From Legendary Guitarist Mundell Lowe: A few years ago I was asked to come and play at a jazz festival in Asheville, NC. There I met a lady who was a singer. I listened and thought she (Maddy) is pretty darn good, and I’ve played with the best of them. I just received her new CD Crossroads… Maddy Winer has great musical instincts, a wonderful sound, and best of all she knows how to read a lyric. I have known Vince Lewis for some time now and have always enjoyed his wonderful musicianship. Now, after listening to Crossroads, I realize that he is also a fine accompanist. I love the way Maddy and Vince worked together on this CD. Have a listen and see if you don’t agree. Mundell Lowe From Jazz Guitarist Vince Lewis: In 2002 I was booked to appear at the Highlands Jazz Festival in Abingdon, VA. Prior my arrival the concert format was sent to me for review. The two evenings were arranged so that each headliner appeared as leader of a quartet at least once with the other featured musicians. One of the main performers was a vocalist from Asheville, North Carolina whom I had never met. From the rehearsal at the hotel, straight to the bandstand that evening, the musical connection with Maddy Winer was quickly evident. Her tune selection was perfect for the crowd in attendance. Her professional background and experience was so similar to mine that we instantly clicked. The audience was enthusiastically receptive to the combination of her vocal styling, matched with my guitar playing. This was the beginning of over a ten-year musical collaboration and friendship that led to the music contained in this recording. The included selections are a cross-section of the Great American Songbook mixed with pop and jazz standards. This band is comprised of several excellent players that have worked together extensively, on jazz festivals as well as steady engagements. The free-flowing musical interaction also reflects the personal bonds that have developed from spending quality time together, both on and off the bandstand. This is a group of professional musicians that truly enjoy creating fine music together. That all translates into the energy and excitement of a live performance, as opposed to just another recording session. I am proud to have been asked to share the studio once again with Maddy Winer and this talented group of people. It is our strong desire that Crossroads will evoke the positive emotions in each listener that so many concert audiences have From Vocalist Maddy Winer: From the very first moment Vince Lewis and I shared a stage we have been rewarded with the rare ability of combining our musical thoughts as though we are one. Yet, Vince is continually challenging me to explore new avenues of musical expression. Every performance with Vince is something I truly cherish. Now with this recording, Vince Lewis and I have entered a musical crossroads together and emerged with songs that represent the heart & soul of the Great American Songbook. We hope you will join us on our journey exploring these timeless standards.