THE EUROPEAN CHORD MOUNTAIN PRESENTS..... This set of songs encompasses many subjects, from the early (and never forgotten) experience of nearly drowning, to relationships new and old, to political absurdities to a tribute to a classic car. The resulting styles mirror these eclectic subjects, by ranging from funky keyboard based with a capella section (Pond Girl) to big band instrumental (XK140) to Latin Rock (The Itching) and gentle piano/vocal ((The Same Dream) and more. By popular demand, Caroline has put her first album (not including the ones she made on cassette and half inch tape when she was VERY young) out in the chord garden. A 'mazing, mad mix of many notes from the European Chord Mountain where a myriad of chords are catered for, minor 9s being a speciality. Other chords are available on closer inspection. Melodies included free. Bright and funky, with quirky riffs and careful arrangements, the days of happy funk and jazzy female pop are ever present. Employees of the European Chord Mountain include Julie Weaver, Sam Brown (a different one), & Kristy Ferguson on vocals; Addo Koranteng & Carl Gowland on drums, Billy Miller on bass, Tom Cantwell on guitar, and Carolyn Ashley & Gareth Weaver on trombones. All other plumbing and construction work by Caroline. Not corgi registered, but harmonically, melodically and rhythmically competent. The European Chord Mountain in association with Ultragroove - music of many colours. Where chords come home! Track info: (Sleeve notes and lyrics included with the album.) "Pond Girl" A 3 part acappella start, making full use of the chord mountain’s favorite chord, the myna nina. Funky Casioesque keyboard groove takes over as the horror of nearly drowning (but fortunately not) is depicted, along with the impact it has on the victim. Hear the gorgeous voices of Kristy and Sam as well as the vocals of Caroline. "The itching" Big, bouncy latin/flamenco sound with the inimitable North East speciality the Billaddo brothers rhythm section, and the fabulous Tom Cantwell on guitar. Add Julie’s vocals and the song is cooking! Saucy and spicy! 7#9s! "Pictures" Reminiscient of Serge Gainsbourg and Jane Birkin, this funky yet reflective song tells the tale of “it’s not you, it’s me”, with it’s gentle soprano layers. "Travel by Car" Time for the new romance! Bouncy, quirky, full of ambitious brass section riffs, guaranteed to get you singing along. "The Same Dream" Just piano and vocal, a reflective number in the style of a jazz standard, but with a deeper lyrical content than many of the other songs in this style. Major 7s used in good measure in this one. "Riders in the Banana" The political song – about a poor old London tube driver who had a bad day. Enervating choppy, funky bass line Level 42 style (great job, Billy) and a fruity, juicy guitar solo from Tom at his drunken elephant styley best. Synth solo included as part of the deal. Includes m9s AND altered chords – not to be missed bargain from the European Chord Mountain. In the saddest of all keys. "XK140" "My mates made 2 Jaguar XK140 replicas which are fab. They (the cars) deserve a joyful, modern big band style instrumental to honor them." Listen to the superb drumming of Carl on this one. And a bit of squarkey trumpet for good measure.