Optiganally Yours
Albums
Facts about Optiganally Yours
Optiganally Yours is an experimental pop band formed by Rob Crow and Pea Hix. Here are some key facts about Optiganally Yours:
Formation and Members: Optiganally Yours was formed in the mid-1990s by Rob Crow and Pea Hix. Rob Crow is best known for his work with the indie rock band Pinback, while Pea Hix is a multi-instrumentalist and producer. The duo came together to explore their mutual love for vintage musical instruments, particularly the Optigan (Optical Organ), a keyboard instrument manufactured in the 1970s that played back pre-recorded sounds stored on optical discs.
Unique Sound and Influences: Optiganally Yours' music is characterized by its quirky, lo-fi aesthetic and playful experimentation. The band's sound incorporates elements of pop, indie rock, electronic music, and experimental noise, all filtered through the nostalgic lens of vintage instrumentation. The Optigan's distinctive analog tones, combined with Rob Crow's melodic songwriting and Pea Hix's inventive arrangements, create a whimsical and otherworldly sonic landscape that sets Optiganally Yours apart from more conventional musical acts.
Album Releases and Critical Reception: Optiganally Yours released their debut album, "Spotlight on Optiganally Yours", in 1997. The album received positive reviews for its imaginative use of the Optigan and its off-kilter songwriting. Subsequent releases include "Exclusively Talentmaker" (2000) and "Presents: Exclusively Talentmaker" (2008). Optiganally Yours' music has been praised for its charmingly eccentric charm and its ability to evoke a sense of nostalgia while pushing the boundaries of experimental pop.
Collaborations and Side Projects: In addition to their work with Optiganally Yours, both Rob Crow and Pea Hix have been involved in various other musical projects. Rob Crow has released solo albums and has been a member of several bands, including Pinback, Thingy, and Goblin Cock. Pea Hix has worked as a producer and musician, collaborating with artists such as Frank Black and the Catholics. While Optiganally Yours remains a passion project for both musicians, their diverse musical interests and creative endeavors have enriched their collaborative efforts and contributed to their distinctive sound.
Cult Following and Legacy: Optiganally Yours has cultivated a devoted cult following among fans of experimental pop and lo-fi music. Despite their relatively limited commercial success, the band's music has endured through word-of-mouth praise and online communities dedicated to obscure and unconventional musical acts. Optiganally Yours' legacy lies in their fearless exploration of sonic possibilities and their ability to transform vintage technology into a vehicle for creative expression, inspiring future generations of musicians to embrace experimentation and embrace the unexpected.