MY DEBUT ALBUM, “PURE IMAGINATION”
For years, I worked behind the scenes for a variety of major recording artists in the fields of Jazz, Smooth Jazz, Pop, Soul and Country. I wrote my compositions and arrangements out of the public eye. If you are familiar with my name it’s only because you came across it in album credits or in very small print on a record label (I’m talking vinyl here).
For a number of years I have wanted to record an album of original compositions in a variety of genres. I play a number of instruments but I wanted to present a singular voice across multiple genres. Tenor sax came to mind as the best one to accomplish this. http://www.frankkavelin.com/pure-imagination
So much of what I have been able to accomplish as a musician has been made possible by a number of great musicians with whom I have worked. The liner notes that accompany this release pay tribute to some of them. Here is an excerpt:
1. “Pure Imagination” (for AT&T)
It was their 2010 TV commercial that introduced me to this beautiful song.
2. “I Found You” (for Wilton Felder)
Wilton recorded this song of mine and it appears on his “Secrets” album. His mastery of both tenor sax and bass is an inspiration.
3. “Jobim Forever” (for Antonio Carlos “Tom” Jobim)
I didn’t know Tom personally; however, we had in common a very close personal friend who would tell me stories–like the time the Blue Note called him to say that Tom was a no-show for his set. My friend rushed over to Tom’s hotel to find out what was going on. There was Tom in his room, playing his guitar, oblivious to anything other than the music of the moment. My friend rushed him over to the Blue Note, saving the day.
4. “Infectious Funk” (for Joe Sample)
In addition to being the consummate jazz composer and artist, Joe had a great pop sensibility, was an accomplished arranger and a connoisseur of Chinese food, among other things. For my money, his “Carmel” album communicates the “inner Joe.”
5. “Sannomiya Station” (for Oliver Nelson)
It was always stimulating to converse with Oliver. The integration of his music with the events of his life produced music that was as brilliant and varied as the person he was.
6. “Where There’s Love” (for Charlie Calello)
It’s surreal finding out that many of the hit records you loved growing up were all arranged and/or produced by the same man, and then finding yourself not only working with him but knowing him like a brother.
7. “Warm-up in C# Minor/Bop Doo-Wah” (for Benny Golson)
Another example of a great jazz composer and instrumentalist who is also an accomplished arranger. A sampler of his great arranging can be found on Peggy Lee’s “Make It With You” album. He remains one of the kindest and most considerate people I have ever known.
8. “Ballade” (for Tom McIntosh)
The ultimate mentor. Simply being in his presence was an education.
9. “Sunday Gospel Brunch” (for Wayne Henderson)
More than his unique trombone stylings, I appreciated Waynie’s song writing and producing. Whether it was raw funk, sophisticated sonorities, “church” or straight-ahead jazz, his production values were state of the art. His “Living on A Dream” album demonstrates this beautifully.
Starting in August 2019, you will be able to stream “Pure Imagination” from all the major streaming services. To purchase a permanent download you can use your favorite platform or can purchase it directly from the Lute Records website HERE.
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