This CD came together at the urging of the other musicians I was playing live with. They all thought that the original music we were playing should be recorded and sent out to labels for possible distribution. Well, together we all made it happen and the music shows how well we all played together. With everyone performing at a similar level, the sound was exactly what I had envisioned. Growing up in upstate New York, I was supposed to become a fine artist, which I did, but not a smooth jazz artist. Nevertheless, these songs represent the musical knowledge I had gained throughout the years listening to my brother play, and learning from him. His help in contributing some ideas solidified the album, and gave it that final polish it needed.After graduating Syracuse University with a BFA, I soon found playing guitar a much needed release of ideas as much as the paint brush. Coming from a background of Rock, I made the transition to smooth jazz naturally. Although I enjoyed listening to Santana, The Allman Brothers, and Jeff Beck, my ear become drawn to other more sophisticated players like Larry Carlton, Pat Metheny and the great writing of Russ Freeman and The Rippintons. First Flight is the journey from the former to the latter.