All of the music was written over a two year period during the COVID-19 pandemic and into the early days of the nation/world recovering its health, balance, economic losses, as well as its spirit. It was a time of much contradiction and dissonance in our day-to-day. We were collectively faced with many challenges and frustrations, unspeakable losses, devastation and uncertainty. At the same time, the pain was juxtaposed against moments of profound beauty and joy. Certainly, it has been a roller-coaster ride of the heart for us—our nation and the world.

Our emotional bandwidth was placed under extreme stress. Amid the confusion we all had to make daily decisions about where to focus our energies and what to ignore or delay; what to hold onto tightly for sustenance and what to release.

By letting go of that which doesn’t serve us, we are able create some semblance of clarity. During such times of profound stress, our personal character can actually become clearer and stronger, deeper and more Soulful. Since every decision is critical, we focus intently on what matters the most. Other distracting issues and demands simply drift away upon release, eventually settling like mere dust and debris at our feet.

We have literally become whatever we held closest to our hearts.

Music

Music, Stories & Lyrics

The Pusher     Follow the Leader     Feathers and String
Bursting Fourth      Drawing Pictures 1983     Brood    Where Forever Waits   Zippity-Zoom
Tiny Feathers

Dedication

This album was begun during the “lock-down” of the 2020 global pandemic, The music and stories that will follow are solemnly dedicated to all who suffered and died needlessly during that tragic event—still ongoing. We also dedicate this work to a future world where we are better prepared and more compassionate—emerging ever stronger from this devastating experience.

Credits

Cheryl Martlage – Lyrics, vocals and production
Emerson Martlage – Music, guitar, vocals and production
Inspiration – Our unwavering hope for a better day