Inside MusiCast

On our 300th episode of Inside MusiCast, we?re pleased to welcome Pages and Mr. Mister founding member, Steve George. For those of you who have followed Steve's career in music, you'll understand the uniqueness of this interview. We're beyond honored to have the opportunity to chat with Steve about his career as a studio musician, having worked with Al Jarreau, Cher, Amy Grant, Barry Manilow, Kenny Loggins, Toto, Marc Jordan, Richard Marx, Peter Allen, and many others. Of course, his collaborations with Richard Page in Pages, Mr. Mister, and Richard?s solo projects are legendary amongst fans of West Coast AOR.  There?s so much to talk about, and we?re excited to welcome Steve George to Inside MusiCast. 

On our 299th episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome a prominent member of The Immediate Family, Steve Postell.  Steve grew-up in New York City and studied classical guitar, which afforded him the opportunity to take on a variety of musical experiences from performing on Broadway, to writing jingles for advertising, scores for film and documentaries, played in bands and hired as a studio musician, produced, arranged, written songs?he?s done it all.  Now, he?s a member of The Immediate Family, with legendary bandmates Leland Sklar, Russ Kunkel, Danny Kortchmar, Waddy Wachtel, and Elliot Easton.  The band has been on tour and recently released their new album ?Skin In The Game?.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Steve Postell.

On this special edition of Inside MusiCast, we?re celebrating Mardi Gras by taking you to New Orleans for a chat with the city's Cultural Ambassador, John Papa Gros. John is here to talk about this unique, American tradition, including its roots, music, atmosphere, and of course the amazing food! We'll also discuss his own music career and how it was shaped by the culture and traditions of the Crescent City.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome John ?Papa? Gros. 

On this episode of Inside MusiCast we?re taking you to Stockholm, Sweden for a chat with drummer Jonathan Lundberg.  We met Jonathan in 2020 at the Pages tribute concert at the Stockholm club Fasching, and while we already knew about his incredible talent, seeing him perform live was an eye (and ear) opening experience.  His new album "Fragments" was released a few months ago and it enlists some of the best musicians in Scandinavia, including Erik Linder, Henrik Linder, Kristian Kraftling, Carl Mörner Ringström, Oskar Nilsson, Sara Nordenberg and many others.  He also reaches out to his friend, and past IMC guest, David Garfield who performed on two of the tracks.  "Fragments" is a genre-bending project that explores a variety of musical territory, and we're pleased to welcome Jonathan Lundberg to Inside MusiCast to talk more about this incredible new album.

Huey Lewis and the News rose to monumental stardom in 1984 with their album "Sports", but this was not an overnight success, as some would believe.  On this episode of Inside MusiCast, Huey Lewis is here to share stories about his path through the music business - a journey that took him from New York, to the Bay area, to Europe, North Africa, and back to the States.  We?ll also discuss Ménière's disease, a condition he was diagnosed with in 2018 that put a halt to his music career, but not his creative spirit, as Huey is using his talents to produce ?The Heart Of Rock and Roll?, a new Broadway musical comedy that?s set to open in April in New York City.  To kick off 2024, Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome none other than Huey Lewis.

Lukather.  The name has been synonymous with incredible musicianship for nearly five decades, and the legacy continues with Trev Lukather.  Similar to his father, the guitarist, producer, songwriter, and band leader has been carving a path through the music industry, but doing so in his own, unique way.  Trev?s current focus is The Effect, a band project that recently formed and includes another legacy musician, drummer Nic Collins, the son of legendary Genesis band member, Phil Collins.  Steve Maggiora, who also tours with Toto, provides keyboards and backing vocals, with incredible lead vocals from Emmett Stang.  So far, The Effect has only released two songs from their forthcoming album, but if ?Unwanted? and ?Something Wrong? are an indication of what we?ll hear on the rest of the album, there?s no question that we?re about to experience a fantastic rock album. Here to discuss The Effect is Trev Lukather. 

Ed Motta has waited five years to deliver a new album that is loaded with lots of surprises. On ?Behind The Tea Chronicles?, our former guest takes us on a journey that is unpredictable, yet is rooted in the passions that are close to Ed. The Rio-born musician allows these passions - Steely Dan, food, vintage television and cinema, wine, and even comic books - to pour into the new album.  And, he has not rushed the process. It has taken him two years to record. You?ll find this album rather cinematic?embracing aspects of Film Noir, stage plays, vintage French comic books, and even Western musical influences. The album has left us speechless, yet we loved his approach - as it was all created with the utmost care for the production quality?the kind that Ed has embraced on all of his projects. Today we?ll let him tell you the story, but the real story is embedded in the music of his new album, ?Behind The Tea Chronicles?.  Inside MusiCast is glad to welcome back the one and only, Ed Motta.

