Tom Slayton Effect blends the imaginative textures of New Age / Soundscape music with the organic feel of Acoustic & Electric Guitars. An unusual electronic instrumental convergence that features a mellow, yet adventurous musical experience with some cuts even featuring an expressive Smooth Jazz feel. Deep Synth and Keyboard arrangements are at times inter-laced with 6 & 12 String Acoustic and Electric Guitars, Fretless or Synth Bass Bottom, Dobros and Harps. Sometimes the Rhythm section implements a Full Drumkit and other times the delicate, but pronounced use of percussion reinforces the eclectic presentation. When in use, the Acoustic and Electric stringed instruments are allowed to evolve and maintain an individual presence throughout the complex and vivid Keyboard pads and coloration. While some compositions are dominant with Keyboard structure, there is also focus on the acoustical flavoring. At times soft and Haunting and at other times upbeat, Tom Slayton Effect brings together wonderfully, two different worlds of tonal composition. And although done before in similar ways by other artists, this musical style features an Acoustical - Electronic, Instrumental palette, unique in form and design. Enjoy the simple magic of Tom Slayton Effect, an Electro - Acoustic Ambient Jazz adventure for the watching listener.
Launched in 2007, Tom Slayton Effect is the Third side project of Jazz artist Michael Lee Thomas. Michael is the composer / performer behind Michael Lee Thomas, Thrill Element and Gravity Quiet. Tom Slayton Effect features Electronic / Acoustic compositions with focus on Acoustic and Electric Guitar work over expanding Keyboard & Synth textures. While instrumental in nature, Tom Slayton Effect will feature dynamic and expressive arrangements. Some cuts have a New Age / Soundscape arrangement while others flow with a nice Smooth Jazz feel. Tom Slayton Effect will showcase a side of Michael's songwriting that while flavored and influenced by his other projects, features a unique presence of style. The debut Album 'Slide Show Dreams', was released in August 2007, the Second, 'Water Crossing No. 3', released in December 2009, the Third Album, 'One Ghost Cafe, released in 2008, The Fourth LP, 'Intimate Mirage', released in September 2013, and the Fifth and Final Full Album, 'Last Warm Morning', made its debut in November 2014. All of the Albums feature 14 Select Electro-Acoustic / Ambient Jazz Cuts. Inspiration for the project name came from Michael's late Grandfather, A.M. Tom Thomas (1908-1973), who toured Rodeos, Fairs and even recorded under the name Tom Slayton, "The Texas Kid", in the late 1920's & 1930's. While his Grandfathers music career never achieved major fame or wide recognition, Michael launches this project in tribute and with respect to a long forgotten Radio Cowboy. Although the Albums and Songs will still be available for purchase, the 'Tom Slayton Effect' Project was Retired in November 2014.
Brian Eno and Pink Floyd were major influences along with Tangerine Dream.
Tom Slayton Effect - Discography: 'Slide Show Dreams' (2007); 'One Ghost Cafe' (2008); 'Water Crossing No. 3' (2009); 'Intimate Mirage' (2013); 'Last Warm Morning' (2014/Final) - Project Retired - November 2014.