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Plays: 20370
Views: 24377 |
Members:
Cary Clouser [Vocals/Flute/Piano&Keyboards/gtr] 
Brett Kull [egtr-"Shine...The Pretentious One"]
Dylan Howe [Drums-"Shine...The Pretentious One"]
Clayton Kelly (Bass-"Shine...The Pretentious One/Bright Morning Sun/Life Lessons/Home Again") []
Mike Sorge (Drums-"Life Lessons/Home Again") []
Brandon Rotella (Drums-Bright Morning Sun") []
Denis Gignac (egtr-"Bright Morning Sun/Life Lessons/Home Again") []
Official Site: www.myspace.com/thebandoracle
iSound Site: www.isound.com/cary_clouser
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With high expectations, and remarkable musicianship, Cary is a composer, writer and performer of the highest grade. He has also graduated from Trebas Institute of Recording Arts in Toronto, where he has enhanced his technical skills.
Having played music fo |
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Thursday, October 22nd, 2009
C.D Review from Progressive Rock Files
Band: Cary Clouser
CD Title: “Finger Paintings”
Band Website: www.myspace.com/caryclouser
Label: Independent DEMO Release
Release Date: 2009
The other day I received an interesting demo disc from a fellow by the name of Cary Clouser. It turns out that Cary’s been kicking around in a few bands over the years but his current gig is with a band called Oracle, a kind-of Jethro Tull tribute band, or at least a band dedicated to putting the flute back in a place of prominence. Clouser’s solo demo calls upon not only his Oracle band mates but also Brett Kull, Damon Shulman and Dylan Howe. First off you should know that this disc, entitled Finger Paintings does not in any way sound like Tull. Rather it is Clouser’s goal to create modern music that displays the ‘grace and elegance’ of 70’s progressive rock and in that he does quite well.
There are nine tracks on Finger Paintings, starting off with a short classically inspired symphonic keyboard piece entitled “Into Thy Hands” [1:12]. Next up is a bit of an up-tempo piece entitled “Don’t Know” [3:25] which features a few musical change-ups including a flute section that is as close to a Jethro Tull feel as you will find here, although Clouser’s vocal range is somewhat higher than Ian Anderson. The next two tracks, both longer, seven and nine minutes respectively, display a larger symphonic prog feel. The first “Ship of Pride” [7:13] displays a strong Yes influence that alternates against a number of other musical styles. Sprinkled throughout are some nice acoustic elements either on guitars or keyboards. The music changes three or four times propelling the song through each next section. Nothing here is overly complex, instead Clouser’s approach is to write straightforward songs or portions of songs and then look for ways to link the pieces together creating compositions that ebb and flow. The arrangements are nicely layered allowing for different sounds and instruments or vocals to take the spotlight. The longest track, “Precious” [9:05] starts off with vocals laid against piano and keyboard strings and continues to build over three musical movements. Each movement is distinct and features some nice musical change-ups. I’m guessing if you like the work of Camel or Guy Manning there is much here for you to appreciate.
Finger Paintings displays some wonderful song-craft with ample symphonic prog embellishments and inspiration. Labeled as a demo this is obviously a work looking for a label and distribution. Cary Clouser knows how to craft a nice melody and seems quite skilled at producing a very satisfying prog sound. I really liked what I heard here and here’s hoping more people get a chance to Cary Clouser’s music. If this is the start I look forward to big things in the days ahead.
By Jerry Lucky
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| Date |
Location |
Venue |
| Feb.15.2008 |
Port Colborne, Ontario, |
Reeb House |
| Mar.25.2008 |
Niagara Falls,Ontario, |
Niagara Music Awards |
| May.17.2008 |
Niagara Falls, Ontario, |
Blue Lagoon |
| May.24.2008 |
Port Colborne, Ontario, On |
Reeb House |
| May.25.2008 |
Welland, Ontario, |
Club Richelieu |
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 | Finger PaintingsNot Rated
Released: 2008 |
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Click on one of the albums below for more info.
