| PlNG... Is a self-styled and self-managed six piece instrumental ensemble. The group formed in Melbourne during the winter months of 1996. From the outset a major objective of the band has been to explore the relatively unchartered territory of "quasi-techno" - A term (coined by PING) which describes the performance of 'techno" inspired music without using pre--programmable devices such as sequencers, loops or drum machines. Put simply - techno music performed absolutely 100% live. | ||
PING does not, however, rely on techno as its sole source of inspiration. Cultural diversity is also an important feature of PING's musical ethos. Their music draws on a wide and ever-expanding range of sounds and styles from musical traditions all around the world. |
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| A diversity which is particularly reflected in the types of instruments that PING uses. A somewhat unique and eclectic combination, one which includes conventional Western instruments, some not so conventional instruments designed and/or built by members of PING, as well as traditional instruments from regions such as West Africa, the Middle East, Northern India, Brazil and Indigenous Australia (See below for complete list). | ||
| | THE BAND MEMBERS | |
All player's are full-time musician's and the collective experience of the group encompasses an extensive range of musical styles from a variety of cultures and traditions. These include both contemporary and experimental excursions in areas such as classical, jazz, folk, electronic, funk and world music.
All PING compositions are 100% original. The music draws on elements from musical traditions around the world as well as modern techno styles such as trance, jungle, hip-hop, drum n' bass, dub, trip-hop, acid, break-beat, ambient and doof (to name but a few). | ||
It is fresh, dynamic, different, dance-orientated, percussive, ambient, energetic emotive, eclectic, exotic, musical, intricate, multi-cultural... The songwriting process is generally a collective and collaborative effort. Although PING compositions have separate and distinct identities, they are usually performed as one continuous piece. This is so whether PING is playing live or in the studio. It creates a more consistent musical flow, enabling the band to maintain an uninterrupted musical exchange with the audience or listener, an outcome which is particularly important for those dancing or trancing to the music. This musical evolution allows the band to create an atmosphere where musical themes and dynamics are developed gradually.
PING Performances….. | ||
 | PING hosts and produces a series of multimedia events known as Green Magma. Essentially these are collaborative events which feature the music of PING. The band performs in conjunction with other performers and artists working in a wide range of fields through a diverse range of mediums. Special features from past events include: DJ's, computer generated animation, films, slide shows, capoeira, butoh dance, contact improvisation, percussion groups, ethnic and traditional dance, body painting, fluoro art, spiffy decorations, installations, roaming performers, puppet shows and more. | |
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Some Green magma highlights in Melbourne , Australia have included
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As the giglist below highlights , PING specialises in playing at events
in front of large audiences through large sound systems. The band also,
however, enjoys performing in more intimate settings with a much simpler
semi-acoustic set up.
Ping and/or members of Ping have also performed at the following festivals
events, and gigs over the last two years:
Ping Recordings…..In July 1997 PING recorded five tracks (approx. 30 mins duration) at Spring Studios in Prahran. Although these 1997 recordings have not as yet been officially released, they have received frequent airplay on Melbourne radio stations RRR, PBS, KISS and 3CR. The samples in Real Audio above come from this EP. | ||
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The CD 'Ping' (Self Titled) is now available through AIAN, please join the Ping mailing list below to keep updated with future Ping events or click here to order CD. | ||||
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PING are currently conducting negotiations with a major
label in relation to the completion, distribution & marketing of their
debut CD/Vinyl release. PING plan to embark on an extensive national and
international tour once the recording is completed.
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| HTML and design by AIAN. © PING 1998.
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