B I L L Y S H E E H A N
Transcription
B I L L Y S H E E H A N
BEATSPOT MUSICAL INSTRUMENTS & ARTISTS MAGAZINE BB714BS B I L L Y M A G A Z I N E AUGUST | 2008 2008 10th Asian Beat Grand Prix Winner Vol.03 IRON BANANA FREE Interview S H E E H A N S I G N A T U R E Artist Interview BB714BS Billy Sheehan is no stranger to the spotlight. From his days with Talas to headlining arenas with David Lee Roth and his band Mr. Big he has thrilled audiences the world over with his bold performances and highly evolved techniques. Constantly pushing his skills to new limits, he has changed the way the bass guitar is played and taking rock bass playing to new heights. Billy’s relationship with Yamaha is long. His close collaborations with Yamaha Guitar Development has produce a number of signature models, the latest being the new BB714BS. The BB714BS represents a trip back to Billy’s roots with Yamaha, revisiting his first Yamaha signature, which was a BB series bass. http://www.global.yamaha.com/ APBSM003 Billy Sheehan Zak Bond Magi (Bassist) (Drummer) POP SHUVIT (Drummer) ... and other musicians! New Model news BB714BS (Electric Bass) DTXTREME III (Electronic Drums) AUDIOGRAM Series (Audio I/F) POCKETRAK 2G (Pocket Recorder) ...and more! BEATSPOT MAGAZINE CONTENTS Vol.03 Artist Features Musical Instruments Interviews/Reports Artist Using Models P05 RAFAEL BITTENCOURT (Guitarist) P09 ndoubtedly one of Malaysia’s most hardworking bands, Pop Shuvit began making waves in the local music scene in late 2001. Comprising of Moots (vocals), JD (guitars), AJ (bass), Rudy (drums) and UNO (turntables), the band has had 4 successful releases under their belt and rocked fans throughout Asia notably in Japan, Thailand and Singapore. Known for their adrenaline packed live shows and eclectic blend of hip hop and rock, Pop Shuvit are being touted as Asia’s leading Hip Hop Rock band. P04 RGXA2 (RAFAEL BITTENCOURT) P08 P15 P14 ZAK BOND (Drummer) DTXTREME III (ZAK BOND) P17 P16 P22 Electric Guitars RGXA2 Electric Basses BB714BS ATTLTD II Acoustic Guitars L Series Electronic Drums DTXTREME III Acoustic Drums Tour Custom Computer Based Music Production KX Series AUDIOGRAM Series Pocket Recorder POCKETRAK 2G Portable PA System STAGEPAS Series Recent News Latest Work. Freakshow Vol1: Tales of The Traveling Tunes (2007) Official Support for My Chemical Romance Asian Tour (2007-2008) Sunburst KL International Music Festival (2008) Nominated for MTV Asia Awards (2008) OP SHUVIT U Their debut album “Take & Shuvit” broke new ground when their first single “Skaters” Anthem’ was released exclusively on the Internet and became one of the most downloaded local songs in Malaysian music history. The hype and street buzz from the track caught the ears of ESPN, who in turn licensed the track for use in their Summer X-Games broadcast that hit millions of households worldwide. In 2003, Pop Shuvit released “Take it and Shuvit” in Japan and became the first Malaysian band to hit the music chart in Japan. The overwhelming support from Japanese youth market ensured that all tracks of the album charted the top 20 on the Tower Records sales charts (even beating raprock luminaries like Linkin Park) without any promotion to back the album. Always one to go against the grain, the band released a dance remix album and a hip hop EP in 2004 and 2006 respectively. The remix of their track “Conversations” from the “Shuvit Remixes” dance CD was hand picked by uber DJ Nick Warren for inclusion in pioneering UK dance music label Global Underground’s mix CD, Shanghai GU28 that peaked at #19 on the UK TOP 40 Dance Album Charts. Not resting on their laurels, Pop Shuvit’s eagerly anticipated third album, aptly titled “Amped & Dangerous” hit stores in Japan on 23 August 2006 with a later release date being planned for the Malaysian market. The 12 song set is a rollercoaster ride of crunching guitars, pounding rhythms and funked out hip hop beats and rhymes. BILLY SHEEHAN (Bassist) P11 ATTLTD II (BILLY SHEEHAN) P10 MAGI (Drummer) TOUR CUSTOM ( MAGI) P28 P28 BILLY SHEEHAN (Bassist) BB714BS (BILLY SHEEHAN) 04 04 08 08 09 10 11 14 14 16 16 18 18 19 20 20 21 21 Discography: ❚ Take It & Shuvit (2002-Malaysia) & (2003-Japan) ❚ Shuvit Remixes (2004) - Japan ❚ Here & Now (2005) - Malaysia & Japan ❚ All I Got - HIP HOP Collaboration EP (May 2006) - Japan ❚ Amped & Dangerous (August 2006) - Malaysia & Japan Notable Gigs: ❚ Opening Act for Incubus Asian Tour, Kuala Lumpur (2004) ❚ Headliner for Asian X Games, Kuala Lumpur (2002-2006) ❚ Rock The World, Kuala Lumpur (2002 - 2005) ❚ Singapore X-Games (2002) ❚ Headlining show at Tokyo & Osaka, Japan (2005) ❚ Thai X-Games, Bangkok, Thailand (2005) ❚ Grand Pattaya International Music Festival, Thailand (2006) ❚ Closing Act at Anugerah ERA (2006) Official website: www.popshuvit.com www.myspace.com/popshuvit AKIHIRO TANAKA (Guitarist) LL36 (AKIHIRO TANAKA) Special Columns In this vol.3 magazine we prepared some columns which are referring to the “SOUND”. Sometimes it seems to be difficult to emulate the sound of artists or to hear the sound of the instrument so it will be a good reference. Especially in the Rafael’s page, Rafael Bittencourt himself has explained about use of equipment in Angra’s song, this should be a great advice for players. There’s also tablature score in the L series article. I hope you would play that phrase in store or at your home, and feel the sounds of Acoustic. ■ Rafael Bittencourt's Equipments setup 07 ■ AKIHIRO's Special Technique 13 ■ ASIAN BEAT -2008 Grand Final Report- 22 ■ ASIAN BEAT 08-09 24 ■ BEATSPOT Store 26 COVER FEATURES POP SHUVIT Specifications and appearance subject to change without notice. All trademarks and registered trademarks are property of their respective owners. BSM Vol.03 2008 03 CONTENTS Electric Guitars BSM Vol.03 RGXA2 Int e r v i e w with The conventional wisdom in building electric guitars has long been that the more uniform and heavy the material, the better the sound. But not any more. Yamaha has shattered this concept with an advanced technology called Alternative Internal Resonance, or A.I.R. for short (patent pending). This revolutionary design approach means that lightweight materials can at last deliver equivalent or superior tonal characteristics compared to traditional materials. The result? A smarter and lighter model with all of the sound quality you expect from a Yamaha. Construction Scale Length Fingerboard Radius Body Neck Tuners Bolt-on 25 1/4" (647.7mm) Rosewood / 22 frets 13 3/4" (350mm) A.I.R. Body Maple Cylindrical knob Bridge Pickups Pickup Switch Controls Colors A.I.R. Mounting System Bridge Alnico humbucker X 2 3-position Master Volume, 3-position Rotary Switch, Pickup Indicator White / Aircraft Gray, Jet Black Original Pickups Cylindrical Tuners New alnico pickups have been specially designed to match the characteristics of the RGXA2 body. Smooth response from lows to highs delivers outstanding clean tones as well as hard distortion. Innovative cylindrical tuners have been implemented to achieve optimum balance with the lightweight body. Their light, compact design also contributes to the slim styling of the eyecatching head. A.I.R. Mounting System Bridge This Yamaha original system consists of a specially designed lightweight bridge that transmits string vibrations to the entire body through its unique Tone Tubes. A smoother, non-obtrusive playing surface offers enhanced playability. Original Head Design From the unique head support plate to the string post cutouts, weight-reducing ideas can be found throughout this stylish head design. Pickup Selector System This newly developed system uses high intensity lights to indicate the active pickup, clearly showing which high-output pickup you have selected, even on the darkest stage. Light Weight Wood Sound Tubes Alternative Internal Resonance Light Weight & Rich Sound The Secret of A.I.R. Technology – RGXA2 Lightweight material is sandwiched between harder, heavier wood on both the front and back surfaces of the guitar’s body. Special ‘sound tubes’ pass through the body so that string vibrations normally resonating only the guitar’s top are transmitted to the whole body. By exciting the entire body structure and shaping the tone with the hard top and back, A.I.R. construction creates a full, powerful tone with distinctive presence and body that is both totally usable and completely unique. Who said beauty was only skin deep? BSM Vol.03 2008 04 Electric Guitar White / Aircraft Gray Jet Black RAF A E L B I T T E N C O U R T RGXA2 easy for you. Then you start to add some hard moves and tricks that challenge yourself to improve your technique. It sounds a little obvious but I've seen a lot of guitar players spending lots of time on exercises that aren't comfortable for them and the same amount of time ignoring his own strong points. And, the best person to evaluate whatever is comfortable on your playing and what's not is you! For that you have to exercise your ears more then your fingers. That's the most important lesson that I've learned. And that will surely save you a lot of useless time of practicing without a focus that might lead you nowhere. – How do you get inspiration for songwriting? – In which point do you care about making the ideal guitar sound? – Could you tell us how to make up "Rafael Sound" using A2? I am very concerned about the guitar sound. It makes a whole lot of a difference the sound you're playing because the sound is directly related to the style and the technique of a guitar player. I am a fan of the vintage tube amplifiers. I like open, warm-natural sounds. And I tried it on the Marshall JCM800 and the JMP-1 pre-amplifier, also on the orange channel of the Mesa Rectifier and on a Brunetti that I've borrowed from Kiko (my guitar partner in Angra) etc. But it performed the best on my Groove Tube head and power amplifier. I like to have variety of sounds on my gear, cause I usually create very soft atmospheres that build into loud and epic parts. In my new record I found the A2 to be very efficient for creating many different sounds. It is also very useful for dubbing a wild-distorted