| | Finger PaintingsNot Rated
Released: 2008 |
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| Song |
Play |
Get Ringtone |
Price |
| Into Thy Hands |  |  | $.99 |
Important: you should turn off any pop-up blockers as the mp3 player is a pop-up window and may not load! |
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| Date |
Time |
Location |
Venue |
| Feb.15.2008 |
9:30 pm |
Port Colborne, Ontario, |
Reeb House |
| Mar.25.2008 |
8:00 pm |
Niagara Falls,Ontario, |
Niagara Music Awards |
| May.17.2008 |
10:00 pm |
Niagara Falls, Ontario, |
Blue Lagoon |
| May.24.2008 |
9:30 pm |
Port Colborne, Ontario, On |
Reeb House |
| May.25.2008 |
9:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Club Richelieu |
| May.31.2008 |
6:00 pm |
Niagara Falls, Ontario, On |
Food Fest 2008 |
| Jun.14.2008 |
5:00 pm |
Niagara Falls, Ontario, |
Rib Fest - 2008 |
| Jul.18.2008 |
10:00 pm |
Port Colborne, Ontario, |
Reeb House |
| Jul.19.2008 |
11:45 pm |
Welland, Ontario, On |
B.R.O Bash 2008 |
| Jul.26.2008 |
8:00 pm |
Smithville, Ontario, On |
Private Party-Kickboxing Club |
| Aug.23.2008 |
5:00 pm |
Clinton, NY, N. |
3rd Annual Clinton Art & Music Festival - 2008 |
| Aug.30.2008 |
10:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, On |
Club Richelieu |
| Sep.13.2008 |
12:00 am |
Philadelphia, pe |
Recording session @ Studio 602/Brett Kull |
| Sep.19.2008 |
10:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Park Bar |
| Sep.27.2008 |
10:00 pm |
Sherkston, Ontario, On |
Private Party - B.R.O Bash |
| Oct.04.2008 |
10:00 pm |
Port Colborne, Ontario, On |
Reeb House |
| Nov.29.2008 |
10:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, On |
Park Bar |
| Dec.06.2008 |
10:00 pm |
Port Colborne, Ontario, On |
Reeb House |
| Jan.10.2009 |
8:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Ed's Birthday Party @ The Courtyard |
| Jan.24.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Park Bar |
| Apr.04.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Gatfield's |
| Apr.14.2009 |
8:00 pm |
Niagara Falls, Ontario, On |
Niagara Centre For The Arts-Niagara Music Awards |
| Apr.19.2009 |
6:00 pm |
Hamilton, Ontario, |
Club Absinthe |
| May.23.2009 |
8:30 pm |
Smithville, Ontario, |
Touchdown Willy's |
| May.29.2009 |
10:30 pm |
Port Colborne, Ontario, |
Reeb House |
| Jun.04.2009 |
7:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Shoeless Joe's |
| Jun.05.2009 |
9:00 pm |
Niagara Falls, Ontario, |
Food Fest 2009 |
| Jun.06.2009 |
9:00 pm |
Niagara Falls, Ontario, |
Food Fest 2009 |
| Jun.20.2009 |
9:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Welland Rose Festival - '09 |
| Jun.20.2009 |
3:00 pm |
Niagara Falls, Ontario, |
Rib Fest - 2009 |
| Jun.27.2009 |
9:30 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Bada-Bing's |
| Jul.01.2009 |
5:15 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Memorial Park |
| Jul.11.2009 |
10:30 pm |
Port Colborne, Ontario, |
Reeb House |
| Jul.31.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Golden Bros. |
| Aug.01.2009 |
1:00 pm |
Toronto, |
Downsview Park |
| Aug.14.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Port Colborne, Ontario, |
Reeb House |
| Aug.15.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Elbow Room |
| Aug.22.2009 |
5:00 pm |
Port Colborne, Ontario, |
Private Party |
| Aug.28.2009 |
7:00 pm |
Utica, NY |
Tramontame Cafe |
| Aug.29.2009 |
4:00 pm |
Clinton, NY |
4th Annual Clinton Art & Music Festival - 2009 |
| Sep.16.2009 |
6:15 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Club Richelieu |
| Sep.19.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Bada-Bing's |
| Sep.26.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Gatfield's |
| Oct.03.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Brantford, Ontario, |
Liquid Lounge |
| Oct.09.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Golden Bros. |
| Oct.17.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Bada-Bing's / with speical guests "Chelsea Crites" |
| Oct.24.2009 |
8:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Trappers/Brad Watt Fundrasier |
| Oct.31.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Niagara Falls, Ontario, |
Blue Lagoon |
| Nov.07.2009 |
9:30 pm |
Bridgeport, CT |
Cary & Denis play @ Two Boots/Bridgeport, CT w/Mila & Miloch |
| Nov.13.2009 |
9:00 pm |
Welland, Ontario, |
Elbow Room |
| Nov.14.2009 |
9:30 pm |
Smithville, Ontario, |
Touchdown Willy's |
| Nov.20.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Niagara Falls, Ontario, |
4 Triple 5 |
| Dec.12.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Port Colborne, Ontario, |
Reeb House |
| Dec.19.2009 |
10:00 pm |
Hamilton, Ontario, |
Fatboys |
| Jan.30.2010 |
10:00 pm |
Port Colborne, Ontario, |
Reeb House |
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With high expectations, and remarkable musicianship, Cary is a composer, writer and performer of the highest grade. He has also graduated from Trebas Institute of Recording Arts in Toronto, where he has enhanced his technical skills.
