Melissa Gibson - Under Their Influence (2005)

This album began with my wanting to cover a song or two, thinking I would add them to an upcoming release. When I began to investigate which songs to choose, I quickly realized that the project had enormous snowball potential and soon Vaughn and I found we were putting together an entire collection. While some of the songs are very well known, it was important to me also to include songs I have fallen in love with, that, for whatever reason, did not get the airplay or respect I felt they deserved. The actual impact a song can have over a person has always been mystifying; the way in which a stranger's word can reach you, how a melody can hold you captive, the power of harmony as it sweeps you away. For me, this album is, in part, a "thank you" to the songs, to the writers and musicians who persevered for their art. We have tried to approach each song with a slightly different take while still respecting the original recording that made each one so incredible. I hope that we have attained that goal. I can say with certainty that it has been an honor to give it our best shot.