When Cindy Blackman Santana sits down at her drum kit and picks up a pair of sticks, this moment becomes the key that unlocks her world of creativity, spirituality, and freedom.  Cindy has had a passion for drumming since she was very young, with jazz being the cornerstone.  Her style is a fusion of influences from mentors and legends that carved their paths before her, such as Tony Williams, Art Blakey, Max Roach, Philly Joe Jones, Roy Haynes and many others.  Her path to the world of music has been filled with connections that have led the way for her to show the world her incredible talent.  From studying at Berklee, to an early gig with the Drifters, an 18 year stint with Lenny Kravitz, several solo projects and collaborations, to her current gig with Santana, Cindy puts her heart and soul into every note she plays.  Here to chat with us about her incredible career in music is none other than Cindy Blackman Santana.

Originally from Miami, Terry Wollman was formally educated in Boston, graduating with a Bachelor?s Degree in Arranging from the prestigious Berklee College of Music. Soon after arriving in Los Angeles, Terry built a solid reputation as an in-demand session guitarist and producer contributing to all styles of music, from jazz to pop, rock, blues, R&B and beyond. An accomplished and versatile producer, composer, and musician, Terry has commanded such diverse projects with touring, producing, recording and performing with renowned artists including Melissa Manchester, Keb? Mo?, Joe Walsh, Tony Bennett, Dick Van Dyke, Alan Bergman, Dave Grusin, Mindi Abair, Wilson Phillips, Al Jarreau, Billy Preston, Gerald Albright, and Eartha Kitt, to name just a few.  He?s also recently released a brand new solo project titled ?Surface?, which includes an incredible cast of musicians.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Terry Wollman.

The Second Arrangement is the title of a Steely Dan song that was once accidentally erased by a studio tech during the band?s Gaucho sessions and thought never to be heard again.  It has been the subject of lore amongst Steely Dan fans for decades, until bootlegs and samples of demos began finding their way onto the internet, which gave fans an idea as to what this lost, Gaucho-era track actually sounded like.  In 2011, the band performed the track live during a Rarities Night show at the Beacon Theater in New York, which sparked the imaginations of fans, not to mention musicians such as Scott Sheriff, an ardent Steely Dan fan who fronts arguably the best Steely Dan tribute band, 12 Against Nature.  Scott, along with several talented studio musicians in Nashville, decided to resurrect The Second Arrangement, and recently released a video version of the completed song, which has already gained worldwide attention.  Here to discuss the momentum behind recreating this track is Scott Sheriff.

With more than a decade of Level 42 success to his credit, Mike Lindup released ?Changes?, his debut solo album in 1990 and it was immediately embraced by his fans.  Fast forward 33 years and Mike has just released the follow-up, ?Changes 2? - a 12 track collection of songs that explores a variety of musical territory, with lyrics that are provocative, insightful, and even humorous.  The album also includes several guest musicians and vocalists, including his longtime friend Dominic Miller, Manu Katché, Ursula Rucker, Omar, Tony Momrelle, Alex Wilson, Jon Culshaw, and even his Level 42 bandmate, Mark King, among others.  Here to discuss this wonderful new album is none other than Mike Lindup. 

Over the course of our 17 year history, Inside MusiCast?s mission has been to reveal the careers and stories of the great studio musicians.  Today?s guest is a perfect fit, as he?s spent the majority of his career supporting some of the biggest names in the music business with his incredible guitar prowess, such as Crowded House, Seal, John Waite, Joe Cocker, Rod Stewart, Elton John, Michael Jackson, Bruce Springsteen, Rick Springfield, Phil Collins, Madonna, Toy Matinee, Don Henley, Santana, Celine Dion, Dave Matthews Band, Goo Goo Dolls and so many more.  And over the past decade, he?s grown his YouTube channel to nearly a half million subscribers with informative videos discussing guitar tips, gear, instructional features and great guests. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Tim Pierce.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome back a perennial favorite, Steve Lukather.  We all know Luke as one of the finest guitarists and musicians in the recording industry, but he?s also one of the most candid and honest that you?ll ever meet.  He wears his heart on his sleeve and is as forthcoming about his perspective on music as he is about life.  His new solo album ?Bridges? drops this coming Friday, June 16 and he?s turned to his lifelong bandmates, David Paich and Joseph Williams, to assist with creating this incredible collection of eight new songs.  The album includes contributions from other musicians and writers Toto fans will recognize, such as Simon Phillips, Shannon Forrest, Lee Sklar, his son Trev, Randy Goodrum, Stan Lynch, and several other stellar musicians.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back to the show, Steve Lukather. 

