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| Danette McMahon most recognized from the movie Powder, releases her album No More Excuses  From the moment seven-year-old Danette McMahon's voice echoed through a microphone in Cleveland, Texas, it was clear that her star was pointed towards music. Her childhood was a symphony of evolving talents; from mastering the clarinet in junior high to enchanting audiences with her voice. Danette's musical journey was marked by pivotal choices, such as turning down an invitation from The University of Texas to join their marching band and instead accepting a scholarship at Houston Baptist University for music and drama.The summer before her college debut, Danette took a leap that would catapult her into the limelight. Joining the chorus line at The Houston Music Theatre, she began a meteoric rise in the music industry. Between 1972-1974, she toured across North America and the Virgin Islands with Sidro's Armada, a journey that culminated in a Las Vegas Rock & Roll Hall of Fame induction in 2010. Danette's stage presence was magnetic, sharing the limelight with icons like Oscar winner Rita Moreno and jazz/blues legend Joe Williams. Her versatility shone through at the "Jazz on the Grazz" Festival, where she opened for notables like Freddie Hubbard and Spyro Gyra. In Houston, she was the voice that introduced audiences to stars such as Marvin Hamlisch and Dionne Warwick, performing with The Bob Henschen Band. A highlight of her career was in 1995, when she was invited to sing with The Jimmy Dorsey Orchestra at Meryl Streep's Connecticut estate. That same year, Danette delved into acting, portraying Emma Barnum in the Disney movie POWDER, alongside Mary Steenburgen and Jeff Goldblum. In 2003, Danette's artistic journey took a new turn as she ventured into songwriting. This path led her back to academia, where she studied arranging and composition under Joe LoCascio at Houston Community College. Her album, No More Excuses, is a tapestry of her life experiences. Each song, penned by Danette, resonates with warmth, wit, and candor, inviting listeners into her personal narrative. Her unique renditions of "You and Me" by Dave Matthews and Oasis' "Wonderwall" showcase her vocal skills and her skill as an arranger. No More Excuses is a journey through the life of an artist who has honed her craft with passion and resilience, offering her voice to the world, unapologetically and without excuses. All songs written by Danette McMahon – Nettie Bird Music/BMI except "You and Me" by David J. Matthews - Gallo Music Publishers, Sal Mander Publishing and "Wonderwall" by Noel Gallagher, Oasis Music Sony/ATV Music Publishing "Innocent Bystander" is a poignant narrative woven from the threads of real-life encounters and the pressing issues of societies overlooked. Danette crafts a tapestry of life's unnoticed corners—echoing the faces of need and the power of stepping up to make a change. Through heart-wrenching lyrics and a journey that spans from observation to action, this track is a call to cast aside indifference and engage with the world compassionately. The song is a reminder that we are all part of each other's stories, capable of transforming lives through simple acts of kindness. "Come Dance With Me" twirls out of a true story—a serenade born from the dance floor and a shared laughter between two souls. With its Latin grooves driven by pianist, Andrew Lienhard and heartfelt lyrics by Danette, this song was crafted as a birthday present, celebrating the whirlwind romance between the artist and her muse. With its tender plea to embrace love and leave the past behind. Accompanied by a guitar solo crafted by Paul Chester that encapsulates the months of cautious glances and budding conversations, it's a song that's as much an invitation to dance as it is to love. "Life Goes On" is a song born from a personal tale of resilience, tracing back to a heart-wrenching experience in 1971 when Danette faced a devastating breakup just hours before a stage performance. This challenging moment demanded a newfound maturity and composure, as she navigated her heartache while maintaining her professionalism onstage. The song encapsulates the universal struggle of masking personal turmoil in public roles, whether as a performer, a surgeon, or a waitress. It's a testament to the strength and perseverance required in various vocations, highlighting the often-unseen personal battles behind professional facades. This track resonates with anyone who has had to put on a brave face in tough times, reminding us of the human capacity to endure and the relentless march of life amidst personal trials. "Road Trip" captures the essence of adventure and companionship. Embrace the spirit of the road where the only schedule is the rising and setting of the sun and the only certainty is the company you keep. A musical voyage where the horizon is endless, and every mile is a memory in the making. "Closer To My Dream" is a personal journey of ambition and resilience, an anthem that resonates with anyone who has ever chased a dream. Born from the heart of a determined artist, this song celebrates the milestones of a musical