Curved Air Members, Gear & Sound
Members
Select a Curved Air band member to check out the music gear they use live and in the studio.
About
Curved Air is an innovative English band that emerged in the early 1970s, blending elements of progressive rock, folk rock, and symphonic rock into a distinctive sound. The group was formed by Darryl Way (violin), Francis Monkman (keyboards), Florian Pilkington-Miksa (drums), and Robert Martin (bass), and later joined by Sonja Kristina (vocals). Known for their eclectic mix of classical and rock influences, Curved Air rose to prominence with pioneering releases like their debut album Air Conditioning. This lineup, with its unique combination of rock energy and classical virtuosity, set the stage for their exploration into complex musical territories, capturing audiences with their intricate compositions and dynamic live performances.
How to Sound Like Curved Air
Curved Air's sound is characterized by its fusion of classical sophistication and rock intensity, creating a rich, layered sonic landscape. Their music often features dramatic violin melodies and lush keyboard arrangements, which give it an expansive, orchestrated feel. The interplay between the classical violin and rock elements is a hallmark of their style, often augmented by the use of synthesizers like the Moog Minimoog Model D, enhancing their sonic palette with analog warmth and depth. The rhythm section, with dynamic drum lines and fluid bass, anchors their compositions with a robust yet flexible foundation, supporting the elaborate melodic structures. This combination of classical instrumentation and rock dynamics creates a sound that is both technically sophisticated and emotionally resonant, capturing the essence of their innovative musical journey.
Discography
The Second British Rock Meeting 1972 (Live)
1972
Air Cut
1973
Midnight Wire (Remastered)
1975
Curved Air (Live)
1975
The Curved Air Rarities Series, Vol. 4: Alive 1990
2000
Air Conditioning
2005
Phantasmagoria
2005
Second Album
2005
Reborn
2008
Lovechild (Digitally Remastered Version)
2011
Airborne (Remastered)
2012
Live Atmosphere
2012
Airwaves - Live At the BBC / Live At Paris Theatre
2012
North Star
2014
Curved Space & Infinity: The Curved Air Rarities Series, Vol. 2
2016
Curved Space: The Curved Air Rarities Series, Vol. 2a
2016
The Curved Air Rarities Series, Vol. 1: Tapestry of Propositions (Live)
2016
Air Cut: Newly Remastered Official Edition
2018
Live at Under the Bridge: The 45th Anniversary Concert
2019
The Albums 1970-1973 (Remastered Edition)
2021
Live 1971
2022
Get the Curved Air Sound
Want to sound like Curved Air? This gear comes straight from the setups of the band's members, based on proven sources. Dive into each artist's page for more detail and inspiration.
