Steve's new CD, "Inside/Out",
was just completed in Los Angeles and is rooted more in his pop underpinnings
than his four recent jazz offerings. The CD is scheduled to be officially
released in the middle of June 2009. This project is comprised solely
of Steve's original songs, and for that reason he considers the collection
a follow-up to his very first album, "Lucky" for
United Artists Records. Both are pop-jazz-influenced albums of original
melody-driven songs. Steve has great affection and appreciation for popular
music dating back to such greats as Johnny Mercer and Duke Ellington,
but traces his writing influences on this CD most notably to Steely Dan,
James Taylor, Joni Mitchell, and Todd Rundgren. "What I'm proudest
of concerning this new CD, is that I set out to write songs that were
unencumbered by any outside influence or marketing prejudices, and that
the musicians who worked on it told me how proud they are of their contributions.
That has made this all worthwhile."
Steve wrote the album on piano and guitar, and his playing
is showcased on a number of tracks. Steve Rawlins, who has been Steve's
musical director and arranger for the last 11 years, provided his always
hip keyboard work and tasty arrangements. "Inside/Out" (and "Lucky" before
it) was co-produced by Rik Pekkonen and Steve. "I tapped truly top-flight
musicians I've worked with over the years to bring these songs to life.
And, to make the project even more special, they all happen to be friends
of mine. Their performances, support, and enthusiasm exceeded my expectations."