Keyboardist Claudio Corona releases first solo EP ‘Laying It Down’
London-based keyboardist and producer Claudio Corona releases his first solo EP Laying It Down with the acclaimed Vintage League Music label.
The EP is a collection of four original compositions, all written, arranged, recorded and mixed by Claudio Corona in his studio Retrofonica. It features American producer Alan Evans on drums, best known as co-founder of legendary soul-funk band Soulive.
Laying It Down evokes classic 60s and 70s funk, blending the retro sound with elements of modern sound design. It showcases strong songwriting, powerful arrangements, funky riffs and evocative melodies, blended with Claudio’s distinctive signature Hammond organ and vintage keyboards including Fender Rhodes, Hohner Clavinet and analogue synthesizers.
Opening the album is “Apollo 73”, a jump into 70s cinematic funk with infectious grooves, funky clavinet, suggestive melodies and a John Medeski-inspired Hammond organ solo. The tune’s arrangement pays tribute to Jimmy McGriff’s 70s albums.
“Lay It Down” is an up-tempo two-minute head-bopping ‘funk classic’ cut in the vein of Soulive’s earlier albums. Claudio’s left hand bass and Alan Evans’ drums are a relentless funky force. The Hammond organ solo conjures thoughts of Brian Auger, with a screaming top end organ that’s pitched just right.
“The Expanse” is a groove-based tune where Hammond melodies meet bass riffs and acoustic piano hooks. The way the main melody develops, with the addition of monophonic synths, is reminiscent of Stevie Wonder’s late 70s sound.
“Live Current” is an ethereal, catchy Fender Rhodes melody, surrounded by Pink Floyd infused bass lines, Evans’ beautiful rimshot groove and elements of sound design. The tune culminates with a Jon Lord inspired Hammond Organ solo.
The EP was mastered by Alan Evans at Ironwax studios, where he also recorded drums and percussion.
“Laying It Down” out on Digital download on July 8th via Vintage League Music
