Zero Ohms

Richard Roberts pursues multiple creative paths as a writer, painter, musician, teacher, and producer, guided by his personal philosophy known as "the Tao of Zero Ohms," which means "way of no resistance." This same outlook inspired his choice of the stage name Zero Ohms. His introduction to music occurred at age 11 through clarinet instruction, followed four years afterward by his acquisition of guitar skills along with vocal performances of pop and antiwar folk material. Key inspirations during this period included Phil Ochs, Donovan, Richie Havens, the Beatles, the Moody Blues, Leonard Cohen, and Jethro Tull. A concert featuring Paul Horn providing flute accompaniment to Donovan prompted Roberts to shift his primary focus to the flute. Significant stylistic impacts came from Paul Horn along with Ian Anderson of Jethro Tull and Ray Thomas of the Moody Blues, while classical methods were absorbed from Jean-Pierre Rampal and Bettine Clemen. As a skilled synthesist, Roberts integrates his flutes and woodwinds into electronic soundscapes, yielding an original and serene sonic quality. Initial recordings appeared on his own private label, with subsequent projects utilizing MP3.com's D.A.M. technology. His later output on the SpaceForMusic imprint encompasses Unafraid of the Impending Silence, Sweven, and the Brannan Lane collaboration Soundfall to the Infinite.