Composer
I've been recording my compositions for about twelve years. Like most musicians, the early recordings were a bit rough. I started out using an $80 keyboard and a used karaoke machine. Times have changed.
Piano: almost everything I write starts on the piano. Things begin simply and evolve over time. My first goal is to write music that sounds complete as a piano arrangement. After that, I bring the performances into the computer and add percussion, bass, string arrangements, electronics, atmospheres, sound effects and whatever feels tasty at the time. On many occasions the original piano track is stripped from the piece and doesn't make the final mix.
MIDI: almost 100% of my sequencing begins on a keyboard workstation. I tend to stay away from the computer as long as possible. Depending on the song, I'll use either my Kurzweil K2500X or Korg Trinity to begin sequencing. When the idea feels finished enough, I'll dump the MIDI data into Cubase, Sonar or Pro Tools and begin constructing an arrangement. I use this method because it forces me to play the parts several times and really learn the material I'm developing. Also, it keeps me away from twurking knobs and fiddling with sounds prematurely.
In The Box: once I'm happy with the basics of a song and I've recorded the MIDI data, I add instruments and begin layering textures and effects until a rough mix is compelling. I'll then take the audio tracks to the studio for additional live instrument recordings, vocals (if necessary) and a final mix in Pro Tools.
Recent Highlights
- Arizona Diamondbacks
Co-wrote and performed three original songs for Fox Sports Net Arizona to appear on Diamondbacks broadcasts. - Phoenix Suns
Co-wrote and performed "Let It Fly" for Suns Countdown on FSN AZ. - Top 10
Currently have two songs (Curving Inward, Depth Charge) charted in the Broadjam Electronic genre Top Ten and the Arizona regional Top Ten.
Music Downloads
The following clips are from tracks that I recorded, mixed, produced and/or wrote. Enjoy.
- Depth Charge
2006 Rob Knife - Poison
2005 Blind Divine - Anxiety
2004 Rob Knife - The
Human Condition
2005 Justin Lassen