voyage, echoing the hopeful spirit of performers everywhere. This track stands as a testament to persistence, the love of music, and the sweet proximity to lifelong aspirations. Dive into a bold transformation with "Naughty Girl, " a song that playfully abandons the good for the thrill of the risqué. Crafted in a spontaneous burst of creativity, inspired by a jazz club performance, this track is a lively departure from the usual. Encapsulating a journey from prim and proper to daringly adventurous, it embodies a narrative of self-reinvention with a mischievous twist. Embrace a story of liberation and the unapologetic joy of stepping into a more audacious persona. Accompanied by a backdrop of sassy jazz with one of the core ensembles on the album Andrew Lienhard on piano, Paul Chester on guitar, Anthony Sapp on upright bass, Mark Simmons on drums, and sultry brass provided by Ed Lowe, "Naughty Girl" is an invitation to celebrate the spicier side of life with every high-heeled step. Step into the rhythmic embrace of "Fallin' Deeper, " a jazz waltz that captures the sweet turbulence and anticipations of love. Birthed from the all-too-familiar chaos of disrupted travel plans, this song is a heartwarming reminder of the joy found in returning to the one you love. As the melody modulates with each verse, it mirrors the ever-growing depths of affection. The relatable narrative, combined with the rich harmonies of Houston's finest musicians including saxophonist, Woody Witt whose impeccable precision and poignant note choices lend added passion for "Fallin' Deeper" to stand as a favorite, promising to connect with listeners as they navigate their own passages of love, life, and the uncharted terrains of the heart. Immerse yourself in the evocative strains of "Wonderwall, " a song originally penned by Noel Gallagher and soulfully reinvented within the album No More Excuses. This track, with its profound sense of vulnerability and yearning, is not just a cover but a rediscovery—a journey through the winding paths of love and the solace it can bring. While the classic lyrics speak of an almost mythical savior, the interpretation here is deeply personal, underlining love's power to illuminate and heal. Coupled with the haunting resonance of Patrick Moore on cello, speaking to the timeless essence of the song. This interpretation of "Wonderwall" invites you to find your own meaning within its words, reflecting the universal search for a beacon of hope in the face of life's blinding truths. Step into the rhythmic embrace of “Fallin’ Deeper,” a jazz waltz that captures the sweet turbulence and anticipations of love. Birthed from the all-too-familiar chaos of disrupted travel plans, this song is a heartwarming reminder of the joy found in returning to the one you love. As the melody modulates with each verse, it mirrors the ever-growing depths of affection. The relatable narrative, combined with the rich harmonies of Houston’s finest musicians including saxophonist, Woody Witt whose impeccable precision and poignant note choices lend added passion for “Fallin’ Deeper” to stand as a favorite, promising to connect with listeners as they navigate their own passages of love, life, and the uncharted terrains of the heart. Immerse yourself in the evocative strains of “Wonderwall,” a song originally penned by Noel Gallagher and soulfully reinvented within the album No More Excuses. This track, with its profound sense of vulnerability and yearning, is not just a cover but a rediscovery—a journey through the winding paths of love and the solace it can bring. While the classic lyrics speak of an almost mythical savior, the interpretation here is deeply personal, underlining love’s power to illuminate and heal. Coupled with the haunting resonance of Patrick Moore on cello, speaking to the timeless essence of the song. This interpretation of “Wonderwall” invites you to find your own meaning within its words, reflecting the universal search for a beacon of hope in the face of life’s blinding truths. Step into the melancholy revelry of “My Pity Party,” a candid glimpse into a gathering where heartache is the guest of honor and self-reflection serves as the haunting melody highlighted by bassist, Anthony Sapp and gently treated by pianist, Andrew Lienhard and brushed with eloquence by drummer Mark Simmons. Saxophonist, Woody Witt once again showcases his powerful prowess on this track, woven from a true encounter, navigating through the remnants of love lost and the struggle to let go. Encased within the lyrics is a bittersweet sarcasm, the kind that laughs to keep from crying, as it portrays the adornments of a broken heart. Set against the backdrop of an emotional purge, this song captures the essence of heartbreak, embodying the pain that lingers long after love has departed. “Don’t Pretend” is a poignant reflection on the facade people maintain in deteriorating relationships, underscored by the unease of a forced reunion. The song’s narrative delves into the emotional complexities of a dissolving marriage and the collateral impact on the children involved. Through Danette’s evocative lyrics and Joe LoCascio’s haunting piano, the track offers a somber yet