Having played music for the last 25 years, Cary has gathered a wide range of musical traditions. Being in bands such as Visions of Eight, Soundbox,and to this day "Oracle" he has become experienced with playing rock, progressive rock, jazz and even country. Although able to perform such a diversified repertoire, he finds more grace in the progressive rock technique. From Mozart to the Beatles and Jethro Tull, Cary performs his music using a modernized sound, an approach which he feels is necessary to capture the interests of today’s society, while still celebrating the works of the great song writers.
Natural and unique, Cary is a true showman, musician and artist, painting a brilliant picture with every song that he performs. Cary’s desires are to write, play and record perfect music for the enjoyment of others. Together with Oracle, witness his talent, combined with driving ambition and sheer determination, to blend passionate, thought provoking music with high energy.
The Question Is not "Will Cary achieve his Goals, but when"
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| Thursday, October 22nd, 2009
C.D Review from Progressive Rock Files
Band: Cary Clouser
CD Title: “Finger Paintings”
Band Website: www.myspace.com/caryclouser
Label: Independent DEMO Release
Release Date: 2009
The other day I received an interesting demo disc from a fellow by the name of Cary Clouser. It turns out that Cary’s been kicking around in a few bands over the years but his current gig is with a band called Oracle, a kind-of Jethro Tull tribute band, or at least a band dedicated to putting the flute back in a place of prominence. Clouser’s solo demo calls upon not only his Oracle band mates but also Brett Kull, Damon Shulman and Dylan Howe. First off you should know that this disc, entitled Finger Paintings does not in any way sound like Tull. Rather it is Clouser’s goal to create modern music that displays the ‘grace and elegance’ of 70’s progressive rock and in that he does quite well.
There are nine tracks on Finger Paintings, starting off with a short classically inspired symphonic keyboard piece entitled “Into Thy Hands” [1:12]. Next up is a bit of an up-tempo piece entitled “Don’t Know” [3:25] which features a few musical change-ups including a flute section that is as close to a Jethro Tull feel as you will find here, although Clouser’s vocal range is somewhat higher than Ian Anderson. The next two tracks, both longer, seven and nine minutes respectively, display a larger symphonic prog feel. The first “Ship of Pride” [7:13] displays a strong Yes influence that alternates against a number of other musical styles. Sprinkled throughout are some nice acoustic elements either on guitars or keyboards. The music changes three or four times propelling the song through each next section. Nothing here is overly complex, instead Clouser’s approach is to write straightforward songs or portions of songs and then look for ways to link the pieces together creating compositions that ebb and flow. The arrangements are nicely layered allowing for different sounds and instruments or vocals to take the spotlight. The longest track, “Precious” [9:05] starts off with vocals laid against piano and keyboard strings and continues to build over three musical movements. Each movement is distinct and features some nice musical change-ups. I’m guessing if you like the work of Camel or Guy Manning there is much here for you to appreciate.
Finger Paintings displays some wonderful song-craft with ample symphonic prog embellishments and inspiration. Labeled as a demo this is obviously a work looking for a label and distribution. Cary Clouser knows how to craft a nice melody and seems quite skilled at producing a very satisfying prog sound. I really liked what I heard here and here’s hoping more people get a chance to Cary Clouser’s music. If this is the start I look forward to big things in the days ahead.
By Jerry Lucky
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 6:26 AM |
| Sunday, October 4th, 2009
Karen & Mark
A 1000 thanks 2 you 2 people. For you give us hope too carry on.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 10:51 PM |
| Tuesday, May 26th, 2009
Visit Clinton Art and Music Festival
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 5:50 AM |
| Saturday, March 7th, 2009
2009 Niagara Music Awards Launch Party Awards Review / Niagara Falls Review
2009 Niagara Music Awards launch party
Written By ALISON LANGLEY
Artists and music lovers packed the 4triple5 Cafe on Thursday for the launch party of the second annual Niagara Music Awards.
Many of the winners from the inaugural show took to the stage to celebrate Niagara's music scene.
In addition to live entertainment, the evening was all about networking, said co-ordinator Morgan Whelan, of Capital M Productions.
“The main part of tonight is the networking,” she said.
“In a lot of situations, it’s not what you do but who you know.”
Mingling about the Queen Street cafe were musicians, music executives and members of the Niagara Music Awards (NMA) committee.
Marie Nobes, keyboard player with Oracle, winner of the 2008 Tribute Act of the Year, said last year's awards night was "top notch" and expects a repeat performance in 2009.
"Everyone had a great time," she said.
The award also gave the Welland-based Jethro Tull tribute band public exposure which lead to numerous performance opportunities.
Oracle, featuring Nobes, Denis Gignac, Cary Clouser, Steve O'Brien and Clayton Kelly, are scheduled to perform at this year's awards ceremony.
Fueled by last year's recognition, the band plans to submit an entry for the 2009 competition.
Whelan said more than 50 submissions have been received so far.
“Submissions are going really, really well considering there’s still three weeks left to go," she said.
Last year’s awards attracted 180 submissions, many of them coming in during the final days of the competition.
