PRESTO BALLET BIO

An immense supporter of the early works of Yes, Kansas, and Genesis (among others), Metal Church guitarist Kurdt Vanderhoof sought to create a project that reflected his predilection of that era and he has undoubtedly achieved that objective with Presto Ballet. Evoking a classic 70's feel, their songs herald a return to a time when music was at its most colorful and influential. With tasteful guitar parts, crunching Hammond organ and rich vocals, the band faithfully follows the path blazed by their heros so many years before.

Describing the band's studio approach, Vanderhoof says, "We record in a somewhat 'old school' manner, which means analog synthesizers, real Hammond organ and real Mellotron sounds. For me, the seventies was the most interesting time, with the most skilled bands, the best songs and the best ideas. I've never understood why nobody has gone back to that kind of music again".

For the recording of Invisible Places, Kurdt recruited a new lineup that has brought new levels of stability and musical focus to the band.

Vocalist Ronny Munroe was already familiar with Presto, having worked with Kurdt on several Metal Church albums. Presto Ballet affords him the opportunity to showcase the exceptional power and range of his voice, and he did a remarkable job in the studio.

Kurdt discovered Kerry Shacklett's amazing keyboard skills from YouTube videos that Kerry had posted, and immediately contacted him about Presto. It quickly became apparent in the studio that not only was Kerry an outstanding musician, he was also a gifted composer and arranger.

Bassist Bobby Ferkovich first gained notoriety around Seattle's hard rock scene as a member of local favories Heir Apparent, and has subsequently been featured on releases by rockers Powertrain and shred guitar great John Jaunese.

Drums on Invisible Places were handled by Henry Ellwood, a long-time friend of Vanderhoof and the band.

 

HOME | BLOG | NEWS | BIO | MUSIC | STORE | PHOTOS | FACEBOOK | MY SPACE | CONTACT

© 2005-2012 PRESTO BALLET - All Rights Reserved