The black model Fairlight CMI Systems

[KRISS]

seen a few Fairlight computer musical instruments that haven't been the creamy-white coloured ones, and that have been painted all-black. i know Peter Gabriel had an all-black fairlight at his studio at the time in 1981-82 and seeing videos it appears Herbie Hancock had a black model fairlight, but was black an optional colour or was it just the owners customised their instruments? i am sure most fairlight systems were creamy-white in colour? If anyone at fairlight knows then i'd love to know. Thanks. peace and love from Kriss - number 1 Fairlight fan in North Lincolnshire, England.

[Vortex27]

Hi Kriss. I recall seeing one in a studio. The main panel faces were black however the rear panel was the usual white / cream. I seem to remember that it was almost like an acrylic finish which may have been an option for owners who were intending to tour with the instrument and possibly offer some kind of impact / scratch protection, but I may be wrong. I actually thought the colour combination looked great especially when looking rearwards.

[madtheory]

I've seen Peter Gabriels IIx in the flesh so to speak, and it is white. I've never seen any pics or vids of him with a black CMI.

[stevanholm]

The South Bank show from 1982 featuring Peter Gabriel during the recording of PG4, has a scene or two with the black CMI...

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=zJd9IfVdFwg

It can be seen when Peter is working with Larry Fast (starting approx 2 minutes into the video)

[KRISS]

I can confirm that Peter DID use an all-black Fairlight in the early 80s as i messaged Larry Fast and he said they DID use a black one on the Peter Gabriel 4 'Security' Album in about 81-82