sound from another channel. I have also a custom AES model that I call the Dragon guitar which is a very heavy and loud sounding guitar. And sometimes I added the Dragon Guitar for the more powerful parts. The A2 is got a very distinctive and clear distortion and they work perfectly together! The art of playing is not a purely mechanical act. The musician is playing every note in response to the last one he just played. And in order for that action goes fine you have to dive into the music, trying to reach a kind of meditating state of mind. Your intuitive mechanisms are alert, thus you should be able to think while emptying your mind of undesired thoughts. This is not an easy thing to do, to bring up things that you learned and studied into a very intuitive and fluent form of communication. Therefore, a bad sound makes that process even harder. Sometimes it is impossible to do a good performance on an annoying or disturbing sound. Either on live or recording situation, a good sound is crucial for the good performance. – Please introduce your sound system other than guitar? – What is the best way to enhance the A2 sound? Well, I have different gear for different situations. Not every time I'm able to bring all my toys onstage. most of the time I need to be practical and light-weighted. So I hook my Yamaha guitars through a Boss GT-8 multi-effect where I have some direct effects (distortions, compression and Wha-wha) and I also can control my rack. I'll send my signal to a JMP-1 where I can create a lot of different sounds and volumes. Then I'll have an Yamaha SPX-2000 looped with the JMP-1 for the delays, some choruses and eventually some reverbs. The final signal from the JMP-1 will be sent to a power amplifier and cabinets that could be mine or from some local promoter. I have my own signature model for strings made by a Brazilian brand called NIG and I like the sound of DiMArzio paffs and virtual paff pickups which I have on some of my guitars. Well, I didn't make any sound modifications on my RGXA2. I play it plain through the amplifier. The best quality of this guitar is the big sound versatility. It is a very dynamic guitar. It is got a very nice and warm clean, then if you bring up a little more gain it is got a nice crunchy sound and also a very open "Van Halen" kind of distorted sound. It is very recommended to versatile guitar players. To guys who like to study and practice every kind of music, from jazz, pop or metal. Some other guitars are very loud but they are very limited when it comes to different ways of playing. – Which songs in ANGRA are you using RGX A2? On our last record I've recorded the rhythms and the solos on "Out of this World" and "Braking Ties" with the RGXA2. On live situations I've been using on songs where I need different dynamics from clean to loud volumes like on "Out of This World", Rebirth, Braking Ties and others. I was very new to the RGXA2 when I recorded Aurora Consurgens, so I was still discovering ways of setting up that guitar. Now I'm playing with RGX for almost three years and I am much more familiar with its fine adjustments. And since, I'm finishing at this moment the first record of my solo project, I've recorded with the A2 almost on every song. – What kind of practice would you recommend for amateur player? Firs of all, I recommend that the amateur player focus whatever his is practicing on creating his own style. Every professional player learns to enhance his natural skills and to dissimulate his difficulties. So, whenever you are studying you have to stick to those moves that feel fluent on your hands creating a very solid and stable ground where playing the guitar feels Life in general is my main inspiration. I really like to observe places and stuff that I'm living. The behavior of people, how we interact with our daily duties etc. I have a very personal and abstract impression of elements in music (harmonies, intervals, melodies, beats, rhythms etc). I relate the chords and sounds in general to colors, places, emotions etc. So what I do is: I create sound environments that in my perception are related (on a very abstract way) to a specific emotion or feeling. I like to observe patterns of movements on things I'm observing. I love the sound of silence, to watch muted TV, to just cancel the sound of things and to absorb the pure movements of cars, people, the wind, the washing of my hands etc. I wear ear plugs most of the time and I try to think of rhythms, melodies and harmonies in my head. So that became an obsession for me. I'm also very alert to sounds and that's why I need the ear plug in my ears. Every sound captures my attention and it is hard to focus on the music in my head. Rafael’s Equipments Setup For Recording 1| On the recording of Out of This World and Breaking Ties I have used the following setup: 1| RGXA2 > (input) GT-8 > (output) > (input) Mesa Boogie rectifier 2 (orange channel / vintage mode) > 4X12 Marshall Cabinets. On recording situations I’m using the pedals mainly for overdrives and wah-wah sounds. The delays and reverb come from the ProTools computer recording system. Mesa Boogie Rectifier A2 2| On the recording of The Voice Commanding You, Passing By and others: 2| AES 920 > (input) GT-8 > (output) > (input) Mesa Boogie rectifier 2 (orange channel / vintage mode) > 4X12 Marshall Cabinets. – Please give a message to fan. I'd like to thank for all the support and care that you've always given me and that I think of you, my fans, all the time. Whenever I'm composing or recording a song I start to wish that you'd like it. I'm pursuing for the best results all the time and It is for you that I spend a lot of my time trying my best. So, it is very exciting to get this nice feedback from you. Please feel free to visit my website at www.rafaelbittencourt.com O.D Wah Marshall 4 X 12 SP cabinet Floor type Multi-Effects AES920 – Please tell us about your schedule for this year. I plan to release my solo project in September. In Japan will be out by Victor (JVC). Also Angra is planning to get back together around the same period. So, I'll probably be conciliating the touring of the two bands. A very interesting thing about my project is that most of the instruments used on the recordings were Yamaha. And Yamaha is the only brand able to provide the gear and instruments for a whole professional recording. A high end drum set, five different models of professional basses, some fretless basses and Upright Silent Bass, five different models of electric guitars, keyboards, reference speakers and also electric violins. So I can say that this will be the first rock record that was done entirely with Yamaha instruments and gear. This wasn't initially meant to be like this. But, since I made lots of friends with other Yamaha musicians I naturally started to call them up to be part of my project. And the sound has turned to be a reference for other players now. C O M P For Live Performance 3| For the live performance of songs such as Out of This World, Breaking Ties, Rebirth, No Pain for the Dead, Late Redemption, Heroes of Sand and other songs that need a nice clean and a distinctive distortion. 3| Yamaha SPX2000 send return Marshall JMP-1 RGXA2 > (input) GT-8 (output)> (input) Marshall JMP-1 (send) > input (input) YAMAHA SPX2000 (output) > (return) GT-8 (output)> (in) Marshall 9002 (out) power amplifier> 4X12 Marshall Cabinets. 4| For the live performance of songs as The Voice Commanding You, Salvation Suicide, Ego Painted Grey, Waiting Silence, Angels and Demons, Nova Era and others. AES DRAGON > (input) GT-8 (output) > (input) Marshall JMP-1 (send) > input (input) YAMAHA SPX2000 (output) > (return) GT-8 (output) > (in) Marshall 9002 (out) power amplifier > 4X12 Marshall Cabinets. Marshall 9002 A2 C O M P 4| O.D Wah Floor type Multi-Effects Foot SW for JMP-1 Dragon All the best to you Rafael Bittencourt RAFAEL BITTENCOURT Interview with BSM Vol.03 2008 06 Electric Guitar BSM Vol.03 2008 07 Electric Guitar Marshall 4 X 12 SP cabinet BSM Vol.03 Electric Basses BB714BS / ATTITUDE ATTLTDII BB714BS ATTLTDII Billy Sheehan Signature Model Billy Sheehan Signature Model It's amazing how time flies: For more than 20 years, the BB Series basses have been the first choice of great bass players like Nathan East, Tony Kanal and Michael Anthony. And with each model that has been added to the series over the years our designers have succeeded again and again in producing exactly what musicians want, as well as raising their own standards in the process. With the motto “Back to the Future” we now pay tribute to this successful series with completely reinvented new versions of the first BB basses. Thanks to their perfectly shaped (bolt-on) necks the new BBs are also extremely comfortable to play, and with a combination of highquality soap-bar / split-coil pickups, smart electronics and vintage style hardware, they offer everything that even the most demanding bass player could possibly ask for. Billy Sheehan Pickups and Electronics Both front and rear pickups are custom made by DiMarzio and deliver powerfully heavy bass tone with a solid fundamental. Stereo output jacks provide separate outputs for the front and rear pickups. Mono output is also possible. A high cut switch in the front pickup tone control boosts bass output from the front pickup. Woofer pickup designed in collaboration with YASH* BB714BS BB714BS ATTLTDII NEW NEW NEW ATTLTDII NEW – Tell us why you love Yamaha gear? One thing you like about BB714BS and Attitude. Yamaha has great quality control in their manufacturing, so you always get a consistently fine instrument. The new BB714BS is a wonderful bass that feels smooth and plays like a dream. Hipshot “D” Tuner The Hipshot tuner drops the “E” string down a whole step to “D” with the flick is a lever. A gear adjustment provides precision tuning. Neck Billy’s BB714BS comes with a neck that is slim, trim, and fast. The rosewood on maple neck is thinner and trimmer than the Attitude bass and offers greater playing comfort. Model Construction Scale Length Fingerboard Radius Frets Body Neck Bridge Pickups Controls Colors