Interview with the collaborative instrumental band The Colorist Orchestra

Image credit: Michelle Geerardyn

Featuring noteworthy vocalists Pieta Brown and Howe Gelb, the instrumental band The Colorist Orchestra are set to release their next album Not On The Map on the 1st of October. They have released several live videos for songs ‘Counting On’ and ‘More Exes’ which shows this diverse group of classical composers doing what they love best – performing together. These videos have a cinematic flair with distinct colour themes filtering through each take. The band are known for creating classical compositions with a bit of edge, whether it be acoustic arrangements or vocals added into the mix.

We chatted with this one of a kind band and found out more details about their sound.

Sum up your year so far in two words.

Strangely frozen.

Tell us more about how your latest/upcoming release was conceptualised?

After we played a couple of concerts with Mr.Gelb, we felt a strong connection to experiment where both worlds could meet on recording new songs and arrangements. The concept is simple; Howe is giving us a basic demo of a song and we try to rework it for the orchestra.

Describe a typical day in your studio space.

So far, we hardly have typical studio days. We like to play with whatever we have at hand, and especially when working with singers/songwriters, it’s always different every time.

What are the most important pieces of equipment for you?

A computer, piano, midi board and a microphone.

Describe what an ideal day would be for you?

Beautiful weather, a walk, a talk and a good time with friends.

Do you have a favourite memory of your career so far that you will take with you forever?

Every time when the music comes to life by playing together. The first rehearsals with the orchestra and the first concerts with an invité.

Who is your musical guilty pleasure?

Destiny’s child, Fleetwood Mac.

What can we expect from you in the near future?

The release of ‘Not on the Map’, a collaboration of TCO & Howe Gelb ft. Pieta Brown. + Release concerts in Belgium, Holland and France. ‘Rizoom’, an opera/dance performance at the Opera Vlaanderen (Antwerp/Gent) and the making of a new album with Emiliana Torrini.