In my opinion Mike is a genius. I'm grateful to know Mike as a friend for thirty years, and I love this guy. I appreciate his talents and connections, but most of all I appreciate him! He is a multi-talented musician, composer, arranger, engineer, producer, and a great guy. He has an amazing work ethic and puts so much care and time into projects--He really takes pride in his work. While working with Mike at times I felt like he could read my mind and know exactly what I was trying to say. He had the ability to see between the lines and understand what I wanted to accomplish beyond my simple fumbled descriptions. He is very sensitive to the preferences of the artist that he is working with, and has a way of bringing out the best in you. One of the things that impresses me most about Mike is his ability to know what to cut for the good of the track. On the one hand I lament seeing so much good material end up on the edit cutting floor as Mike works his pruning magic, but the result is a track that is clean and clutter free. Anyone that doesn't understand and appreciate the value and need for a producer should listen to my music knowing that there is no way I could have done this without his experience, knowledge, wisdom, expertise, and guidance.

Gary is one of my favorite bass players. He has impeccable taste and skill. I felt so privileged to have him play on my stuff, and the experience was surreal. Between takes getting to know Gary and spend time with him was quite special. He is extremely humble and has a heart of gold, a concern for people, and a love and dedication to his family and God. His kind words and compliments meant so much to me. All of the stuff Gary did was amazing, and I know that people will especially enjoy the bass solos on two of the songs. Yes, I said TWO! Gary is technically accurate, extremely creative, and adds an edge to anything he plays that just makes it sound better. I can't wait to work with him again.

Biography

I was moved and inspired by the passion and pride with which Dennis spoke about his kids. It is one of those moments when you look at someone and say I need to be more like that, and I need more people like that in my life. I love Dennis' playing. His taste and the care that he puts into choosing what will work best for a song come from years of experience, and a desire for excellence. I did not know what to expect with Dennis because I was not familiar with his music or his style, and I was a little concerned whether he would be a good fit for my music. I was pleasantly surprised at the freshness he brought to my songs. The first track we recorded was "Confidant" and I was blown away! I remember just looking at Dennis after the take and saying "Wow!, wow!". On all the tracks Dennis has such command of the pocket. I LOVE how he lays back in the pocket when the song calls for it. His cymbals are like "butter" and have some of the most gorgeous tones I have heard.  Dennis really delivered and I hope I get to work with him again soon.

Biography

I am so humbled that a musician of Sam's caliber would play my music. I love everything that he played, and I especially love the soprano sax parts that Sam played on "Confidant", and on "Sweet and Sour". He has great tone and control, and he couples that with perfect dynamics, interesting runs, and tasteful melodic playing. I would leap at the opportunity to work with Sam again.

Biography

When I heard the B3 organ tracks Tim added the single word that described what he did was "perfection". The choice of notes, chords, tones, phrasing, syncopation, speed selection, and dynamics show years of experience by a master of his craft. Tim is an accomplished producer, arranger, composer, director, and musician that has worked with so many famous artists far more deserving of his time and talent. It means so much to me to have him play my music, and I don't for a second take that privilege for granted. I am a huge fan of Tim Akers and the Smokin' Section so it was very special to have both Tim and Gary on my project.

Biography

David is a phenomenal recording engineer, producer, and a talented musician. It was so great working with him on this project because his experience as a producer allowed him to be a second set of eyes and ears making sure that everything went well in our B&D session. While all of that is quite impressive the thing that I admire most about David is his love and dedication for his family. I had the privilege of watching him perform with his daughter Kimber (http://kimbersongs.com) and spent time with both that evening. We shared stories about our families, and I gained even more respect for David that night. Away from all the silly antics in the studio that make the sessions so much fun David is a hard-working dedicated father and husband. He loves his family and makes it a priority to support them in their efforts and endeavors.

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Alan recorded some of the acoustic steel string guitar tracks. He has the best studio one liners I have heard and makes sessions relaxed and fun. He is extremely humble and easy to work with. So much so that you forget that he is a grammy award winning producer and engineer who has worked with artists such as The Rolling Stones, BB King, Fleetwood Mac, The Crusaders, Elton John, and the list goes on. His most memorable line to me was, Me: "Should I add some acoustic guitar to this one?", Alan: "Hey man, we can't mute you if you don't play it!". We are blessed to have such talent right here in San Diego.

Biography