Ian Gordon

Composer and musician Ian GORDON is based in Bolton, UK, and will most commonly be found as the front man of UK act Drama when spending his time on the art of music. But as many creative musicians over the years, the band environment doesn't quite manage to fulfil his creative needs, and in 2011 this lead to the release of The Box. Digitally available at this point, with a possible CD edition to come at a later stage. His intent with this and possible future productions: To explore the darker side of human nature, seeking to expose the truths we hide from ourselves.

I got in touch with him for his story.

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You were/are a member of the British band Drama. When and why did you choose to break your own path with a solo career ? Which bands were you influenced by ?

Drama is still the main focus of my attention, however, I like to diversify my writing and as such decided to work on some solo projects on the side. In writing The Box and Terminally Brave, my main musical influences were Genesis, Steve Hackett, Peter Gabriel, Marillion, It Bites and Rush.

Over to your two albums so far. Both released this year. Please tell us more about The Box.

The Box started out as a short story that I penned in high school. I began developing the music during the last few years of high school, and chipped away at various elements of it over the following 10 years. The story tells of a loner who is inexplicably transported to another reality, a world full of surreality and distorted memories. The protagonist's goal is to find out where he is and why he's there. Along the way he stumbles upon 'clues' that hint at a greater truth. Much of the content was inspired by my own personal experiences. It's one big puzzle.

.....And Terminally Brave.

Unlike The Box, Terminally Brave came about quite quickly. I'd been exploring themes of war and conspiracy theories, and wanted to pen a concept album along those lines. Generally speaking, the album is a look at mankind under duress. I've put together a series of promotional videos to accompany each track on the album, all of which can be found here on YouTube - http://www.youtube.com/laztozia

Why two albums this year and what is the differences between them ?

The Box was actually recorded at the turn of 2009/2010 - it just took a while to get round to releasing it. Terminally Brave was recorded in August/September 2011. 

The main differences between the two are the concepts. The Box is a 'dark' album, telling the story of an individual and his experiences, exploring horror and fantasy to some extent. This is reflected musically, with highs, lows and long, sinister passages - true 'Progressive Rock'. Terminally Brave explores war and science-fiction, and talks of mankind in general. It's also much shorter than The Box, allowing for 'tighter' musical passages and more guitar riffs, etc. It's much more 'Rock' than The Box.

For those of us unfamiliar with your music; how would you describe you music and which reference points would you give ?

I would recommend my works to those who are familiar with concept albums such as Genesis' 'The Lamb Lies Down On Broadway', Dream Theater's 'Scenes From A Memory', Yes' 'Tales From Topographic Oceans', Marillion's 'Misplaced Childhood', etc. These albums are paced, and required a degree of patience to fully appreciate. If you're going to attempt to listen to my albums and want to follow the stories, please visit my bandcamp page where narratives and lyrics are available - http://iangordon.bandcamp.com/

What inspires you to write and record music ?

I take inspiration from everything I do. I suppose the main inspiration comes from general life experience, the highs, the lows and everything in between. I've travelled extensively throughout Europe and the United States and have always sought to absorb cultures. These experiences in particular have inspired me to create. I look for challenging situations and feel particularly creative when I've stepped outside of my comfort zone. 

Besides of your own outputs, what else are you involved in ?

In terms of the progressive rock genre, I spent a year fronting a UK Genesis tribute band, and back in 2004, I performed live with UK progressive rock band Magrathea - my brother was the lead guitarist (who incidentally provided a guitar solo on The Box).

Are you planning to tour the material or do you want to keep it as a studio project only ?

As it stands I have no plans to tour as a solo artist as I'm too busy with my other projects. However, I would like to think that one day I can put together a few one-off stage-productions of The Box.

To wrap up this interview, is there anything you want to add to this interview ?

I look forward to hearing the opinions of prog lovers out there. I'm always looking to improve and exceed beyond expectations!

Thank you to Ian Gordon for this interview

His PA profile is here and the homepage is here