'22' is a project I organised throughout the first half of 2021. Although I played a large role in creating the final recording, there were also multiple musicians who recorded parts and solos in the song. I wrote/composed the song, including all of the instrumental arrangements, in less than 2 months. This also included the lyrics, which are available below or in the lyric video.
I also produced, mixed and mastered the song, which meant taking creative control of the recording of the song. Alongside this, I also recorded the drum part throughout the song, as well as some trumpet and keyboard parts.
The final mix was then used to create the official music video and lyric video, and released under the name 'Manchester Rainbow' on all streaming services. You can find the song here...
22 is written in ternary form, which came from my original idea to create a piece of music with both up-tempo, happier sections...
These lyrics were particularly challenging to write, as I wanted to create poignant words that reflect upon the tragic events on 22nd May 2017. Although they don't feature on the final song, they were released publicly in the days before the release of the song, and they keep the same meaning outside of the music. Furthermore, they also featured in an alternate video, in which they appear on screen over the haunting instrumental song.
Soloists
Spencer Wells - Solo Flugelhorn
Rishit Dhoot - Piano
Martin Palmer - Electric Guitar
Rhythm Section
Owen Thomas - Acoustic Guitar
Sam Tilbrook - Percussion
Aaron Jones - Drums
Rishit Dhoot - Piano/Rhodes
Martin Palmer - Bass Guitar
Trumpets
Nick Bramald
Spencer Wells
David Cross
Aaron Jones
Jake Mulholland
Saxophones
Bradley Gore - Alto
Vivek Mistry - Alto
Chris Jolly - Tenor/Baritone
Joe Unwin - Alto