| A Message From Roger Manning ( Jellyfish, Air, Moog Cookbook, Tv Eye) In the meantime I have some very exciting news for all of you who might be interested in sharing another side of my musical personality with me. Much like I felt compelled to explore the very different world of the Moog Cookbook back in the mid-90s while simultaneously working away in the band Imperial Drag, over the past 4 years, along with my solo pop endeavors, I have been exploring and having great fun with the nebulous world of electronic, instrumental, dance, house, DJ stuff, whatever-its-called-this-week music. Using a nickname given to me by Beck during my 6 years of recording and touring with him and his band, MALIBU (read into it what you will), I am happy to announce that my Japanese label Pony Canyon will be releasing the album, "Robo-Sapiens" on April 18th 2007. Needless to say it is very different from most of my vocal-pop offerings you've come to expect from me over the years, however its definitely a crucial part of my musical spirit that has been forcing its way to the surface much to my surprise. I think I have offered up a very fresh and fun take on this often predictable and homogenous style of music. For those interested in peering into another realm of my musical psyche, now is your chance. I am currently seeking labels and distribution for this album in the states and Europe and apologize for whatever the import cost might be on the Japanese release at the moment. The artwork was done by the same Japanese team, Adapter, that did the Solid State Warrior graphics and is once again a mind blowing masterpiece!
The TV Eyes album continues to make waves overseas in Japan. Much to everyone's surprise it has met with even greater praise and excitement than Brian, Jason or I could have hoped. Thanks again to all of the Japanese fans as well as those of you who have managed to pick up a copy abroad. This was a very special and important creative moment for the three of us that unfortunately took great amounts of time. Never thinking at one point that it would actually see the light of day we couldn't be happier about finally being given the chance to share it with you all.
I'm happy to report that random sessions and odd jobs continue to roll in. Most recently having played on several tracks for Swedish singer/songwriter Money Brother with my pals from the Beck days: Justin Meldal-Johnsen, Lyle Workman, and Victor Indrizzo. I also recently contributed keyboards to a wonderful new track by Sugar Ray for an upcoming Disney film. Something about the continuing adventures of those lovable creatures in Antarctica facing global warming. Also keep your eyes and ears open for the latest string of Clairol commercials in which I had the privilege of remixing the disco hit "To Be Real" by Cheryl Lynn.
The most recent and biggest surprise of late was getting a call from Beck recently to help do some "direct to disc" recording. Those invited to help out were, Justin, Jason Falkner and special guests Jamie Lidell and Mocky. Direct to disc recording involves all of the musicians performing simultaneously (no overdubbing) live in a studio environment. The audio signal is then sent to an antiquated machine that literally cuts the signal onto vinyl instantly there on the spot. The objective being and incredibly enhanced recording signal and sound quality not to mention the "live" element of the performance being captured. In other words, no second takes for the musicians. Get it right and get it right now! Needless to say this was a new and exhilarating challenge that we all welcomed. It really forced some interesting spontaneity to emerge from this great ensemble of musicians. No word yet as to how Beck plans on using the material garnered from these dates.
Finally I wanted to reiterate my deep appreciation and thanks to all those who continue to support my creative endeavors by purchasing not only CDs but the various merchandise that I offer on this web site. It completely astonishes me when I receive orders from all over the globe. I am very encouraged by this interaction to work that much harder in hopes of bringing all of you new music on a regular basis that much quicker. Carry on my wayward sons (and daughters)...ROGER
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