The latest release by Zanilonia sees the virtual ensemble try their hand at recreating an iconic theme tune from a 1960’s British TV show called Danger Man. The show starred Patrick McGoohan as secret agent John Drake and its theme song was written by British composer Edwin Astley. The music featured a zany, harpsichord melody that was characteristic of spy shows of the era. The mission of David Zee (band leader) was to modernize this theme, and Zanilonia’s version bears a strong electronica influence.
Zanilonia recreates the dissonant harpsichord arpeggio that is the rhythmic basis of the piece using a fuzzy synth patch which gives the recording a snarling, gritty attitude. The lead melody is, again, handled by synth; a smooth glissando voicing that captures the ominous melody superbly. Zee also injects a nice retro element with the inclusion of some more organic textures. At the halfway mark he plays a brilliant organ solo that riffs its way through the blues scale, subtly hinting at the main theme. This is followed by a clever call-and-response section that pits surf guitar against programmed brass.
Overall, Zanilonia captures the dark, sinister mood of the original music and interprets it in their characteristic, fusion approach. This cut will please anyone with a penchant for old TV scores and it serves as a brilliant blending of nostalgia and digital modernness.
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BELOW: Listen to Danger Man and connect with their website and social media platforms. Please support Zanilonia by visiting them online, and playing, downloading, and/or purchasing their music, or attending a live show! And, as always, thank you for supporting real music!
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