The Mellotron Group

Hey Tron people,

I've been a member of this list for years, but I don't post that often. I guess I haven't had much to share until now. I recently produced an EP for a young new band called The Top Boost and I think it turned out pretty good. It's '60s influenced power pop (Beatles, Byrds, Zombies) and there is Mellotron on EVERY song, so I figured some of you might dig it. It's on iTunes, Spotify, Amazon, etc. but you can listen to the whole thing FREE on YouTube here:

Enjoy. Sorry for the shameless plug.

Steve

Hey Steve,

Great work... excellent production and innovative songs. Really dug the "vacuumish, inside-out" reverse synth (?) effect you got for "Turn Around," & of course the Mellotron flutes.  Fabulous!  I hear the influences you suggest, the McGuinn-like 12-string work, along with some Yes-ish feelings, as well, particularly in vocal lines, & Moodies in some of the keyboards & Mellotron.  All good stuff, great playing, & you did a brilliant job in production.  Look forward to more!

Cheers,

Berington

 

Berington,

Thank you for the kind words.  I'm glad you liked it.  In case you're curious, the "vacuumish, inside-out" sound on "Turn Around" was actually white noise from a minimoog.  The filter was set to sound sufficiently weird, then run through a Small Stone phase shifter.  I never thought about the Yes influence, but the singer is a huge Yes fan, so it makes sense.

Bernie,

Hey Steve,

Thanks for your description! Definitely picked up on the Mini, throughout the recordings. I still use it myself (& a MemoryMoog, originally billed as "6 MiniMoogs in one!") & there's nothing else like 'em! Not many synths even offer white or pink noise anymore... I've had players wonder WHAT I'm talking about, if they're only used to newer "pre-set" or just software synths. Still nothing like the venerable Model D - which by the way, Moog is re-introducing! YAY! I figured it must've had something to do with the big "whoosh," with phasing and all... but it's a great sound you created... perfect for that spot!  I am curious, in the first song on the EP, what Mellotron sound(s) did you use, just some high strings? Kinda hard to hear.

I'm sorry to read about your fourth member. The very fact that they kinda said, "You don't wanna know," MAKES you wanna know! Sounds like quite a tragedy, though. Never good to lose someone, and worse yet for being so young and having so much more to offer. My respects to all involved.

Thanks again for your great work, Steve, (and all), & your reply.

Cheers!

Berington