Syracuse composer Christopher “Mazedude” Getman released Words and Verses: Foundation last week, an album that transforms Bible verses into original electronic music compositions. The project, over a decade in development, represents Getman’s first work devoted to writing music inspired by scripture.
The concept for Words and Verses came to Getman in 2015 while sitting in church, when he asked himself what it would look like to apply his electronic fusion, instrumental style toward music for God. The idea crystallized immediately: take a Bible verse and turn it into music.
Getman, known for his video game composition and remix work, faced the challenge of translating abstract principles such as faith, blessing, creation, eternity and forgiveness into original music compositions. He began developing ideas in his limited free time, eventually taking the concept to Kickstarter. The campaign failed due to a combination of bad timing during COVID, a video that didn’t explain the idea concisely, and a lack of completed pieces. The setback slowed him down but didn’t stop the project.
The album features collaborations with classical musicians including Chromatic Apparatus on cello, Sean Penzo on cello, Cecilia Vacanti on violin, Pointblanket on violin, Jennifer Vacanti on marimba and vibraphone, and Nicole Chang on harp. The release includes multiple versions of tracks, including 9-bit arrangements of “Deuteronomy 28:2,” “Mark 5:34,” “Genesis 1:2” and “John 14:2,” as well as a meditative mix of “Genesis 1:2.”
Getman has been making music for over two decades, with his work spanning video game remix and arranged albums, game soundtracks and original compositions. A SAMMY Award winner, he has contributed to numerous video game music projects over the years while building a distinct electronic fusion style.
The project includes artwork and illustration by Randall Drew, with Andrew Aversa serving as mastering consultant. Additional contributors include Paul Tranchell on shofar, Matt Vacanti on sampling session and Brynner Agassi on electronic pad samples.
Christopher Getman plans more releases in the future, including additional versions of pieces shown in Foundation and more artists in the mix. The current release establishes groundwork and serves as proof of concept for the larger vision.
Listen to the album here.
Track List
Genesis 1:2 (featuring Chromatic Apparatus, Sean Penzo, Cecilia Vacanti)
John 14:2 (featuring Pointblanket, Jennifer Vacanti)
Psalms 23:4 (featuring Nicole Chang)
Deuteronomy 28:2 (9-bit)
Mark 5:34 (9-bit)
Genesis 1:2 (9-bit)
John 14:2 (9-bit)
Genesis 1:2 (Meditative Mix) (featuring Chromatic Apparatus, Sean Penzo, Cecilia Vacanti)
Comments are closed.