Miked Up

by E-Life 7 / Michael Pennick

Three 2 Go Music introduces E-Life 7(EL7) featuring Michael Pennick with his debut CD "Miked Up". EL7 unites some of Western NY's finest musicians including; keyboardists Rodney Spears & Charlie Crymes Jr., guitarist Ron Walker, drummer and percussionist Tim Webb and bassist Mike Pennick. Special appearance by Ken Whitman (tenor sax), Walter Kemp III, Van Taylor (keyboards), Joey Diggs and Dee Osbourne (vocals). EL7 is the brain child of Ron Walker & Mike Pennick long time members of Buffalo Music Hall of Fame R&B recording artists The Exoutics. EL7 acknowledges the musical and spiritual influence of past and present members of The Exoutics. While contemplating their musical future longtime friends Ron and Mike decided it was time to explore their Jazz alter egos and discover what lies beneath the tender ballads and funky R&B grooves they've been writing for years. After a brief discussion it was agreed that their next project would highlight the talent of bassist Mike Pennick. Eventually this led to the formation of EL7. With extraordinary creativity and collaboration the 5 member group conceived and recorded "Miked Up". Rodney's unique keyboard accents perfectly complement the keyboard foundations played by Charlie. Tim's intricate drum touch reinforces rhythmic, melodic bass lines and spicy guitar licks. When blended together, what a unique sound. The project began in summer of 2012 and completed in late spring 2013 taking several interesting twists and turns as each member shared creative ideas and opinions to help shape this outstanding project. The resulting CD captures the flavor and passion of each musician. Hopefully audiences will enjoy and appreciate this special blend of jazz and R&B. "Miked Up" covers the gamut of emotions from the rhythm shifting jazz, funk of "Chaos" to the fun filled upbeat playful "Sunday Night". The remake of Stevie Wonder's "That Girl", intimate revelations of "Inner Beauty" and "Before the Storm" make this CD a pleasure to listen to and sure to appeal to the most demanding pallet. Life is short, enjoy it! So what does EL7 stand for? Enjoy Life 7 days a week (Exoutics for life). Producer favorites - 'Sunrise' and 'Tony Rome' Mikes favorite - 'Before The Storm' Group favorite - 'Chaos' - Note that the crowd noise is an insert from the first live performance during the Queen City Jazz Festival. Fun to perform - 'Second Level', 'Sunday Night', 'That Girl' Strong Groove - 'Smooth Ride', 'Feelin You' "Miked Up" - The story behind the songs "Sunday Night" - Conceived by Ron this upbeat playful song originated Sunday evening while resting in bed after experiencing a very enjoyable late spring day in western NY. Sunday Night is the musical expression of that specific day. That day actually made the pending Monday a little easier to except (it's all about attitude). Mike put his twist on the bass line by adding a little more rhythm and melodic solo while Rodney added the string/ brass hook keyboard line. The song concludes with classic back and forth instrumental call and response between bass, keyboard and guitar. Note the lingering echo at the end of this song which reflects the lasting impact of that day. "Chaos" - The non-standard time signature reflects the nature of the beast. The original title of the song was "Organized Chaos" (thanks Tim). Daily we are provided with the illusion of control over our life, in fact we are along for the ride, making the best of each day is about all we can control. Tim's driving drum solo is awesome. The keyboard chords by Charlie vary slightly within the song to reinforce the random nature of Chaos. Written by Ron, Chaos is short sweet and to the point. The concept of the song is well delivered and the musical performance is exceptional. The funk embedded within the song is reflective of how quickly life can change. The crowd noise heard during the musical break near the middle of the song was actually recorded during the first public performance of this song during the 2012 Queen City Jazz Festival (it's the actual crowd reaction to the performance). "Se