InfoSearched
Published -
- February 9, 2020
- 12:26 pm
Patrick Mathis
Smooth Criminal – Michael Jackson. Arrangement Covered by: Patrick Mathis
How does Thomas Bloch’s version of Smooth Criminal retain the original’s groove and energy despite the technical challenges involved?
Smooth Criminal M.Jackson on the Barrel Organ: A Tribute to the King of Pop’s Legacy
Smooth Criminal, one of Michael Jackson’s most beloved hits, has been reimagined in a new format that is sure to delight fans of the King of Pop. The track has been expertly arranged for the barrel organ, a traditional instrument that was once a common fixture on the streets of Paris, Rome, and other European cities.
This unique rendition of Smooth Criminal is the work of Thomas Bloch, a French musician who is a master of the glass harmonica and a well-known performer of classical and contemporary music. With this homage to Michael Jackson, Bloch demonstrates his versatility as a musician and his deep respect for Jackson’s musical genius.
Playing Smooth Criminal on the barrel organ requires a different set of skills than those needed by the modern keyboardist or DJ. The barrel organ, also called the street organ or hurdy-gurdy, is a mechanical instrument that consists of a series of pipes powered by cranking a handle. To play Smooth Criminal, Bloch must carefully synchronize his movements with the rotation of the barrel, adjusting his tempo and dynamics to suit the unique sound of the instrument.
Despite the technical challenges of playing Smooth Criminal on the barrel organ, Bloch’s version of the song retains the original’s irresistible groove and energy. The familiar melody of the intro rings out in a tinny, almost metallic timbre, while the sharp, staccato rhythm of the verse is accentuated by the percussive sound of the organ’s keys. The chorus explodes with a jubilant blast of sound, as Bloch’s fingers race up and down the keyboard, coaxing a huge range of notes and tones from the instrument.
Listening to this version of Smooth Criminal, it’s impossible not to think of Michael Jackson and his enduring legacy. The King of Pop was a trailblazer who pushed the boundaries of popular music, and his influence can be heard in countless contemporary artists. He was also an exceptional artist who poured his heart and soul into his work, and who always strove to create something new and exciting.
Perhaps that’s why Smooth Criminal resonates so deeply even when played on an unusual instrument like the barrel organ. Even though it’s been more than a decade since Michael Jackson’s untimely death, his music continues to capture hearts and imaginations around the world. Thanks to artists like Thomas Bloch, we can experience that magic in new and unexpected ways.
