Cape of Good Hope [Import]

But more than anything, the former Texan is proudest of the compliment offered freely by his many listeners who have nothing to do with the music business: "Your CDs are the most listened-to music I own!" Jim frequent ly hears the phrase "I haven't stopped listening to your CD since I got it months ago." Indeed, people of all description are finding a common love for the timelessness of his music and his effortless blend of pop, Celtic, folk and classical influences. It's no small feat, but Jim's music connects directly to the heart.

Now, Jim's newest release, Cape of Good Hope is being greeted with the same enthusiastic reception as his previous release, Northern Seascape. "In a way, I see them as sister CDs', Jim shared during a recent rehearsal break.

"Both albums draw from a deep desire to bring a lasting artistic contribution to the world. As with Northern [Seascape], I recorded the piano tracks first, then meticulously chose instrumentation that best supported what the piano was saying. It was an incredible honor to work with artists that I've long held with the deepest regard including Dan Fogelberg, Stephen Bishop David Sanborn, and, of course, it was a joy to work again with Davey Johnstone [of Elton John fame] and Eric Rigler [the Irish flute player from the Titanic soundtrack.] And I must tell you, it was truly amazing to see Bob Clearmountain [legendary mixing engineer] work his magic with "Picasso's Midnight Stroll".

BACKGROUND

Jim's extensive background in the music business has paved the road to Jimb's dream. A few years ago, having performing close to a thousand gigs as a solo artist; in a 6 piece band; and every configuration in between, he knew it was time to start sharing his own music. Shortly after he made his move to Los Angeles from Texas, he became a published songwriter and soon began composing for television-- most notably for the CBS series, "Frank's Place."

Sadly though, it took the sudden death of his best friend (in 1996) to push Jim into making a record. It was then, as he says, that he realized "you really never know when you're going to be called, so you'd better be pro ud of what you've done, proud of the legacy you're leaving behind."

Jim wrote and recorded his first CD, Northern Seascape, in early 1997 and then pressed a small number of CDs himself. Using a music industry directory, he sent out 20 copies -- unsolicited -- to some of his favorite record companies. Seven companies responded immediately with offers, which is unheard of in the notoriously insular entertainment industry.

Northern Seascape--the title-cut of which Jim co-wrote with Dan Fogelberg-- was released by Angel/EMI in January, 1999 and entered the Billboard Charts at #21. It features several special guest artists, including Dave Koz; Chris Standring helps out on "Walk Away Renee" the classic lament and Northern Seascape's only cover. Jim chose the song for no better reason than it's one of his all-time favorites. In his hands, the song takes on a lovely, stark melancholy.

Now as Cape of Good Hope is being released to the world, Jim reflects, "The genuine, heartfelt responses I've received from hundreds of fans of my first CD have given me a level of spiritual gratification beyond measure."