Crank It!

Some time ago, I rekindled my hobby of playing the trombone after a 24-year break. As I’ve improved, I’ve started to explore ways of using my trombone playing in my own music. Alongside that, I’ve developed a growing interest in using a live horn section when needed, rather than relying on samples.

Since I’m still developing my skills in notation and arranging for real instruments, this side project helps me enhance my music and learn how to write for small ensembles and horn sections, mainly for recording, but possibly for performance in the future.

Crank It! is the name I’ve given the project. It’s an evolving setup, not a fixed line-up, and can vary from project to project. It’s ticking away in the background, ready for more focus when the time feels right.

Crank It! – The Trombone, Alto Sax & Tuba Edition

For this session, I wanted to add real horns to a piece I was writing for my Stock Music Library. I wanted the horns to be a genuine feature in the production. The fake versions just lacked something. So here we are, after hours, in a children’s play centre, recording a simple but effective horn line.

Featuring:

• Ian Birtwell on Eb Tuba
• Sue Wilkinson on Eb Sax
• Lee Pritchard on Trombone

Smooth Soul Vibes

The horns sound good, despite being recorded in an untreated room. Have a listen below.
‘Smooth Soul Vibes’ blends R&B and lo-fi with chill melodies and relaxed rhythms. Live horns add warmth and depth, giving the track a more organic, expressive feel.