Andrea Brachfeld

Lotus Blossom Andrea Brachfeld

It is so fitting for this CD to be named Lotus Blossom at this time of my life. Firstly, it is named after the composition written by Billy Strayhorn, who was one of the most original composers of our time. Then, most importantly, it ties in to where I am on my spiritual path. To be able to continue my path through my music, as expressed on this CD, is a true blessing. The lotus flower is associated with the 7th chakra and is considered to be the door to divine universal energy. I believe one cannot play this music without being aware of the energy you feel when your mind stops thinking, and what you hear links to your heart which in turn manifests, as your physical body plays the music. It is a calling from the source and always should be honored. And so, I honor this music, the musicians, Bill O'Connell, Rufus Reid, Winard Harper, Wycliffe Gordon, Nancy Harms, and the engineer, Chris Sulit, Ed Littman, who mastered the project, Maureen Plainfield, who unobtrusively took our pictures in the studio, Richard Mantel, the graphic artist, Jerry Lacay, the photographer for the cover art, and Randy Klein, who believed in me and my music to collaborate with releasing this project. Imagine one of those horrific winter snowstorms, digging out the car, knowing the roads will be kind of unsafe, and deciding that making my rehearsal and record dates was worth it! Now you have a taste of the integrity and determination of the wonderful musicians and engineer I asked to participate on this project. And mind you it wasn't just one day, but all three! I am so honored to have played with everyone. All I can say is thank you. Thank you for being so supportive, so present, so incredibly talented, and kind. The feeling before, during, and after the recording was a mix of incredible synergy and cooperation. This music that we all love and pour our hearts into, demands an incredible amount of alone time to be able to get to the point of participating in the perfect model of what democracy is truly all about. Yes, there is always a leader, but the role of the leader gets blended and transformed, as the music evolves. I've said enough. I'll let the music speak for itself. Enjoy!