Myles Bigelow - Hand Crafted (2018)

‘What better way could I share the musical journey I’ve experienced over the last 20 plus years than to create a recording project that reflects that life long journey? How could I best show that progression to other people that dates back as far as early childhood when I participated in experimental music classes? Or the influence of that hefty vinyl jazz collection my father constantly played in the house? Or the in depth knowledge retained from Berklee College of music (Boston), or Instituto Superior De Artes University (Havana Cuba)? How could I share with other people the musical influences gained from living in many significantly different cultural surroundings? Or experience the years of sound inputs that influenced my personal development gained from touring with bands around the world? What would a project look and sound like that encompassed the multiplicity of musical influences allowing others to hear and feel that breadth of experience? The conclusion, craft an album that incorporates the sounds and structures that have had the most profound influence on my music journey to date.’ Percussionist and Music Producer Myles carefully crafted this album entirely on his own with a clear intention of answering those exact questions. His connection to the project at every step was completely hands on and always approached with careful thought. As all beautiful hand crafted items in this world, this album was created with the same dedication, respect and passion. This album never left Myles’s side. He wrote, recorded, performed percussion, mixed it and mastered it. Every step was kept close to him and everything was done according to his standard. Add to that a roster of musicians who play at the highest caliber and shared his vision. Cuban musicians such as world renown flute player Orlando ‘Maraca’ Valle (Irakere), Trumpet player Miguelito Valdes (Afro Cuban Allstars, Omara Portundo) and Afro Cuban percussionist Toto Berriel (Los Munequitos). Add to that roster Saxaphonist Sly5thAve (Prince) Keyboardist Justin Stanton (Snarky Puppy) Guitarist Rus Klyne (K-OS, Nelly Furtado) and you have the makings of an exciting sounding record. The final outcome of this record became the combination of Jazz, Latin, Soul and Groove all into a melting pot. Executed by high caliber musicians who all humbly shared the same vision and executed it to perfection. For Myles this album reflects his life long journey accomplished to date. The roller coaster ride of life that was shaped by his journey and emotions can all be heard in this album. ‘Hand Crafted’ is the story of a percussionist on a wild adventure who took a moment to tell his story in a musical context.