Roland U.S.

Jeff Lams

Using The RD-700SX Live With Tommy Walker

by Corey Fournier

Jeff Lams has played keyboard with some of the most highly regarded musicians on the planet and his heart for ministry keeps him in the frequent company of folks like the Franklin Graham crusade band and Tommy Walker. Jeff’s keyboard of choice is the Roland RD-700SX and he was nice enough to share how he’s using it on the current Breakthrough tour with Tommy Walker.

“On this current tour with Tommy, the concerts are being held mostly at churches. We never know what we’re going to walk into acoustically, so it’s important for me to have an instrument that will easily adapt to any environment we end up in.

Sometimes there are a lot of sonic variables that are difficult to control, and the RD-700SX has consistently proven to be a great keyboard in adapting to the particular acoustics of a given venue. For example, during one of our concerts, the front-of-house mixing console was limited. So, I used the onboard EQ on the RD to bring out the clarity of the grand piano sound. With the simple front-panel knobs, I was able to eliminate most of the sonic ‘mud’ build up that was happening in the room.

Many times, after a concert, I’m approached by keyboard players and worship leaders who are curious about how I get my piano and organ sounds. The RD is the foundation, both from a sound quality and ease-of-use standpoint. It’s also been great in the classes I've been teaching this year for Tommy’s Worship Conferences. Being able to quickly change or mute onboard effects, EQ, as well as setup layers on the spot has opened up possibilities for players to hear how they can add to the worship experience.”

You can hear Jeff’s playing on the RD-700SX on Tommy Walker’s live album and DVD, Breakthrough. Check it out at www.TommyWalker.net.