Ra Ra Riot | Oh La | Moog Sound Lab

About This Footage

In the summer of 2007, Ra Ra Riot was on a hot streak. Their debut album "The Rhumb Line" had just dropped, and critics were singing their praises for crafting infectious indie rock with a hint of classical flair. The band's eclectic sound, which blended the precision of chamber music with the raw energy of punk, was unlike anything else in the scene at the time.

This 5-minute clip from the Moog Sound Lab series is a fascinating glimpse into Ra Ra Riot's creative process during this period. Filmed in a dimly lit studio, the band members are surrounded by an array of vintage synthesizers and effects pedals, their faces illuminated only by the soft glow of LED lights. The atmosphere is hushed, with each musician carefully setting up their equipment before launching into a mesmerizing performance of "Oh La".

What makes this clip so remarkable is its use of cutting-edge technology to reimagine traditional instruments. Ra Ra Riot's violinist Rebecca Zeller and cellist Alexandra Lawn are seen controlling the Moog iPad app Animoog, generating lush polyphonic pads that soar above the rest of the band. Meanwhile, guitarist Milo Bonacci uses a Moog Guitar with an internal ladder filter to create haunting, sustained notes that add depth to the song's arrangement.

The clip also highlights the band's innovative approach to sound design. By incorporating analog delay effects and phasers into their setup, Ra Ra Riot creates a rich, textured sound that is both nostalgic and forward-thinking. The use of vintage equipment like the Moogerfooger and Little Phatty adds an air of authenticity to the performance, as if the band members are tapping into some hidden wellspring of sonic possibility.

One of the most striking aspects of this clip is its attention to detail. Every musician is carefully positioned in the frame, with each instrument and effect pedal lovingly displayed for the viewer's benefit. The camera work is similarly meticulous, capturing every nuance of the performance from multiple angles. Even the YouTube description provides a level of insight into the band's creative process, listing the specific equipment used to recreate "Oh La".

For fans of Ra Ra Riot, this clip will be a thrilling throwback to an era when indie rock was still experimenting with new sounds and styles. For those unfamiliar with the band, it offers a tantalizing glimpse into their unique sonic universe. Watching Ra Ra Riot navigate the Moog Sound Lab's array of vintage synthesizers is like witnessing a masterclass in creative problem-solving – as if each musician is carefully crafting a new language from scratch.

As the clip comes to a close, one can't help but be struck by the sheer imagination and innovation on display. In this brief, 5-minute performance, Ra Ra Riot distills their entire artistic vision into a single, shimmering package.

Curated from public records and music databases.