B? Yes, that’s what I said. B is the pure studio producer side of my musical selves. More interested in finding that perfect sample than getting the mic placement just right, this persona allows me to explore musical styles and genre mashups previously out of reach of the acoustic guitar-centered singer-songwriter.
“Woody’s Swingtopia” is B’s first foray into the wild and strange, new world of complete musical freedom of expression. I’d like to think the songs created here are truly the culmination of a life-time of musical exploration and discovery. From my earliest radio and record listening as a child, through my nine years as a public school band student, through my first gigs as arranger and piano player for a contemporary gospel quartet. From my discovery of the blues and journey through the backroads of the early 20th century Delta, through the electrifying rock guitar of the ’60s and ’70s. Through my impressionable exposure to Jazz, Funk, New Age, and Meditation music. It’s all layered within and throughout this rambunctious hay-ride.
I performed much of the keyboard work on this album as well as all of the bass on keys. Some of the acoustic guitar is mine while others are virtual. My primary muse that drove much of this work is the joy of working with Output’s Arcade virtual instrument. If you want a good time…call Arcade.
The second album by B begins a two project exploration of creating music suitable for zen-type activity such as yoga or meditation, or simply as calming music to be the backdrop of your work or study time. Both albums are a mashup of rock and pop drum rhythms with instrumentation and vocalizations from India. Including a lot of low tempo songs, all deploying a smooth repetitive groove, I worked to still capture the listeners attention with unique mixtures and the ebb and flow of energy.
I can say a few things for sure. First, the Oud is one of the most beautiful sounding instruments I’ve ever heard. It’s now tied with the Cello as being my favorite stringed instrument sound to work with. So organic. So resonant. It is highlighted in Goya Rokhana. Secondly, I simply love the traditional and ancient matras and chants from India, especially when sung by a deep, male voice. Using vocal samples singing a foreign language transforms the voice into another instrument to be layered and mixed with other instruments.
The second release aimed at that chill vibe is entitled “Nataraja’s Blues”. This album continues the yoga/meditation/chill genre with a continued mixture of vocals and select instrumentation from India fused with modern pop and rock.
Hey Poeta is an all Spanish-language album that has a very light and enjoyable vibe. Utilizing female and male vocals, it emphasizes piano work and takes the listener on a journey through relaxing and yet toe-tapping soundscapes.
The Soul Vibe EP is such a love-centric, make you dance your booty off album. Pulling on my childhood memories of the grooves of Disco, the horns of funk, and the vocals of R&B, this feel-good album makes me smile every single time I listen to it. Enjoy and spread the love!
Creole shares good vibes and passion through the smooth female vocals of the Haitian Creole language. With a splash of upright bass, piano solos, and catchy hooks, this EP ends with a great savasana song.
Jamondia is the penultimate fusion of funk, world-grooves and instrumentation, and Sufi vocalizations. Get ready to have fun and get down and funky with a trip through the badlands of Jamondia!
Sadhu is a smooth groove, chillout approach to a great yoga experience, shared time with best friends, background music during work/school…really any time that you want a positive, soulful music experience.
Viva Voce is a return back to a much more meditative experience. Excellent for Hatha Yoga, meditations, or savasana at the end of your practice. Great for background grooves for businesses as well. Viva Voce blends smooth vocal layering with world vocalizations and instrumentation.
Afrikaans is a novel fusion between beautiful vocals from the African continent mixed with an Americana or even Country flair. Some very cool vibes built around the excellent vocal work. Deep and meaningful vocal performances drive the compelling melodies forward. The languages in combination with the instrumentation provide an uplifting vibe.
The Wu Li Masters dives head first into a fusion of voices from India with hard-driving rock ‘n roll – an American classic! With touches of Hendrix and plenty of guitar distortion, this album makes for a great pulse driver for exercise of all kinds. Even my Buddha garden statue loves the jam!
Wun Luv, Ya’ll may have been my favorite EP to work on, although that’s really hard to say. I do believe it encapsulates the love, the groove, and a perfect fusion of classic American soul with Indian instrumentation. This is absolutely perfect for the groove-minded yoga classes or atmospheres that have an underpinning of delicious happiness. Enjoy!
With my love and long history of the Blues, I can’t believe it took me so long to get around to creating this wonderful fusion of Blues and Indian vocals – Howlin’ at the Mudra! Get the reference?! Each song explores a sub-genre of blues and also features some snippets of a blues great. Can you identify the blues legend within each song?
Funkshiva gets down to the sounds of funky horn riffs, driving rhythms, Rasta vocal parts, and melodic vocals from India. Great for dancing and simply feeling happy and free, feel free to let loose and get your funk on with Funkshiva!
Ebiyan is B’s exploration of Native American Indian sounds and vibe, with a heavy leaning on acoustic guitar, Native American Indian drums and wood flutes. With a decidedly very “Western” feel, this EP is great for ambiance and chillout vibes.
Brian Keith Scott 