This project, my second foray into the world of mastering, holds a special place in my heart. It’s the brainchild of Shea Farmer, wife of my good friend Garrett Langebartles (known musically as Kingflower), and it came to life in the warm, inviting space of their home studio. The music itself feels like a beautiful counterpoint to Kingflower’s work—a yin to his yang. Shea’s songwriting is captivating, and Garrett’s production style weaves through every track, giving the album a rich, cohesive sound.

There’s something intangible about this record—something that ties together those of us who grew up in the Midwest during a specific era. The sounds we were surrounded by, the music we absorbed, all of it subtly informs the way we create today. Working on Odessa felt completely natural, like the music was leading the process rather than the other way around. Every decision flowed effortlessly, and by the time we wrapped, it was clear this was one of those rare projects where the journey was just as rewarding as the final product.

I love records like this—ones that remind me why I do what I do. Odessa is a testament to the power of collaboration, trust, and the kind of musical chemistry that can only come from years of shared experience. It’s a project I’ll always look back on with pride.