I was
standing on a cold beach in West Wales...
...surrounded
by miles and miles of emptiness when the idea for this CD
theme came out of the blue (or rather) magenta sky. If
you need to get away from it all, I can highly recommend
the thought of sailing off into the sunset away from all
the complexity of the modern world that engulfs us on a
daily basis.
The album was 18 months in the making, though some songs
go back to the year 2000. With the exception of track 2,
all the songs have been produced in-house, then mastered
in America.
Friends help out now and then, popping in with a guitar
solo, or a backing or lead vocal. Some co-write, while
others act as mentors and give constructive advice and
guidance. But in the end “it’s all my
fault”.
The songs themes are as varied as ever, but mainly Easy
Listening with a hint of Rock and just one out-and-out
Country song “Funny How Love Ends” produced by
Iain Bradshaw in his studio in England.
“Summer Rain” was written during the wettest UK
Summer on record – 2007. I gave this a world pop
feel, then added sitar whilst thinking of the Indian
monsoon season. “Tell Me How You Feel” is a
simple love ballad. “Just a Chance” lyrics and
ideas were thought of by Sue Bargh, who attended a
songwriting class along with myself in 2003 and
we’ve kept in touch.
Mid album is filled with some powerful songs featuring a
dancer and religion, a friend, a young arrival, and a
leaver. Then an out and out Rock ‘n’ Roll
number featuring Rob Duckers on retro lead guitar.
Finally I mixed down miles and miles to a 3 minute
version for free to radio play. Then compiled all the
instrumental parts of every track into a musical medley
that last 15 minutes. [It’s great to listen to when
you’re ironing – I’m told].
Best Wishes to all listeners.
John.
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© zhonray 2010 Last updated: 23/02/2009
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