Congratulations on the release of “This Was Then” how does it feel?
Thanks so much! It always feels great to put out an album, especially if you’re proud of it…
It’s your ninth album, is there a running theme?
My music is always reflecting on experience in the current moment and nostalgia from the past, but other than that I’m just trying to write good songs and create something that people can get in to…
You recorded it with your sextet, how did you all meet?
These guys are all old collaborators and friends from my 15 years in Brooklyn
What’s your favourite track from it?
Great question! Not sure I have one… but if I had to pick, I’d say the title track. It just has a vibe and everybody played so great…
What was the easiest and most challenging part of recording it?
The easiest part was choosing to do it in NYC with my guys and at my good friend Lorenzo Wolff’s amazing studio Restoration Sound. The most challenging part assessing what the tunes needed after the initial session so that they could fully come to life.
What’s your favourite memory of recording the project?
Having dinner in the wonderful Bushwick restaurant Il Passatore after the session with the entire crew…
This being your ninth release, what has changed for you creativity wise since your first release?
Well one thing is that now I have a studio at home and thus the ability to add to the sonic palette of my records at home after the basic tracking. It meant a lot to the ultimate sound and vibe of this record and reflects a process that I didn’t have access to 20 years ago…
You’re a composer from New York, how did it all begin for you?
Well I was born in Washington DC; my grandfather was a professional musician and my dad played as well. So there was a piano in the house and music around me from day 1. When I was 6, we moved to Nashville and soon after I was enrolled in piano lessons at Vanderbilt University. The rest is history!
What were your influences when you started?
Just my dad I guess! I was so young that I just was along for the ride… but I did listen to my dads records, especially I remember especially liking the Stones and Buddy Holly.
What’s the most interesting place you’ve found inspiration for your compositions?
Thailand! “Saddest day in Paradise” is about a tough day boating and snorkeling in Phuket…
What are you listening to at the moment?
Perez Prado, Elvis Costello, Black Uhuru, mmeadows, Kolumbo, and Rolando Bruno
What are you looking forward to doing next?
Making a live record with my band here in Mexico City at my favorite club of all-time, Zinco Jazz!
