Electrified Drums, self-built instruments
Simon Berz Solo ROCKING DESK in Vladivostoc Russia 2016
The ROCKING DESK, a creation by Simon Berz, represents an synthesis between acoustic drums and electronic sound manipulation. This instrument transcends the conventional boundaries of percussion and opens up new dimensions of auditory experience.
Simon Berz „ROCKING DESK“ BLAU BLAU RECORDS 2018
At the core of the system are microphoned drum sticks, the Synth Sticks, which operate in symbiosis with amplifiers and effect devices. This configuration allows for precise recording and modulation of the percussive impulses, enabling an immediate transformation of the acoustic signal into the electronic realm.The acoustic phenomena produced by the ROCKING DESK are multi-layered and complex. It generates controllable feedbacks and resonances that significantly expand the instrument’s sonic spectrum. This expansion manifests in the ability to generate tonal and melodic structures – a characteristic largely foreign to conventional drum sets.
SO21 at Perla Mode: Simon Berz solo filmed by Michelle Ettlin
In practice, the ROCKING DESK reveals its full potential. It acts as a catalyst for unexpected sonic constellations and promotes interactive dynamics between musicians. Particularly noteworthy is the instrument’s pronounced sensitivity to the acoustic properties of the space and other sound sources. This sensitivity results in a highly dynamic and variable sound experience that continuously fluctuates with its environment.
Bunker Solo Simon Berz ROCKING DESK filmed by Michelle Ettlin
The ROCKING DESK project embodies an interdisciplinary approach that interweaves elements from music, electronics, acoustics, and performance art. This fusion enables a profound re-evaluation of musical forms of expression that transcends the boundaries of conventional instrumentation.
Current Research Focus and Publications
In his current research, Simon Berz is dedicated to the systematic documentation and analysis of the specific sound characteristics of the ROCKING DESK. He explores diverse musical contexts and collaboration possibilities, investigates the interaction between the ROCKING DESK and other sound generators, and explores the psychoacoustic effects of the generated sounds on musicians and recipients. This multidimensional approach aims to fathom the full potential of this innovative instrument and evaluate its significance for contemporary music practice.
The versatility and innovative potential of the ROCKING DESK are reflected in several notable publications:
1. „BREATH VERSUS BEATS“ (EVEREST RECORDS, Bern 2023): This LP, a collaboration with Kondo Toshinori and Bill Laswell, impressively demonstrates the ROCKING DESK’s ability to interact with other avant-garde instruments and musicians. The combination of Berz’s electroacoustic drums with Toshinori’s trumpet and Laswell’s bass creates a unique soundscape that blurs the boundaries between electronic and acoustic music.
1. „PEIDEN“ LP: Produced by Roli Mosimann, a renowned producer and musician, this album underscores the ROCKING DESK’s ability to create complex sound structures. Mosimann’s expertise in electronic music production perfectly complements the innovative sounds of the ROCKING DESK, resulting in an album that is both experimental and accessible.
1. „CUT OUT“ (2015): This solo single by Simon Berz, also produced by Roli Mosimann, offers an intimate insight into the sonic possibilities of the ROCKING DESK. It showcases the versatility of the instrument in a solo context and demonstrates Berz’s ability to create complex rhythmic and tonal structures using only the ROCKING DESK.
International Collaborations and Performances
As a drummer & electronic musician, Simon Berz tours solo and with other musicians and formations through Japan, China, Indonesia, Russia, the USA, Cuba, Iceland, Turkey, and Europe. He works with Toshinori Kondo, Kidd Jordan, Skúli Sverrisson, Kirk Joseph, Rob Mazurek, Mars Williams, James Singelton, Jeff Albert, Dan Oestreicher, Aurora Nealand, Paul Lowens, Rob Cambre, Helen Gillet, Xu Fengxia, Willem Schulz, Niki Glaspie, Franz Hautzinger, Isabelle Duthoit, Dave Rempis, Jojo Mayer, and many more.
In 2017, Simon Berz collaboration with the Band Superterz. He played every evening for a month with guests including Baby Sommer, Toshinori Kondo, Al Comet (The Young Gods), Burnt Friedman, Niels Petter Molvear, and Mauro Pawlowski (DEUS) and others. These diverse collaborations underscore the versatility and adaptability of the ROCKING DESK in various musical contexts and genres.