Amazing Imogen.

Last Friday was one of those supremely awesome days. I woke up (albeit, a little late, but that's nothing new in my world) to Niall making me some yummy breakfast and much needed strong-ass coffee. He was helping take the pressure off because he knew I was headed to the studio for more vocals (because as we know, I get a little nervous). After a shower and some warm-ups, we were off to the studio. My lovely sister, Shelby, met us at there a bit later. We started with one of my favorite songs, which might actually be my first single - "Hard Enough." It took a few run through's (and quite possibly whiskey-flavored tea) to get comfortable, but after a bit we got it down. Then Shelby was up. I wasn't sure how she would do - performing live & studio recording are completely different beasts... and she nailed it. Sitting there in the booth and listening to her harmonize was definitely one of the most memorable moments of this album so far. I feel so lucky to have such a talented sister, and so lucky that she enjoys singing with me. It was awesome! "Love Again" was next, and was a quickie. Maybe three full runs and we had everything we needed. That felt good :).

The evening only got better. Niall, Shelby & I met up with Barry, Leighdle & Debbie and drove down to the Mountain Winery. We picked up some drinks and dinner on the way, which we ate on a blanket up on the top of that mountain. You could see for miles! Some of our lovely friends from the super-duper band Kindness & Lies joined us and we enjoyed the sunset together. We had SO much fun that we were late (can you believe it?) to the show! The first Imogen Heap song sounded and we all ran like professional sprinters toward the venue. Let me just say this, if you ever have a chance to see a show at the Mountain Winery - don't miss it. It has got to be one of my favorite venues at this point (and I'm excited to see Swell Season there next month)! The beautiful venue was only surpassed by the awesomely talented and always inspiring Imogen Heap. Stream her new album "Ellipse" here. You won't be disappointed. In her live show, Imogen used a pedal board to layer her vocals on top of previously recorded sounds, like birds flocking from overhead trees & harmonics from wine glasses, on top of live sounds she made on stage with her body. It was like watching a scientist work.

A very pretty, musical scientist.