Album Notes for “Unfinished Dreams”

“Soulful” “Rootsy” and “Whimsical”: Three words that best describe the new 10 song release from singer, songwriter Ashley Harris (Fine Line Records 2009) who wrote and co-wrote 8 of the 10 songs. Producing for her first time with John Albani and Mark Waldron, Ashley was able to experience the satisfaction and fulfillment of creating a record infused with her own musical preferences. Talent on this exceptionally fresh and eclectic CD feature some of the best studio musicians Nashville has to offer. The end result: a melting pot of genres spanning from Contemporary Country to Soft Rock to Inspirational. Players for this project have recorded for artists like Faith Hill, Martina McBride, Amy Grant and Jessica Andrews, to name just a few. Recording in Nashville for the first time marks Ashley’s crossover from Inspirational Pop to Contemporary Country and moving to Georgia in 2005 was the catalyst for change providing both inspiration and new songwriters to collaborate with. Ashley’s musical influences reflect her acoustic/organic preferences reminiscent of artists like Amy Grant, Martina McBride, Keith Urban, and Sheryl Crow.

Not only is Ashley a gifted writer, she has been blessed with a voice that sounds both breathy and lilting while being powerful and compelling. Her uncommon and unique style beautifully demonstrates the artistry of song interpretation few singers can match. Ashley’s honest voice reaches deep into the soul. And just when you think you have Ashley’s style pegged, she’ll surprise you with uncommon versatility. The long and short of it: there isn’t a dull moment on this CD.

Along with a world class voice are first rate songs. The first single “Alright” sparkles with infectious optimism and melodies coupled with lyrics that encourage and energize. “I was feeling down about some of the challenges life sends our way and was sharing my discouragement with a fellow songwriter, Ben Rouse. We took my “doom and gloom” moment and turned it around with this incredibly catchy song.” “ It’s a deep reminder of the silver lining in every situation.” The second single that’s sure to be a hit with fans is “Unfinished Woman” written by Vicki Rickles, Jack Hargrove and Mark Waldron. Ashley states, “Who wouldn’t love this song! It reminds me of the feel good Martina McBride and Shania Twain songs that left me feeling empowered and inspired. I think women of all ages are going to love this song because it pays tribute to how hard they work while never losing sight of their dreams”. Let Me In, a third single for the project communicates both vulnerability and passion as it addresses the topic of a relationship struggling to survive. Immersed in commerciality, hooky vocals and instrumentation sure to please any Country music fan, this song is sure to become a favorite.

About the CD Ashley states, “I wanted a record that felt rootsy, soulful and energizing”, says Ashley. “It was absolutely amazing to work with so many gifted people. Everyone brought something unique to the project. There were no parameters to stay within, we all just got together and created the music the way we wanted to do.....it felt like everyone was “in the zone” and totally inspired. The music came out so well and I just couldn’t be more pleased!”

When asked why she chose the title “Unfinished Dreams” Ashley responded, “As I thought over the lyrics and listened to the songs I found a connecting theme about dreams. For me, dreams are what keep me moving forward in life, in good times and in hard times. I wanted to send the message that we’re never done dreaming....that we can always have something to look forward to even when things don’t go just as we’ve planned....that dreams keep hope alive.” There’s also a strong message about believing. Faith is my sure foundation. Without it, I would have crumbled long ago. So, before we can dream, we have to believe and have faith so the dreams we hold close to our hearts can have room to take root and grow. It is my hope that everyone who hears this record will feel the optimism of believing and dreaming, and that they’ll feel a little more insulated from the things in life that weigh them down....that they’ll feel more hopeful.”