|
Steve Roach
|
|
| Roach's major longstanding influences are not necessarily musical; rather he draws inspiration from empowered geological places, particularly the Mojave and Sonoran deserts and the aboriginal rock-art sites of the Australian outback. In the early years of his career, however, this former adrenaline addict and motocross racer cited the European electronic scene of the '70s as an important impetus in his fascination with sequencer-based music. Yet by the release of his 1983 album, Structures from Silence, it was clear Roach was developing his own style. His thick, breathing waves of sound were initially embraced by listeners, meditators, and therapists in the holistic fields; however, Roach's music was far from angelic or superficially comforting. His inspiration grew from the expansive landscapes of the Southwest, complete with the feelings of danger and mystery he associated with these places. A chance to score music for a PBS documentary on the rock art of the Dreamtime (a system of aboriginal mythology) gave Roach the opportunity to visit a number of sites deep in the Australian outback. He also met up with aboriginal digeridoo master David Hudson, who taught Roach how to play the ancient wind instrument and helped him build his own digeridoo. These experiences fueled his landmark double album Dreamtime Return. Now considered a classic in the progressive electronic field, it marked the synthesis of Roach's earlier sequencer-based sound with his expansive, chordal atmospheres and his growing infusion of tribal aesthetics. In the late '80s, Roach moved from his base in Los Angeles to the Sonoran desert outside of Tucson, Arizona. There he has produced a number of projects that continue to blur the lines between ancient ritual and modern technology. His numerous collaborations include albums with Michael Stearns, Kevin Braheny, Robert Rich, and Michael Shrieve. In addition, he has recently worked with Mexican multi-instrumentalist Jorge Reyes and Spanish guitarist Suso Saiz (Suspended Memories, Forgotten Gods). -- Linda Kohanov, All-Music Guide | |
|
Most biographies and artist pictures are taken from All Music Thanks to Gavin for the graphics. Page by Adam.
|
|
