finetune artist: Michael Brook

b. Toronto, Canada. Brook's various studies at York University, Toronto, included subjects such as electronic music, psychology in the arts and the African influence in American Music. During his time there he also made the acquaintance of trumpeter Jon Hassell and minimalist composer La Monte Young, who introduced him to Indian music, before a further academic course in photography at Ryerson Polytechnic. During this period, Brook built his home studio The Crypt and began developing his own "infinite guitar". He also recorded a limited edition album with his own band Flivva and played guitar with local act the Everglades. In the early 80s he enjoyed a brief touring stint with Martha And The Muffins, a truly skilled pop band who were unjustly branded as one-hit-wonders after the breakthrough success of "Echo Beach". His involvement in the band came after working as house engineer to Daniel Lanois at his Grant Avenue recording studio in Hamilton, Ontario. During this period he also met both Harold Budd and Brian Eno. He helped Eno to produce videos in a facility he had been involved in establishing in Toronto. Eno returned the favour by helping Brook in his musical exploits, which included appearances on Eno's On Land (1982) and Hassell's Magic Realism (1983).

Listen to Michael Brook at Finetune.

(1999) Cobalt Blue/Live At The Aquarium CD1
(1999) Cobalt Blue/Live At The Aquarium CD2
(1985) Hybrid

Ultramarine
Distant Village
Andean
Earth Floor
Arriving In Deadwood