Organizers expect to exceed that total this year.
That increase may be the result of the addition of several new categories including Hip Hop Group of the Year and the Rising Star Award, for artists 16 year of age or younger.
The nominees will be announced March 22 at the Mide Bistro on Queen Street.
The awards show will be held April 14 at the Niagara Centre for the Arts on Epworth Circle.
Tickets are now available for the main event.
Submissions can be made online at the NMA web site or can be dropped off at the Capital M office at 183 Main St. E., Port Colborne.
For more information, visit www.niagaramusicawards.com.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 11:06 PM |
| Saturday, March 7th, 2009
Music Street Journal Review For "Reasons & Rituals"
10/08/2008 - Syn's Steve Nardelli Works with "The '14 Hour Technicolour Dream: V-band"
In a unique interaction between a band its fan forum, while The Syn have been making their new album Big Sky, musicians from their forum have been creating a track of a song written for them by Steve Nardelli.
The '14 Hour Technicolour Dream: V-band' was conceived by Steve Nardelli and Steve Sikes-Nova as an ongoing musical 'happening' that will encourage participation by musicians worldwide regardless of nationality, colour or religion. The greater the diversity of participants, instruments, and musical approaches the better!
The common bond between participants in V-band projects will be the SYNergy of creating music together as a creative community no matter what the physical distances between musicians. Through the utilization of both virtual co-creation and recording tools and hi-tech, physical recording facilities, musicians will come together to create something beautiful.
The V-Band logo stands for the union of 'Virtual' and, of course, 'Peace' - a commodity we can find in music above all else.
The first track from the V-band is "Reasons and Rituals" which was written by Steve Nardelli of The Syn, who also performs on it as co-lead vocalist.
There is, and will be, no charge for V-band music and it is offered for download at your convenience. If you'd like to make a donation to the ongoing V-band project, your support will be acknowledged and is greatly appreciated.
Reasons and Rituals is now available for download at the following link: http://tinyurl.com/4fbuy8
14 Hour Technicolour Dream - Syn Forum:
http://launch.groups.yahoo.com/group/14Hour/
The Track
Reasons & Rituals
The Band:
Steve Nardelli (London, New York) - song writer; lead vocals; vision
Steve Sikes-Nova (Virginia) - lead vocals; Executive Producer
Kevin Still (Pennsylvania) - bass, guitar, keyboards;pre-production
Cary Clouser (Canada) - flute, harmony vocals
Steve Nicholas (Connecticut) - keyboards
Kelly Child (California) - drums
Special Guest Musician, Engineer & Producer: Brett Kull (Echolyn & The Syn touring band)
UMBRELLO
Music Entertainment LLC
New York | London
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 10:57 PM |
| Saturday, March 7th, 2009
Reasons & Rituals Amazon.com's #1 Video On Demand
Umbrello's V-band captures Amazon.com's #1 Video-on-Demand spot for 'Concerts'
________________________________________
“Reasons & Rituals” was released as an audio-only, free, high-quality.mp3 download in October, 2009 on the Umbrello Records website (http://www.umbrellorecords.com).
The Video film “The Making of Reasons & Rituals” by 14 Hour Technicolour Dream: The V-band Project', part of Umbrello Music Entertainment's 'Mod Prog' series, was released on December 17, 2008 on Amazon.com.
A little over a month later, “TMoR&R” was out-selling professional releases from the likes of music legends U2, Mick Jagger, Eric Clapton, and the professional releases of hundreds of other well-known bands/solo artists in the 'Concerts' category of Amazon.com's Video On Demand service. This culminated in “TMoR&R” taking over the #1 spot on Amazon.com VoD Concerts late last week. Even when “TMoR&R” was not #1, it continued to out-sell most of its professional competition by remaining in the Top 20 for the entire week.
“The Making of Reasons & Rituals” by '14 Hour Technicolour Dream: The V-band Project' is available for rental/purchase at:
http://www.amazon.com/14-Hour-Techni...2892464&sr=8-2
in the following formats: Mac and PC online viewing, Windows PC download, TiVo DVRs, Sony BRAVIA Internet Video Link, compatible portable video devices.
Although nly USA-based computers can currently view/download “TMoR&R.”, this situation is being addressed on a priority basis by Umbrello Music Entertainment, LLC given the large and growing international demand.
