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Born in New Haven, Connecticut USA, and still living just outside of that area musician Jeff Canata tells us a little bit about his influences and musical career.
How did you get into music? was it from an early age?
Started on drums when I was 11 or 12 years old......
Do you have any musical training,
After playing for ten years or so, I decided to take lessons to learn how to read, in the event of going in the studio musician direction. That lasted for 2 lessons, it was very difficult to go“ backwards” to a very simplistic approach,reading drum notation.
How do you write your songs? Do you start with the music or the lyrics?
Usually I start with melody and chord structures on guitar or keyboards. Once there is some sort idea in place , I add lyrical sounds / words and eventually it comes together.
Can you play any instruments if so which ones and do you have a
favourite?
My main instrument is drums, but over the years self taught guitar, keyboards and bass.
Which of your songs are you most proud of?
There are several songs for different reasons on 4 previously released cds, as well as ‘ Mysterium Magnum”. Some I like for the melodic aspect, and some for the complex nature and challenge of the piece, one being “ Somewhere Beyond The Sun”
If you could duet with anyone dead or alive who would it be?
Probably Peter Gabriel would be my first choice. A brilliant, forward thinking artist /producer /song writer .
Who are your musical influences?
In the early days of my song writing, King Crimson, Gentle Giant, Pink Floyd , Yes and Genesis ( with PG ) would top the list.
Where would you like to see yourself in five years time?
Actually started working in video, incorporating some of my instrumental tracks to images and motion. Would like to be working in soundtrack / movie trailers / new video media in the next few years.
Video clips here. ..............www.cannata.blip.tv
Six words that best describe you..
Have to leave that to the critics........
What?s your favourite of all of your songs?
As in, “ which of your children do you love the best” ?
How long did it take to write and record?
When I was signed to CBS , in the mid - eighties, the ArcAngel CD took over 800 hrs to record and mix.
“Mysterium Magnum” and “ Tamorok” probably took the same amount of time. Having your own studio at your disposal helps in not worrying about the clock.
Whats the best Live / recording moment you ever had
Best live moment - multiple encores opening for Electric Light Orchestra, back in the day, at a sold out concert in New Jersey.
Best recording moment,- meeting with Jon Andersen, Bill Bruford from " YES ” at Advision Studios in London.
Where was your first public performance
Some crappie bar in Connecticut for $3.75 each.............
featured track cd information
Mysterium Magnum
1 Spirit of the Four Winds
2 Kali Allah
3 Somewhere Beyond The Sun
4 4:17 California
5 King Of The Mountain
6 Promise You Heaven
7 Book of Ages
8 Tears of America
9 Wanted: Dead or Alive
10 Life: 101
11 French
12 Reason To Live
13 Reprise: Kali Allah
I think “Spirit” and “ Kali Allah” capture the era and style of music I have been influenced by over the years..... Jeff Cannata.
video
Spirit of the Four Winds
Featured Track - Kali Allah
gigs
No upcoming shows at present......
Artist
NOW PLAYING - CHART SHOW 05.10.08
