This is my first recording of all original material. I’ve contributed an original song or two on records before (From Brazil to New Orleans, 5 O’Clock Charlie, Quintology) but this recording is special to me. It’s a collection of songs that have been with me for a good while, so to see them finally come to life is really satisfying.

First of all, I recorded this album on my personal 1927 Steinway model L grand piano. I had this piano completely rebuilt a couple of years ago and I think it just sounds lovely. It has an old soul but sounds and plays like a new piano, and I’m really happy with the results. The Music Shed Studio in New Orleans did a great job capturing the essence and dark beauty of this instrument as well as the rest of the ensemble.

Secondly, my Dad passed away just after the final mixing and mastering of this recording were completed. The last track “Father,” is a fitting tribute to him. It has a nice spiritual and soulful feel that I hope he would have liked.

In general, this recording has a very subtle and relaxed feeling to it that I think reflects the way I both approach and play music these days. It may well be the influence of Ellis Marsalis, who I was blessed to study with, as his is a similar style – he never overplays and it always sounds so nice. A couple of my teachers and mentors from the University of Miami (Jeff Laibson, Ron Miller) were also big influences on my concepts and compositions that are evident here as well. I think the music of the ECM record label also plays a significant role in my overall approach to music, and I listened to a lot of Ralph Towner while preparing for this recording.

Some of my other influences that may or may not be recognizable but worth mentioning here are: Bill Evans, Clare Fischer, Egberto Gismonte, Vince Guaraldi, Joe Sample, John Abercrombie, Monica Salmaso, George Shearing, Alan Pasqua, etc, etc…

Most of the musicians on this recording are from New Orleans – many of whom are featured on my first recording “From Brazil to New Orleans” (2014). I also invited a few of my Cirque du Soliel buddies who added their special touch on the track Mojave (Josh Geisler – bansuri, Marc Solis – winds, Carlos Lopez – percussion).

My hope is that you will enjoy this album of songs. I feel like this is a very honest representation of me and my music and a good listen too!

Charlie Dennard – Paris, France December 2018