Row has been hanging around for sometime constantly
undergoing changes that weave different moods and tempos together
to form an emotionally complex
piece that really works the left and right hand hard! I spent my early childhood
in the wilds of Cumbria and Ratton Row was a popular hill for running, tumbling
and staring intently into newt ponds.
5.Fragile
Days is one of a number of original songs that
I use alongside instrumental work. We all have those fragile
moments when we wonder
what on earth we're
doing here; it seems almost impossible to go back or forwards and standing
still is all you can do successfully. The balance between voice and guitar
arrangement is really important here to give a sleepy cross-rhythm to the
whole thing.
All music © 2002 Rob Johnston
To buy a copy of Rob's CD or to enquire about bookings call
01329-827358; it's available direct from: 158 Gudge Heath Lane,
Fareham Hants PO15 6PS or use the email address: rob_johnston26@hotmail.com.
Cost is £12-00
including all postage (Cheques/POs payable to R.Johnston).
rob_johnston26@hotmail.com
Tel: 01329-827358
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Sounds