If Release was an exhale, Awoke was a clear deep inhale – the sound of a refreshed beginning. Released in late 2015, Awoke came after I had a bit of space to reflect and evolve. There’s an old saying: after enlightenment, chop wood and carry water. In my case, after Release, I went back to the studio and got back to basics, but with a new perspective. I felt more “awake” to my purpose and sound than ever. I was contemplating our place in the universe, how we’re connected, and what it means to be conscious and alive on this little planet. Those ideas naturally seeped into the music.

Creatively, Awoke saw me further blending electronic depth with live, organic instrumentation and voices. I was fortunate to collaborate with some truly inspiring musicians on this project. Ilya Goldberg (Lapa) returned, adding his virtuoso violin.  He also co-produced the dynamic piece “39 Circles” with me.  This song has a pretty incredible remix made by CloZee which you can check out below.  I also had the renowned cellist Joey Chang (Cello Joe) play a stirring cello line on “Colony Collapse,” giving that song a poignant gravity. One of the real centerpieces of Awoke are the contributions from Peia Luzzi, an incredible vocalist. Peia wrote lyrics for and sang on “Golden Thread” and “Fate Shadow,” two of the most heartfelt songs on the album. Her voice brought a soulful, world-folk element that elevates those tracks into something timeless. My percussionist friend Cedar Miller also lent his talents again, adding that human heartbeat rhythm throughout. I handled all the other vocals, synths, and production but having these collaborators really made Awoke a tapestry of sounds and influences, woven into a cohesive vision.