CREDITS:
V-band Members, both virtually and/or physically, for the initial V-band R&R project were:
Steve Nardelli (London, New York) - music/lyrics; co-lead vocals
Steve Sikes-Nova (Virginia) - co-lead vocals; Executive Producer
Kevin Still (Pennsylvania) - bass, guitar, keyboards; pre-production
Cary Clouser (Canada) - flute, harmony vocals
Steve Nicholas (Connecticut) - keyboards
Kelly Child (California) – drums
and
Special Guest Musician, Engineer & Producer: Brett Kull (Echolyn & The Syn touring band)
THE NEAR FUTURE:
In addition to the release of The Syn's new multimedia project 'Big Sky' in late Feb., 2009; the pending Syn USA-CANADA/UK/EU tours; and the first PPV IPTV concert featuring The Syn + special guests in May, 2009; The V-band is planning a new symphonic project for which will feature all new songs. This will culminate in the release of a full-length audio/video/multimedia V-band package.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 10:54 PM |
| Tuesday, January 27th, 2009
Shine...The Pretentious
Shine…The Pretentious One
On the road playin’ anywhere, That’s where I like to be
I’ll pack my bags and get out of town, Rollin’ down #3
I’ve read the news and I’ve paid my dues, Music’s the life for me
Now’s the time for me to shine…Let the light shine on me
Let it shine so brightly in the night,
Let me shine so vibrant all the time
I’ll play you music from my soul and from my mind
Take a piece of me if you’re so inclined
Waste not what you got, you may not always find.
Let me play some songs and I will entertain you
Show you feeling of the heart
Forget your strife and all your grief that lies within you
Here’s a place where you can start
Now I have my agenda here today
I thank you all for the times I’ve played
I know that life can be hard so don’t dismay
Just stay the course, Success will come your way
Let me shine
Let me rise above this
Let me shine
Let me shine
Let me shine
Let me shine
Oh let me shine
Let me shine like the stars up above.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 8:52 AM |
| Friday, November 21st, 2008
Prognaut C.D Review
Artist/ Band: Cary Clouser
Title: Finger Paintings
Label: Self release
Year of Release: 2008
The Review:
Multi-instrumentalist Cary Clouser, better known as a member of the Canadian Jethro Tull tribute band Oracle, released a solo debut called ’Finger Paintings’ One would expect a Tull-esque album but Cary explores more towards a 70’s style AOR/Prog crossover similar to the output of Kansas, Styx, Triumph and the like. The main instrument of choice seems to be the piano, which is quite a welcome change from the over-layered synths most like to use. The vocals are also up front giving an accessible song-based feel.
Two standouts for me are the prog epic of the bunch “Precious”, which clocks in just over 9 minutes. The copy sent to me also has it divided into three separate tracks (“Bright Morning Sun“, “Life Lessons” and “Home Again”). I’m guessing that it was done that way for radio play but I don’t know for sure. Also the two part instrumental “Dark” which sounds very haunting.
Overall I found that the music on this album has an appeal for those that enjoyed the mellow symphonic side of 70's AOR/Prog/Rock. I have to admit, after the third listen, I found myself humming the songs. I really can’t wait to hear more music from Cary. He certainly is one of Canada’s best musicians, of all time in my opinion. Based on what I’ve seen, you can only download this album from his iSound.com site. I recommend you getting ‘Finger Paintings’!
Reviewed by Ron Fuchs on November 3rd, 2008
Tracks:
1. Into Thy Hands
2. Don't Know!
3. Ship Of Pride
4. Have You Heard?
5. Precious
6. Dark - 1st Impression
7. Dark - 2nd Impression
Precious - Edt. Mix:
8. Bright Morning Sun
9. Life Lessons
10. Home Again
11. Presto (Unfinished sample)
Copyright © 1998-2008, ProgNaut.com, All Rights Reserved.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 5:27 AM |
| Thursday, October 2nd, 2008
Progessive Ears Review - by "Windhawk" / Oslo, Norway
Member: Windhawk (Profile) (All Album Reviews by Windhawk)
Date: 9/30/2008
Format: CD (Album)
Based in Canada, multi-instrumentalist Cary Clouser may be known by some as a member of Jethro Tull tribute band Oracle; that got some press coverage when they won "The Niagara Music Award for Best Tribute Band 2008". Clouser has decided to try out a solo career as well these days, and Finger Paintings is his debut album.
With a background from a Tull tribute band, you might expect Clouser's solo output to be pretty similar to this fine British band too, especially as he in Oracle handles vocals and flutes (in addition to guitars and keyboards). But apart from one composition, "Don't Know", you won't find much material on this CD reminding strongly, or even remotely, the style of music Jethro Tull have explored over the years.
Indeed, the driving and dominating instrument in these tunes is the piano. It's been quite a while since I last encountered a prog rock album so heavily dominated by this fine instrument. Guitars, mostly dampened and often acoustic, add nuances and textures to the melodies; and well-planned symphonic textures are applied by keyboards in most tunes. The vocals are even more central in most tunes; clear and melodic they really add to the songs - except for the instrumentals of course.
As style goes, this comes across as a mix of mellow AOR and Kansas in my ears, with a few touches that reminds me more of Yes. My knowledge is somewhat limited to 70's rock though, so other (read: older) listeners may find other artists that have influenced this fine artist. No matter the influences, the end result is entertaining music with a certain pop sensibility to it.
