Inspired by Moby’s instrumental tracks, Tangerine Dream, Art of Noise, and Herbie Hancock’s “Rockit,” KevOz pulls from a mix of old-school synth sounds to create the satisfying electronic album Digital. While individual sonic elements in tracks like “Revolver” remain simple throughout, the producer weaves them together into engaging and pleasingly uncluttered grooves; similarly, “Debonair” starts with a funky, Bernie Worrell-esque synth bass, and then evolves into tasty, multi-layered dissonance before transforming into a body-moving breakdown. Producing the album in Cakewalk Home Studio, KevOz used a Yamaha SY77 to provide most of the album’s sounds, while Cakewalk Groovemaker contributed additional drums, bass, and pads. Think you need the latest and shiniest gear to make compelling music? Check out Digital and think again.
-Michael Gallant
If you aren’t currently under contract with a record company, you could be featured as an Unsigned Artist in Keyboard. Send your music on CD with a letter detailing your tools and process to: Keyboard Unsigned Artist, 1111 Bayhill Dr., Ste. 125, San Bruno, CA 94066.