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| message from the man in the moon |
Pismo Productions 2007
CD 102
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wesla whitfield: vocals| Liner Notes of Wesla's New Album "Message from the Man in the Moon" Just when we think we’ve found all the great songs from the American songbook, a new one presents itself. The title tune, ‘Message From the Man In the Moon’ is heard being whistled in the background of the Marx Bros. movie, ‘A Day At the Races’ and later recorded by the wonderful Maxine Sullivan. Greensill unearthed it, and I was captivated. A couple of other moon songs found their way into this mix. ‘Moonlight Saving Time’ is lighthearted and romantic in a slightly suggestive way that is so fun to sing. And the Jimmy Webb tune, ‘The Moon Is A Harsh Mistress’ has become a personal favorite of mine because of its own message. It’s a very unusual subject for a song, and one that requires some explanation – just like I require of my students: to tell me in their own words what their song is about. This one talks about that moment of realization that everyone comes to somewhere along the way: that all things are no longer possible, and a few closely held hopes, dreams and ambitions just aren’t going to happen this time around. There’s no escape from it. It’s part of life’s grand package, and the way we deal with these disappointments is crucial to one’s peace of mind. Two tunes ‘That’s Him Over There’ and ‘I Found My World In You’, were sent to me by their composers, Lew Spence and Neil Sedaka, and I feel so honored by that. Both are unique and beautiful songs that I’d like the whole world to hear, and I’m pleased and proud to include them in this collection of favorites. It was quite an adventure to record as a duo. We often perform as such, but music made in the studio is a different matter – it’s there forever! Without other musicians for support, we felt a bit like we were working the circus high wire without a net. Nonetheless we had a great time and came out feeling very glad we’d been so brave. So we hope you like it too. Thanks for your ears,  Wesla Whitfield November 26, 2007 |
© 2010 Pismo Productions