For piano aficionados, the instrumental “Dark” in both of it's expressions should be quite intriguing; and for those who think the tune Precious in it's length of just over 9 minutes is a bit long; it has been divided into three separate tracks on the CD. For the curious and the ones who want to know a bit more about the artist, there's an long interview with Cary Clouser at the very end of this CD, lasting for a bit over 30 minutes.
This is an album that should appeal to people enjoying 70's tinged rock of the more mellow kind; and in particular those who enjoy symphonic tendencies with their rock. It's not an album that will never top the Billboard charts, but it is a fine release by a talented artist exploring a niche of music not too many others are active in these days.
My rating: 69/100
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 12:14 PM |
| Monday, September 29th, 2008
Finger Paintings Review By: Windhawk from Norway
Windhawk
Sep 29 2008
Above average
CD
[Rating17866276] Promising debut by this Canadian artist.
Normally this guy play in a Jethro Tull tribute band; and one might expect this to carry over to a solo production, but apart from the quite Tull-influenced tune "Don't Know!", complete with flute solo, this isn't the case here.
Instead we're treated to a piano-dominated workout mixing influences from bands like Kansas and Yes with 70's AOR, with symphonic-tinged keyboards adding textures and acoustic; and sometimes electric; guitars adding subtle detail to the melodies. The piano is the driving instrument though, everything is based around that instrument.
Clouser has a good voice, and he's a fair songwriter as well. Nothing that sets the world on fire here, but if uplifting proggish AOR sounds like a good thing to you, this CD should be on your list of albums that should be checked out.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 7:52 AM |
| Sunday, September 28th, 2008
14 Hour Technicolour Dream - V-Band
20 Sep 08 Saturday
***14 HOUR TECHNICOLOUR DREAM: THE VIRTUAL BAND (aka ’the V-Band’)
Current mood: adventurous
Category: Music
***14 HOUR TECHNICOLOUR DREAM: THE VIRTUAL BAND (aka 'the V-Band') is a Syn-sponsored, ongoing project headed up by myself as executive producer.
The V-Band's first offerring will be "Reasons & Rituals" (Nardelli) featuring Steve Nardelli, Brett Kull, Kevin Still, Kelly Child, Cary Clouser, Steve Nicholas and Steve Sikes-Nova. "R&R" was recorded both virtual and live in Philadelphia at Brett Kull's MM3 Studios on September 13, 2008.
The track itself, photos, videod interviews, and a video of a live performance will be released prior to the release of The Syn's new CD 'Big Sky' as part of the new 'Mod Prog' series offerred by Umbrello Music Entertainment, LLC, London/New York.
Stay tuned to The Syn's official blog (are you signed up?) and watch for bulletins/press releases both for breaking news and more detailed information!***
:)Steve S-N
"Stay mod...and stay tuned!!!"
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 11:20 AM |
| Friday, September 19th, 2008
V-Band Session
Man, Sept 13 was a great time in Philly.
Steve Nardelli of "The Syn" was very easy going with the whole project, pretty amazing for a man of he's caliber.
Steve Sikes-Nova from "Newgrass, Prog & More Radio" well, what can I say. A tower of power.
Brett Kull of the band "Echolyn" is a great host and engineer.
Kelly and Steve played very nicely on the track as well.
Last but not lest Gina for all her help in recording and picture taking with cameras and video cameras.
Can't wait for the next session.
Cary.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 3:19 PM |
| Monday, September 1st, 2008
Clinton N.Y Music & Art Fest 2008
I want to give a 1000 thanks to Nick & Jen from Melodic Revolution Records for having us at the festival. We had a great time. We'll see you next year.
Cary & Oracle.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 6:41 AM |
| Friday, August 22nd, 2008
Recording Session
Saturday, September 13th is the date "set in stone" according to Steve N. who I talked with last evening. We begin recording at Brett Kull's studio in Philadelphia around Noon and go as long a necessary to make it right. If needed, Sunday is on the table as well.
Please email me off list at ssikesno at yahoo.com to give me a final confirmation if you plan to attend in person or you are going to send in your lead part via email/YouSendIt.
Oh - a new member of the V-Band who will be with us live in Philadelphia is the electric flautist, keyboardist, guitarist, vocalist, and soon-to-be mandolinist (I want to be a mandolinist!!!), my friend Cary Clouser from St. Ann's, Canada. He rocks! Listen to cuts from his excellent solo CD 'Finger Paintings' at:
http://www.isound.com/cary_clouser
and his award-winning Jethro Tull cover band (currently in transition to an originals band) Oracle:
http://www.myspace.com/oracletheband
Cary will be adding electric flute and harmony vocals to "Reasons & Rituals."