Sonny Abelardo has been the man behind the curtain for a variety of musical acts for a large portion of his career in the music industry.  He?s worked as a professional music and production manager for decades, managing all the details that bring an artist to the stage - and there?s a lot to organize in order to move crew, equipment, and the musicians themselves so that we fans can enjoy great shows. But there?s a lot more to Sonny?s resumé that we?ll uncover today, as he reveals some very interesting moments in his career path that surprised even us.  Inside MusiCast is excited to welcome Sonny Abelardo.

Marc Jordan continues to challenge and reinvent himself as a songwriter, composer, and vocalist.  On his latest album release, titled ?Waiting For The Sun To Rise?, the Juno award winning artist has penned several original songs, blended with a few new arrangements of some well-known tunes, such as the Tears For Fears classic ?Everybody Wants To Rule The World?.  The album contains a harmonious blend of jazz, folk, and pop.  Lyrically, Marc reflects on his time living in the American West, thoughts about the problems our world is facing, loneliness sparked by the pandemic, and the joys of the natural world.  This is arguably his most introspective collection of songs in his vast canon of work, backed by lush strings from the Prague Philharmonic Orchestra, with collaborations from Lou Pomanti and Randy Brecker.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back to the show, Marc Jordan. 

Earlier this year, an iconic voice in the music world left us: David Crosby.   From the Byrds, Crosby Stills Nash and Young, his duo projects with Graham Nash, CPR, his solo projects and so much more, Croz continued to tour and create new music until the very end.  For the past three decades, an integral part of Crosby?s creative process was guitarist Jeff Pevar.   On this episode of Inside MusiCast, Jeff joins us to chat about his relationship with Croz, including how they discovered each other back in the early ?90s, along with stories about performing, touring, writing and recording with this iconic musician.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome back to the show, Jeff Pevar. 

Inside MusiCast hits the road to Chicago to catch up with Shawn Lee and Andy Platts of Young Gun Silver Fox, as the band is on its inaugural tour of North America.  Chicago is the third stop on this five city tour and the guys sat down with IMC's Eddy Cabello in the green room after sound check at Lincoln Hall to chat about the tour and how it's progressing.   

In the late ?70s, a group of incredible studio musicians came together to form a prolific, legendary band who shook-up the music scene with well crafted and expertly produced songs with a West Coast/AOR sound.  Here in the States, you?d imagine that we?re referring to Toto.  However, this group of musicians hails from Norway and their band is Lava.  On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we?re chatting with one of the group?s founding members, Svein Dag Hauge, to discuss the origins of Lava, the band?s rise to notoriety in Scandinavia, and where they?re headed next - including discussion about their upcoming box set that features a brand new album titled ?X?.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Svein Dag Hauge. 

Mica Millar is not well known in the States, but word is quickly spreading about her incredible vocals and well-crafted songs. The Manchester UK-based singer recently released her debut album titled, ?Heaven Knows?, and when you hear it, you?ll know that the name Mica Millar will be known everywhere very soon. What makes her story and music even more remarkable is the fact that she suffered a horrible spinal injury at the onset of recording her new album. It stopped everything cold. Today, Mica talks to us about the miracle of her music, the challenges, and the eventual release of ?Heaven Knows?. Inside MusiCast welcomes Mica Millar. 

Growing-up in Queens, Lionel Cordew was surrounded by music inside his home, in his neighborhood, and in church.  His brothers were all involved in music, his mother sang in the gospel choir at the church where his father was the minister, and his neighborhood hosted block parties where cats like Lenny White, Marcus Miller, Omar Hakim, Najee and many others would often play.  Lionel absorbed and adapted to many styles of music, which he?s used to his benefit throughout the course of his career, as he?s recorded and toured with a diverse list of musicians, including Mike Stern, Gino Vannelli, Jeff Lorber, Roberta Flack, Bill Evans, Chuck Loeb, Chieli Minucci, Wayne Krantz, and in 2015 he replaced Lee Pearson as the drummer in the legendary jazz group, Spyro Gyra.  Here to discuss his musical journey in more depth is none other than Lionel Cordew. 

