Jim
Peterik is best known for his work as songwriter, guitarist and singer
of the groups the Ides of March and Survivor,
Chi-Town Hustlers, and 38 Special, for which
he wrote and performed hits like Vehicle, The Search Is
Over, The Eye Of The Tiger or Burning Heart. The
Soundtracks of the movies Rocky 3 and 4, went gold
respectively platinum. Jim also wrote songs for the movie Karate
Kid. Furthermore Jim worked with the Doobie Brothers, Brian
Wilson, REO Speedwagon, Al Denson and a lot more.
What is the reason
that such a rock legend now starts his first smooth jazz project. Jim
Peterik explains: "My wife of 35 years, Karen, and I have been huge
fans since day one of Pat Metheny, David Grusin, Spyro Gyra, Keiku
Matsui, Acoustic Alchemy, Basia and so many more. Writing and
performing this style myself is just a natural progression from fan to
artist."
His debut as
smooth jazz artist is called Lifeforce and will be released by
Jim's label World Stage International Records on February 3, 2009.
Guitarist and keyboardist Jim Peterik is supported by world's finest
musicians: Ed Breckenfeld on drums, Mike Aquino on guitar, Klem Hayes
on bass, Christian Cullen, Scott May, Jeff Lantz on keyboards, Steve
Eisen on sax and flute and Lisa McClowry on vocals.
It's a scientific principle that music causes Joy. So let's
jump into this fantastic album with the uplifting melody which was
created during Jim's fitness training. Jim asked his trainer Kathleen
for a title and without hesitation she suggested this title.
Jim defines
Lifeforce as breaking down boundaries, unlearning many of our
life-long mindsets and tapping into the inner power we all possess.
Transformed in his musical message the song passes the borderline and
has a strong soft-rock attitude. This impression is underlined by
Jim's progressive voice we all know by his song Eye Of The Tiger.
Chicago's Ides
of March had in 1970 with Vehicle their first mega-hit. The
song was initiated by Jim's wife Karen. Similar like the rock band
Blood, Sweat and Tears, Jim's model, Ides of March had great
success with this style and often copied it in later versions.
Although Jim considers his new version as settled in the smooth jazz
genre, it's still a melodic instrumental rock.
"Now my heart
takes flight. Out from the shadows and into the light. That is my
Unconditional Surrender," sings Lisa McClowry. Lisa is known for
her captivating electric presence. Diary of a Chameleon (2006)
and Spyglass Hill (2000) are here own solo projects.
Ghost Orchid
is inspired by Sting's music. Jim sings about the flower of romance
trembling in your hand. Lisa's background vocals spend a quantum of
mystery. Eye Of The Tiger is Jim's most famous role and super
hit. Jim comments: "Instead two boxers in the ring, imagine yourself
at a great smooth jazz fest sipping a fine Chardonnay and dancing to
the groove." So Jim presents a elegant version of his biggest song of
his entire career.
The Search Is
Over is Jim Peterik's favorite song out of all he has written.
Arranged as a duet with singer Lisa McClowry Jim presents the old
Survivor song from their album Vital Signs (1984) in a new glance.
Secret Of The Way was the origin of Jim's new project. This
instrumental with a propulsive bass run and a captivating guitar riff
is really irresistible.
Morning Song
as vocal and instrumental version are tributes to Keiko Matsui's
music. The vocal version presents Lisa McClowry while the
instrumental showcases Jim's guitar both accompanied by Steve Eisen on
sax. A melodious song with a rockish beat far away of any Urban music
influence. Jim comments about the song Interrupted Melody: " I
love a good bittersweet melody-one that convey emotion without a
single word." This is the motto and structure of the whole
album.
Lifeforce
is Jim Peterik's soft rock answer to today's dominant smooth jazz
structures. Certainly an alternative and an enrichment for the music
scene.
