his latest album, The Shunned Coutry is a brilliant release of 52 very short songs that show how his mind works; complex and intricate, at first I felt as if he's cutting the deal too soon, but after having chatted with him over at Progressive Ears, I understood his vision and his choice in doing it this way.

I also like Little Black Train and Medallion Animal Carpet a lot.

 

 

 

BOB DRAKE is a veteran of many notable RIO/Avant-rock acts; a founding member of THINKING PLAGUE and comprising one third of the trio that was 5UU’S classic middle period, DRAKE is a central and recurring figure in modern experimental rock music. DRAKE’s talents as a solo artist also appear to be limitless; his bass guitar often recalls the ability and sound of Chris SQUIRE, his guitar and banjo playing brings to mind the fast-picking bluegrass-tinged virtuosity of Steve HOWE, and his voice (often overdubbed into complex harmonies) bares a striking resemblance to that of Jon ANDERSON. Although I’ve just made him sound like a one-man YES, that really does not sum up his style at all: rather, imagine the talents of YES applied to darker, sillier, and generally more complex music. Then throw in the fact that DRAKE is also an excellent violinist and drummer that, additionally, plays keyboards and records, produces, mixes, and engineers his own albums, and you’re starting to get the picture. Did I mention that his production style is exceptionally masterful and recognizable as well? In fact, DRAKE’s amazing ear has been utilized to mix many albums by other artists (avant and otherwise) over the years.


But don’t take my word for it; listen for yourself: check out the samples at www.bdrak.com - if you were intrigued by my description, you shall not be disappointed by the music.


Bio written by Dex F. (penguindf12)