As a globetrotting trumpeter for such renowned artists as Bootsy Collins, Jill Scott and Jarrod Lawson, it’s hard to imagine Farnell Newton having any time to focus on his own solo career. However, his new album, Ready to Roll, is a testament to his non-stop commitment to his craft, while the songs within the album showcase Newton’s musical versatility.
Whether it’s in the studio or on the road, Newton is a committed user of Harman’s AKG microphones.
Recorded in his home base of Portland, Oregon, Ready to Roll is a slight departure from Newton’s previous albums.
“This album is all funk, soul and R&B,” Newton said. “Although I play a lot of jazz—and will be recording with a jazz label in December—I’m keeping those worlds separate. I want people to be able to let go and groove to this record.”
While Ready to Roll is comprised of original compositions, Newton’s touring experience with other big-name acts has played an influential role in his writing. “Playing with Bootsy has inspired me to play funkier, while my shows with Jill have definitely helped me write more soul-based music as well,” he said.
Newton recorded all of his horn parts on Ready to Roll with an AKG C214 large-diaphragm condenser microphone, which offers a supreme one-inch capsule on an integrated suspension to reduce mechanical noise.
“The C214 is terrific, I used it for my last album as well, and it’s clear, not tinny-sounding, and it’s easy to use,” Newton said. “When I’m recording my horn parts, I know how they should sound to the listener. The C214 gets me to that sound very quickly and easily. Even if I have to go back and tweak the EQs after the fact, I still know it was recorded correctly and has that flavor I’m looking for.”
In addition to his own live performances, Newton employs his AKG WMS4500 wireless microphone system while on tour with Bootsy Collins and Jill Scott (and will do so on Jarrod Lawson’s upcoming European tour). The WMS4500 includes an SR4500 true-diversity receiver and a D7 Vocal Set.
“I’ve never had any problems with the WMS4500, I just plug in and start playing,” Newton said. “I’ve never had to worry about any RF-related issues and it sounds great. I’m always ready to go.”
