The album's 1st tune, Cheetah, is a reply to the Theme: The Pink Panther- a moving swing tune. Bunch Beach was written about a natural beach in south Florida capturing the different and sometimes funny activities that go on at the beach. Jackson was a study in how to be a "new" student at a later age, a lesson in giving respect. War's Got Me Down is a blues tribute to a Miles like feel with a muted horn. Camarones is a joyful tune, one that will stay with you when walking.
A good friend, Hank, moved on in life while leaving a treasure trove behind to his friends- the tune "... Farewell" honors that. Desert Breeze portray's the ocean of air that seems to just hover in the typical western US wide open spaces- when it's hot, a breeze is that refreshing moment. The only waltz on the album, A Child's Waltz through Life was inspired by children; their open, pure view on life early on and how they progress. Originally inspired in 2007, the Iraq tune was written to capture the raw feel of a high tech battle field. La Veranda is a mixing of the caribbean island sounds meeting Cuba's rhythmic complexity. Mr. Spuck is a playful answer to a well known TV series- imagine zooming away at light speed to new vistas. Hyde Park portray's that hot lazy afternoon under a shade tree- cold beverage in hand- when a friend happens by with the joy of friendship. And finally, Siesta Cay was inspired by the constant activity on that beach in south Florida- brightly white, fine sand, volleyball and the ocean's edge- all saying take a break for the moment. Peaceful, to be sure.
-Rick 2012
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