The Engine is RED
The Engine is RED is an experimental sonic art project initiated in 2005 by Johnny Cochise in Healdsburg, CA.
Current members include: Johnny on guitar and various stringed INSTRUMENTS that he builds and modifies specifically for the project. Schuyler on analog synth with heavy oscillations, effects, and tweaked signal paths. Schuyler is a former member of "The Rum Diary," a popular bay area indie rock band. Dan on drums and percussion, he often incorporates triggered samples into his unique drumming style.
They remain mostly underground, playing and recording at "the Lab," releasing their music for free on various internet music sites. Occasionally they perform in alternative spaces, such as art shows themed within similar concepts. Most recently they played a 30 minute arranged improvisation for Projekt Inferno, an art and fashion show curated on the theme of Dante's Inferno.
The music is mostly improvisational, abandoning traditional song forms and convention to form a sound that intends to provoke conflicting emotional responses.
Their contribution to the music and art scene is significant for breaking BOUNDARIES between commercial music, instrument design and fabrication, and visual arts.