Volume 1 Orchestra of Rhythm Gary Rutkowski’s Spectacles of Rhythmic Mastery

• 15 Against 405:48
• 2A Journey in 12.802:52
• 3Gong Rhythms12:53
• Total Runtime21:33

Info for Volume 1 Orchestra of Rhythm

Buzz Records is releasing its first Surround sound project from drummer and percussionist extraordinaire: Gary Rutkowski. Recorded live, Spectacles of Rhythmic Mastery is a cacophony of rhythmic layers. Each song has multiple drummers and instrumentalist. This album consists of music that was recorded at GCR- Audio over two sessions in upstate NY. These pieces were composed and arranged by Gary Rutkowski (Maelstrom Percussion Ensemble, and Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra). He conducted this ensemble made up of local professionals as well as music students from Villa Maria College.

The album consists of three amazing rhythmic masterpieces. 5 AGAINST 4 is a 'composite' poly-meter with one group of drummers playing 5 beats per measure at the same time another plays 4. The two drum set players lead the way A JOURNEY IN 12/8 is based on traditional African rhythm and given a modern jazz/rock interpretation by the ensemble. Featured instruments are the marimba, bass and percussion. The original source music is by Andrew Michlinski, a student of Rutkowski’s who passed away in 2010, then arranged by Rutkowski. GONG RHYTHMS is a series of rhythms generated by the timbales then enhanced by the entire ensemble throughout the piece. Four full drum kits, hand percussion, upright bass and electric bass, guitar and select African drums make this the perfect composition for surround sound.

Produced by Buzz Records partner; Grammy nominated engineer Anthony Casuccio “everything was tracked live with minimal takes and no overdubs. The surround sound mix was done in a similar manner: one session, minimal plug-ins and effects.” Rounding out the production was Justin Rose from GCR- Audio and the project was mastered by Adam Ayan (also Grammy nominated) at Gateway Mastering.

Gary Rutkowski, percussion Maelstrom Percussion Ensemble
Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra

Note: this album is only in FLAC 48kHz, 5.1 surround available!

Gary Rutkowski is a renowned percussionist as well as composer. His talents have landed him some gigs many would only dream of. From the Buffalo Philharmonic Orchestra to the Maelstrom Percussion Ensemble and many jazz groups in between, Gary has done it all. Know for his extreme technical abilities and penchant for unusual meters, his live performances captivate the audience leaving them astounded and wanting more. His unique setup of eclectic percussion instruments gives his compositions ethnic flavors that meld perfectly with his modern drumming techniques.

Gary is a teacher at Villa Maria College and has taught at Buffalo State College, Edinboro University and The community Music school. Hey has written a book on drumming concepts and techniques that has become a favorite for advanced drum teachers. Gary has held many drumming workshops. His students past and present continue to site Gary as a major influence on their techniques, advancements and careers.

Booklet for Volume 1 Orchestra of Rhythm