HOMMAGE SYMPHONIQUE is an album of progressive rock covers recorded by master keyboardist Erik Norlander along with the virtuoso band of Gregg Bissonette (d), Don Schiff (b) and Mark McCrite (g) with Kelly Keeling handling all of the vocal duties. Erik also employed a small ensemble of acoustic instruments featuring Jon Pappenbrook (trumpets flugelhorn), Eric Jorgensen (trombones), Mike Alvarez (cello) and David Schiff (woodwinds). David is the brother of Don Schiff, and in addition to Don’s NS/Stick work on the album, he also fills out the acoustic string ensemble with the new Bowed Guitar instrument. Erik’s choice of covers reflects his own broad musical taste, performing songs originally recorded by ELP, ELO, Yes, Rick Wakeman, King Crimson, Procol Harum and Jethro Tull and Chuck Mangione.
The last artist may sound the most surprising, but Erik’s stirring rendition of Mangione’s “Children of Sanchez” brings this jazz – fusion classic more into Erik’s world of symphonic progressive rock supported by his seasoned and highly versatile band.
HOMMAGE SYMPHONIQUE follows the already acclaimed 2CD release, REVOLUTION ROAD, from Erik’s band, Rocket Scientists. The Rocket Scientists musicians appear throughout the HOMMAGE SYMPHONIQUE album continuing the artists’ collaboration and bringing it to new heights.
HOMMAGE SYMPHONIQUE is being released simultaneously with Lana Lane – GEMINI, a collection of classic rock songs produced by Erik, sung by Lana, and featuring an amazing group of rock musicians.
02. Sir Lancelot and the Black Knight (Rick Wakeman)
03. Turn of the Century (Yes)
04. Pirates (Emerson, Lake & Palmer)
05. Clasp (Jethro Tull)
06. King of the Universe (Electric Light Orchestra)
07. Children of Sanchez Overture (Chuck Mangione)
08. Starless (King Crimson)
Erik Norlander — keyboards
Kelly Keeling — vocals
Gregg Bissonette — drums
Don Schiff — Stick, bowed guitar, contrabass
Guest:
Mark McCrite — guitars
David Schiff — woodwinds
Mike Alvarez — cello
Jon Papenbrook — trumpets, flugelhorns
Eric Jorgensen — trombones