Sylvan Tirelle On the Making Of ‘Omni-Gatherum’
Can you share any interesting or unique stories or perspectives in ‘Omni-Gatherum?'
I presume something which makes this album unique is that it was created entirely by one person. I consider it to be a self-indulgent DIY album, with the idea being aroused through the pandemic. To complete this album, I wrote, performed, and recorded myself on 15 different instruments, learning a few new instruments along the way. Though, in the future, I’d prefer to play with other musicians, and not just myself.
What is your personal favorite piece from 'Omni-Gatherum' and why?
I'm almost certain my choice will be different next week; but, this time I'll say "Rainy Day Rat," and here's why: It is the only tune on the album that has co-writers. Bryan Gray and I pieced together the ideas (probably 15 years ago) and recorded a version of it in LA with drummer and percussionist, John Hermoso. After we recorded the track, I also practiced the tune a lot with my brother on drums. Both John and my brother had distinctly different styles and ideas for the tune, and both of their ideas were incorporated into different sections for the final arrangement, all these years later.
What impact do you hope 'Omni-Gatherum' will have on your audience?
My hope is that you simply enjoy it while you’re listening. Whether or not it has made an impact, I’ll still be writing, playing, recording, and releasing music for my own pleasure. If I gain a broad audience - or dare say, fans - that’s just the cherry on top of an already sweet pie. Or sundae. Or whatever sweet dessert makes the biggest impact on your taste buds… and this metaphor.
Can you describe your typical creative process when composing music? How do you usually start a new piece?
The bulk of tracks from this album started from the bass, and everything else was built around it. I typically began with recording a few themes or ideas, then would develop melodies with the instruments I’m most familiar with, guitar and keys. After some ideas were recorded, I’d begin practicing and adjusting those melodies with instruments I am less familiar with, like the saxophone, flute, and bass clarinet. It was usually at this point that the music morphed into what it is now, because the melody would ultimately adapt to my capabilities using these less familiar instruments. Once the foundations had been conceptualized, the arrangement process started, and would be concluded by recording the final layout in its entirety, and texturizing with excessive amounts of Moog synthesizer. Each track was concluded with recording drums and percussion, because I required the most time and practice in those areas.
Is there a composition that you feel best represents your artistic journey or evolution as a composer?
Not particularly. I don’t even like to call myself a composer. I decided to name the album “Omni-Gatherum” because it’s a collection of many years worth of ideas, which is why you’ll find each track differs stylistically. Though, I’d say “pp500,” and ‘Hammer Heart” are standouts for this recording because these required the most attention and practice… but stay tuned, this is my debut. We can talk about evolution after a few more albums.