Cyrus Pace Straight From The Source CD

I recently got a chance to interview pianist Bennett Paster about "Skyline." His words and thoughts about the music provided clear insight into what the CD is about: the "Good Feeling" is in effect.

-L.C. Taylor, Jazz Critic* * * * *LCT: Why did you make this recording?BP: Gregory Ryan, Keith Hall and I decided to record this CD, "Skyline," because, during the past several years, the three of us have felt a strong musical connection, but our busy careers as sidemen prevented us from documenting any of the music by our own trio. The title reflects our experiences living and performing in New York City, where we are surrounded by diverse music and culture. "Skyline" is window looking onto the landscape of our collective musical vision.

I went through a period of my musical development where I was concerned that everything I played or composed had to be different from music that had been made before. I was fascinated by contemporary classical and avant-garde jazz and my music reflected these styles- the harmony was atonal and rhythmically the music was very free, often not in a steady pulse. When I stepped back and listened to what I had created, often I didn't find the results compelling or pleasing. After some reflection, I finally admitted to myself that, in spite of my intellectual desire to create "new," unique music, most of the music that really moved me had a strong groove. Simultaneously, I started paying more attention to the lyrics of songs (especially in popular music) and noting how they related to the melody. Perceiving this connection really made me appreciate the strength of a lyrical melody. Once I learned to stop caring whether my music was unique and "hip" I felt better able to find my voice through my compositions and improvisation. The resulting music was more genuine and interesting to me and I hope also to the listener.