Chris Brandon - Whispers In My Mind
2004 Life Records
a cura di: Franco Mannarini

Are you completly satisfied about your last work?
I don't know if I've ever been completely satisfied with anything. I do feel good about "Whispers In My Mind" overall, though. The musicians, the engineering, the mastering, even the graphic design all came through with top-notch work. I'm satisfied with how the songs and the story told through the song cycle have touched people. That's been the most satisfying part.
Wich are the most important ispiration for doing this new album?
The inspiration for "Whispers in My Mind" came from a3-month trip around the country in a pick-up truck. I had just finished a long stint of writing songs and the trip provided me with a chance to look over my songbook. I started to notice that a larger story was being told through some of my songs. Intrigued by this subconscious storyteller, I decided to give it a voice. A couple of new songs were written to complete the tale and it really felt right. I have always loved concept albums but the song cycle idea resonates deeply with me. I realize now that much of what has inspired me in life has culminated in this song cycle, particularly my interests in journeys, mythology, and psychology.
Is There some others artists that you think important to reccomend us?
There are so many good artists out there; it is hard to know where to begin. Let's see, in my area of music, Joseph Arthur, Harry Nagle, Josh Rouse, and Elliot Smith are/were all amazing singer-songwriters. And then, of course, there is Drupi - viva Italia! Aiutami and Sereno E' were part of the soundtrack of my childhood. Ryan Adams and Lucinda Williams are great songwriters also.
Are there some others projects for the your future?
Absolutely, there are many projects in the works. First off is touring the Northeast United States. I would love to play in Italy and elsewhere in Europe too. There's talk of doing a video and of licensing the album to another label. Afterwards, I want to record a new CD - I've already written the songs for it! The next song cycle will be about an obsessed love story. I can't wait to get back into the studio.
Is there something in your album that you don't like enough?
It's easy to find things on an album that you'd like to try another way. But given the budget and time constraints, "Whispers" is what it was meant to be. We created different arrangements for the songs to reflect the changes in mood and circumstance in the central character's story. On the next album, I'd like to explore a yet more stripped down, raw acoustic, lo-fi sound. I'm glad I put "Whispers" out there and am grateful for the support and positive response I've received so far.

Chris Brandon
www.chrisbrandon.com