The Alan-Bailey Continuum celebrated a new CD Release and their first anniversary at Subterranean on December 10th. The new album, titled Can't Let Go, is a collection of nine of Alan's songs, each unique in their music, lyrics, and inspiration. The songs range from the pounding and epic 'The Moments Passing', to the heartfelt 'How Could I Be Blue?', and to the thoughtful lullaby of 'I'm Off To Bed'. By limiting his songwriting to piano and cello, Alan pushes the limits of the two instruments to create sounds never before heard in a rock band. Liz Ele adds the necessary rock and necessary rolls on the drum kit, while Chris Fiore plays the cello. The album was recorded at a number of studios in the Chicago area, and was mixed by Manny Sanchez of I.V. Lab Studios (Umphrey's McGee, Plain White T's, The Hush Sound). Mastering was done by Airshow Mastering with artwork by Jason Castillo.
It was on December 12th of 2007 that Alan debuted his band the Alan-Bailey Continuum. Fresh from working as a cruise ship pianist, Alan brought a number of songs to drummer Liz Ele to work on, and began to write his own cello parts. In short order, they performed their first show to finish off the year. In 2008, The Continuum has played at the Beat Kitchen and at Schubas, as well as Alan's favorite Quenchers.
Having practiced and performed with myriad cello players, Alan knows what to look for in a cello player. Chris Fiore, holding a Masters from Depaul's Music School, helped record on the album and is now performing with the band. Chris was recommended by former cellist Michelle Morales, who also recorded on the album.
The CD Release show opened with two bands that have recently released CDs of their own. Lying Delilah have opened for the Continuum twice before, and now have their new CD With No Gravity for sale. My My My, whose guitarist Johnny helped record and edit Alan's album, performed second. Their CD, Little Cat Plays The Alpha Rave, was released just a couple months ago and is available for purchase as well.
Alan appreciates every single person that came out to his show, and wanted to give something in return. Everyone attending the CD Release received a copy of the new CD, Can't Let Go, by just paying what they wished, Radiohead style. Also available was Alan's self-made first album, Happiness Pursued, and his annual "just for fun" Christmas CD! In addition, a raffle was held during the show - Alan's favorite way to give you wacky and sometimes cool prizes!
Subterranean: http://www.subt.net
Alan Bailey: http://www.alan-bailey.com
Lying Delilah: http://www.myspace.com/lyingdelilah3
My My My: http://www.myspace.com/iluvmymymy