Very best,
:)Steve S-N
Executive Producer
14 Hour Technicolour Dream: The Virtual Band
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 6:10 AM |
| Sunday, August 10th, 2008
C.D Review - Newgrass,Prog & More
Sunday, August 10, 2008
Newly Discovered 2008 ‘Prog Music of Note’: Cary Clouser
Current mood: animated
Category: Music
In my opinion, the frontman for the fine Canadian prog rock band Oracle, Cary Clouser, is a composer, writer and performer of significant talent. Both an excellent lead singer and an electric flute player in the mold of Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull, Cary has onstage and offstage chops (recording & production) having graduated from the Trebas Institute of Recording Arts in Toronto.
In his self-produced first solo CD, "Finger Paintings", Clouser showcases both his musicianship and significant songwriting talents. From the symphonic intro "Into Thy Hands" to the warm, personal epic "Precious", this is a rare CD indeed.
It is unusual to find all three elements of such consistent quality in a prog CD – vocals (IMO the place where many otherwise very good prog efforts fall short), songwriting, and musicianship; I rate this CD very highly in all three areas. Clouser's choice of backing musicians is a good one as well (Denis Gignac, Gary Bray, and Clayton Kelly) and they contribute the overall polished and professional sound of this effort.
You can hear Cary Clouser's music in full fidelity at:
http://www.isound.com/cary_clouser
My Rating: 9.0 out of 10
Steve Sikes-Nova
"the virginiaprograsser"
'Newgrass, Prog & More!' Web Radio & Interviews
2,000+ Progressive & Eclectic Listeners Worldwide
since 2003
http://www.myspace.com/virginiaprograsser
http://www.live365.com/stations/virginiaprograsser
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 7:57 PM |
| Saturday, August 2nd, 2008
CD Review - Prog.FM
Welcome to PROG.FM.com
Progressive Rock Internet Radio
20 July 2008
I have begun adding more music.
So far, I've added some excellent new music by Cary Clouser, Ice, Vutdevuk, Albion and Moth Vellum.
Cary is the multitalented songwriter, singer and multi-instrumental frontman for Canadian progrock tribute band, Oracle. Cary kindly sent in his solo demo called Finger Paintings.
Vutdevuk is the prog rock pen name of Brady Arnold who is also an accomplished songwriter and multi-instrumentalist. He provided several tracks from his discography.
Ice and Albion are neo-progressive bands from the Netherlands and Poland, respectively. Ice is squarely in the Marillion/Fish camp and Albion is a female-fronted ensemble that will easily appeal to fans of Karnateka and Magenta.
Also thanks to Moth Vellum for sending their new debut self-titled CD. This album could have easily been recorded in the mid-70's but it's amazingly crisp and well-produced. Even the album artwork screams "prog!" Recommended for fans of symphonic Yes, Genesis and Starcastle.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 1:59 PM |
| Saturday, August 2nd, 2008
CD Review - 70's English Progressive Rock
"70's English Progressive Rock"
A unique radio station on Live365.com, 70's English Progessive Rock attempts to re-create the sound 70's college radio with album cuts instead of hits, great progressive music from around the world and even some new music; but always with a focus on the progressive/folk rock coming from the British Isles in the 70's.
Monday, May 26, 2008
Music for May
What a weekend. The radio station hard drive was failing and bringing down the station was my only choice. While it was down though I was able to get a couple of things done. The long awaited updates to the play list happened and more important, I was able to get a backup system in place for the next time. I also updated some of the older files to a higher format. Hopefully some of the songs will sound a bit better. So, lacking sleep and wishing the weekend had just started, here is the music I added to the station this weekend:
We start with some new music from Quidam and Cary Clouser...
Quidam - Alone Together (2007)
Like Porcupine Tree, Quidam bridges that gap between pop and progressive so nicely that if you are a prog only kinda listener, you hardly feel guilty. You'll find some beautiful melodies and pretty (okay, handsome) vocals throughout, but you are never far from a searing guitar solo. The sound has a strong 70's vibe but with a very modern feel. This is one of my favoriteprog releases in some time.
Cary Clouser - Finger Paintings (2008)
Cary is an indie prog artist with loads of talent. This CD is very much a one man effort with a little help here and there from a couple of bass and guitar players. But you won't know that by listening. There is a full produced sound here with an emphasis on piano based pop/prog. There is some fine soloing and nice vocals. Someone to keep an eye on.
Listen to 70's English Progressive on Live 365.com
http://www.live365.com/stations/infomas
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 1:58 PM |
| Monday, May 5th, 2008
Samples-(Presto-Deus Ex Machina
Just a few songs that we are working on, comments always welcome on all the music we play.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 12:47 AM |
| Saturday, April 19th, 2008
Song For Grandma
I'm so glad I found this raw recording. I thought it had been lost forever. I wrote this song for my grandmother's funeral. I could not find a copy of it anywhere. I was cleaning out some old tapes one day and there it was. God Speed Gram's.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 11:03 PM |
| Monday, April 14th, 2008
91.7 WMUH-FM Allentown, Pa
A 1000 thanks to (Bill Fox)@ WMUH-FM 91.7 Allentown, PA for playing my music. Your the man Bill.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 4:35 PM |
| Friday, March 28th, 2008
Niagara Music Awards
Well, we won at the "Niagara Music Awards" on Tuesday night for best tribute act (Jethro Tull) in the Niagara region. Very nice looking award. Go to pic's if you care to see the award.
