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"Reflections III" is a collection of original compositions by Tokyo-based trumpeter Neil Stalnaker. This is an ambient, moody, introspective and at times inspirational set of songs related to experiences we encounter in this life. Joining Neil on this recording is American Tokyo-based pianist/composer/arranger Jim Murray. All compositions by Neil Stalnaker (BMI). Recorded at Meguro River Studio, Tokyo, Japan Recorded July 25, 2013 Neil Stalnaker-trumpet Jim Murray-piano Norihiko Hibino-engineer and mixing/mastering A Mind Crevice As I was writing or imagining this song, I was thinking about those cracks or crevices in the mind. Sometimes too much linear thinking causes me to overlook more subtle things. Thank you DeBono for lateral thinking. Inside of Loneliness In this composition, I was simply trying to find that place in our heart a lot of us avoid when we're incredibly lonely. Musically speaking, I think it's not the notes or even the chords but, the space between those things that needs to be explored to get inside of loneliness. It's actually not such a bad place once we drop all the resistance to being there. Please Understand I think the title sums it up.... Prelude to an Afterlife Having been diagnosed with throat cancer three times in my life, I can say the concept of death and an afterlife has certainly crossed my mind. At this time, I don't have any intention to "crossover" into that space. I guess maybe with this song, I was imagining some possible musical sounds associated with such an event. Sensory Deprivation Twenty years ago on the side of a beautiful mountain (Rich Mt., West Virginia) in a small building next to my friend's farm house, I had absolutely the most relaxing and possibly most profound experience of my life. My greatest experiences were the births of my 3 kids. My friend was kind enough to share his sensory deprivation tank (flotation tank) several times. Wow!!! What an experience!!!