I produced this album between August 2022 and January 2023.  Many of the ideas were developed over the last 2-3 years. 

I play all instruments and vocals.  The music is a combination of real instruments, synthesizers and samples.  I used Garage Band on my 2012 macbook air and my iPhone 8 Microphone. 

Because you Survived: 
All four of my grandparents survived the Holocaust. 75 years later, the Trauma still looms large in my family.  A classic family talking point is:: “Zaide (Eugene) was lucky to only be in prison during the war”.  No one actually knows what happened inside those prison walls, he never spoke about it.  

As far back as I can remember, I have been preparing to survive concentration camps/prison (in my head), imagining myself in my grandparents’ shoes (probably didn’t have shoes).  Being enslaved is not exactly a hypothetical for me. It’s in my blood.  

I have a number of chronic health issues that might be connected to the chronic stress of unresolved trauma.

It’s my job to process the trauma so as not to pass down undue burden, pain and stress to the next generation. 

Track Eleven_ADHD: 
This song is about ADHD. I hate crowds and events. I never know what to say to people.  I hate small talk.  I’d rather just express myself through music.  Many times I feel like I am on Track 11 while everyone else around me is on Track 3. 

Donna Lee, by Charlie Parker
Giant Steps, by John Coltrane
Saxophone has a special place in my heart and soul. It was my first real instrument. I wanted to share my ok, not great, playing, and honor these two heroes: Bird and Trane. I have been listening to their recordings since I was a kid.  These two artists significantly shaped my musical identity. Thank you to my parents for introducing them to me at a young age and encouraging me to play music.  

Nurse Practish: 
This song is self explanatory. I am a nurse practish.  I work full time. I see 60-70 patients a week.   I would like to say it's always rewarding and fulfilling, but often it's stressful and overwhelming.  But hey, I shouldn't complain right? It's a secure job that pays well. 

Bad Little Yid:
My childhood consisted of many long days spent in Synagogue, aka Shul, waiting for it to end. I know some of you will get offended by this and for that I say a hearty “I apologize”. Just know that none of the events took place in real life.   Rap style Influenced by Eminem.  The chorus is a classic Jewish tune sung during the Priests' Blessings (Birchat Kohanim) on high holidays. 

Boundaries: 
I am just not that religious. Get over it.  Neither were 3 out of my 4 grandparents, which makes me feel a little less guilty about it.  But now to worry, I still feel plenty guilty about it.  But as I mentioned earlier, I encourage you to get over it. 

Alexander: 
A fun one. A little about me and my family. I thought it would be fun to make it sound like I was draining 3s during the intro. 
Samples used: Biggie’s “Gimme the Loot”  and Lin Manuel Miranda’s “Alexander Hamilton”.

1. Introduction

1. Introduction

Alibimbam 2023

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