BETTER LATE THAN NEVER . . . the Little Phoenix Story

She knew as a child she wanted to sing, but growing up she lacked the courage to. Believing her desire to sing was simply “attention seeking” and that she would never be good enough, she suppressed her dreams and focused on working day jobs.

Dissatisfied and miserable ignoring her creative drive, fate ultimately stepped in. A win in a talent contest in 2002 at the age of thirty brought the spark of creativity back to life.

She focused on improving her guitar and keyboard skills and began composing songs, with the dream of being a singer/songwriter re-ignited. The plan was to keep working fulltime until she was able to develop her music career.

Then disaster - a seemingly minor work accident the following year left her with a permanently damaged hand and unable to work in her usual field. Despite attempts at re-training and study, the injury left her unemployable and destitute.

Unable to work and no longer able to play an instrument, it seemed the dream was over. But despite circumstances, the spark within would not die. Instead she found her voice.

And from the ruins of her old life, Little Phoenix was reborn.

THE ANGELS ON MY PATH AND THE BOYS IN THE BAND
Written by Little Phoenix

You may be surprised to know the album “Time Gypsy” almost didn’t exist. It took me so long to find the right people for this project, I was on the verge of scrapping the whole thing.

However, thanks to the guidance and encouragement of Steve Mepham (IXL @ Sound) and Brad Wann (Top Cat Recording Studio), the project began afresh at Top Cat Recording Studio in October 2008.

So all credit and many thanks to ..

Steve Mepham, manager, and all round good guy: One of the busiest people I know, Steve spends what little spare time he has coaching fledgling musicians and supporting community music and theatre events. Although a musician himself, Steve is in the business of making others sound good. A treasure trove of experience and contacts, Steve pointed me in the right direction to the right people.
Brad Wann, producer and sound engineer: Brad immediately understood the direction the album needed to take and under his guidance the project blossomed.  He assembled his talented team of session musicians for the project. The atmosphere was relaxed but very productive. It soon became apparent to all involved that the album had the potential to be something special. The work done not only captured the essence of the songs, but each individual’s skill at their craft.
Tim Corcoran, guitarist: nicknamed “one-take-snake” because of his uncanny ability to get everything right the first time, Tim is a talented and conscientious artist. From sizzling electric guitar riffs, to sweet acoustic melodies, Tim has made a masterful contribution to the album.
Scott Hills, drums and percussion: Scott has a sunny disposition that hides the fact he is a perfectionist. Whether he is laying out a rock beat, or a gentle ballad rhythm, Scott’s skill can not be overstated. Working in tandem with David Tweedie to create a solid foundation for each track, Scott’s drumming talent made everyone else’s job easy.
David Tweedie, bass guitar: Dave’s instincts for what each song needed were spot on. While his hard work may not be immediately apparent to the listener, the reality is Dave’s work captured the pulse of each song.
Gary Day, keyboard and Hammond Organ: an expert at creating ambience, Gary knows exactly how to blend his work so that it fits the song.  Whether it is a hint of synthesiser, or growling Hammond, Gary enhanced the emotion of each track he worked on. A man much in demand, Gary made time out of a very busy schedule to lend his expertise to the project.
Little Phoenix, vocalist: I performed all the main vocals and harmonies. Brad and I agreed to keep my voice as natural as possible, flaws and all. I’ll leave it to you decide what you think . . . but at least you’ll get an idea of what I’d sound like live.
Brad Bergen, drummer and guitarist: The best work you’ve never heard on Time Gypsy. Brad is an exceptional talent with keen song arrangement insights who has already established himself in the music industry. His important contribution to the songs “I Never Liked You Anyway” and “Blue Eyed Boy”, need to be recognised. Thank you, Brad.	www.myspace.com/bradbergen
Brett Oaten Solicitors: Entertainment Law	www.brettoaten.com.au
Top Cat Studios	www.topcatstudios.com
Sterling Sound, New York	www.sterling-sound.com
MAD CDs: world-class CD, DVD and Book manufacturing	www.madcds.com.au
White Tiger Graphics: Specialising in CD cover design, posters and promotional material for the music industry.	www.whitetigergraphics.com.au
IXL@sound: Thanks to Steve and Pam	www.ixl-at-sound.com.au
Ryan Smith from Sterling Sound, NY, USA for his mastering work
Sozo Production: Thanks for my fabulous new website!	www.sozo.com.au
Yvonne Wigman from Prosperalot Coaching: Your Personal Change Agent	www.prosperalot.com.au