Model Construction Scale Length Fingerboard Radius Frets Body Neck Bridge Pickups BB714BS Bolt-on 34" (863.6mm) Maple 10" (250mm) 21 Alder Maple Solid Brass Woofer PU, Main PU Woofer PU Volume, Main PU Volume, Master tone w/ Woofer PU Hi Cut Sw. Black, Lava Red BSM Vol.03 2008 Controls Black 08 Electric Bass Lava Red Black Lava Red – Is there any favorite genre of music you perform? Not really. Though I like when there is singing & harmony. I like most all kinds of music. – What is your favorite artist? Too many to list. I have very many, and my tastes change constantly. In addition to the split pickup, the BB714BS carries a specially designed double humbucker installed at the neck position where it generates great low-end tone. The front humbucker is wired through a push-pull high-cut circuit that lets you choose between a traditional “Attitude” neck pickup tone with high-end, or a bass boosted ultralow 60’s sound. *YASH=Yamaha Artist Services Hollywood Special interview Colors ATTLTDII Bolt-on 34" (863.6mm) Maple 10" (250mm) 21 Alder Maple Solid Brass DiMarzio WillPower (neck, middle) Front Volume, Front Tone, Rear Volume, Woofer High Cut Switch Black, Lava Red – When choosing instrument, what is the most important point? How well you like the way it feels in your hands. It will be in your hands for many hours, days, months, and years–so that is important. – Tell us about your latest activity and future schedule. Also we would like to know about your which are to be held in future, Europe, Asia or Japan. I have a new CD coming soon. It's called "Holy Cow". Its my best yet, and it includes some very special guests. I'll be traveling all over the world this year telling people about it, as well as my new Yamaha Basses. – One thing you care for the daily practice? I try to work every day on improving my playing and learning more, as well as writing & experimenting on new ideas of songs, music, and bass & guitar innovations. I'm always working at it, but I love it so much, I do not consider it to be "work". – Please give advice to young musician who want to be like you? Get in a band & start performing. Learn as many songs as you can. Sing. Sing harmony with others. Listen to everything you can. Clinic tour schedule 2008 October 9 Shanghai China 10 Shanghai China 14 15 16 17 22 Singapore Australia Australia Australia Australia 23 Malaysia 25 Japan 26 Japan 19 Indonesia BSM Vol.03 2008 09 October 20 Indonesia 21 Indonesia Electric Bass Acoustic Guitars BSM Vol.03 L Series L Series A.R.E. Models NEW LJ36 LL Series LJ26 Yamaha's Traditional Jumbo Body Guitar. Rich volume, clear resonance with the excellent projection, wide dynamic range, well-balanced tone. LL36 LS Series With its compact body with full size body thickness offers excellent volume that cannot be found in a compact body. LL26 LJ Series This medium jumbo size is designed to rest securely yet comfortably on the guitarist's leg when seated. High-end models are handcrafted and feature our A.R.E (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement) technology on tops made of select materials. These are hallmark instruments designed and crafted especially for professionals. LJ36 / LJ26 Body: Medium Jumbo Type Top: Solid Engelmann Spruce A.R.E Back & Sides: Solid Rosewood Neck: Mahogany, Padauk (5ply) LS36 LS26 LL36 LL26 This handcraft guitar features the finest in craftsmanship from its abalone binding, snowflake and cat eye position markers, to the all lacquer finish. This model offers a bit more of a vintage look. Ornaments have been left off to reduce weight. Among the “L” series guitars, this simple design offers even greater response. Body: Jumbo Type Top: Solid Engelmann Spruce A.R.E Back & Sides: Solid Rosewood Neck: Mahogany, Padauk (5ply) LS36 / LS26 Body: Small Body Type Top: Solid Engelmann Spruce A.R.E Back & Sides: Solid Rosewood Neck: Mahogany, Padauk (5ply) Body: Jumbo Type Top: Solid Engelmann Spruce A.R.E Back & Sides: Solid Rosewood Neck: Mahogany, Padauk (5ply) A.R.E. (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement) A.R.E. (Acoustic Resonance Enhancement) is an original wood reforming technology developed by Yamaha. Instruments made with woods processed with this technology produce a tonal richness that is like vintage instruments that have been played for years. This technology is currently applied to the tops on L Series 6 model acoustic guitars and LX Series 6 model acoustic-electric guitars. BSM Vol.03 2008 10 Acoustic Guitar Normal Guitar (Current L Series) A.R.E. Guitar (New L Series with A.R.E.) Enhance high range response 0 0 40 −40 60 −60 80 −120 0 100 0.1 0.2 120 0.3 Time [s] 0 10 5 Frequency [kHz] 15 Relative Level [dB] The graphs shown below are from actual acoustic spectral measurements taken under controlled conditions with a current L series guitar and a new L series guitar with A.R.E. Notice the enhanced low range sustain and improved high range attack on the A.R.E. guitar. It is also clear that high range dissonance has a shorter delay after the attack. This is hard proof that A.R.E. is effective at producing the desired changes in the wood’s acoustic characteristics. These instruments have received high marks from a great number of musicians. • Patents already registered Most of their evaluations are identical to Japan Patent # 3562517 evaluations for guitars that have been played for United States # US6667429 B2 years. Comments such as “excellent resonance”, and other countries “warm”, “mature”, “well settled”, and “clear” were • Patents Pending common terms used in the evaluations. Europe (20 countries) The following alterations lead to their corresponding acoustically ideal conditions. • Enhanced low range sustain produces rich sound and thick tone. • Increased high range response and decay produces a sharper tone and simultaneously controls dissonance. Relative Level [dB] A.R.E technology uses precision controlled humidity and temperature to manipulate the molecular properties of the wood into a more acoustically ideal condition (similar to the molecular characteristics of woods in instruments that have been played for years). The process is chemical free making it an environmentally friendly process as well. 40 −40 −60 60 −120 0 80 100 0.1 0.2 120 0.3 140 Volume increases as the color changes to red, and decreases as the color changes to blue. Time [s] 0 10 5 Frequency [kHz] Enhanced low (mid) range sustain, increased power 15 140 Increased high range decay AKIHIRO TANAKA Interview Born in January 2, 1986 in Kyoto Japan. Based in ancient city of Kyoto, Akihiro Tanaka is working to expand his activities as a live solo artist both in Japan and around the world. This up-andcoming guitarist has gained attention for his emotional instrumental pieces. Participating in a wide variety of competitions, many of which he has won, he acclaimed not just for his technique, but for tones and songs that stimulate the mind of the listener, and for vivid, fun performances. Tanaka’s first album was released in April of 2008. BSM Vol.03 2008 11 Acoustic Guitar Akihiro Tanaka Interview Introduction to Song Names 1. Harukaze Strokes s n o i t i s o p om C Harukaze Strokes is an eight-beat strummed song. The word "harukaze" is Japanese and means "spring wind". I wrote it to try to capture the feeling of the cool, refreshing wind that blows here in spring. In terms of playing, you should look out for the tap harmonics produced by tapping frets with the right hand. Beautiful harmonics can be produced by tapping the 12th and 19th frets in this way. 2. Juke Box Q: When did you start playing the guitar? Q: What type of player would you recommend the L Series to? When I was thirteen. I always liked music, even from when I was a kid, but I had focused on playing the piano. As soon as I heard the Japanese rock band B'z, though, I totally immersed myself in the electric guitar. I remember that at that time I couldn't wait to become a skilled player like Tak Matsumoto of B'z, so I used to practice for several hours every day. I used to mimic his playing style, and I even copied his stance (laughs). I play an LS36, and I have a funny feeling that I will have it close at hand even when I get old. The L Series doesn't limit itself to any particular type of playing style. I would recommend it to anyone – from the first-time player to the professional guitarist who wants to choose an instrument for a lifetime of use. Q: What is the difference between A.R.E and older L Series guitars when played? Q: What made you switch to your current style of playing? I think the difference is very noticeable when the two types are played and compared. First of all, the A.R.E L Series guitar is louder, and both attack and response are fast. While I was playing electric guitar in a rock band, I found myself drawn into instrumental music where the guitar, and not the vocals, featured most prominently. I wanted to try that type of music with my band, but as we already had a singer, I couldn't really ask the other members to play songs without any vocals. Around that time, I became aware of solo acoustic guitar as a style of playing through watching TV shows. In particular, it was a solo guitarist named Kotaro Oshio who grabbed my attention. Although playing alone, he sounded as if he was performing all the parts of the rock band together – drums, bass, guitar. I knew that I wanted to master that style of playing, and I started to look and learn. Q: Do you use a pick? If so, what kind? 3. Fairy Tale Q: What gauge do you use? Normally, I don't use one, although I may when performing with a band. I tend to use a drop-shaped, imitation-tortoiseshell Yamaha pick – it's shaped a bit like a mandolin pick. They're probably not even being made anymore, but I really like them. Whenever I spot them at music stores, I buy a lot. The pick itself is hard (.040). Recently, I've become interested in thumb picks and started practicing with them. I still have a very long way to go, though… Also, I've heard good things about a thumb pick called the Pro Pick, and that's what I've been using. Q: What is the key to fingerstyle? What do you need