Well here is CD number 3 and this time I have compiled another selection of Shads titles spanning the 60s, 70s and 80s. There seems to be no end of material yet to be covered. This time titles range from easy melodies such as "The Lute Number" and "Windjammer" up to the more challenging "Cricket Bat Boogie" and "Mozart Forte". I have actually managed to record in here some of my all-time personal favourites!
As with my two previous CDs, I have recorded all of the tracks in the same keys as the originals and meticulously followed the original arrangements. The only significant change I have made is in "Dakota". The original lead on this tune was recorded on harmonica and on my demo track I have played this on guitar and I believe that it makes a superb guitar solo.
I owe the inspiration for this idea to Stuart and Rob Smith from Bristol who I recently heard playing their own excellent guitar version of this instrumental. Also the double-stopped part in the middle I have for greater effect turned into a guitar duet, the lower harmony part being recorded on the backing track.
Thanks again go to Dave (Keyboards) for his continued efforts in reproducing the string and orchestral parts on these tracks and not forgetting Danny White who never ceases to amaze me with his Cliff-like singing.
Also thanks to Maria Meek a new face (voice) who has appeared on this CD. She sings the vocal part that runs unison with the lead guitar parts of "Tomorrow's Cancelled".
These CDs have given me the chance (and excuse) to play and record the music that I have always enjoyed the most and I am having tremendous fun producing them.