Minimalist Orchestra music is self-described as Dream Dub Hop and draws from funk, reggae, jazz, house, drum'n bass, etc. Listeners are entranced with Scooter's pulsating rhythms and Kerry's beautifully haunting voice. Onlookers are mesmerized by Ed's improvised video backdrops.
The mood induced by the band ranges from relaxing and reflective to head-bobbing and foot stomping. Fans of Portishead, Massive Attack, Bob Marley and most other bands will surely flock to the sound of MO.
The Minimalist Orchestra was started by Scooter Vineburgh, Kerry Schneider, and Ed Guild in response to years of performing in large bands where clashing egos, impossible scheduling, and too many hours spent hauling equipment and untangling microphone chords were status quo. They wanted something that was simple and required no heavy lifting.
These band members now rehearse on living room couches or over the internet, never get stressed about schedules or logistics, and transport all of their musical equipment easily in one trip from the car to the club.
Recently, Misha Rutman joined the band. He adds guitar, beat reinterpretation, samples, and an ear for mixing. He also co-wrote Outside. Dr Nigel (Neil Larson) was brought in to add to the Arrivals and Departures album. He played keyboards on the whole album, contributed additional mixing skills, co-composed and remixed Flicker, and served as mastering engineer. Brian Knoth adds his compositional and engineering skills on the last two tracks of the album, Today Lullaby and For You