to be careful of? I think that the true charm of fingerstyle guitar is realized when performing with the three parts – that is, bass, rhythm, and melody – firmly in mind. The performer must conjure up an image not of a single guitarist, but of multiple, individual members of a band. And in contrast to flatpicking, fingerstyle provides many more ways to delicately control the sound. Each one of the six strings sounds different when played using a nail and using a finger tip, so it's important to blend these to suit the song being performed. Q: What do you consider important in terms of performing? Q: What do you do to keep your nails in good shape? Performances that somehow excite people just by listening to the music – that's what I'm striving for. So, I need to be constantly excited by my own performance. When playing an instrument, it goes without saying that you should sound well and make no mistakes, but good performances require quite a bit more. Q: What led you to start playing the L Series? It started with meeting Hiroshi Sakurai – the designer of the L Series – when I was 18. He had never heard me play before, and was very impressed when he did. On my part, I really loved the LL36 that I played on that occasion. Since then, I have been regularly requested to perform by Yamaha. Actually, when I think back, Mr. Sakurai was simply visiting a music store in my home town as part of a guitar promotion fair, and if it wasn't for that chance meeting, I wouldn't be where I am today. The sound seems to be emanated from every single part of the guitar. Harsh, unpleasant sounds are gone from the high-frequency range, while lowfrequency sounds are solid and firmly rooted. You can practically feel the guitar resonate right into your body, so even though listeners can appreciate the great sound, I think it is the player himself or herself who will be able to recognize and enjoy the difference. That's it in a nutshell – these guitars just feel great to play. Like the feeling you get when you meet a soul mate for the first time (laughs). I reckon it's very easy to become great friends with this guitar. Q: What do you like about the L Series in terms of actual playing? First of all, I really like the way it looks – it has a certain aura. And the neck and body seem to perfectly my body shape. More than anything else, L Series guitars are easy to play, and I really like how the sound is balanced. The A.R.T pickups are also amazing. And I recently realized with some surprise that my L Series guitars have rarely had problems like a warped neck or body. With acoustic guitars, the wood can easily loose its shape as a result of humidity or other environmental factors, so anytime I have to be careful. But I don't need to worry about this with the L Series, though. BSM Vol.03 2008 A light gauge (012 to 054). I wrote Juke Box trying to recreate the sound of 70s or 80s disco. In this song, a single acoustic guitar seems to produce the sound of the bass, the drums, and the electric guitar! It's almost as if three guitars are playing together. It's definitely a song worth practicing. It's definitely the hardest song on the CD, but because it sounds so cool, I'd really recommend giving it a go. 12 Acoustic Guitar 1. Harukaze Strokes The key to this tune is to aim for the eight-beat sound of a complete band. So, instead of focusing on guitar alone, we also need to be aware of bass and drums. Full strumming and bridge mutes can also be used to add some variation to the performance dynamics. But the tap harmonics that appear for the first time in the seventh bar are the highlight (Ex 1 and 2). In this bar, the middle finger or index finger of the right hand is used to produce harmonics by tapping quickly on the 12th fret (T.Harm.12) or the 19th fret (T.Harm.19). In this, the key point to getting beautiful harmonics by tapping is to flick your wrist as if playing a percussion instrument. 2. Juke Box In this funky little number, we recreate the 16-beat sound of a full band with drums, bass, and guitar. To start, play the simple bass part alone (blue line from Ex 3), then add the distinctive funky rhythm sound (orange line from Ex 3), and after that, practice also playing the melody (green line from Ex 4). All this time, you need to keep playing 16-beat. Tap harmonics also make an appearance in this song (red line from Ex 4). Be sure to fully kill the sound during rests, adding some variation to produce a cool overall sound. 3. Fairy Tale Just taking a relaxed, gentle approach is enough to master 90% of this song (laughs). Beyond that, you'll need to make the melody, bass, and ornamentation clearly distinguishable from each other. It is also important to bear in mind how the melody flows by singing in your head. And if you can recreate the beautiful lingering sound that is so distinctive of Celtic tuning, your overall performance will benefit greatly Asian Beat web page. mentioned here on the been made available. You can find the songs self, sheet music has also him aka Tan hiro Aki ng turi fea files In addition to sound these songs. useful as you work with We hope they will prove ge: ase visit the following pa For more information, ple co.jp http://asianbeat.yamaha. EX-1 Track 02 harukaze strokes I strengthen my natural nails with artificial nail material usually used for nail art. To do this, I mix an acrylic powder into a special adhesive, apply this using a brush to my nails, which have been given an undercoat, and then shape the material once it hardens. I use three or four different types of special nail file, starting with the roughest and then getting smoother as the shape gets closer to what I need. The last file gives the nail a shiny finish. Once this material has been applied, it generally never comes off by itself. Still, natural nails grow and change shape as a result of performing. So, I use the nail files or apply more material to make the required fixes. EX-2 EX-3 Track 04 JUKE BOX Q: How do your L Series guitars differ from standard over-the-counter models in terms of specifications, etc.? There is no real difference. That said though, I've had the output from the A.R.T pickups adjusted in order to prevent the sound from getting too "picky" when palm muting rapidly and had the action lowered to make the guitar easier to play. My LLX26C, which subs for the LSX36, also has a cutaway to make it easier to play the higher notes. And both guitars have been fitted with strap pins. I wrote this song using Celtic tuning (DADGAD), which is often used for guitar music in Ireland and in the north of Europe. Not only does it sound beautiful, but this tuning has added appeal in that it makes holding chords very easy for anyone. Specifically, the six strings are tuned to D, A, D, G, A, D from low to high. That's not too hard to remember, right? Description of Akihiro Tanaka’s Playing Technique EX-4 Official Website http://www.tanakaakihiro.com/ BSM Vol.03 2008 13 Acoustic Guitar Interview with Electronic Drums DTXTREME III BSM Vol.03 – When did you start playing drums? NEW Live DTXTREME III brings the power, superior tone, and sensitivity of our most popular acoustic drums to your fingertips for any live musical situation. Recording We combined superior sounds, sampling capability, and flexible connectivity into an easy to navigate interface to give drummers the ultimate tool for creating music in the studio. Practice DTXTREME III makes practice fun and productive by giving you features that help you learn any style, and allow you to track the accuracy of your playing. – Zak Bond ("Z" below): When I was nine or ten. My brother-in-law is actually a drummer. He had this huge drumset. So I saw it and I was like, "Wow! Can I try?" I tried it one time and that was it. I started going to his house everyday. Every day! (laughs) – When did you first think that you wanted to be a professional drummer? Special Set – Z: Everything really. I was raised in everything. I started out working in theatre production companies, so I learned orchestra - orchestral music, symphony stuff - and then I moved into big band jazz and small combo jazz. I also always had a funk/rock group when I was in high school. We won talent shows Born in New Jersey , USA. Zak began pla and that sort of thing. But it wasn't until I ying drumset and orc in 1989 and was aw hestral percussion arded Top National was a little bit older, after high school, that Jazz Soloist (drum set) in 1994. He started his career I started getting deep into fusion and all in Japan from 2003 and established his that. I keep an open mind about Genres. I entertainment group cal percussion led "Groove Sonic" in 2005. He maintains career performing, love listening to all music. composing, record an active ing and teaching aro und Tokyo Bay are – What do you think of the sounds of a. DTXTREMEIII compared to acoustic drums? sampling and programming in my home studio. So if I hear something interesting, I try to – Z: I don't think there is much of a difference. And it's go and get a good sample of it and dump it to USB. I easier with the E-Drums, because I can tune or add have a decent sound library now thanks to that. I'm effects the way I like, and that's a big advantage for me. putting the powerful sampling function If I don't like my snare drum today, I don't have to carry to use for my sessions. three snare drums, I can just change the channel! * The wiring of the drumkit shown in the photo has been omitted. * The set does not include footpedals. DTXT3 (Trigger Module) HXR4LD (Rack System) PCY135 (3Zone Cymbal Pad) x 2 PCY155 (3Zone Cymbal Pad) x 1 RHH135 (2Zone Hi-Hat Pad) x 1 KP125 (Kick Pad) x 1 CH750 x 2 DTT3KSP2 (Pad Set) includes: TP120SD (3Zone Pad) x 1 TP100 (3Zone Pad) x 4 CH755 HS740A – Do you use DTXTREMEIII for recording? Standard Set The Standard configuration is a more compact version of DTXTREME III. By sharing the same module, it retains all of the features but has a smaller footprint for when space is at a premium. – Z: Now, from my house, I just use the DTXT3. I just record through my computer and email it away and I'm done. People don't know that it's