This collection of a dozen songs includes 6 original compositions and 6 classics, all meant to celebrate the great city of New Orleans (See the Music Video @ http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LFQBxTfV_Uo ). Those songs that don’t directly reference elements of our city and its culture refl ect the spirit of the Crescent City - life’s emotions at the extremes – jubilation & grief, love and heartache – a sense that life in its entirety should be experienced with passion. Joining the duo of Romy Kaye (vocals) and Craig Cortello (guitars) on this recording: Tony Dagradi (saxophone) Tim Laughlin (clarinet) Harry Ravain (drums) Al Arthur (bass) (except tracks 4 & 10, Jim Markway) Romy Kaye, born and raised in Southern California, grew up listening and singing to her mother’s jazz and blues records. Romy studied Theater and Dance at San Diego State University, but music is where she really shines. She’s performed with her bands (Romy Kaye and the Swingin’ Gates, The Shapiro’s, Romy Kaye Trio, The Buddy Blue Band) at venues like The Derby in Los Angeles, The Belly Up Tavern in Solana Beach, Fez at Time Café in New York City, and The Casbah in San Diego. Romy’s home now is New Orleans, where she continues to spread her musical roots, collaborating with Craig and other New Orleanians on musical projects and continues to sing jazz with the Delta Royale Trio. Craig Cortello is a songwriter, guitarist, author, music journalist, professional speaker, and a native New Orleanian. He speaks and performs for corporate and academic audiences on the power of music education and its ability to make its participants more creative, successful, and fulfi lled in all of their endeavors. He is also the author of "Everything We Needed to Know About Business, We Learned Playing Music," a collection of profiles of CEOs and business leaders who were positively influenced by music education and believe in its correlation with their success. Craig would like to thank: The musicians who joined us in making this album a reality – in particular, the late Harry Ravain, whose energy and enthusiasm for this project made the recording sessions a joy. Kim and Michael for sacrifi cing family time and supporting the dream. To Tim for his studio mastery and intuitive creative input. To “da Family,” Varg, the Metairie Sunrise Rotary, Stonehawk & Private Joy. To the people of New Orleans and particularly the full-time musicians who make sacrifi ces every day for the betterment of our community. Their decision to pursue the arts and to endure its inherent challenges is one the most noble pursuits imaginable and a testament to the human spirit. And finally to Romy Kaye. Every composer knows that their songs don’t really come to life until a great vocalist interprets them. Romy’s versatility is impressive and rare. In addition to the considerable technical skills she possesses, her voice invokes a warmth and an intimacy that make listening a personal experience and an auditory pleasure. Romy would like to thank all of the wonderful musicians who played on this CD, Tim Stambaugh at Word of Mouth Studio for his wonderfully talented ears, fresh water, and dry wit, Craig Cortello for inviting me to be a part of this project and for his wonderful songs, and my husband Lance Vargas for keeping my life full of laughter and love. Produced by: Craig Cortello - Engineered & Mixed by: Tim Stambaugh @ Word of Mouth Studios - Mastered by: David Farrell Photographs by: Michael Cortello - CD design by: Lance Vargas, Houndstooth Media