HERE WE GO AGAIN!
As I mentioned on these pages some time ago, I was looking forward to start recording some new songs. I thought I should perhaps give you an insight on what’s happened thus far.
Same as with my previous album, I started with a long list of original songs, instrumentals and sketches. Initially there were around 50 titles, from which 34 were selected. Something quickly became apparent: I had to choose between going for an album of songs with a full band, or do something more acoustic and sparse. Circumstances helped me to decide which way to go. My dear friend and wonderful drummer Nick Marangoni enthusiastically gave me his availability for the project, so we decided to record some drums and see what would happen. The result was astonishing, both in terms of performance and sound quality. I started working on these songs in my studio and, in a short time, we had the basic structure for at least 8 songs. At this point my friend and long time collaborator Silvano Lobina got on board. Silvano is one of the best bass players I know, you might remember him on several tracks on my previous albums. My brother Alessio was also involved in the project. He’s as amazing keyboard player with a huge experience, his organ was heavily featured on my album Crossing Borders.
The lockdown rules dictate a different approach to this project. Not having the chance to work in the same room with musicians and sound engineers, I took on board most of the work. At this stage I’m busy recording guitars, basses, pianos, organs and my usual bits and bobs (oud, flutes, mandolin, pedal steel, percussion and goodness-knows-what-else). It’s also my first time at the mixing desk. Recently, as part of my degree, I learned a great deal about sound engineering, recording techniques, soundscape etc, and of course I learned a lot from the engineers and producers I worked with through the years. I’m at the stage where I feel I can embark on a project like this.
At this stage we’re working on 13 tracks. I feel this is a top team and a strong bunch of songs, and everything seems to be coming along nicely. It’s also a mammoth task, so realistically we’re looking at a release at some point in 2021. I’m very much enjoying the process, and to be honest, this has kept me sane in these difficult times, so I don’t intend to sprint to the end of it, I’m too busy having a great time.
Speaking of which, I got to go and record an acoustic guitar now. I’ll probably update you later in the year. Keep safe and healthy!
