In 2003, Rik Emmett met Michael Shotton backstage at an orchestra rehearsal for a show at the Grand Theatre in London Ontario, where the two vocalists were performing separately, fronting the symphonic arrangements of a mutual friend, Peter Brennan. They knew of each other from their respective background stints in Triumph and Von Groove.
The material is unapologetically classic rock: it owes as much to Led Zep and Rush as it does to STP or G & R, or more melodic, vocal bands like Journey or Queen, but it definitely has its own original and unique character. The lead vocals and the harmonies are unmistakable, with some songs featuring layering of up to 60 odd vocal tracks, as Shotton takes full advantage of digital technology.
The concepts behind “Liberty Manifesto” revealed themselves gradually through the long process of making the record. The labour of love is rewarding, life-affirming and liberating. This kind of effort comes at a price, with sacrifice. It will be for others to judge the market values of their Manifesto, but for Emmett and Shotton, this project called Airtime has been a defining and deeply satisfying experience that they take a fierce pride in.
01 - Edge Of Your Mind
02 - Midnight Black & Blue
03 - Liberty
04 - Headstream
05 - River Runs Deep
06 - Find Your Way
07 - Addicted
08 - Code 9
09 - Rise
10 - Moving Day
11 - Transmutation
12 - Cryin' Shame
Rik Emmett Lead Vocals, Guitar, Bass
Michael Shotton Drums, Percussion, Keyboards, Backing Vocals
Dave Dunlop Guitar
Steve Skingley Keyboards
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Airtime – Liberty Manifesto 2007
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