Under the careful guidance and amazing effort of Ryan Hoyle and Larry Marciano these songs have achieved their potential. As a songwriter only, it was important to find the right musicians and vocalist. I was real lucky because I found not only compatible artists but great people. Everyone involved made such a huge effort and acted as if it was their own song. I couldn't be happier with the result.
All of the music was recorded in Los Angeles and performed & produced by Larry who I was introduced to by Ryan. Larry has access to some of L.A.'s finest musicians and with every update of the songs they just sounded better and better. I met Ryan when I submitted a song sample to him responding to his offer of online, live drums tracks.
Working with these guys was perfect. They both really love working on songs. You don't have to listen to hard to see how much fun Larry is having on Stop Playing Chicken. Ryan described the character of the drums in this song as 'cheeky'. I asked him via skype what does cheeky sound like so he picked up the computer and took me into the drum room. "That's what it sounds like," he said grinning and turning the camera towards a 60's Grestch kick drum, with 1965 Ludwig sky blue pearl toms and a 1965 ludwig super phonic snare drum. He did this for every track, custom built each drum set. The effort he made was phenomenal. Working with Ryan and Larry was an education as much as it was inspiring.
Warren Stanyer has been singing on my scratch tracks for years and I was pleased to finally give him great tracks for his vocals. This is another individual who's personal standards go way beyond what's asked.
Although I didn't start until my mid-thirties I quickly found that songwriting was more than just a hobby, it was something I had to do. I've been responsible for other peoples lives for all of my employment years. First as an Avalanche Forecaster, Mountain Guide and currently as a Captain with the Fire Service. Being creative allows me to release these liabilities, relax and be spontaneous. Enjoy.
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