As a featured vocalist on Todd Strait’s latest project, it was thrilling to have been invited to participate in such a stellar musical experience. Featuring pianist, composer, arranger and Todd Strait’s longtime mentor and friend, Bill Mays, with Tom Wakeling on bass, Todd on drums and yours truly on vocals, the album is an extraordinary collection of songbook treasures and pieces by major composers including Mr. Mays himself on the lead track “Fun House” (originally produced with trumpeter Marvin Stamm in 2006.)

“In addition to his supreme musicality (musician first, drummer second) Todd Strait makes the ideal bandleader,” says Mr. Mays. “Years as a sideman (10 years in New York City playing with Marian McPartland, Tal Farlow, and Woody Herman; followed by a relocation to Kansas City working with Interstring, PBT Trio among many others and leading to national and international travel with Eldar, Karrin Allyson, and Kevin Mahagony each over a 20 year period; his history and experience have brought forth over a 100 recordings as a sideman, most notably receiving two Grammy Nominations with Karrin Allyson, one with Eldar, and one with Randy Porter and Nancy King) have honed Todd’s listening and reacting skills to the degree that,” as Mr. Mays says, “when I’m making music with him it’s like we’re joined at the hip. Unlike many technically superb drummers, Todd’s ‘chops’ never get in the way. He ALWAYS plays the right thing at the right time. That’s why I immediately said ‘yes’ when he offered me the chance to play on, arrange music for, his latest outing as a leader.”

The title FUN HOUSE is true. We had a blast working on this project. And. The timing is perfect. Just when we need it most. This group was a pure delight with which to make music.

Reflecting on the project and all the players involved, Todd shares, “For me to say it's an honor to make music with Bill is a vast understatement. I'm forever grateful to him for bringing so much, for all involved. Tom and I also have a long, beautiful history,” Todd continues, “his exquisite sound, feel, and musicality always lifts the music. Billie personalizes these tunes like no one else, her energy and graciousness made our week of rehearsing and recording uniquely special. I'm proud of what she brought to this project.” In closing, Todd says, “Randy (Porter) offered the perfect 'vibe' with his studio (Heavywood Studio) and incredible Steinway concert grand, his attention to detail while still joining in the fun, and his mixing and post production work with me. Thank You Randy!"

Personally, I was struck with how intentional Todd was with every aspect of the production of FUN HOUSE - beginning to end. Starting with the gong featured on the front cover and flowing through to each and every one of his tune selections. His intentionality continued to the selection of all participants involved - not only musicians, sound technicians/engineers, photographers and artistic designers of the album art - but also making sure to feature his 14 year old uber talented son in the overall production of the album starting with his setting the “tone” with his laughter from the very first track, “Fun House.” Just like the many textures you’ll hear in Todd’s dynamic playing, the care and attention which make up the many nuances of his production make this project truly remarkable.

Sign up for your copy of FUN HOUSE and hear for yourself why I think you’ll agree. I will get back to you directly with all of the the details.

(And. . . .SAVE THE DATE - MONDAY FEBRUARY 3 - to attend Todd Strait’s exclusive FUN HOUSE CD RELEASE - FEATURING THE LEGENDARY BILL MAYS! HE IS FLYING INTO TOWN SOLELY FOR THIS EVENT. DON’T MISS OUT! Tickets will be released for purchase starting at midnight on Wednesday, January 1, 2025!)