Alarum: This was a thrill to me to flirt with my fusion roots and current works with the Dave Holland Quintet. My goal was to fuse the jazz swing rhythmic concept along with a hard rock fusion beat.

Zone B: Originally I wrote this as a swing oriented tune which was luckily bumped from a session early last year. I ended up keeping the bass line and subsequently writing it as a funk groove. I always and continue to try view the glass half full as oppose to half empty. Zone B is an affirmation of that philosophy.

A Dance of the Forests: I really enjoy the writings of Wole Soyinka. This is based on one of his plays which ancestral spirits arise while the village is sleeping.

While Ur Sleepin': There are no words that would -- or could -- describe this introspection. The emotions put behind this song are much, much too difficult to articulate. But I hope you, as the listener, can feel what I was feeling during the process of this composition.

Dingwalls: On a trip with Bob James to London we opened our tour at a former comedy club, which I believe, is in one of London's favorite night spot areas. The energy of the club that evening inspired me. When I returned to the hotel following the performance, I began jotting done ideas, which later became "Dingwalls."

Tanabata: On the night of July 7th, a bridge is formed over the River of Heaven to enable the two stars -- "Altair" and "Vega" -- to meet. This indigenous legend of Princess Oto-Tanabata was first practiced in Japanese Emperors' court between the 9th and 10th centuries. It is still celebrated in festival fashion in modern day Japan.

At Bears Café: This composition was written to reflect the friendly romantic Bears Café, which was where my wife and I had our first dinner following our elopement.

The Answer (Gifts From Above): This composition is dedicated to my kids. I feel the greatest gifts from God/Universe are children.

Casablanca Cruise: This is based on the flower, "Casablanca," which was a wedding present for my wife and I. As this powerful flower blossomed, I couldn't help to be move by its structure and growth.

4 to 1 Odds: The complete title of this song is: "4 to 1 Odds, It's a Wallet." This composition is dedicated to the parents of Amadou Diallo.

Kruger Park: Recently I had the privilege to travel to South Africa with Bob James. It was one of the most enlightening trips of my travels.



MUSICIANS

Billy has invited some special musician friends to play on this record. Look for guest appearances by: Bob James, Robin Eubanks, Dave Holland, Jack Lee, James Genus, Shedrick Mitchell, Kevin DiSimone and Mike Sim.

While Ur Sleepin' was Produced by Billy Kilson and Co-Produced by Ken Freeman.

Back to Billy Kilson's BK Groove music page.