The debut full length by Katmai (moniker of solo ambient guitarist John Laslo) serves as a milestone of 3 years of intensive tracking, mixing, experimenting, and overall learning the art of home recording.
In the summer of 2013, John performed a ten minute set at a local pub. After his song ended, he was greeted by Shawn Maguire (No Grave Like The Sea) and encouraged to keep playing. One full set later, John and Shawn carried out conversation and desire to meet more to play and explore post rock music.
With a slate of four songs in John’s pocket, the topic of recording his first full length was presented, and Shawn instantly took to the challenge, wanting to learn the ins and outs of home recording ambient music. The challenge was steep, as the two agreed it would be best to record each layer of the monstrous looping songs John had composed, and tracking began immediately.
With 3 years of playing tug-of-war with Shawn’s computer, incorporating bass and programmed drum/synth tracks (executed by Elliot Perry also of No Grave), the pair understatedly learned plenty. After endless hurdles, headaches, and cab rides, the piece was completed in the summer of 2016.
This record could never have sounded as full as it does if it was handled alone, and it serves as a celebration of collaborating diverse talents, where each can shine in their own light.
credits
released August 26, 2016
John Laslo: guitar tracking, composition, artwork/design
Shawn Maguire: engineering, mixing, bass and piano tracking
Elliot Perry: drum and synth programming
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