Adam Wakeman Praises Mark Kelly: A Lesson in Prog Keyboard Mastery
Adam Wakeman, son of renowned keyboardist Rick Wakeman, shared his admiration for Marillion's Mark Kelly as his favorite prog keyboardist. He praised Kelly's ability to play tastefully without overdoing it, always complementing the band's sound. One of the standout examples of Kelly's melodic and memorable playing is in the song "Incommunicado" from Marillion's album "Clutching At Straws." The track features a keyboard riff with more fast notes than the actual solo, showcasing Kelly's musicality.
Adam Wakeman emphasized the importance of playing what is necessary and fitting in with the rest of the band, a quality he appreciates in Kelly's style. He highlighted the balance between showcasing technical prowess in solos and knowing when to hold back to serve the song. Wakeman also shared his experience of meeting Kelly at a dinner party and bonding over their mutual love for music. He described Kelly as a down-to-earth person and a pleasure to talk to, leading to a lasting friendship between the two musicians.
According to Wakeman, Kelly's approach to playing and writing the right parts at the right moment sets a great example for aspiring keyboard players. He believes that listening to a Marillion album can provide valuable insights into how to contribute effectively to a band's sound. Kelly's ability to deliver fast solos when needed while maintaining a sense of restraint demonstrates his skill in enhancing the overall musical experience.