Inside MusiCast rings in the new year with our first guest for 2023, guitarist Dean Parks!  Dean is no stranger to liner notes geeks around the world and was home grown in the state of Texas. In fact, he was a member of the ?One O?clock Lab Band'' at North Texas State while in college. Whatever it is that?s in the water at North Texas, he drank it ? along with other top musicians who have come out of that amazing music program - like David Hungate, several Snarky Puppy band members, Norah Jones, Jeff Coffin, Don Henley, Lyle Mays, and others. Fast forward to today and we find Dean still engaged with contributing his talents to new projects from Lyle Lovett, LeAnn Rimes, Herbie Hancock, Diane Warren, and so many others. This only confirms that after decades of playing LA sessions, Parks still remains an A-list guitarist.  His iconic work for Steely Dan, Al Jarreau, America, Streisand and so many other great projects speaks for itself. Today we?ll help fill in some of the gaps of his amazing career. Inside MusiCast is glad to welcome Dean Parks.

Honing her musical skills while growing-up on the East coast, Deborah Holland found her way to Los Angeles in the late ?70s in an attempt to break into the music business.  A demo of two of her songs landed in the hands of Stewart Copeland and Stanley Clarke, who were searching for a female vocalist to front their new band project, which became Animal Logic.  She got the gig, which was a major stepping stone in propelling her career.  After making two albums with Animal Logic, Deborah has since recorded and released several solo albums, she?s a member of the folk supergroup The Refugees, a film scorer and educator, and in 2020 she released her latest EP titled ?Fine, Thank You.?   Recently, two new Animal Logic songs have been released - the first new music from the trio in over three decades.  Here to talk to us about this new music and her career in music is Deborah Holland.  

Shawn Lee and Andy Platts are back with Ticket To Shangri-La, their fourth Young Gun Silver Fox album in the last seven years. Their undeniable, West Coast groove is a prominent ingredient once again, but the addition of some incredible horn arrangements, a heavier lean on the acoustic guitar, and Andy's silky smooth vocal harmonies make for another stellar collection of tunes with the feel-good vibe you've come to expect from this UK-based duo.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Shawn Lee and Andy Platts of Young Gun Silver Fox.

In 1980, Scottish born singer-songwriter, Ali Thomson, released his first album on A&M Records titled ?Take A Little Rhythm?.  The title track garnered heavy airplay in countries around the world and reached as high as #15 on the Hot 100 in the USA.  He then went on to record a second album for A&M the following year titled ?Deception Is In Art.?  While the pop scene delivered success for Thomson, his sights were set on creating music that contained more depth and musicality.  Ali continued writing songs for a variety of musicians over the years, but a few decades later he returned to writing songs for himself and released ?Songs From The Playroom? in 2019 that featured a track titled ?Aqua Blue?.  During the Covid pandemic, he went back to work creating yet another new album titled ?The Last Rodeo? which was released in September.  Here to talk to us today about his career and this incredible new album release is Ali Thomson.  

In 2013, the world of contemporary jazz welcomed a newcomer who released her debut, self-titled album, Lindsey Webster.  Since then, Lindsey?s roots have continued to grow as she?s released a total of six albums, with her latest album, ?Reasons?, dropping in early September.  In fact, the first single from the new album, ?I Didn?t Mean It?, features Brian Culbertson and hit the Top 10 on the Billboard jazz chart.  Success is no stranger to Lindsey, as she and her writing partner, Keith Slattery, have produced two number one and eight top tens on the Billboard charts.  In fact, in 2016 Webster became the first vocalist to hit #1 on Billboard?s Contemporary Jazz charts since Sade. On ?Reasons?, Lindsey invites an incredible cast of guest performers, including Nathan East, Randy Brecker, Brian Culbertson, Lenny Castro, Nicholas Payton, Kev Choice, and Lil John Roberts.  While there?s no shortage of talent with her supporting cast, Lindsey?s vocals are undeniable and the star of the show.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Lindsey Webster.