cathartic expression of separation, authenticity, and the poignant growth that comes from facing painful truths. Danette’s cover of “You And Me,” originally by Dave Matthews Band, captures a journey of boundless possibilities with a loved one. Her rendition is enriched by Paul Chester’s guitar grooves and immortalizes the joyous spirit of the late Milton Comeaux on percussion. This song promises to be an infectious addition to the album, inviting listeners to share in the adventure and optimism embedded in every note. “Good Ol’ Days” is a nostalgic track that celebrates the past’s wild adventures while embracing the present’s joys. Its upbeat chorus contrasts the thrill of youth with the contentment found in current life. The song’s creation showcases Danette’s playful approach to songwriting and her journey in navigating complex time signatures, landing on a unique 5/4 rhythm. The lyrics humorously acknowledge the shift from youthful rebellion to parental guidance. This piece is an ode to life’s phases, echoing the sentiment that while the good old days were wonderful, the here and now is even better. “Bluebird” is a soulful song that delves into themes of longing and the hope of love, framed through a dialogue with a bluebird. Inspired by the Brazilian rhythms of Antonio Carlos Jobim, the track evokes a Latin vibe, central to its storytelling. This connection resurfaces as she crafts her own narrative, engaging with a bluebird as a symbol of freedom and exploration. The song’s protagonist, once hurt by love and now hesitant to venture out, sees the bluebird’s flights as a beacon of possibility and wonders if there’s someone out there for her. The inclusion of specific 2/4 measures in the song adds to its unique structure and emotional delivery, paralleling the fleeting moments of contact with the bird. “Bluebird” is a testament to Danette’s storytelling through music and her connection to the broader world of love, loss, and the yearning for companionship. “The Lady I Never Knew” is a deeply personal song for Danette, beginning with pathos and transitioning to celebration. The song marks Danette’s beginning as a songwriter, through discovery and empathy, as she creates this homage to her birth mother. With its heartfelt narrative and emotional depth, further enhanced by B-3 organist, Philip Jones, the song is a significant piece in the album, capturing both the complexity of Danette’s own story and the universal quest for connection and closure. TRACKS, PLAYERS & INSTRUMENTS: 1. “Innocent Bystander” (4:44) piano: Joe LoCascio upright bass: Anthony Sapp guitar: Paul Chester drums: Mark Simmons B3 Organ: Phillip Jones 2. “Come Dance With Me” (4:35) piano: Andrew Lienhard upright bass: Anthony Sapp guitar: Paul Chester drums: Mark Simmons percussion: Milton Comeaux 3. “Life Goes On” (5:23) piano: Joe LoCascio upright bass: Anthony Sapp drums: Mark Simmons tenor sax: Woody Witt 4. “Road Trip” (4:43) piano: Joe LoCascio upright bass: Anthony Sapp guitar: Paul Chester drums: Mark Simmons background vocals: Lindsay Weidmann Facknitz, Jimmy Robbins, Danette McMahon 5. “Closer To My Dream” (4:42) piano: Andrew Lienhard upright bass: Anthony Sapp guitar: Paul Chester drums: Mark Simmons 6. “Naughty Girl” (3:54) piano: Andrew Lienhard upright bass: Anthony Sapp guitar: Paul Chester drums: Mark Simmons trombone: Ed Lowe 7. “Fallin’ Deeper” (4:03) keyboards: Andrew Lienhard upright bass: Anthony Sapp guitar: Paul Chester drums: Mark Simmons tenor sax: Woody Witt 8. “Wonderwall” (5:56) piano: Andrew Lienhard cello: Patrick Moore 9. “My Pity Party” (4:20) piano: Andrew Lienhard upright bass: Anthony Sapp drums: Mark Simmons tenor sax: Woody Witt 10. “Don’t Pretend” (3:48) piano: Joe LoCascio upright bass: Anthony Sapp drums: Mark Simmons B3 Organ: Phillip Jones 11. “You and Me” (4:20) piano: Andrew Lienhard upright bass: Anthony Sapp guitar: Paul Chester drums: Mark Simmons percussion: Milton Comeaux flugelhorn: Lay Arredando 12. “Good Ol’ Days” (5:23) piano: Andrew Lienhard upright bass: Anthony Sapp drums: Mark Simmons tenor sax: Woody Witt 13. “Bluebird” (4:44) piano: Andrew Lienhard upright bass: Anthony Sapp guitar: Paul Chester drums: Mark Simmons percussion: Milton Comeaux 14. “The Lady I Never Knew” (3:34) piano: Andrew Lienhard upright bass: Anthony Sapp guitar: Paul Chester drums: Mark Simmons B3 Organ: Phillip Jones Produced by Duke Davis for Rockin’ Double “D” Productions Recorded at Sound Arts Recording – Houston, Texas Engineered by Brian Baker Mixed and Mastered by Rick Harlow and Duke Davis at Masterpeace Studio – Colorado Springs, Colorado Engineered by Rick Harlow Musical Arrangements by Danette McMahon, Duke Davis, Joe LoCascio, Andrew Lienhard, Paul Chester, and Bill Murrell All songs written by Danette McMahon – Nettie Bird Music/BMI except “You and Me” by David J. Matthews Gallo Music Publishers, Sal Mander Publishing Partially Tracked by Patty Sanders at Sanders Sound Studio – Houston, Texas and “Wonderwall” by Noel Gallagher, Oasis Music Sony/ATV Music Publishing Partially Tracked by Andrew Lienhard at Thinking Dog Studio – Houston, Texas write your comments about the article :: © 2023 Jazz News :: home page |