electronics. They have no idea. They think it's an acoustic drum set micd up in a studio. Artists * The wiring of the drumkit shown in the photo has been omitted. * The set does not include footpedals. – What's your favorite function of DTXTREMEIII? Akira Jimbo Dave Weckl DTXT3 (Trigger Module) RS130 (Rack System) DTT3KSTD1 (Pad Set) includes: PCY135 (3Zone Cymbal Pad) x 1 PCY155 (3Zone Cymbal Pad) x 1 RHH135 (2Zone Hi-Hat Pad) x 1 KP125 (Kick Pad) x 1 CH750 x 1 SS662 DTT3KSTD2 (Pad Set) includes: TP120SD (3Zone Pad) x 1 TP100 (3Zone Pad) x 3 CH755 HS650A BSM Vol.03 2008 14 – Who would you recommend DTXTREMEIII to? – What style of music do you usually play? The Special configuration combines the innovative hex rack, four toms, snare, three cymbals, hi-hat, and kick. The cymbal, hi-hat, and kick pads have been refined to such a high degree that they feel even more realistic. The pads bring out the maximum capability of the module while the HEXRACK delivers solid support. It’s a dramatic enhancement of functionality that’ ll create serious grooves and help players express themselves with more range than ever before. DTT3KSP1 (Pad Set) includes: my sampled sounds. So, I can do anything an acoustic drum set can do, but I can do a lot more, and people don't expect that. They think this is going to be a typical drum sound, but I'll program it to say a sound like "Wow" or something, and people don't expect that. – Z: When I was eleven I thought, "I want to be a musician." So I told my parents, and that was it. I've been a musician one way or another my whole life. I did my first gig when I was fifteen. I was in an orchestra pit playing Timpani, Glock, and Percussion. That sort of thing. I just wanted to be a pro drummer. Electronic Drum John Robinson Russ Miller Tommy Aldridge ely a pro drummer is to fre The essence of being with the music, e tim in xes fle t tha articulate the sound III sts and feet. DTXTREME beat by beat at the wri finest players ’s rld wo the of ion nat drumkit is the culmi Get it. expressive capability. and their pursuit of new drummer gods! Seize the power of the – Z: My favorite function is definitely sampling. I enjoy – What is the difference between the feel of leather and rubber skins? – Z: For me, I like to practice for long periods of time. Six to eight hours on a non-show day, three to four on gig days. So the rubber feels good when practicing and playing out. If I play acoustic drums for six hours, my muscles feel fatigued. But after six hours on the DTXT3, I still feel fresh. I can play longer because there is great rebound. It's not a real drum feel - I think it's a little different because there's more natural rebound, which actually helped me understand even more about not choking off the end of my stroke! So I can play easier, faster, and more relaxed for a longer period of time. – I heard you sometimes played DTXTREMEIII on your live show. How does the audience react? – Z: People love it. Every time I use this live, people come to me and say, "Wow! It's amazing. The mix was great!" They love the sound out into the PA, and they say that it's really cool that I don't use just typical drum sounds. Many times I incorporate electronic sounds or – Z: My young nephew, Justin, back in the States wants one. He's in High School now. He saw my video and he said he wants it! He enjoys drumming just as much as I do. It just looks really cool and the sound is so natural that I'd recommend it to anybody. Even people who aren't drummers because they could program melodies or samples. They could even learn how to play drums with it. I think it's important for musicians to learn how to play other instruments. It can open you up to a different perspective. – Could you give us some technical advice for beginners? – Z: I think the best technical advice is "Play slow with a click". Play with a mirror. And, watch your favorite drummers. Know who your idol is and study - study their sound, study their motion, how they move around. I think most important is the sound, though. If the grip/technique you're using is not comfortable or produces a bad sound, then that's not good for you. You need the best sound - your personal sound. So, having an idol is good, but it's just as important to focus on yourself. Look inside, how do you want to move, how do you want to play? Find YOUR voice. I try to be a very proficient technician. I like technique and I take pride in honing my craft daily. I think it takes just lots of smart and dedicated practice. We can all improve. – Please give a message to young drummers. – Z: I love younger players. I think it's important to keep going forward, to always focus on something and to try to take it up a notch. Try to push music, as a whole, to the next level so we can all benefit and enjoy it more. I look forward to meeting the younger guys out there. All you younger guys coming up are going to be ten times better than me and everybody else around. So work hard, keep practicing, and enjoy. Have some fun! I think if you're not having fun, then take a step back. Enjoy the music you create, and share your gift with the world. Acoustic Drums BSM Vol.03 Magi/rif Tour Custom I N T E R V Maple Shell and Rounder Bearing Edge Deliver Rich Tone with Just the Right Amount of Sustain – When choosing instruments, what is the most important point? Magi : Sound, of course. And it also has to be simple and comfortable to use. Sakura White – Why did you start playing drums? TC2F4 Magi : I started to play drums when I was 14 years old. At that time, I saw Tommy Lee on a video. He played so powerful and did a great performance. He played a simple beat, but it sounded very different and special. I never saw and heard any other drummers play like him. He made himself to be an icon of Mötley Crüe. He's my biggest influence! ■ Hardware HS740A SS840 CS845x3 CL945LB DS840 FP8215 ■ Shells TBD822U TFT816 TTT812U TSD0846 *Cymbals are not included. I like rock music so much and I realized that a drummer is a heartbeat of the rhythm. Though a drummer usually sits behind other players, but if you play it with a good beat and do a good performance, believe me, the audience will see you as a phenomenal drummer. All Shells 100% Maple* All maple shells give the Tour Custom drums its warm, bright tone. Shells are designed with a 60-degree R2 bearing edge that adds the tonal depth found in vintage drums and just the right amount of sustain. Finished with a high gloss lacquer (all new colors) maximizes the sonic potential of the maple shell creating drums that sound and play great in any musical style. – Tell us a brief story of how you became a Yamaha artist. Magi : Yamaha is a big company. Everyone knows that Yamaha produces good music instruments. And when Yamaha called me to join them to be a Yamaha artist. I was very surprised and excited! When I visited Yamaha Music Indonesia, they warmly welcomed me. * Bass drum hoops are made of Maple and Philippine Mahogany COLOR FINISHES Black Onyx (BKO) Then I tried the Yamaha Tour Custom, played the soft through the hard beat, and WOW! It really had an awesome sound! I was telling my self, “This is what I need!!”. Ocean Blue (OCB) – What are your configurations of Tour custom? Sakura White (SAW) Brown Sunburst (BRS) Magi : I'm using 22 inch Kick, 14 inch Snare and 12, 14, 16 inch Toms. Tour Custom Air-Seal System Hoop Lug Lug Nut Universal Size (BD) Triple Flange Hoop All Maple (Steel 1.6mm) Separate Lug 7-ply(BD) (TT/FT) 6-Ply(PT/TT) Wood Hoop(BD) Shell TT FT Recommended H/W Set Configuration [Y.E.S.S.] Bass Drum BD (20"-26") Bass Drum Legs (Front) (Batter) Remo UK Ebony Power Stroke 3 type TT/FT (Top) TC2FS51 TC2FS5 TC2FS52 TC2F41 TC2F4 TC2F42 TC2T51 TC2T5 TC2T52 TT/FT All Round Tom (Batter) Ball Clamp Holder Remo UK Remo UK Remo UK Clear Power Ambassador Ambassador Short Rod Clear Clear Stroke 3 type Triple Hole TBD822U TTT812U TBD822U TTT812U TBD822U TTT810U Tour Custom Standard Size Universal Size Power Size xDepth Model No. xDepth Model No. xDepth Model No. TFT816 TTT810U TH945B TSD0846 TFT816 CL945LB TSD0846 TTT812U TSD0846 CL945LB TTT814 TH945B HW870 HW870 HW870 CSAT924A – Please describe the sounds of Tour Custom. Magi : Yamaha Tour Custom has a good sound and sustain. It's an easy tuning drum set. You can find a good sound, no matter you play high or low tunes. – Who do you recommend Tour Custom to? SPECIFICATIONS Components Diameter Bass Drums 26" Mounted Toms 24" 22" 20" - - - - - x17" TBD824U x17" TBD822U x17" TBD820U x15" TBD818U - - - - - - x14" TTT816 12" 10" 8" 18" 16" 15" 14" 13" - - - x7" TTT808J - - - - - - - x10" TTT813U x9" TTT812U x8" TTT810U - - - - - - - x12" TTT814 - - - - x16" TFT818 x16" TFT816 - x14" TFT814 - 16" 15" - - - BSM Vol.03 2008 16 Floor Toms - 18" 14" 13" Acoustic Drum I E W RIF is a famous rock band in Indonesia, and many fans be loving them. In every performance they can attract thousands of youngsters, not only because of their good costume and performance, but also because they are very “rock”. Their most successful album is “RAJA” which means “King”. where they dreamt as if they were Kings. They feel when they were Kings, their live would be very fortunate, all of their wish would be come true, get people’s admiration or maybe even fear. Wow… Magi : Every drummer who wants to get a good sound quality, especially for recording and live performance. For a beginner who wants to be pro, I recommend this Yamaha Tour Custom for their equipment. – Is there any favorite genre of music you perform? Magi : Hard rock and electronic rock. VIVE LE ROCK!! – Tell us about your latest activity and future schedule. Magi : In March 2008, I did a tour custom drum clinic with Patty Balinas. It was so much fun! Patty played jazz, fusion, pops, latin and I played rock. there were so much differences, between me and Patty, especially in style. We were using the same instrument although we played different style. That's also the answer for the previous question, how Yamaha Tour Custom can provide every drummer's needs. Now, I'm still working for my band's (RIF) 6th album and this is the first time I'm using Yamaha Tour