For decades, David Paich has been an icon in the LA music scene, having composed, arranged, written, produced, and performed on hit songs for some of the biggest artists in the music business. Then there?s his legendary band, Toto, which he?s poured his heart and soul into for the past 45 years. Despite this incredible resumé, he?s never released a solo project, until now. David?s debut solo album, ?Forgotten Toys?, is set to release on Friday, August 19. With contributions from his Toto bandmates, Steve Lukather and Joseph Williams, the EP contains seven tracks and enlists an incredible cast of musicians, friends, and even family that make this a memorable musical experience. Here to talk to us about this brand new collection of songs is our good friend, David Paich.

Don Breithaupt is back with a brand new Monkey House album titled ?Remember The Audio? - an 11 track project that was conceived during the pandemic and arguably their finest collection of songs in the Monkey House canon.  The core of the band remains steady, with Breithaupt on lead vocals and keyboards, Mark Kelso on drums, Pat Kilbride on bass, and Justin Abedin on guitar.  The album also contains guest appearances, including trumpeters Randy Brecker, Guido Basso and Michael Leonhart, guitarist Drew Zingg, and singers Lucy Woodward and David Blamires. "Remember The Audio" is set to release on July 15 on Alma Records and we?re pleased to have Don back for a fourth time and to talk about this fantastic new record. Inside MusiCast is please to welcome Don Breithaupt.

Jim Keltner?s career in music has been nothing short of iconic. For those who go deep into discographies and liner notes, you know that the name Keltner is associated with a litany of some of the biggest names in the world of music, including George Harrison, John Lennon, Ringo Starr, Joe Cocker, Carly Simon, Eric Clapton, Steely Dan, Seals & Crofts, Randy Newman, The Bee Gees, The Traveling Wilburys, Brian Wilson and so many more. From his early beginnings with Gary Lewis and the Playboys, to the Concert for Bangladesh, to Steely Dan?s ?Josie? and so much more, we?re here to talk to a musician who?s seen it all and played it all. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Jim Keltner.

It?s been nine years since we last spoke to Marilyn Scott, so we?re pleased to have her back today to talk about her brand new album, ?The Landscape?, which was recently released on Blue Canoe Records - her first album release since 2016?s ?Standard Blue?.  The seven-track project focuses on putting yourself in front of nature, embracing our surroundings, and letting go.  Marilyn enlists an incredible group of musicians, including Jimmy Haslip, Russell Ferrante, Gary Novak, Vinnie Colaiuta, Alex Acuna, Mike Landau, Steve Khan, and many others.  It?s a beautiful album, both lyrically and musically, and was created and produced during the pandemic.  Here to talk to us about this new album is none-other than Marilyn Scott.

Steve Dorff never wanted the spotlight. As a young musician and budding songwriter, he had his sights set on writing great songs for the most prominent voices in popular music - and he did just that. Early on, his songs landed in the hands and voices of several country and Western artists, which seemed like an unusual pairing considering that Steve grew-up in New York City. In fact, the first top ten song he wrote was for the legendary Roy Rogers with a tune called ?Hoppy Gene and Me.? From there, a chance meeting with actor Clint Eastwood not only brought him additional songwriting hits, but it was also his foray into scoring for films and eventually television. Throughout his career, Steve has written over 20 top ten hits for pop and country artists, including Barbra Streisand, Celine Dion, Blake Shelton, Smokey Robinson, Kenny Rogers, Ray Charles, Anne Murray, Whitney Houston, George Strait, Dolly Parton, Judy Collins, Cher, Dusty Springfield, Ringo Starr, and Garth Brooks. Here to talk to us about his incredible, musical journey is Steve Dorff.

After a short break, Inside MusiCast is back with this brand new episode featuring Canadian singer/songwriter, Chris Smith. Chris? career in music started to take off in the ?80s when he left Humber College to join a band called The Graduates, an original R&B, pop band made up of other Humber non-grads that played the clubs on the Ontario circuit. From there, he became a member of Regatta, a late '80s AOR band who garnered success, but broke-up after a few years.  Chris then turned his attention to his solo career, where he has released four albums since 1995 and is currently working on new material for a forthcoming release.  His music is a blend of jazz, blues, rock, and soul and has a sound that is timeless.  Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Chris Smith.

