Hey Scott - Wow! Was that review for me? Really, I am completely red in the face and nervously laughing. I was going to say you made my day, but it's more like you made my month. Thanks so much for listening, but more importantly for really listening, for getting what I was going for. I placed the song "Salt Water" exactly where it is because it was the shift into a different set of songs, the beginning of the comedown. And you are right -- it's the first song on the CD that goes deeper, is more honest. I had to honor Joni as the inspiration for this album because my guitar playing has a debt to her, especially in the first few songs I wrote which use some of the same tunings and have her penchant for drone strings. I hope someday to record another batch of songs. The latest ones are off in some direction even I didn't know about and I am using my pinkie more -- Most of Joni's chords involve only 2 or three fingers. It's the right hand which is the tough part when you try and play her songs. Man, I can't thank you enough for your kind words! I recorded these songs hoping that someone might pay attention, and your response made me feel that all the time, money, and nearly violent fights with the producer were worth it. I would also encourage every one on this list who ever wanted to record his/her music to do it, for yourself if no one else. It's one of the best things I have ever done for myself and very satisfying to know someone else "gets it." Scott, best always to you and your family for 2001. - Clark NP: TI
