Hi Everyone!
I wanted to update you on the progress of the new recording and what's in store for the next phase.
Songs: *Almost* all the tunes are finished. 2 final songs still require lyrics and I am working on them this month and into February. I live-tested the rest of new material in late 2024 and most songs felt right but 1 song didn't pass muster and is being replaced with a new one that better fits the overall album vibe. That will mean 11 new songs for the album in total, unless I suddenly write a 12th that just has to be on the record.
3 songs have already been recorded with an acoustic trio of me, Jason Fowler and Maury Lafoy. In early March that same trio is going back to Union Sound (https://www.unionsoundcompany.com) to record another 2 tunes.
In late March I have another 3 days booked at Union Sound for 4 full band tunes and more lead vocals and harmony vocals. The band will be me, Jason Fowler (https://www.jasonfowler.ca) on various guitars, Maury Lafoy on bass, Robbie Grunwald (https://www.rgrunwald.com) on piano/keyboards and Mark Mariash (https://www.markmariashmusic.com) on drums/percussion. I will also be finishing up most lead and self harmony vocals during these sessions.
In early April I will be back in the studio to overdub cellist Kevin Fox (https://www.kevinfox.ca) and lap steel/electric guitarist Christine Bougie (https://www.christinebougie.ca) on a number of different songs. Kevin has appeared on my last 4 recordings but I haven't worked with Christine since New Blue Day in 2012 and I'm thrilled that both artists are going to be part of this project.
Vocalist Lori Cullen (https://www.loricullen.com) will be recording a number of harmony and counter melody parts at her home studio. Lori will be on 4 songs and her unique contribution will be key to this recording. A number of additional harmony vocalists are still being considered/booked, and another one or two additional musicians could be added, budget allowing.
Last...there is one final tune that I have not shown ANYONE (not even my partner Brittany!) but will be quite of a departure for me, and will carve out a unique but important space on the album. For this one I have been chatting with my dear old friend Rob Deboer (we met in Grade 5!!) about potentially having him and his musical partner, who form the basis of the incredible jazz/groove group Four80East (https://four80east.com/) to back me on this particular tune. The current plan is to record this one at Rob's amazing new barn studio here in Northumberland County.
And after all these recording sessions are done my wonderful co-producer Chris Stringer will begin mixing the album. Everything remains on track for the Fall, 2025 release and I am beginning to book CD release shows across Ontario in earnest.
If you have any questions or comments please do not hesitate to send them my way.