September 8, 2021

Black Ladder

Summary:

Black Ladder is a progressive rock trio based in Austin, TX. Members include Shane Lamb (keyboard), Clarence Riley, IV (bass), and Ray Cardenas (drums).

Black Ladder is a progressive rock trio based in Austin, TX. Members include Shane Lamb (keyboard), Clarence Riley, IV (bass), and Ray Cardenas (drums). Coming originally from two separate, disbanded groups, the three met up regularly for casual jam sessions. After much unformulated playing, they found their styles created a unique sound and started structuring their material. The band’s sound developed from a merging of Shane’s classically influenced licks, Clarence’s heavy funk bass lines, and Ray’s crafted rock grooves. In 2010, they recorded in the University of Texas at Austin recording studio, resulting in the Black Ladder EP. From late 2011 to early 2012, after performing regularly in and around the Austin area promoting the EP, Black Ladder went on to record and produce their first full-length, self-titled debut album, which was released April 2012.  Black Ladder is currently finishing production on their second full-length album with a targeted release date of Fall 2016.

Further reading

Xander Rapstine, Symphonic Prog Rock

In Episode 7, we speak with Xander Rapstine about his work, inspiration and influences as a prog rock composer and songwriter, including with Proud Peasant, the Austin-based symphonic prog rock outfit.

Transit Method, Alt Prog Rock

In Episode 6, we talk to Transit Method, a band from Austin, TX that brings together the complexities of progressive rock with the unrefined grit of grunge and heavy metal. They recently released their sophomore record, The Madness, on Brutal Panda Records drawing comparisons to the likes of Soundgarden, Rush, The Mars Volta, and Motorhead. They’ve also been described as “a powerfully epic...

Black Ladder, Progressive Instrumental Rock Trio

Black Ladder is a progressive rock trio based in Austin, TX. Members include Shane Lamb (keyboard), Clarence Riley, IV (bass), and Ray Cardenas (drums). The band’s sound developed from a merging of Shane’s classically influenced licks, Clarence’s heavy funk bass lines, and Ray’s well crafted rock grooves.

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