Michael Shrieve & David Beal - The Big Picture (1989)

Tracklist

1. The Invisible Architect [5:45]
2. Mon Amie [4:08]
3. Unspeakable Dawn [7:09]
4. Izibongo [5:23]
5. Shaman's Drum [5:30]
6. The Big Picture [6:05]
7. Rocked In The Cradle Of The Deep [5:24]
8. Iron Voices [4:57]

Two of the foremost drummers of rock and new age blend their exceptional talents with the latest technology to create a landmark album. On The Big Picture, Michael Shrieve and David Beal produce fully orchestrated music using electronic drum pads and digital samplings. Through this system, a drum-pad can sound like a trumpet, violin, voice, or it can create a completely new sound. Though originally composed on computer, all the music on The Big Picture was played entirely with drumsticks.
This album is a refreshing celebration of rhythm and melody. The pieces compose a dazzling menu, ranging from the exotic to the mischievous, all sharing a compelling vibrancy and excitement.

The Big Picture opens a new door for percussionists. It puts the percussionist on a plane with traditional front line soloists and it elevates him to orchestral arranger, with infinite combinations of sounds, timbres, rhythms, and instrumentations at his disposal.