Album Notes

The recording artists that have moved me the most over the years are those who are somehow able to write and produce songs that, regardless of when they are played, don't sound dated and continue to reflect something consistent about the artist. As long as I can remember, I have held my work as a singer, songwriter, and producer to that standard.

When I recorded these songs, between 1994 and 2002, I was still very unsure of my music, probably due to years of insecurities and because I did not immediately attract world attention nor did I have the experience of having a flurry of A&R people try to sign me to their labels. Yet since the release of later material I have written and produced, starting with "TONIGHT" in 2004, I've come to see, often through the comments of others, that many of these early, formative songs, stand as a historical record that when I am moved to write and produce music, something timeless does happen.

Since these songs were recorded, I have learned a lot about production and it is easy for me to fault certain aspects such as repetitive drum programming, however, one thing is clear to me. The melodies speak of something that relates to the lyrics and the lyrics are poetic, sung by someone who sounds like they mean what they say.

I've become much more complex with my vocal arrangements since this earlier time where harmonies and layers were only occasionally used, and it is good for me to hear this simpler Barton, to remind me what is at the root of my music, which is, essentially, my sharing with you the experience of what it feels like for me to be alive. I hope you enjoy these songs now that I am ready to share them with you.