Three quarters before the rehearsal I got a phone call from Paul Poulissen with the message: “Houston, we have a problem!”. I know Paul… He had some very bad news: the bass player had to abstain from further participation in the project for personal reasons. After a few stress full phone calls Paul got in contact with Rico de Jeer, a bass player that can play both the double bass and the bass guitar. To my big surprise and happiness Rico could come over for rehearsal and for the recording session!
We all met at noon at Wakker in Eemnes to discuss the plans for Monday. Although most songs are well known, there is one that is new and rather difficult. This piece really needs some “preparation” but Rico turned out to be a great bass player. Paul was all of a sudden wondering why Martin was playing only two songs. The fit was perfect and we all decided to have Martin playing along in most pieces. Paul, Lex, Rico and Martin created a wonderful sound. Mathilde Keij was also present to sing her two songs. Rehearsal became a pleasure. All of a sudden I got a good feeling about the project!
Besides some employees of Wakker, Richard Poot of ProMusic Studio walked in to introduce himself and to discuss some details. He is the person responsible for recording the CD.
The rehearsal did not last much longer than two hours. I can state that this is a new record if you have to play 12 songs… The feeling is great. We are ready!