I don't sleep at the moment, but that is a good thing!
I am in front of my Mac 24/7 recording and editing the new album and things are shaping up to be pretty damn cool.
I have written a lot of great classic rock songs with my good old mate Christian Thiesen, something old and classic meets something new, that is how we like it!
Last year when I met Rod Stewart in person a dream of mine came true. That same day I also met his long time gutarist and right hand man for more than ten years Jim Cregan. I was totally inspired as he is such a fantastic guitarist and he was a really nice guy.
Recently while recording Christian said to me "Why don't you ask Cregan to play on your album?" I said "Yeah, I should do that, the time is right". And so I dug out his email and I contacted him.
The reply was quick, "Martie, I would love to play on your album!", I was totally blown away, I mean this is the guy who co produced and played on a lot of BIG hits with Rod and other major acts as well.
Jim recorded the first two songs in the UK and when I heard them I freaked out, they sounded fantastic, very laid back and yet still rocking.
I thought to myself, if Jim wants to play maybe I can get more great guys to play with me so next up was Kevin Savigar and Tony Brock, both guys from Stewart's infamous 80's group. They both agreed and as I sit here typing they are both recording on my tracks in two different studios in the US.
Apart from playing keyboards in Rod's band Savigar is well known for co writing the hit single Hold On with Jamie Walters. Tony Brock was an original member of the Babys with John Waite so these guys are big guns.
The other day I got hold of Jimmy Z who played harmonica and saxophone in Rod's band in the 80's and with Eurythmics later (remember Thorn In My Side?). He will add his distinctive playing on a couple of tracks too !!
So I don't mind that I am tired, I am in seventh heaven here having reunited most of the Rod Stewart Group for my album.
The best backing band I could ever wish for, lol!
Take care
Martie