From his early days as a recording engineer and producer, to his involvement with legendary acts such as Buffalo Springfield, Poco, and Kenny Loggins - not to mention his collection of solo work - Jim Messina has carved a stellar reputation for himself in the music industry as an artist who can do it all. And he hasn?t stopped. He?s back on the road for an extensive solo tour this Spring and will reunite with Kenny Loggins this summer in Los Angeles for a handful of shows. Today, we?ll take a trip through his storied career, relive some of moments that catapulted him into the music business, and find out where he?s headed next. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Jim Messina.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome a legendary, Grammy-winning jazz artist who has been creating music since the early ?60s when he recorded an album produced by Quincy Jones. Bob James has recorded 60 albums in 60 years, which includes his involvement as a founding member of the band Fourplay and is widely known for composing ?Angela?, the theme song for the hit TV show Taxi. While jazz is his forté, his genre-bending sound has often been sampled by major hip-hop artists. It?s no surprise, as his music has grooves and hooks that appeal to all. We?re so glad to welcome Bob James to Inside MusiCast.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome a three time Grammy-nominated jazz artist who?s recorded 40 albums throughout his career, David Benoit. David has enjoyed a solid presence in the jazz scene ever since his debut album on Blue Moon records in 1977. During his career, he?s worked with Russ Freeman of the Rippingtons and has also arranged and performed for artists such as Michael Franks, Kenny Loggins, David Pack, Dave Koz, Patti Austin, Brian Bromberg, and David Sanborn among others. Today we?ll chat with David about his amazing career, along with his new solo album, A Midnight Rendezvous, that was released on February 18 on Shanachie Records. He?s got some great contributors and has even recorded with his new band ? The Midnight Rendezvous Big Band. Inside MusiCast welcomes David Benoit.

The past few years have presented some life altering challenges for Simon Phillips.  In late 2017, fires that ravaged Southern California destroyed his home and his recording studio.  Two years later, the COVID-19 pandemic took Simon off the road from a busy touring schedule leaving him with questions about the immediate future.  Yet, Simon?s resiliency persevered. The pandemic afforded him new opportunities, along with plenty of time to explore his own creativity.  He forged ahead with a new plan for recording his projects, including the newly released Protocol V album that features bandmates Ernest Tibbs and Otmaro Ruiz, along with two new additions: Jacob Scesney on sax and Alex Sill on guitars.  The Protocol band has emerged as a quintet and sounds better than ever.  Here to chat with us about this incredible new album is Simon Phillips.

Steve Vai is arguably one of the finest rock guitarists on the planet. His inventive approach to the instrument has afforded him some incredible opportunities over the past 40 years and today we?ll explore some of them, including the importance of meeting and working with Frank Zappa. We?ll also discuss his upcoming album release titled "Inviolate", which is set to drop this Friday, January 28. This is Vai's tenth solo album and quite possibly his most musically diverse collection of compositions. Yet, when you lay your ears on this record you'll hear Vai's classic signature from start to finish, especially when you experience the track "Teeth Of The Hydra", which was recorded with a very unique guitar that he named 'Hydra' that was built through a collaboration with designers at Hoshino. We?ll discuss this and so much more on this episode of Inside MusiCast.

After a two month break, Inside MusiCast is kickin? off the new year with a new artist whose debut album was a 2021 Inside MusiCast Album Of The Year selection, Anastasia Lynne! During the last week in December, the Inside MusiCast team each chose an Album Of The Year - 11 great albums that were released in 2021 that really pushed our buttons. When IMC Correspondent Scott Gross chose Anastasia Lynne?s album, ?Girl With The Hourglass Eyes?, it sparked a lot of interest with our team and our listeners. We were struck by her incredible voice and the lush vocal harmonies, not to mention the stellar musicianship and the well-crafted arrangements of her songs. We then discovered that the album was co-produced by Ken Stacey and Doug Petty, so we knew Anastasia had put herself into great hands and ears that resulted in a stellar debut album. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Anastasia Lynne.

Burleigh Drummond and Mary Harris have shared the stage, a family, as well as a home for decades.  While Burleigh is a founding member of the progressive and pop band Ambrosia, his wife, Mary, has been performing alongside him in the band for over 20 years.  The two are also involved in another musical entity called Tin Drum, an ever-evolving project which formed in the ?90s and now incorporates their children, their grandchildren, and other noteworthy musicians including guitarist Marc Bonilla.  Here to talk to us about their expansive careers are Mary Harris and Burleigh Drummond.

