Album Notes

"Broken Pieces" is the solo debut of Monica Barden, who is also the lead vocalist in the Jazz/Pop group Uptown (also on CD Baby).

Although the individual songs cover a variety of topics and styles, there is one underlying theme: The deep and sometimes difficult search for a sense of purpose in life.

Asking the hard questions that elude pat answers, Monica expresses the heart of someone who believes, but who can't seem to fit into a religious mold.

The title track, "broken pieces," is a longer piece wondering how all of life's unrelated experiences could possibly have anything to do with each other. The funk-disco tune "alien race" is a celebration of spiritual misfits everywhere. "lay it down" expresses the weariness of a spirit who's tried for too long to keep up appearances. And the opener, "joy?" is not so much a direct expression of joy as it is a question about how do you get it?

All lead vocals, and most background vocals, are by Monica Barden. Drums are all by Uptown drummer Dave Kies. Sax parts are done by Uptown saxophonist Bill Jordan, and everything else is done by husband, producer, and fellow CD artist Mike Barden. The CD was recorded at Chain O Lakes Recording in Waupaca, WI.

Oh, and there is the one track written and performed by Monica's son Isaac!

From the official monicaBe website:

"I am here to offer hope to believers who feel like they don't fit the church mold. I can't possibly be the only misfit who loves God and hates religion out there, so speak up! Come read the lyrics, and see what touches you. Visit songstories to discover where the songs came from, and how they evolved. Visit my blog and tell me your story, or let me know what your thoughts are, or whatever you'd like to say! I'd like to help you BE the unique person you are."