MikelParis
GuitarDrumming 0I is the fourth release from O.A.R. keyboard player MikelParis. It features eight originals, showcasing his unique GuitarDrumming style of guitar playing and includes contributions from Vernon Reid, G. Love and Of Good Nature. The album was produced by MikelParis, recorded at Drum Farm Studios in Menomonie, WI, Harmony Studios, Syracuse, NY, Lake House Studios. Lyndonville, NY with overdubbing done at ZP Studios in New York City. GuitarDrumming 0I is being released March 28 on 12″ LP vinyl, digital download, and streaming services by ZP Records.
Blending techniques borrowed from drumming, percussion, piano playing, with orthodox guitar and bass playing, MP created a rich tapestry of intensely rhythmic sound he calls “GuitarDrumming” which has proven an ideal complement to his soulful vocals, honest lyrics, stomped-out beats, and keyboard virtuosity.
MikelParis hit upon his unique performance style messing around at home one night in Connecticut during his college years, using “devil sticks” to drum across acoustic guitar strings, producing an intriguing and unusual sound. He later refined this sound into something potently intoxicating and wildly expressive. Some inspiration came from his tenure as a cast member of a touring troupe of the innovative musical STOMP where he was taught that rhythm could be found everywhere, and anything could be used as a musical instrument.
On GuitarDrumming 0I MikelParis provides all the songwriting, lead vocals, keyboards, bass, percussion, stomps, “mouthbone” (vocalized horn parts) and GuitarDrumming on acoustic guitar. He is joined by special guests Vernon Reid on electric guitar on “Good 2 Go,” and G. Love on harmonica on “Hitme.” “Downtime” sees Of Good Nature’s Cam Brown helping out on vocals, electric guitar and bass and David Hamilton Jr. on drums not to mention Jerry Depizzo, Evan Oberla and Jon Lampley on horns. Liam Alone drums on several numbers.
MP’s songwriting combines lyrical introspection with audacious compositional mischievousness drawing inspiration from 70’s icons like Elton John and James Taylor to 80’s Rock innovators to enduring superstars like U2 and the Dave Matthews Band. The music that results is an explosive fusion of Funk, Folk, Soul and Rock spinning together in a sonic kaleidoscope.
MikelParis™ (pronounced “MichaelParis” – one word, initial caps) is a multifaceted artist who performs as keyboardist, percussionist and backup singer for the celebrated American rock band O.A.R. for nearly two decades. He is also the producer and host of “TuneTrek” and “Music Drink Stories,” docu-series that follow MP across the U.S. unearthing music gems in history’s hidden corners; from the echoing halls of haunted country inns to the majestic ambience of castles and museums.