Richard Barbieri

British synthesizer player and composer Richard Barbieri has been a noteworthy figure in progressive and art rock circles since his mid-'70s debut as a member of new wave pioneers Japan. His innovative keyboard textures and synthesizer programming played a significant role in shaping the group's sound, and established Barbieri as a sought-after collaborator, leading to work with Ryuichi Sakamoto, Robert Fripp, Roedelius, and numerous others. Since Japan's 1982 breakup, Barbieri has continued to collaborate with his ex-bandmates (particularly Steve Jansen and Mick Karn) on additional projects, and his work with Steven Wilson's band No-Man in 1992 led to Barbieri joining Wilson's other main band, Porcupine Tree. Barbieri has also recorded solo albums and composed music for films. ~ Paul Simpson