Personel: Produced by Bob Sheppard Larry Goldings- Piano, B3 Larry Koonse- Guitar Mike Valerio- Bass Mark Ferber- Drums Also, Mike Cottone- Trumpet Ryan Dragon- Trombone Bob Sheppard- Saxophone (track 5 and Bass Clarinet tracks 2, 6) Watch for album review in Downbeat magazine February 2016 Kirstenedkins.com for updates Album liner notes written by jazz great, Joe LaBarbera "With the release of Art & Soul, Kirsten Edkins has arrived. What a great start to a bright and creative future for her and for us, the listeners. From the relaxed funky start of “Big B” to the closing statement of “No Ordinary Joe”, the music sparkles with texture and feeling that reaches out and grabs you. Kirsten’s sound on tenor, soprano and alto sax is big, warm and assured with a rich vocabulary that breathes with ease and expression. She has wisely assembled an outstanding group with the help of her mentor and friend Bob Sheppard who produced this project. Each track presents a new perspective on Kirsten’s talent and varied influences both in writing and stylistic approach. Staying true to her individual voice, the recording maintains cohesiveness throughout while demonstrating dedication and authenticity to her jazz lineage. Music offers those of us who perform many rewards, but none greater for me than when Kirsten composed "No Ordinary Joe" as a dedication to my band’s influence in her development. Growing up in the Los Angeles area, her personal approach has become a refreshing and frequent voice heard in ensembles large and small. So welcome Kirsten Edkins, and congratulations on this first of hopefully many CDs to come. Also kudos to producer Bob Sheppard and recording engineer Talley Sherwood for their excellent work on this project. I for one will look forward to hearing a lot more from Kirsten and her great band in the future."