Biography
Isle of Rhodes was founded in the spring of 2011 by front man and keyboardist Rob Farren. Farren, who had previously played keys with Aphonic (of Detroit), and synth bass with Kiss or Kill decided that he would like to strip his rig down to one keyboard: a Rhodes. An eclectic choice for an instrument, the Rhodes is a vintage keyboard with similar circuitry to an electric guitar. The Rhodes was made famous by the work of soul and funk artists, such as Stevie Wonder, and Bernie Worrell. Farren, influenced by that sound, focused on creating a contemporary rock version of Rhodes playing. Using all analog gear, including tape delay, distortion, wah, and phaser pedals, Farren has sculpted a sound evocative of a three-piece guitar band. Featuring Colin Behram on drums, this two-piece band, has garnered attention for its flowing melodies and huge sound, drawing comparisons to bands such as The Shins, The Magnetic Fields, and Radiohead.
Isle of Rhodes’ first studio length album “All Rivers and Oceans” was recorded with Grammy winning producer Jason Corsaro (Steve Winwood, Duran Duran, Motorhead, Madonna) and co-producer David Lloyd of Social Hero. Machine Dream Records will release the album in April of 2012. “All Rivers and Oceans” is not a just a collection of songs but a true body of work. Farren set out to use the recording studio as an instrument in its own right. According to Farren the band “didn’t want to limit to just replicate the live show, but to fully produce a piece of art.” To that end, in addition to his Rhodes, Farren used Piano, and Hammond B3 organ. Farren also brought in strings, and auxiliary percussionist Gerardo Velez (Jimi Hendrix). Farren’s extraordinary vocal performances are found throughout the record, punctuating each song with his versatile approach. Some songs remind the listener of Freddie Mercury, while others of John Lennon, and David Bowie. The creative arrangement of the backups vocals, performed by Ian Lloyd (Stories, Foreigner), David Lloyd, and Farren himself, serve only to enhance these amazing performances. This combined with Farren’s moving, and smart lyrics take the listener on a journey through the human soul. The unique combination of all these amazing elements creates an incredible album in “All Rivers and Oceans.”
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