Physical Illusion
Physical Illusion is a one man lo-fi project that was started in 1999 as a vehicle for the musical self-indulgence of its' founder Nick Karn. The first five recordings were made on a crappy tape player (and built on VERY minimal guitar/keyboard/vocal talent) until the switch to Screenblast Acid was made in late 2003/early 2004 for the last two recordings Life In The Fourth Dimension and the one-time 'Nick tries to see if he can fit 100 crazy tossoff songs on one disc' album An Accidental Flash Of Genius.
Tell me about your history? How did you get where you are now?
Physical Illusion was formed in 1999 and recorded five albums with a cheap tape recorder and minimal skills on guitar and keyboards until upgrading to Screenblast Acid software in late 2003. Since then, I've been trying to maintain a balance between being a studio-based outfit with creative embellishments and counter-melodies, and a more simple, acoustic-based one, the latter probably being brought on by performing open mic nights since the summer of 2005.
Have you performed live in front of an audience? Any special memories?
I play at open mic night every Monday at The Fire on 4th and Girard, and it has been an incredibly fun and enlightening experience. I can't really think of any special moments off the top of my head - I just really enjoy playing my stupid songs and being around really, really talented musicians.
Your musical influences
Basically anyone in the classic rock, alternative underground, metal, keyboard/guitar pop sphere and sometimes beyond. But I'm also just as influenced by music I hate as much as I love, both for ideas on what not to put in a song, and easy targets for parody. I soak up pretty much everything I can, though. I would pinpoint Sparks, R.E.M., The Beatles, Pink Floyd and Genesis as probably my biggest ones in particular, though.
What equipment do you use?
Casio keyboard(s), Yamaha acoustic, Screenblast Acid recording software
Anything else?
Going the copout route, I'll think of something later. I'll do it tomorrow morning! I promise I won't put it off!
