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MP3 al yell - Mind Division
10 MP3 Songs
POP: with Electronic Production, ROCK: Progressive Rock
Details:
REVIEW by Todd Lukan
A literal “dual” to the death between an insomniac and his pillow, al yell’s second album counterpoints agony and enlightenment in a musical mesh that is both intricate and taut. Songs such as “Believe” and “Never Knew Love” are melodic—yet deceptively simple—streams of personal longing. Somewhat more subdued in tone than Into the Night, Mind Division is al yell at his most contemplative, and searing. Songs such as “Close Your Eyes” and “Crux” continually affirm his allegiance to no one. Yet the only target is himself, and, as “The Jewel in the Lotus” so masterfully reveals, there is no contentment until even that has burned away.
| Autobiography |
THE INDIVIDUAL
Well, here''s how I view me. I''m an original and unconventional pop/rock recording artist best known for contemplative lyrics, a distinct voice, and ability to play multiple instruments including my signature rock flute.
I''m sometimes eccentric, sarcastic and addicted to my work. Creative and analytical to the point of moderate perfectionism. Being a natural I excel at most things I attempt with minimal effort. This has been for me both a blessing and a curse. "To those who much is given, much is expected." At the very least, I expect much of myself as I am extremely driven.
As a leader I''m most dissatisfied when not doing things my way. As a team member I can easily put my differences aside. I''m not an egoist but have been told I carry myself with a quiet confidence and impenetrable facade. I try to be compassionate but sometimes try too hard to please everyone. I dislike confrontation and dishonesty.
Motivated by death I realize the uselessness and mystery of all action. I occasionally suffer bouts of insomnia, especially during periods of creativity. I have an affinity for performance, on or off stage and on every level. I have a natural inclination to entertain but enjoy immensely watching others play the role as well. In other words, I have no desire to always be the center of attention but am comfortable in that position.
I am influenced by people that are recognized at being the best at what they do, irrespective of their craft or field. I surround myself with people with realistic, down-to-earth views and, most important of all, a good sense of humor. Although no stranger to extensive travel, I''m a home body and enjoy familiarity and routine.
I aspire to leave behind a body of work that will be thought of as distinct, original, thought-provoking and spiritual.
THE MUSICIAN
I was born into a musical family so had a kazoo for a soother and tambourine for a rattle. I understood the ins and outs of a PA system before my ABC''s so I''m no stranger to the integration of technology into music.
Over the years I have taught myself to play just about every instrument I could get my hands on. My teachers consisted of British rock bands from the 60’s & 70’s; namely Jethro Tull, Pink Floyd, The Beatles, Led Zeppelin, The Moody Blues, etc. Having independently studied audio engineering I also record and mix all my own material. I have assisted a variety of musicians in producing their sound and won''t pass up an opportunity for collaboration. However, when it comes to my music I have chosen to work alone... for the time being. As of this writing I strongly believe I''m still in the early stages of experimentation and development as a musician and songwriter.
In my adolescence I suffered a terrible throat infection that lasted weeks. From then on singing has been a tremendous challenge. It is my belief that my vocal chords were severely affected by the infection''s onslaught. Several years of vocal practice has allowed me to at least carry a tune past the point of embarrassment. I''m not terribly distraught by this as the whole ordeal has lent my voice a uniqueness which I may otherwise have never acquired.
Music is for me a medium of expression. When I write a song it''s because I have something to say, or an emotion that needs release. I never deliberately attempt to write songs with commercial appeal. I enjoy songs that either make me think, or make me forget my thoughts.
THE BUSINESS MAN
In the first grade I got to be the sax player in my first stage production. Destiny awaited. In high school I stated a group with friends called Balanced Purpose. The name came from pulling two cards out of box of inspiration cards each bearing a single word for contemplation. Although we only ever really wrote one song, the spiritual overtones of the group''s name has been influential ever since.
After high school I joined an original, heavy, progressive rock band called Visible Soul. Starting out as a the keyboard player I eventually would become the band''s front man and key songwriter for a year. We played small halls, bars and festivals in and around Southern Ontario. Our endeavors landed us free recording and local airtime from contests and battle of the bands. My fondest show was playing a benefit show at the local high school with a gymnasium packed with 1000 students and faculty.
Alas, my experimental song-writing style and unconventional instrumentation led me to experimentation beyond the scope of Visible Soul. My enthusiasm for the band began to wane and I felt I needed a departure from the style of music we were playing. They went their way, and I went mine, amicably.
I''ve worn many hats thought my career, ranging from Manager, Accountant, Performer, Actor, Songwriter, Producer, Marketing, Graphic Designer, Webmaster, Writer, Audio Engineer.. I''ve dabbled in it all. My favorite activity remains writing and recording original tunes. It''s from this that I get the greatest satisfaction, sense of accomplishment, spiritual fulfillment and joy.
Quite spontaneously, in 2001, I founded Golden Cage Productions which would serve as a platform from which I could orchestrate my career. The company''s first addition was a recording studio which was met with warm reception from the local music scene. This allowed me to explore a variety of genres and hone in on my engineering skills. It was around this time that I delved into the business of music to strike a balance between my knowledge of commerce and artistry.
THE HUMAN BEING
I look forward to discovering where my passion takes me, but more importantly, where it may take others. Thanks for taking the time to read, but in no way should this be a one way exchange. Do feel free to write me if you feel so inclined. I make a point to read and respond to ALL fanmail and is a practice I hope to sustain for the remainder of my career.
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