In the spirit of Independence Month, here's a recording I made a couple months ago of my favorite gyil tune, "Banda Jel" (which means Lizard Egg). Originally composed by Kakraba Lobi for gyil, this is Valerie Naranjo's transcription for marimba. Banda Jel was challenging to learn, but worth it. Valerie has transcribed many gyil songs for marimba, which can be found at http://mandaramusic.com. There are some that are much easier than Banda Jel, such as a fun one called "Nuor Wongolo", or "Dog-face!" (I haven't ever recorded that one, but if I ever do I'll post it).

I was talking with my student Kristina O'dea about making up stickings for practicing and building your hands. She had a good one.

This is such a beautiful tune with a tremendously long form, which, for ballad lovers, should be of great interest. It's been performed as a fast tempo latin tune by several artists, such as Chick Corea, but I love it as a ballad with a loping even eighth note feel.

Hi folks,

Here is a new video that demonstrates the expressiveness of some of the electric sounds that I've been working on...You will notice that the natural vibe sound still makes up the basic attack, and that it is very responsive to velocity and phrasing techniques such as bar dampening, etc.

I know it's not everyone's cup of tea, so feel free to comment, good or bad!!

Cheers,
Steve

Hey Folks,
I was thinking about something that I think is worth talking about on the site: Looking up from the vibes once in a while when playing.

To me, communication with the other members of the band in real time is a huge part of the music on the bandstand. When I first started playing I looked down 100% of the time. It's hard not to, we can't feel the notes!

here's my solo version of Everything I love, Hope u like it=)