In a career that?s spanned more than 50 years, Larry Carlton has been involved with thousands of projects that span a wide variety of musical styles.  From solo projects, to countless studio sessions with some of the biggest names in the music industry, to performing on one of the most popular television theme songs, Larry?s work has garnered multiple Grammy awards and worldwide notoriety for his unique sound and his immense talent.  He earned the name ?Mr. 335?, as for decades Larry?s guitar of choice was a 1969 Gibson ES-335.  He?s now teamed-up with Sire to create his own, signature guitar - the Larry Carlton S7, which he plays exclusively on his brand new album from Shanachie Records titled ?Soul Searchin??, a duo with fellow guitarist Paul Brown.  Here to talk to us about this brand new record and so much more is Larry Carlton. 

Dash Crofts and his longtime musical partner, Jimmy Seals, both grew-up in Texas and started performing together in the late 1950?s. Before they struck out on their own as the legendary duo Seals and Crofts, Dash and Jimmy performed with several bands and musicians, including Dean Beard and the Crew Cats, The Champs, Eddie Cochran, Glen Campbell and the GC?s, and The Dawnbreakers. Through their connection with The Dawnbreakers, the two found the Bahá?í faith, which ultimately influenced the lyrical creativity in their songs.  The duo formed Seals and Crofts in 1969 and landed their first record deal with Talent Associates, but it wasn?t until their second album with Warner Brother in 1972 did they find their way to a major hit with Summer Breeze.  From that point forward, Seals and Crofts sold millions of albums and is considered one of the most successful duos of the 1970?s.  Here to chat more about this incredible, musical journey is Dash Crofts. 

When he was young, James Raymond knew he had a special gift for music, yet he somehow felt that this natural ability stemmed beyond what his adoptive parents and his education seemed to provide.  At the age of 30, he began the arduous task of finding his birth parents.  When he secured his birth certificate, the name David Crosby appeared.  When James finally had a chance to meet his legendary birth father, the two of them hit it off and almost immediately started making music together, including the two, incredible CPR albums from the late 90's and early 2000's that also featured guitarist Jeff Pevar.  Aside from his integral work with Crosby, James has also carved out a niche with writing, composing, and producing music for television and film, along with a collection of his own songs. 

His latest project found him back in the studio with David Crosby, as he produced his latest album "For Free." He wrote and co-wrote several tracks with guests Michael McDonald and Donald Fagen, contributed backing vocals, arranged horns, and played several instruments including piano, synths, and programmed drums. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome James Raymond.

Luis Conte is one of the most heralded percussionists in the music industry, but had it not been for the encouragement of his parents and a three week window of time, his massive career performing for and touring with some of the biggest artists may never have happened.  A few weeks before he turned 15 years old, his father encouraged him to leave his home country of Communist Cuba before he became eligible for the military.  Luis made his way to Spain, alone, and later found his way to the United States and settled in Los Angeles where his music career eventually flourished.  Throughout his career, he?s recorded and toured with the likes of James Taylor, Phil Collins, Jackson Browne, Dave Matthews, Madonna, Pat Metheney, Ray Charles, Cher, Eric Clapton, Celine Dion, and so many more.  He?s also released many solo projects over the years, has written a book, and is an educator.  Here to talk to us about his incredible career in music is the maestro himself, Luis Conte. 

Hailing from San Francisco and finding his musical roots in Texas, Mark Lettieri is no stranger to diversity when it comes to how he approaches the guitar. Throughout his career, he?s released six solo albums, has been involved in countless recording sessions, and has toured with many well-known music acts. Since 2008, Lettieri has been involved with Grammy-winning Snarky Puppy and is also a member of The Fearless Flyers with Cory Wong, Joe Dart and Nate Smith. All of these experiences have helped to expand his musical diversity - including rock, pop, funk, soul, gospel, jazz, and even various styles of country. His new album, ?Deep: The Baritone Sessions, Volume 2?, continues this exploration and includes a fusion of a variety of styles. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Mark Lettieri.

For the last 25 years, a veteran songwriter?s album has been sitting on a shelf, waiting to see the light of day. Throughout Terry Sampson?s career in the music industry, the songs he?s written have been performed by Al Jarreau, Kenny Rogers, Carl Anderson, Nicolette Larson, Cece Winans, Vanessa Williams, and Kathy Lee Gifford, to name a few - not to mention an extensive collection of songs he?s written for children?s movies and television shows. Yet, his first solo album project titled ?E, Just E? recorded 25 years ago sat dormant - until now - when Jörgen Johanson and Mikael Engström helped Terry breathe life into the album by getting a record deal to release it in Japan on P-Vine Records. Here to talk more about this incredible story, as well as the rest of his music career is Terry Sampson.

