FM

Introduction to FM's Black Noise

FM is a Canadian progressive rock group based in Toronto. Their debut album, Black Noise, was released in 1978 under Passport Records. The album was originally recorded in 1977 for CBC Radio's "Night Flight" program. It was pressed in a limited run of 500 copies before its wider release, where it achieved CRIA Gold certification.

Musical Composition

Black Noise is distinguished by its unique instrumentation. Unlike many progressive rock bands, FM chose to completely omit electric guitars. The lead melodies are crafted using synthesizers, primarily the Minimoog and Micromoog, played by Cameron Hawkins. He also contributed vocals, piano, and Rickenbacker bass guitar to the album. Nash The Slash, known for his experimental approach, played custom electric violins and electric mandolins, creating a distinctive sound that incorporated electronic effects. Martin Deller added depth with his drumming and Moog synthesizers.

Production Details

The production of Black Noise was overseen by Keith Whiting, with sound engineering by Mike Jones and Ed Stone. The album was recorded at Sounds Interchange in Toronto. Its cover photography was done by Paul Till, adding visual intrigue to the album's presentation.

Track Highlights

The album features a range of tracks that highlight its progressive and electronic influences. The single "Phasors On Stun" became a hit in Canada, showcasing the band's ability to blend synth-driven melodies with rock elements. Other tracks such as "Dialing For Dharma" and the title track "Black Noise" further explore the band's thematic focus on dystopian narratives and space motifs. The title track spans an expansive ten minutes, allowing for intricate musical exploration.

Conclusion

FM's Black Noise was released on Passport Records in 1978 and features eight tracks, with a total runtime of 39 minutes.