Cell15 is the brainchild of Robert “Bob” Richardson. In 2011, Robert had decided he wanted to write the progressive rock style that he loved. Raised on the great prog of the past, his love for “King Crimson”, “Gentle Giant”, “Yes”, “Genesis” and “Pink Floyd” influenced this musical decision. Twenty years of recovery had given him the subject matter, the advantage of owning his own recording studio gave him the place to work, and Cell15 was born. The idea of a concept album to tell the story of what happened twenty years ago to present served as the guide for where the music would go. “This is the first time I had the lyrics in mind before the music was written. I had to keep the focus on the story being told”, Robert said. The Cell15 album/CD titled Chapter One was released September 2014.
The debut release was well received internationally. Prog Rock radio stations were adding tracks to their playlists, and ProgRock.com gave the award for “Debut Album of the Year”. In a review from HouseOfProg.com affiliate Rob Rutz, Rob writes: “From the first recoil of the complex kit’s snare drum, followed by locomotive-strength symphonic keys, listeners are propelled like shot in a sling into Cell15’s powerful breakthrough debut album, Chapter One. This is a driving progressive rock concept album that’s befitting of the most-capable, well-powered sound system. Cell15’s Chapter One album goes beyond masterful poly-rhythmic drums, full-bodied keyboards and driving bass, though. It’s one hell of a story that portrays a dark life, capture and prison time, followed by twists of realization, understanding and an epic light show conclusion that begs for cathedral acoustics. Listeners are strapped into this soulfully sung script that was penned over a 20-year timeframe. Arranged and performed by veteran music artist Robert Richardson, Cell15 will remind listeners of Transatlantic, Genesis and IQ, but its classic rock influences and meaningful vocals would also entice any Kansas or Queen fan.”
2015 was the year of forming the full time band to promote Cell15. After many auditions, a lineup of accomplished musicians was established. With Shane Jones on guitar, Kevin Thomas on drums, and new recruit Dan MacDonald (formerly of Elephants of Scotland) on bass, a musical bond was formed to pursue recording more progressive rock music with a killer show sure to excite any audience.
