How do you define what moves you or what speaks of your soul? The best way for me is to find music that tells a story about life that reaches in and tells my story. Even though these writers were from another era their story maps out our days our nights and reminds us how alike we are today. Some of these songs are less heard than most standards but all have in common a reality of the blues. I was trying to find that blues and find the moments that express our lives. Producing collaborations came from renowned bassist Jimmy Haslip and sound master Erik Zobler, with Russell Ferrante arranging the sessions. Guitarist Michael Landau and drumming legend Gary Novak put in time and energy on giving ideas and suggestions that made this recording distinct. Standard Blue has a remote, open, almost sad feel with masterworks, “Willow Weep For Me,” “A Flower Is A Lovesome Thing” and the haunting “Day Dream.” Appropriately, we ended Standard Blue with the kicking, “The Joint Is Jumpin’,” joined by the incomparable Perri Sisters: Lori, Sharon, Carolyn and Darlene Perry In addition, Standard Blue was fortunate to have saxophonist Bob Mintzer and trumpeter Ambrose Akinmusire leave their mark. Sound Design by Evan Frankfort completed the mystique. Summing up the experience of Standard Blue, I noticed how writers speak for me in ways in which I never would have been so articulate. When you’re right in front of songs such as these, they become your story so you look forward to singing them - to share and feel that web of emotions again and again. Experiencing life that lush in a musical way is a thrilling feeling. I am thankful for friends who are incredible musicians who know this laughter and who know the pain. They played it for me to sing and that is the standard in blue.