Custom drum set on recording. And it sounds so rock!!! – One thing you care for the daily practice. Magi : Actually, I don't have any certain daily practice with my drum set, but I always bring my drum sticks and practice pad, in case I have spare time to do some practice for my arm and my wrist. And I like to play soccer. It helps to strengthen my feet. – Please give advice to young musicians who want to be like you. Magi : There's a lot of good drummers in the world. Each of them comes up with good skills. You can learn any kinds of skills you want, and it's important … but the most important thing is how to feel music with your mind, body and soul. Just feel the beat and the rhythm flow to your body, then you can feel the harmony. Try something new!! All of RIF members are using Yamaha instruments; MAGI (drums) Yamaha Tour Custom. Teddy (bass) RBX4A2. Ovy (guitar) RGXTT, RGXA2 and APX9. Andy (vocal) Yamaha Silent Guitar SLG100S&N. BSM Vol.03 2008 17 Acoustic Drum BSM Vol.03 Computer Based Music Production KX Series / AUDIOGRAM Series Providing not only a keyboard and MIDI controllers, Yamaha's KX Series USB Keyboard Studios also include Cubase AI4 – a DAW software product from the Cubase range much loved by musicians and engineers all over the world. And as Cubase AI4 bundles HALion One which is a VST instrument offering stunning sound quality, a single KX Series USB Keyboard Studio has all the tools you'll need for advanced song creation. (fig.1) NEW ❙ Songs easily created using the advanced Phrase Factory arpeggiator ❙ Bundled with Cubase AI4 ❙ Adjustable velocity curves enhance playing of a wealth of sounds ❙ Increased productivity through high-level integration with DAW products ❙ Can be powered via USB KX25 NEW NEW In addition to support for standard MIDI input, each KX Series model also features a Phrase Factory that can be used to automatically create phrases and patterns in response to your playing. This advanced arpeggiator includes 342 different types of basic phrase covering a broad range of instruments and genres, and when variations are also taken into account, its capabilities for phrase creation are practically limitless. As such, each KX Series serves as a highly versatile tool forcomposing and arranging songs. And it goes without saying that these phrases can also be input into your DAW for speedy construction of backing tracks and the like. (fig.2) The Cubase AI4 "transport panel" and that of many other DAW softwares can be controlled directly from the KX Series, and in addition to this, assignable encoder knobs provided on the keyboard can be used instead of a mouse to control multiple VST instrument and effect parameters. As a result, you can work and play much more efficiently and expressively. And although encoder knob settings can be made directly via the keyboard, highly-detailed assignment settings can also be made via a computer running KX Editor – a free utility available for download from the Yamaha website. (fig.3) fig.1 High-performance mic preamps built into the audio interface can deliver the phantom power required by condenser microphones, and with the flick of a switch, the inputs can be setup to receive audio from high-impedance instruments such as guitar and bass. Accordingly, you can easily realize a fully-versatile solution for recording from practically any audio source. The Audiogram6 also features 1-knob Compressors for even better sounding recordings. Extremely easy to use, these compressors will instantly banish the myth that compression is impossible to get right – in fact, a single knob is all that's needed for anyone to add punch to a rhythmic track, to smooth out the peaks for a more stable overall signal level, and to adjust dynamics in many other ways. fig.2 KX61 ❙ Bundled with Cubase AI4 ❙ One-knob compression makes it easy to achieve a smooth, balanced sound (Audiogram6) AUDIOGRAM 6 The Audiogram interface connects to your computer via a USB cable and requires no installation of drivers. For more advanced exchange of audio data, furthermore, support is also provided for special ASIO drivers. fig.3 Using the HALion One VST instrument included with Cubase AI4 together with MIDI data input from the Phrase Factory arpeggiator built into KX Series keyboards, you can easily create convincing drums, bass, keyboards, and many other types of backing track. "Live" parts can then be conveniently recorded via the Audiogram audio interface. In addition to the high-quality recording of vocals and acoustic instruments made possible by condenser microphones, electric rhythm and lead guitars can also be directly connected for recording. HS50M Computer Based Music Production ❙ High-performance mic preamps for direct connection with instruments such as guitar and bass fig.4 Song writing and Solo production KX8 18 ❙ Easy setup via USB Thanks to its advanced audio engine, Cubase AI4 can be used to easily produce high-quality recordings. The sound of recorded audio can be optimized to a high level of precision with built-in VST effects, and waveform editing functions provide for convenient adjustment and editing of recordings. (fig.4) Using a single USB cable, you can connect your KX Series keyboard and computer quickly and easily. What's more, as the keyboard incorporates a pair of MIDI IN and OUT connectors, each KX Series USB Keyboard Studio can also be used as a MIDI interface, playing the role of central device in a home music-production setup. KX49 BSM Vol.03 2008 Easily setup by connecting to your computer via USB, each Audiogram Series Computer Recording System makes recording an immediate and pleasurable experience. Utilizing the bundled Cubase AI4 software package, the Audiogram system can be put to use straight out of the box to make high-quality recordings, to efficiently edit audio, and to perform a wide range of other advanced audio-related operations. MIC Electric Acoustic Guitar AUDIOGRAM 3 USB Computer (with Cubase AI4) USB KX25 AUDIOGRAM6 BSM Vol.03 2008 19 Computer Based Music Production BSM Vol.03 Pocket Recorder Portable PA System STAGEPAS 250M / 150M POCKETRAK 2G BSM Vol.03 Portable PA System 1.7 oz (49 grams): lightweight and pocket size. Long-lasting rechargeable battery included (19 hours consecutive MP3 recording). CUBASE AI software included. 2 GB memory: 3 hours PCM recording with tilt-up stereo microphone. Built-in speaker. Direct USB 2.0 computer connection. NEW Lightweight, compact mobile recorder capable of high-quality recording using built-in microphones ❙ Extremely portable at only 49 grams, including the battery ❙ 2 GB of built-in memory for extra high-quality or extra long recordings ❙ Integrated stereo microphone can be tilted-up for better positioning ❙ Direct computer connection using an integrated USB connector ❙ Built-in speaker for convenient reviewing of recorded audio ❙ Variable replay speed ❙ Comes bundled with the DAW software package Cubase AI4 ❙ Supports MP3, Wav, WMA, DRM10, and many other replay formats The POCKETRAK 2G is a portable audio recorder featuring integrated stereo microphones and 2 GB of memory built-in. Extremely mobile at only 49 grams, it is an ideal solution for band rehearsals, song-writing sessions, full-on recording, and a host of other similar environments. Recorded audio data can be easily transferred to your computer via the USB connecter integrated into the POCKETRAK unit. What's more, the bundled DAW software package Cubase AI can then be used to directly edit sound files in order to remove unwanted portions, to optimize thevolume,andtoperform a comprehensive array of other advanced tasks. The built-in stereo microphones are not only highly sensitive but can also be tilted up to the best position for the sound source being recorded. And with an additional audio-input connector also provided, you can connect your favorite microphone to get just the sound you want. Furthermore, the POCKETRAK 2G also supports recording of line-level stereo inputs. A single AAA battery is all that's needed to power the recorder, and the eneloop battery that comes with the POCKETRAK can even be charged from your computer via the USB connector. ❙ Versatile 8-channel (150M) or 10-channel (250M) powered mixer for wide-ranging audio sources ❙ Detachable mixer unit with ultra lightweight design for extreme portability ❙ Built-in EQ and reverb provide added support for high-grade mixes ❙ Phantom power supply for condenser mics, compression, and limiting all built-in (250M) ❙ Optional BMS10A adaptors can be used to mount the mixer on a microphone stand for added convenience ❙ Connect an extra powered speaker via STEREO LINK OUT to realize a full-fledged PA system The STAGEPAS Series provides a pair of compact PA systems featuring a mono speaker and a powered mixer that can be mounted on the back of the speaker or detached as the situation demands. Specifically, the STAGEPAS 150M delivers 150 W of output at a weight of 9.6 kg, while the STAGEPAS 250M delivers 250 W at a best-in-class weight of only 13 kg. Thanks to the portability and ease-of-setup that this affords, the STAGEPAS systems are the perfect PA solution for street performances, music classrooms, and practice studios. With two input channels for microphones, two-band EQ, and digital reverb all built into the mixer unit, the STAGEPAS 150M/250M can be used without the need for any external effects to adjust the sound of vocals, add reverberation, and balance the mix in a host of different ways. In addition, the 250M features phantom power for condenser microphones, which in combination with this model's built-in compression and limiting functions, further expands the versatility of the system. Versatile 10-channel and 250M-watt Class D Powered Mixer As part of a larger PA system, the STAGEPAS 150M/250M can be put to use as a convenient monitoring sub-system. Players of more than one keyboard or other instrument can, for example, use the STAGEPAS mixer to mix all instrument outputs, output their mix to the main mixer via ST SUB OUT, and use the STAGEPAS speaker for monitoring purposes. Click assign switches are also included, and these can be used