At some point you?ve heard Arnold McCuller?s rich, distinctive vocals. Perhaps as a long-time, featured vocalist with James Taylor, Phil Collins or for a number of A-list musicians. Once you?ve heard his voice, you know why many well-respected musicians still call on him today. But other than owning a golden voice, Arnold has also entertained a rather successful acting career in film and television. His singing career began with a national tour of the musical Hair. After singing in a few bands, he released his first solo album, including a series of singles in 1979. Since 1990, Arnold has released seven studio and two live solo projects that stylistically range from jazz to Latin-pop, to blues. It?s easy to see Arnold?s diversity, and he?s been busy, having collaborated with artists such as Bonnie Raitt, Dave Koz, David Benoit, and many more. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Arnold McCuller.

Born in Scotland and raised in Canada, Lawrence Gowan carved a path to a very successful solo career, having released six albums and selling millions of records and collecting two Juno awards over a 13 year span.  However, in 1997 his musical path took a turn when he had a chance to open for Styx in Montreal.  Tommy Shaw took notice of Gowan?s talent and charismatic stage performance and invited him to join the band two years later.  Fast forward 21 years, Gowan has become an integral part of this legendary band and on June 18 they?ll release their 17th studio album, ?Crash Of The Crown.?  Here to talk to us about this new album project is Styx lead vocalist, Lawrence Gowan. 

We first spoke to Coen Molenaar back in 2015 when his band Tristan  released ?2nd Phase?, and again in 2019 when they released ?The Spice of Five?. This past year, Tristan faced a challenge in finding a new lead vocalist, after Evelyn Kallansee exited the band.  Enter Jaycilee Teterissa, a vibrant and talented vocalist whose style fits Tristan?s vibe perfectly and this past April they released their new album titled ?What Could Possibly Go Wrong??.  Along with Jaycilee, Coen and the other band members are heading in the right direction with this wonderful new album. Inside MusiCast is glad to welcome Coen Molenaar and Jaycilee Teterissa.

In 2005, Laurence Elder released his debut album ?Surrounded? that incorporated a unique blend of jazz, pop, and a touch of blues.  Nearly 16 years later, he returns with his forthcoming album titled ?Walk Another Mile?, which will be released on May 19.  This new album features many of the same musicians from his debut album, including Carlomagno Araya and the late Dan Warner.  Laurence also involved two special guests: guitarist Mike Stern and trumpet legend Randy Brecker.  The old adage ?Good things come to those who wait? holds true, because while fans of Laurence Elder have waited a long time to hear new music from him, there?s no doubt they?ll be extremely pleased with these new compositions. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Laurence Elder.

On this episode of Inside MusiCast, we welcome a second-generation guitar player who just happens to be a multi-Grammy-winning songwriter and producer.  Nashville-based Gordon Kennedy is literally following in his father?s footsteps, and the similarities of their accomplishments are astounding. He co-wrote "Change The World" for Eric Clapton, which won "Song of the Year? at the 1997 Grammy Awards. He has written and produced for artists such as Peter Frampton, Alison Krauss, Bonnie Raitt, Garth Brooks, Ricky Skaggs, Don Henley, Faith Hill, Tim McGraw and many more. His guitar playing is second to none -  just ask Peter Frampton.  We?re glad to welcome an ever present icon in the Nashville scene, Gordon Kennedy. 

Martin Page had a tough career choice to make. As a semi-pro football player, he could choose soccer and try his luck at the professional level, or as a talented musician with a budding career, he could choose the musical path. Of course, he chose music and he gave it his all. It was a great decision, as a song he wrote and produced with his Q-Feel partner Brian Fairweather called ?Dancing In Heaven? became an underground hit on KROQ radio in Los Angeles . This success prompted his move from London to Los Angeles, which opened the door to connections with many of his musical heroes, including Bernie Taupin, Maurice White and so many others. While Martin?s passion for soccer has never waned, music is still his first love and the career choice we?re all glad he chose to follow. Inside MusiCast is pleased to welcome Martin Page.