Speaking with Shadows is a celebration and exploration of the emotive qualities of language, laughter, sound and rhythm. The eclectic vocals and sounds encountered in this recording were collected over a five year period and punctiliously worked into the compositions in a manner analogous to that of a visual artist juxtaposing disparate elements of a collage. There was a conscious decision to work with exotic language and the uninhibited vocalizations of young children and passionate adults, thus relying solely on the emotive sonic qualities of these human utterances and articulations. My hope is that the listener finds the music mysterious, rhythmic, warm and enchanting.

Speaking with Shadows is also and attempt to get in touch with the other side, the world of shadows, spirits and the unknown. Much of the ethereal and enigmatic aspects of the music reflect a growing and personal affirmation of the sublimeness and splendor of the human spirit. Upon the recent death of my mother, Shirley, my seven year old daughter Marieke consoled my sorrow one evening whispering," dad, don't be sad, you know when people die they turn to stars". Then pointing up tom the sky she exclaimed, "look, there's grandma now!"