to independently route a metronome or drummachine monitor output in cases where the performance must be synchronized with external instruments. Furthermore, the mixer unit can be conveniently mounted on a microphone stand using an optional adaptor for easy access to controls during performances. The STEREO LINK OUT can be used to expand the system in many ways, such as adding an MSR-series powered speaker (sold separately) for monitoring in stereo or setting up a full-fledged PA system. Furthermore, the system's speaker can be oriented in the normal upright position, placed inclined-upwards on its side, or mounted on a speaker stand in order to best suit the performance environment. Flexible 8-channel and 150M-watt Class D Powered Mixer In terms of recording format, audio can be saved as CD-quality Wave files (.wav) or as one of four different types of MP3. Up to 284 hours of recording is possible in LP Mono mode, providing excellent support for meetings, events, and other environments where extended recording is required. In Manual mode, the recording level can be freely adjusted to one of 31 different settings; alternatively, the Automatic Level Control (ALC) function can be used to automatically set the best recording volume for the target sound source. Actual size BSM Vol.03 2008 20 Pocket Recorder BSM Vol.03 2008 21 Portable PA System Asian Beat Grand Prix BAND INTERVIEW Iron Banana How do you feel to be the champion of Asian Beat? Michael: This means we have realized one of our dreams. We still have more objectives to be achieved in the future. We will accomplish them step-by-step. J.Black: To win the Championship of Asian Beat is the realization of our first dream, but it is by no means the last one. Music will always be our love. We will maintain the spirit of creativity, and hope that there will be more performance opportunities. Calvin: Yamaha Asian Beat has a long history, and it is also a big indexical event. We were looking forward to standing on this stage for a long time, and we were fully confident that we would be able to give a good performance. Of course, we are really happy to be the winner of Asian Beat. Kenny: We appreciate that Yamaha has provided such a stage for all the musicians who love the Band performances. We’re very moved. Brian: We really have good luck. In fact, each band participating in the Beat is very strong, but as a result of our focus, constant effort and practice before the Beat, we were able to win the competition. – When did Iron Banana start as a band? Calvin: Iron Banana was formed in April 2007, Hard Rock is our music style; what’s more, we often weld other different styles of music elements into our music. – Why did you choose such a name? Calvin: It is because we all know that Taiwan's bananas are the finest in the world, and we hope we can become a world-famous band in Taiwan some day. We strive to create good music, and “Iron” represents our strong will that cannot be defeated. In our music, you can find out that the "Rock" is our attitude to life. – How do you compose the songs? Calvin: The title of the song created for the Asian Beat is "Get Burn", which is a story describing a man who deeply indulged in a quagmire of desire without consciousness and lost himself in the end. In this song, the beginning is just a few fragments of chords; the song came into being after our brain storming. – Please tell us your goals? Michael: At present, the biggest hope is to release an album and win the Golden Melody Awards. Kenny: Replace MAY DAY… Ha!! Brain: Continue to play rock!! Calvin: Participate in the Monster of Rock, Rock-am-Ring, Download, Ozzy Festival…, and other famous international music events. J: Launch a concert on a large scale. Vocalist : Michael Likk Lead Guitarist : J.Black Guitarist2 : Calvin.C (leader) Bassist : Kenny Chen Drummer : Brian Cole Asian Beat Grand Final NATHAN EAST – INTERVIEW – PATTI BALLINAS – INTERVIEW – The Yamaha Taiwan branch was honored to serve as the host country's role in the planning of the entire trip of the Asian Beat. Bands from Singapore, Malaysia, the Philippines, Indonesia, India, Hong Kong, Mongolia and Taiwan appeared in the 10th Asian Beat and shared their music in this great event. – What was your impression on the “Asian Beat”? – What was your impression on the band competition event “Asian Beat”? Yamaha’s head office in Japan invited the Jazz master world-class superstar bassist, Nathan East and Spanish drummer Patti Ballinas to perform prior to the March 9th Asian Beat and serve as judges for the event. – As a judge of the “Asian Beat”, how did you see the participants of the “Asian Beat”? On March 9, the day of the Asian Beat, the audience was allowed to enter the venue at 15:30, and in less than an hour it was crowded with about 800 people, proof of the enthusiasm and support of the Asian Beat from the young friends. The Beat started with the ensemble of Nathan and Patti, whose superb performances immediately excited the entire audience. In addition to Nathan and Patti, the organizers also arranged for the Mexican band, Ataraxia, the Japanese Band, Sooners, and Wang Hongen, a singer from Taiwan to play live, so that the audience could witness the charisma of the musicians. The well-known music producer, Mr. Wang Zhiping, Mr. Huang Zhongyue and Ms. Huang Yunling were also invited to serve as judges for the great event together with Nathan and Patti. Sliver, the band from India mixed with a variety of musical elements, was the first band that stirred audience with their rock'n'roll. They were followed by Saywhale, a Singapore Band, and the audience was caught up in the vocalist’s gentle and tender voice. Shy Kick Apple, a Band from Taiwan, presented the audience with a very special performance of an interesting combination of flutes and little trumpets. The fourth band was Bulsara from Mongolia. The members with different personalities showed their charm with rock’n’roll. Followed by that was NACLS, a band from the Philippines, with their touching song “See You Tomorrow.” Next was Iron Banana, a Taiwanese band. The unbelievable vocalist was given high praise by the judges and won a warm applause from the audience. Both Detik from Indonesia and AISUNAM from Malaysia also ignited the audience's feelings and imaginations by using the elements of rock music. The last band was Empty Tomb from Hong Kong, which presented the rock lyric song “Everything.” The 10th Asia Beat concluded successfully with the performances by Ataraxia, Sooners, and Wang Hongen. The champion winner of this Asian Beat was the Taiwanese band Iron Banana, who received great acclaim from the audience. Hong Kong's Empty Tomb ranked second and third was AISUNAM from Malaysia. I think the Asian Beat is a great idea to get the young Asian musicians involved in a competitive endeavor and discover new talent. It is a positive event for the entire community and gives young adults something creative to focus their energies on. I enjoyed the various range of talent associated with the participants. Each group was unique and had a lot to offer. From their music to stage presence and appearance it was all very interesting! – You held clinic after the “Asian Beat”, please tell us impressive story during the tour, if there was any. I was impressed with the attention to detail by the company presenting the clinic. The posters and advertising really helped to promote a good turnout and all the countries I visited did a great job at presenting the clinics. It was enjoyable for me to sample the different foods of each region. The night market in Taipei was a lot of fun and all the representatives were very hospitable! I enjoyed the foot massage .... I think ... OUCH!!! I was very impressed with the Asian Beat finals Competition...it's an amazing event, full of great energy, fantastic bands from all over Asia ... it's a fantastic competition! – As a judge of the “Asian Beat”, how did you see the participants of the “Asian Beat”? I was very honored to be a judge at the competition and the participants were all amazing in their own way. Every band had something very special. – You held clinic after the “Asian Beat” in Indonesia and Singapore, was there any impressive story during the tour? My clinics went so well in Indonesia and Singapore....in one clinic (Surubaya) there were 1000 people approximately! I met a little girl in Jakarta called J.P. who is playing drums and is only 8 years old. She is great!! And I think she will be a future drumming star for Indonesia!! I loved doing clinics in Indonesia and Singapore. The people were wonderful. –When choosing instrument, what is the most important point? For me, the feel and sound are important. Then the look. I think the most important point when choosing drums is that you choose the sound that is suitable for your kind of music. so it's good to try some out before making the decision. It's also very important to think of quality and something that will last you a long time. – Tell us about your latest activities and schedule. – Tell us about your latest activities and future schedule. Fourplay will release a new CD titled "ENERGY" on September 23, 2008 on our new label Heads Up International. I will be performing at the Montreux Jazz Festival in Switzerland on July 14, 2008 for Quincy Jones 75th Birthday celebration concert. My latest activities have been playing concerts with different bands in Spain, Russia, and Turkey ... I will also be participating in the three "Yamaha Groove All Stars" events in Mexico in July, August and September of this year. Fourplay will perform at the Tokyo Jazz Festival on August 31, 2008. I think it is important to practice as it's the only way to better your technique and skills on the drums. It doesn't need many hours a day...just 1 or 2 hours is ok according to your possibilities. – When choosing instrument, what is the most important point? – A thing a bass player needs to care for the daily practice? Listen to your favorite recordings and play along with them. Also, there are many practice exercises available to keep the fingers warmed up. – Please give