Biography

Originally from Madison, Wisconsin, Richard has always been driven by a creative passion for music that could not be realized through conventional means. Though not initially recognized as a prodigy, what set him apart from other musicians was a desire to write music from the moment he first picked up a guitar, as opposed to just learning to play. His eventual attempt to re-design music was less than overwhelmingly received in the Midwest and prompted his relocation to the wide-open, but unfamiliar world of Los Angeles.

The new environment brought a revelation of sights and sounds that spawned an even greater flow of creative output, and with it an education into the inner-workings of the music business. Richards quest for success led him through many collaborative efforts with bands vying for record deals that left a multitude of near misses in their wake. Determined to press forward, Richard used his electronics background to build his own studio where he would develop his production skills and derive his livelihood from producing other artists. Focusing on instrumental music, he enrolled in the Film Scoring program at UCLA Extension where he was exposed to writing for orchestra. Eventually, with the proper alignment of the planets, the time had come for Richard to produce his magnum opus, and 2006 would mark the release of Phenomenation, Richards first commercial release.

Phenomenation represents years of research and contains elements of everything that affected Richards unique interpretation of music. Electric and acoustic guitars are the primary instruments, but arrangement varies from Rock rhythm sections to a Symphonic Orchestra with a rich array of Electronica to fuse the mix. A common remark is how the music conjures visions of movie scores and hence the category of New Age Cinematic Rock was born.

Reviews:

"Zeier's debut CD, Phenomenation, sounds like a movie soundtrack - in the best possible way. From the opening track, you are drawn in to a compelling instrumental story that is near impossible to stop listening to. The songs feature lush orchestrations and are at once accessible, yet thoughtful."
Instrumental Jams.com July 2007

Richard Zeier, in his first solo album Phenomenation, does a fantastic job of creating intelligent guitar music. He uses a wide variety of influences (including classical and electronic) to fuel his guitars. Most of the songs are 3 or 4 minutes long, and every piece has its own unique flavor. This would make great soundtrack music.
By Tim Jones - Music Street Journal

Phenomenation is an instrumental classical-cum-rock album... conceived, says Richard, thanks to "proper alignment of the planets", this 13-track work represents his magnum opus. Grandiose wording, perhaps, especially considering that this is his first commercial release, but while such confidence and self-aggrandisement would probably be met with utter contempt coming from any other artist, in this case it fits the music rather well.
Zeier studied film scoring at UCLA, and it shows in his music. In fact, most of the material on here sounds like a pretty convincing pitch for an ber-budget Hollywood film soundtrack of the 'epic' variety.
by Chris Korff - Sound on Sound Magazine (July 07)

Phenomenation is an excellent musical journey through time and space and a deep showcase of Zeier's musical ability. This is the best of cinematic rock: whether it's on your MP3 player or in your favorite films I have no doubt you'll be hearing a lot of Phenomenation and Richard Zeier.
by Ryan Quinn MuzikReviews.com

UNBELIEVEABLE...I can't stop listening to it. Each track is smooth...the vocals and guitar is intoxicating. It's perfect for a chill down mix or smooth jazz addition. This album should do very well.
Bryant S. Littlejohn NewImage Entertainment

"And those who enjoy guitar based explorations of colour and time will find a great deal to admire here as the prodigiously talented musician heads off into a richly textured world of symphonic rock. A world Herr Uli Jon Roth would be proud to call home. The key piece for me was "The Journey", one that exemplifies the complicated yet natural flow of the music".
Added: September 10th 2006
Reviewer: Stuart A Hamilton
www.spacerock.co.uk

"I dont make this proclamation often, and you may not hear me say it again this year, so take notice: Stop what you are doing, right now, and buy this CD!. . .
"With Phenomenation, Richard Zeier has created a masterpiece."
by Mike Parker - managing editor of BuddyHollwood.com

"Excelent stuff by Richard. Different music shades permeate his colorful musical journey. Sounds like rockier side of New Age, original material gives full insight into innervision of this masterful musician. This music deserves exposure and hopefully it will bring Richard Zeier more fans throughout the world. "
by Vasja Ivanovski - 94.1 FM RADIO Macedonia

"This sounds like a lifetime of passion, faith and love poured into a little shiny disc. Very impressive. . . Richard has a terrific CD here, one I recommend heartily."
by Don Cicchetti - DC Guitar Journal

"Much like the awesome cover art of his 2006 CD Phenomenation, guitarist Richard Zeier has a pretty amazing musical imagination...Phenomenation takes the scenic tour and serves as a splendid introduction to the guitar magic of Richard Zeier."
by Robert Silverstein - 20th Century Guitar magazine, July 2006