There's Only One

While liner notes have all but faded from the music world, they have always been a small glimpse into some aspect of an artist’s project. We thought you would like to know how this album was created, so here goes:

In many ways, this album was created backwards. Typically when one begins the process of creating an album, one would select the artist(s), create a list of potential songs, find the correct keys for those songs (based on the singer) and decide on the mood and texture of the album & arrangements.

This project was created a bit more stream of consciousness. Looking to further develop and enhance the concept I had been working on with my previous EP Hypnotized, the typical break between projects did not occur. I was determined to keep the proverbial juices flowing and continue the blend of traditional jazz elements with subtle current production techniques.

Having heard ideas on 2 songs (Sway & Nature Boy), I began writing and producing the songs not knowing who would be singing them...always a dangerous thing to do. As most know, a vocalist’s range and tone vary from singer to singer and this would certainly have an impact on the key of the song. Having to put the arrangements in a new key could potentially change the orchestration, which in turn could change the vibe…not desirable.

After completing about three-quarters of both songs I had finally decided on a concept. I knew I wanted to use richer colors and darker hues with some of the songs being influenced by Latin music and culture. I proceeded to make an extensive list of American songbook songs that lived in minor keys that I truly loved, and began writing some original compositions with those parameters in mind.

I began working on this project towards the back half of 2020 and did not find a vocalist until the very end of 2021. I listened to, and reached out to, a wide variety of known vocalists during the course of the year. While some of them could have done the job on a tune or so, no one was clicking with the vision I had for the entire album. I needed a vocalist that was truly authentic to the songbook idiom. One that could sing a touching ballad, balance the nuances of singing with a full orchestra, swing a big band, and could add their own personal touch to the melodies and harmonies. It took me over a year but I found the person…Lia Booth.

After a phone conversation with Lia, she agreed to come in and lay down the vocals on the first two songs to see if she would be the right fit for the album. Literally the first time I met Lia was when she came in to the studio to sing on both Sway and Nature Boy. From note one, there was no question that she was the vocalist for this album.

Having been inspired by the tone of her voice, artistic presence, and professionalism, I began crafting demos of the songs on my list that I thought would match her voice and sound. Being that Lia was so fantastic and versatile, the pressure was on me to challenge us both.

I threw everything at Lia, Latin grooves combined with swing rhythms, an orchestral dramatic ballad, swingers combined with backbeats, and even topped it off with a non-traditional 60's pop song by Jefferson Airplane (White Rabbit). On each song it became apparent that Lia would fill these songs with her style, flare, and musical sensibilities.

Creating an album of this magnitude requires a ton of creative energy, artistic talent, and wonderful musicians. Thank you to all of the musicians who poured their heart and soul into every note and helped bring this album to life. Thank you to all of our behind the scenes talent (publicists, booking, and radio promo teams) while you may be behind the scenes, you are much appreciated and essential to our success. Finally, thank you to our families for their love and support. You are the catalyst for our music making.

Both Lia and I hope you enjoy our album. We had a blast making it for you.