Andrew Lloyd Webber
Variations (1978)
This was Andrew's foray into classical rock fusion.
I went back to it recently
due to the Colosseum/Barabara Thompson connection.
The opening section is/was well known in the UK
for being the title music of The South Bank Show.
On a re-listen I found myself reminded of Camel, Klaatu,
Genesis and Roger Glover's Butterfly Ball.
It's based on Paganini's 24th caprice
with the themes deconstructed and rearranged in different styles.
Brother Julian, a professional classical cellist, is the key musician
but it has contributions from many talented/notable players.
A good thing to discover/revisit.
Julian Lloyd Webber – cello
Gary Moore – Gibson Les Paul, Rickenbacker electric 12 string
& Fender Stratocaster electric guitars, Guild acoustic guitar
Rod Argent – grand piano, synthesizers
(Minimoog, Roland RS-202, Yamaha CS-80)
Don Airey – grand piano, Fender Rhodes electric piano, synthesizers
(ARP Odyssey, Minimoog, Solina String Ensemble),
Barbara Thompson – flute, alto flute, alto & tenor saxophone
John Mole – Fender Precision Bass, Hayman fretless bass guitar
Jon Hiseman – Arbiter Auto-Tune drums, Paiste cymbals & gongs, percussion
with additional performers:
Andrew Lloyd Webber – synthesizer
Dave Caddick – piano
Bill Le Sage – vibraphone
Herbie Flowers – bass
Phil Collins – drums, percussion
Niccolò (or Nicolò) Paganini (1782 – 1840)
was a celebrated Italian violinist and composer.
Considered a gifted virtuoso, I have read
he once removed his shoes and socks to debunk rumours
that he had cloven hooves rather than feet.
Kinda like the Robert Johnson at the crossroads myth
it seems great musicianship is often viewed as the Devil's work.
regards
Titus
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