Album Notes

NOTE July 2009: This CD is out of print so will not be restocked at CD Baby...HOWEVER there are still other purchase options if you want a physical CD, so please visit www.likelystories.us for other purchase options! If you want digital downloads, you can do that here or from iTunes.
THANK YOU!
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Likely Stories, the self-titled debut release from the Madison, Wisconsin-based acoustic trio, is a book of short stories brought to life. The songs range from reminiscences of a poor but happy rural childhood, to a romance between teenage suburban goths; from the inner lives of celebrities to the epiphanies of everyday people. Likely Stories takes the listener on an imaginative and sonic journey.

Elegant arrangements and engaging stories propel this collection of songs by performing songwriters Tracy Jane Comer, Nancy Rost and Dave Schindele. The three alternate writing and lead vocals and accompany each other on a variety of instruments, creating a multi-flavored sound that allows the individual writers' sensibilities to shine through. Comer's intricate guitar work and rich cello, Rost's lush jazz chords, and Schindele's musical theater influences combine in unlikely ways to create a unique and varied sound.

"Elegant drama" - Scott Gordon, The Onion
"Mature and soaked with talent throughout" - Smother.net
"Magic and sense of longing ... masterful lyrics" - singer-songwriter Phil Norman

The CD includes songs that have won awards and honors in folk ("Yellow Bike" ) and jazz ("Golden Gate"). The uptempo pop of "A Matter of Time", humorous blues of "American Gothic" and playful swing of "My Own History" contrast with soulful ballads like "This Ground" and "Shamu" for a satisfyingly well-rounded collection.

Veteran producer Randy Green produced the CD with Likely Stories. Green, called a "Madison Musical Legend" by Madison Magazine (2001), is also an award-winning songwriter, and contributes lyrics to the album's tracks “Yellow Bike” and the closer, "Silent Care."

For more about the group or individual members, see these links:
www.likelystories.us
www.tracyjanecomer.com
www.nancyrost.com
www.daveschindele.com


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"...'This Ground' is absolutely superb. I enjoyed the wit in the polka. And if I let myself, I could be really, really jealous of that cello in 'Nicole'..."
- Tim F., Australia

"Love the mood this song ['Golden Gate'] creates. Gave me a Miles Davis-Kind of Blue feeling. The piano and cello are amazing enough together. The vocals and lyrics make this song an absolute gem."
- Massachusetts listener

"The combination of expert guitar work and vocals on "Yellow Bike" are nothing short of amazing (I've seen her do this song live, and it is a remarkable thing to watch.) Her haunting, beautiful voice leaves the impression that she has taken a long journey, and returned to tell wonderful tales."
-Jim B., Milwaukee WI

"Just finished checking out your tracks. Beautiful sounds--I'm looking forward to hearing more. And hopefully hearing you live someday..."
- Doug H., Bristol, England

(re: Golden Gate) "...Unique and original. Not your typical female vocalist trying to sound like all the other female vocalists... She sings as if she is singing to me personally... The lyrics are extremely well crafted. This is one of those songs that you have to listen to in order to appreciate it completely. The lyrics almost force you to do that..."
- Sandy, Utah

(re: Nicole) "Movie Soundtrack for sure! Beautiful piano work, great vocal quality pitch and tone. I love the strings, the melody works beautifully with the strings. A taunting, emotive musical journey, a wonderful experience. A pleasure to listen to and a breeze to review. I can hear this song on a movie soundtrack for sure. The mix is just right with a great balance of instrument and vocal."
- Listener in Gunnedah, NSW, Australia