a piece of advice to young musicians who want to be like you? It takes a lot of consistent hard work and focus to have a strong career in music. So many players want to be successful but you need dedication and persistence and mostly to enjoy what you do so that through the good times or bad, you never stop living and loving it! – One thing you care for the daily practice? The main thing is to also play with other musicians as much as possible. – Please give advice to young musicians who want to be like you? My advice to young musicians is always to try to learn as much as you can from great drummers ... then apply what you have learned to your own style and say what YOU feel on the instrument. And when you play with musicians in a band try to remember you are all a TEAM... so you must play like a team player (listening to the others...and not just to your own playing)... This is very important. The key to becoming a professional drummer is Dedication to your learning process, Musicianship, Love for your instrument...and being a Team player. Note 1: MAY DAY is one of the most famous bands in Taiwan. Note 2: Golden Melody Awards is an annual music event held in Taiwan, which gives the greatest possible recognition for the awards winners among musicians in Taiwan. BSM Vol.03 2008 22 ASIAN BEAT ASIAN BEAT BSM Vol.03 BSM Vol.03 2008 23 ASIAN BEAT The best music in Asia starts here... What is Asian Beat? ASIAN BEAT GRAND FINAL 08-09 in HONG KONG (tentative) "Asian Beat" is one of the biggest amateur band contests held throughout many regions in Asia. It starts out from qualifying rounds in participating countries and regions. Each winner at national or regional finals can proceed onto the Grand Final, where they will perform together on the same stage and compete to be the top of amateur bands in Asia. Yamaha Corporation started this event as "Band Alert" in 1998, renamed to "Asian Beat" in 2001 and marked 10th anniversary last year. In the past years, worldwide famous players were the judges such as Nathan East, Wes Borland, Tommy Aldridge and Billy Sheehan. For further information, you can take a look at the history on the website. The 11th Asian Beat competition will be held from 2008 to 2009. Information on the participating countries/regions and the Grand Final will be updated on the web. Please do not miss a chance to be the next Asian Beat Champion. Best of luck! Qualifications for Entry ❙ Participating bands should consist of 2 to 12 persons with musical instrument performance ❙ Only an original song is acceptable ❙ Performance time can not exceed 6 minutes ❙ Detailed information is announced in the Asian Beat Official Website Comments from JD (POP SHUVIT) Former Participant of Asian Beat The Beginning of POP SHUVIT We formed in December 2000, as a bunch of people who knew each other mutually through other friends. Rudy, AJ and myself, took part in Yamaha Band Alert( ex. Asian Beat) playing in an experimental fusion rock band called Watered Down, and we won 2nd runners up that year. Right after that, we met Moots! Who had an idea of forming a band which fused the elements of hip-hop and rock? DJ Uno was the last member to join the band. Message to participants Amateur is just a state of mind. When you think professional and act professional, you are professional, even though you might still be playing to friends or small crowds. You have to be business-minded as well, because too many musicians overlook the importance of good business management values. Lastly, practice, practice, practice and never stop pushing your personal musical boundaries. ASIAN BEAT 08-09 BSM Vol.03 2008 24 ASIAN BEAT BSM Vol.03 2008 BSM Vol.03 25 ASIAN BEAT Malaysia BEATSPOT in The Curve Grand Opening March, 11th, 2007 The first BEATSPOT My team and I are proud to be part of the 1st BEATSPOT Combo Store in the World. At BEATSPOT, aspiring musicians, customers and visitors are all welcome to try our ready-to-play instruments in a pleasant and "cool" showroom environment. Our goal is to provide excellent & professional customer service that touch the hearts & souls of aspiring musicians. We look forward to referral sales. by Chong Shiew Pei, Shop manager A Warm Welcome to the World of Yamaha Music The first Yamaha BEATSPOT stores are now open and operating in Malaysia and Thailand, with more to come around Asia in the near future. Be sure to drop by and check out our lineup, right up to the finest we offer: guitars, basses, drums, keyboards, recording and live sound gear ... everything you need to make great music! And if you’re a beginner or need to brush up your technique, there’s also the BEATSPOT Music School on site. BEATSPOT (The Curve) THE CURVE Full-line combo products in new showroom. BEATSPOT (SIAM PARAGON) 991 ROOM 457-8 SIAM PARAGON CENTER 4TH FLOOR RAMA 1 RD., PATUMWAN BANGKOK 10330 THAILAND Tel : +66-2129-4305-6 Fax : +66-2129-4504 BEATSPOT is our new showroom that contains full-line combo products focusing on Professional models. Following the concept: Touch the Real Pro, we recommend customers to touch, test and play until they satisfied find their right instruments. We also have professional staff who to give customers information and recommendation. We believe BEATSPOT is the best choice for those who need special music instrument for himself. Malaysia HIGHWAY SPRINT MID VALLEY Lot 216, 216A, 217 & 217A, 2nd Floor, The Curve, No. 6, Jalan PJU 7/3, Mutiara Damansara, 47801 Petaling Jaya. BEATSPOT in Midvalley Megamall Grand Opening August, 5th, 2007 We are located on the 2nd Floor, North Court in one of the busiest shopping mall in Malaysia called the Mid-Valley Megamall. At our store we have a wide range of guitars & basses cater for just about anyone. Amplifiers, synthesizer & drum are all set-up and ready to be play on. Just pick up a guitar or a pair of drum stick and you are ready to play. On occasion our professional staff may even join you for a few songs. BEATSPOT Mid-Valley is the place for all music lovers. Drop by and you might find what you are looking for and also might bump into some of Malaysia top musician. by Peter Leow, Branch Head A combo musical instrument store complete with a range of pro audio gear. BEATSPOT (Fortune Town) 3rd Floor, Fortune Town, Room 81-84, Ratchadapisek Road, Dindeang, Bangkok. 10320 Thailand Tel : +66-2642-1286 Fax : +66-2248-5632 BSM Vol.03 2008 26 BEATSPOT Yamaha is so punctilious in creating high quality product to serve customer's need. Our BEATSPOT @ Fortune town is the first showroom which brings combo musical instruments together in one place. We are highly confident that musicians who are looking for excellent reliable instruments will fulfill their need there. Our store is manned by professional sales personnel, with in depth knowledge in the products. We carry a full range in Yamaha combo product to cater to various needs. Our customers vary from students to young hip crowd, to professional musicians, to pure hobbyists. We are located at the heart of Kuala Lumpur with convenient public transport and ample parking space. Not to mention great food at your finger tips! by C. H. Chang, Staff BEATSPOT (Mid Valley) HIGHWAY THE CURVE SPRINT HIGHWAY SPRINT with our Combo professional products. Every model can be touch and all customer will be serviced by specialist as our showroom concept “Touch The Real Pro” From MD, Mr. Sangchai Maeteatanakul One Big Family at Curve The drummer's name is Kristin Jackson, born on 4 Jan 2000, living in Kajang. She has joined Yamaha Curve Jan '08 as a beginner. She is now learning in Yamaha Curve together with her 3 brothers and father. Her father & 2 brothers on drums, another brother on electric guitar. Tel : +60-3-77253426 Fax : +60-3-77254119 BEATSPOT in Fortune Town Grand Opening June, 1st, 2007 There are many channels offered to our customers when they would like to access to Yamaha products. For example, we provide new information for customers through various kinds of media and expand many kinds of showrooms and service centers, so that customers can access to Yamaha at their convenience and receive good service. One of our means to reach customers is "Yamaha BEATSPOT" with its definition "Be more than a showroom and above a service center" and with its new concept which touches the heart of customers. They can get real experience Puttin myself as a customer, walking into Beatspot showroom is a total new experience and environment for a music shop. The most important thing is – letting the customer/client to 'feel' the 'sound' of Yamaha products. Rock on 'Beatspot'. by Tommy The newest BEATSPOT store with plenty to offer for beginners as well as pros. DAMANSARA Thailand Since the first Yamaha "BEATSPOT" shop are warmly welcome by customers, we opened the second BEATSPOT in the heart of business area of Bangkok, Siam Paragon. The shop still remain in concept of "Touch the Real Pro" Musician can select instruments by testing and getting experience with Yamaha products that concern about quality and customer satisfaction. By the way, Siam Paragon is very popular department store that is located in downtown and always have 150,000 people coming everyday. DAMANSARA BEATSPOT in SIAM PARAGON Grand Opening March, 16th, 2008 CENTRAL KUALA LUMPUR LEBUH PERSEKUTUAN JALAN SYED PUTRA LEBUH RAYA Thailand LEBUH RAYA SPRINT HIGHWAY New Curve Staff I think Beatspot is a wise move as it allows people /musicians to feel Yamaha instruments. By this way, the quality and the sound of Yamaha products are widely spread. Hehehe Yamaha Rocks! by Shah CENTRAL KUALA LUMPUR MID VALLEY LEBUH PERSEKUTUAN JALAN SYED PUTRA Lot S-018 & S-019, 2nd Floor, North Court, Mid Valley The Megamall, Mid Valley City, Lingkaran Syed Putra, 59200 Kuala Lumpur. One of the few music stores in Malaysia where you can just pick up a guitar and get ready to rock and roll!! All of our instruments are in tune and ready to bring you closer to your 'musical bliss'. Come to our store, be a BEATSPOT member and enjoy special discount store wide! by R. M. Faliq, Staff Tel : +60-3-22872682 Fax : +60-3-22872693 BEATSPOT Store BSM Vol.03 BSM Vol.03 2008 27 BEATSPOT