PREMIERES ALBUM TODAY WITH CANADIAN MUSICIAN

ALBUM RELEASE SHOW ON FEBRUARY 17

Toronto, ON – February 8, 2017 – FINALE – the all-analog synthesizer, orchestral-style album composed and recorded by Toronto-based producer, Mike Rocha – will be released on February 10th. The ten-song debut, released via Pirates Blend, is described by Rocha as “a linear exploration of self” – an exploration of human thoughts, emotions and conditions, through minimalist tones, menacing, anxiety-ridden tensions, and lush, elegant soundscapes. Today, you can get a first listen of the record at Canadian Musician, and help celebrate the release on February 17th with a special album launch party at the DAIS / Tkaronto Gallery (details listed below).

“I started with the concept of ‘synth orchestra’ following the simple guideline of ‘lots of synth textures, each only playing one or two notes tops’ – like most elements of a conventional orchestra,”comments Rocha. “Keeping with that idea, I avoided using midi and played all parts manually by hand except for where I was going for a specifically sequenced metronomic rhythm. The Prophet 08 was my weapon of choice for much of the record because of its wonderful dexterity with assigning multiple sound shaping functions to foot pedals, after touch and wheels. The result was that I could get the same level of expression with the synth as with instruments that I frequently play on other people’s records like Piano, Double Bass and Electric guitar. I would play parts over and over until the intended expression was captured, similar to any other live instrument.  Even in regards to drums and percussion of any kind, it was never my goal to actively avoid using them, I just never reached the point where I felt it was needed because all of the rhythm and intensity I desired was fulfilled by the synths. Maybe I’ll give a kick drum a try on the next album.”

Rocha, most notably known for his producing resume alongside acts including Noisey Indie/punk band, Greys (Buzz Records/Carpark), synth pop-duo, Electric Youth (Secretly Canadian) and Toronto bassist, Eon Sinclair (Bedouin Soundclash), has been able to utilize his eclectic background to articulate a range of dynamic ideas into his debut release.

Musical references within Finale can be attributed to a wide range influences from the traditional composition of Gustav Holst’s, The Planets, to the industrial perfectionism of Trent Reznor.  Warm, rich layers of analog synth find parallels to the likes of Tycho/Scott Hansen, while the traditional soundtrack influences can be grouped alongside modern composer, Clint Mansell (Black Mirror TV Show- Soundtrack) and group, S U R V I V E (Stranger Things – TV Show Soundtrack).

Finale showcases Rocha’s depth and ability as a contemporary composer demonstrating his patience, experience and musical maturity, utilizing analog instrumentation.

Mike Rocha FINALE – Album Release Party Details:
https://www.facebook.com/events/387496434957500
Friday, February 17th
8pm – 1am
DAIS / Tkaronto Gallery – 1196 Queen St. West

Please join us for a casual drop-in to celebrate the release of FINALE, Mike Rocha’s debut album, out February 10, 2017. Rocha will give a special performance around 10pm. He will also be showcasing a print photography series that marries each of the album’s tracks with a corresponding abstract photograph, taken during the creation of the album. Please note, the photography series will remain in the DAIS / Tkaronto Gallery for the on Saturday, February 18 from 12-5pm, and prints will be available for purchase.

Weekend Gallery Times:
Saturday, February 18
12pm – 5pm
DAIS / Tkaronto Gallery – 1196 Queen St. West 

DOWNLOAD – album cover artwork | DOWNLOAD – hi-res photo

www.mikerocha.ca
soundcloud.com/mikerocha-1/sets
www.instagram.com/mikerochaofficial
 

Made possible with the support of the Ontario Media Development Corporation

About Pirates Blend:
Pirates Blend is a Toronto-based record label, management and artist services company supporting a diverse line up of Canadian and International acts including: Saul Williams, A Tribe Called Red, Young Empires, Michael Rault, Zaki Ibrahim and Greys, amongst others. Visit www.piratesblend.com.

About DAIS:
DAIS is an artist driven multi-disciplinary creative studio located in the heart of Toronto. We develop, steward and propel talent. Our partnership with BellMedia gives us unequalled access to the largest television, radio, mobile and digital platforms in Canada. Multiple international partnerships bring our stories to the world. www.dais.ca