I had been on the lookout for a percussionist for the last 5 years. I wasn't in a hurry, it had to be the right person. In the meantime I felt I needed to develop as a solo player so once again there was no immediate need.

A band is always inevitable if you've got a CD out, and for me personally, it gives stimulation and keeps material fresh. Our varied interpretations of songs from the CD, gives the punter a new perspective too.

The most exciting thing about this project, for me personally, is that I will be picking up the bass guitar again. It's an instrument that I dearly love and I've missed it terribly.

Cres Crisp has been a keyboard player for many years and more recently has delved into vocals and guitar. How did he come to work with you Riley?

I've know Cres for nearly 18 years and we've been in many bands together. The thing about Cres is that he honors the material. He's not a frustrated front man trying to weasel his way in. This may sound trite but it's so important for people to be able to contribute without mudding the waters. He's a very stylish player with a good vibey feel and his sense of what's not corney is very highly honed.

He's using an electric piano and an EPS from which he pulls sounds like hammond organ and strings. A little down the line he'll be doing some backing vocals and playing guitar.

Ron Linser has been playing percussion for a small eternity. From his days on the kit in 1969's New York to his exploration of Middle eastern and African percussion. I asked Ron about what his set up is and how he's appoaching Riley's Music.

I use a kit and I incorporate a djembe, durrabuke and congas so that I've got access to them at all times. It's a good way to get lots of color which really compliments Riley's material.

Regarding my approach, it's with an open ear for what rhythm suits.. I'm not following the CD but rather finding my own interpretation until I'm comfortable with the result. With the combination or drums that I'm using, the only way to do this is to experiment by playing it over and over and over..