A 1000 thanks to all who helped to put this event together.
Cary.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 11:21 AM |
| Saturday, March 22nd, 2008
Have You Heard?
Have you heard the word that’s goin’ around?
About a girl who pulled into town,
She drives a car that’s so out of style,
But in the end she makes it all worth while.
She’s got the devil’s gleam in her eyes,
She’ll show you magic and tell you sweet lies,
She’ll steal your money, then she’ll laugh in your face,
And leave you feelin’ like a total disgrace
Have you heard the word that’s goin’ around?
About a man who pulled out of town.
Drives his car along the miracle mile,
searching for the girl with the demon smile
He’s got the devil’s gleam in his eye,
He wants to give her his little surprise.
Holds a gun between her eyes,
Pulls the trigger just to sadly realize.
Have you heard the word that’s goin’ around?
Two were found dead on the outskirts of town.
Reason why we can only surmise,
Here is a lesson that I hope we realize.
If the devil gleams in your eyes,
Forget the magic and the smell of sweet lies.
Someday soon we all will see,
It’s nothing more than just a fantasy.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 5:17 AM |
| Wednesday, March 19th, 2008
Don't Know!
I don’t know why we live so ass backwards,
Hiding our fears with the tears that we cry.
People stand divided ready to fight,
With a push of a button, it could end overnight.
Disillusioned eyes may see, through the red tape and fantasies
Painted by misery, in hopes to see liberty.
Many times, I’d sit and watch the TV,
With politics and religion showing ways to be free,
I don’t see the truth in words that they say,
With all of this bloodshed in the countries they save.
Disillusioned eyes may see, through the red tape and fantasies
Painted by misery, in hopes to see liberty.
Then a day will come when we will see,
That its love we need to breed.
No more war, no more greedy thieves that will bring us to our knees.
Disillusioned eyes may see, through the red tape and fantasies
Painted by misery, in hopes to see liberty.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 10:49 PM |
| Monday, March 10th, 2008
Ship Of Pride
Part 1
The age of reason has come to pass,
We’re seeing it through the hour glass of time.
Should we really care what’s meant to be,
Or is it just a shadow of a memory in mind.
Part 2
Armed with the sun, being one,
That’s where the silent wind carries me away.
We could offer ourselves our love,
Freedom is balancing on the wings of reason.
Countless fantasies travelers explain,
Setting their sites for homeward bound.
Dancing, within the spirit, of the age,
And if that sacred, age could match, the inner flame,
Then we could sail, like faithful ships, through love’s blockade.
Regardless to fear that feels,
The challenge of being one.
The darkest night, with passing light, is lost in flight, a majestic sight.
To only know, where to go, to choose a sound, universal bound.
Celestial friends, have always been, here with us,
From dawn to dusk.
I’ve looked through the mirror of time and seen,
An ocean of faces laying waste at my feet.
I must have died and been born again,
To see such a sight from my ship of pride,
Ship of pride,
Ship of pride,
My ship of pride.
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 10:01 AM |
| Monday, March 10th, 2008
Precious
Part 1-Bright Morning Sun
These are the memories that I want to save like a photograph to view,
Never in my life, have I ever seen something as pure as you.
Nice to watch the sunrise, peace on earth renewed,
And when you make me smile, I feel like I’m brand new.
It’s you, Harmony
Yes, it’s you, Harmony.
The moment when you looked at me, I fell in love with you,
Like the flight of a gentle dove, I knew that we were two.
As the years may pass us by, I live my life for you.
These words I say in truth, a promise meant for you.
It’s you, Harmony
Yes, it’s you, Harmony.
So wake up little sunshine, the day is here for you,
So much to do, so much to learn, in every single way,
And when the day is over’ I’ll be waiting here for you.
Part 2-Life Lessons
Waving Goodbye, now don’t you cry, you’re on your way to school,
Growin’ so fast, how the time passed, now learn the golden rule,
About the world that we live in, it’s a beautiful place to see,
The people and spaces, and the differences in between.
Livin’, lovin’, huggin’ and kissin’, this is how it’s meant to be.
There’s too much war and hatred, it’s all the children seem to see.
Part 3-Home Again
Glad your’re back home again, how was your day?
Did you make you make friends? What games did you play?
Now you’re home again, oh yeah, I missed you.
This is the way of life, simple and free,
Someday you’ll be a wife and raise a family,
But for now just be my little girl.
Home again,
Good to have you home again.
Home again,
Glad to have you home again….
Posted By Cary Clouser @ 10:01 AM |
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