Album Notes

Life. Very unpredictable. Very challenging. Everyday, we are faced with choices that determine the outcome of our future. The things we do today affect the way we live tomorrow. If we make the right choices today, our future shows the results of choices well made. But, if we make the wrong choices today... This is the story of a man. A man who made some wrong choices. A man who tried to change his behavior, yet continued to make the wrong choices. Finally, one day his choices caused his world to fall apart around him. He stood, in disbelief, looking at the broken pieces of his life. Fortunately, the story doesn't stop there. In the mist of the turmoil, what he found was forgiveness and hope. This is a story of mercy. This is the story of how if the heart of a man changes, his behavior will follow. The debut solo album by Richard D Shank, “A Single Step” takes a peek into this process. Armed with a microphone and keys, Richard plays what is best described as piano rock. His music is often called intense and it is apparent to many that he wears his heart on his sleeve. Richard started playing the piano in his early teenage years. He has played a wide range of styles from gospel to rock and country to blues. These influences shine through the mix of styles in the songs on “A Single Step.” The album also reflects a variety of emotional states including hurt, anger, depression, sorrow, repentance, love and hope. It was recorded in small blocks from October 2006 to September 2007 at Echo Mountain Studio in Asheville, North Carolina. As Richard sings and shares his life, he brings awareness of the hope we all have and the brightness that tomorrow can bring. Share the sorrow, share the grief, share the hope, share the future. Richard D Shank.