In working on the new album “Tales of Dark and Light” I am increasingly aware of the value of working with really excellent musicians. Each musician brings something new to the table and this always produces a much better overall end result. In some instances I have had to reach out to more than my original choice of musicians through circumstances such as my first choice being ill or unavailable for some reason. In other instances I have sought people out that I think will move the music in a dynamic new direction. I’m very flattered that to date none of my requests for musical assistance have been refused.
The Caravan of Dreams Ensemble
On Tales of Dark and Light there are already a large number of musical contributions including three keyboard players, two double bass players, another vocalist sharing vocal duties, a percussionist, a harmonica player, a violinist among others. Dave Bowie stepped in to help out when my usual “go to guy” Adrian Knowles was unwell last year. Dave swooped in to help out with my other band “The Small Change Diaries” album launch last November. I almost imagine Dave as having some kind of cape as he has repeatedly rescued the day. Dave is different to Adrian and his sound reminds me of Herbie Flowers classic bass sound on “Walk on the wild side” He is a really great old school musician who brings terrific expression and feel to the recordings. He can also rock out as is demonstrated by his playing on Dunning Kruger Blues with percussionist Rich Ferdi. They sound like the rhythm section to a great jazz or blues band. Adrian is similarly skilled but brings a different colour to the mix. Both are brilliant musicians and its great to have both on the recording.
Laurent Zeller has been a wonderful addition to the last Small Change Diaries album and even more so is fantastic on Tales of Dark and Light. I’m reminded of Bob Dylan’s Desire period, and “The Rolling Thunder Revue” band from 1975. Laurent brings decades of musicality to the table and is without doubt one of the most creative and fascinating musicians I have met. He is also terrific fun to hang out with. Rich Ferdi is like the Charlie Watts or Paul Motian of the ensemble. He can play with such a great tough that the music can really swing. Probably the biggest difference with the new ensemble is the addition of Agi. She is an exceptional vocalist and is terrific at creating harmonies. Its like working with David Crosby. Everyone who has heard the recordings has commented on the quality of vocals. We are also working on material at an extraordinary rate, faster and with more precision than I have experienced to date. Most tracks are worked out on a uke, but then worked on by transposing across to piano. This is a more forensic way of working than I have done to date and its paying off in spades. I think people will be surprised at how good the new material is and I’m increasingly writing to include her vocal parts.
tales of dark and light