Krafty Alexander

Press, 23 February 1978, Page 15

Krafty Alexander

KRAFT AND ALEXANDER “1812” (Decca PFS 4395): Larry Alexander and Jack Kraft have produced “1812,” an album that contains the “1812 Overture” by Tchaikovsky on one side, and the “Nutcracker Suite” by the same composer on the other.

There is probably nothing unusual about that, since many classical albums are released in a year, containing the same popular pieces by Tchaikovsky.

But, Kraft and Alexander have tackled the pieces a little differently.

Instead of a sympnony orchestra, they have used synthesisers — ARP 2000, Odyssey, and Pro-Soloist.

The liner notes on the back of the album cover state that until tne development of electronic instruments, instruments produced sound acoustically.

The invention of tne synthesiser by Robert Moog might be the most important musical instrument ever, they say, “considering that there are

absolutely no limits as to the variety of sounds that it can produce.” They go on to say later in the liner notes that “In the more densely orchestrated sections on this album, more than 200 individual tracks of synthesiser information were utilised to build a sound with a depth, power and variety of tonal textures equal to, and greater than, a full symphony orchestra.”

Unfortunately, whoever wrote the liner notes did not listen to the record.

Both compositions played by the synthesisers lack tone and harmony in a number of places, and often sound washy rather than distinct, which is a characteristic of the instruments.

The washy sound, may have been done deliberately, and it would be unfair to demand a literal interpretation of Tchaikovsky’s compositions.

But, it is an extravagant claim to say that the sound of the synthesiser in this case provides a

depth, power and variety of tonal texture equal, and geater than, a full symphony orchestra. GENESIS “Seconds Out” (Charisma 6641 697): This live double album gives those interested a chance to find out why Genesis were considered to be the

best live oand in 1977, as decided by a readers’ poll in the British rock magazine, “Melody Make.r” However, before Genesis fans get ecstatic about this new release, some bad news. The lead guitarist, Steve Hackett has left the group, a further blow after Peter Gabriel departed two years ago. But, the good news is that the rest of the group are recording an album called “Then There Were Three.”

From the . opening chords of “Squonk,” side one, track one, Genesis produce an exciting album, fully living up to their past reputation and “M.M.” award. Included live are a number of their best compositions, including “Firth of Fifth,” “The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway,” and the evergreen “Supper’s Ready.” The power of the musicianship is marvellous,

and with two guest drummers, Chester Thompson and Bill Bruford, formerly from Yes and King (Crimson) the album seems to peak at “Dance On A Volcano/Los Endos” including a double solo by the two guests. When Peter Gabriel left there was concern that Genesis would fold, but the group maintained its form. However, the departure of Hackett may mean the end this time. >, 10CC “Live And Let Live” (Mercury 6641 714): Like Genesis’ “Seconds Out,” the lOcc album is a live double, and also like Genesis, lOcc have had group differences. Early last year Lol Creme and Kevin Godley departed after the group was undecided about using a “gizmo” which Creme had invented for making some weird and wonderful sounds when attached to guitar. The group survived the split by finding three new members, Stuart Tosh, Tony O’Malley, and Ric Fenn, who are all introduced on the album.

lOcc are essentially a studio group, and the band’s aficionados will be asking how the live album compares with tracks recorded in the studio with new members. The answer is note for note. “I’m Not In Love,” “Wall Street Shuffle,” and “I’m Mandy Fly Me” are all studio pieces live. One would expect some influence from the new members, but it is not obvious. Only on “Art For Art’s Sake” does the band really seem to come alive, and better the original version.