Anika Nilles - Studio Live Session

Publisher: LITTLE BIG BEAT STUDIOS

Playing time: 36 min

Specifications: half track ¼", stereo, RTM SM911, CCIR, 320 nWb/m, 38 cm/s

Reel(s):               1 high quality metal reel

Packaging:        1 special cardboard box, printed, with spine labeling

Inserts:               1 information sheet

Homepage: https://www.littlebigbeat.com/shop

Translation of the German review:

When I heard the energy of drummer Anika Nilles on the promo video on the homepage of LITTLE BIG BEAT Studio with all her groove and soul, I was immediately excited and decided to buy the tape edition of the Studio Live Session. The drummer handles the set with a high degree of accuracy. Her rhythm and articulation are the ignition fuel for this musical firework display that runs through all six tracks. Together with her band, this recording is a blast. The bass lines are of captivating clarity. The guitar is responsible for the rocking solos. The keyboard primarily provides the atmosphere and is used now and then as a soloist. Anika Nilles is the driving force in her compositions, which are bursting with expression. Her breaks (in progressive rock an abrupt change of tempo) give the songs an appealing contrast. In addition, there are fills that are conducive to the embellishment of the musical pieces. Drum solos are not to be expected from Anika Nilles, which in my view is also not necessary, because the instrument is operated throughout in the manner of this mode.

The 39-year-old started playing as a toddler, later tried other career paths and then enrolled at the Pop Academy in Mannheim at the age of 26 to study "her" instrument. In 2013, she decided to record her composition "Wild Boy" as a video and upload it to YOUTUBE. The access reached the million mark. This was the starting point for an impressive career with a tour that took her through Europe, the USA and China in 2015. The debut album "Pikalar" was released in 2017. A year later, she toured the U.S. again. In 2020, she released her second album "For A Colourful Soul," which reached respectable chart positions.

Played on my STUDER A807, this material pushes mightily on my stereo system. The mix is provided with an abundant bass, which on my system already comes across as very exhausted. Musical contour and structure remain in all pitches and registers. The instruments are clear and tidy on the virtual stage. To all tape lovers who want to "let the cow fly" with well-made music, I can highly recommend the purchase.

Anika's comment on the performance: “Playing at LITTLE BIG BEAT STUDIOS was an incredible experience. Performing in such an intimate environment had its very own vibe which is hard to put into words. Playing a concert surrounded by an incredible audience in a very unique and passionately handled studio made this to a marvellous night for all of us. Capturing this on vinyl is just the final touch!”

Translated with www.DeepL.com/Translator (free version)