As was my M.O. during this era, I was setting up my gear in both cities and just writing music as fast as I could get it down on paper and into a computer as it was a very exciting time in a lot of ways for me.
I'd been to Japan, loved it, became an International Star, loved that, heard my music on the radio everywhere I went, I mean...who wouldn't want all that?

"Smooth Jazz"  had not taken over jazz radio yet, and open minded DJ's ruled the airwaves. God Bless 'Em! You guys and gals are missed!

The format was called Contemporary Jazz, and it was a great era of innovation post Early Jazz Fusion and the crazy places Miles and Chick took us. Other acts on the label included Brandon Fields and Brian Bromberg. We were all having a great time. And not getting paid.

Within a few years, all of us realized that we were never going to get paid and when I pressed the issue with a lawsuit, the label told me "Go back to Denver" and kicked me out of the office. Soon after, the label president died of aids at age 31.

You can stream these songs now from the 5th Gear album at the links below in the Early Works The 80's Collection available online.