Michael Simard<\/strong>\u2019s latest produced album, Motivation<\/strong>\u2019s Take It to the Sky<\/strong><\/em>, is an exercise in interpretation. No matter how well-established or popular songs are, there\u2019s always something a little bit different you could do with them. The album is set to be released on September 26th, an outright celebration of the music that has inspired him for a lifetime. Featuring a 21-piece ensemble, Simard helped the band reimagine many of the most influential classics that he grew up with. The album features songs by Earth, Wind & Fire<\/strong>, George Duke<\/strong>, The Crusaders<\/strong>, and Eumir Deodato<\/strong>. Each song features a brand new arrangement, differentiating it from its original. They also feature elaborate horn and string sections. Simard was all too pleased to help joyfully revive some of the jazz-funk and soul that helped build his early inspirations as an artist.<\/p>\n Take It to the Sky<\/em> was recorded over four days last December at Vancouver\u2019s Monarch<\/strong> and Hipposonic Studios<\/strong>. Simard was assisted by some stellar colleagues, among them Brad Turner<\/strong>, Andre Lachance<\/strong>, Randall Stoll<\/strong>, Rebecca Shoichet<\/strong>, and Marcus Mosely<\/strong>. It was all overseen by Simard\u2019s grand vision to revive the spirit of these timeless songs, but do it bigger and bolder. Simard viewed the project as more than just an album. He helps present it as a celebration of achievement, collaboration, and the power of music.<\/p>\n We are joined by Simard today for some general Q&A to get to know him better as an artist and producer.<\/p>\n Motivation \u201chorn section,\u201d photo courtesy Michael Simard<\/p>\n<\/div>\n If budget wasn\u2019t a factor, what would your dream studio look like?<\/strong><\/p>\n Michael Simard:<\/strong> \u201cWe recorded at Monarch and HippoSonic Studios in Vancouver, and both produced stellar results at affordable prices, so money doesn\u2019t buy quality. Talent, venue, acoustics, and the engineer are what matter to me.\u201d<\/p>\n Which song was unexpectedly challenging to produce, and why?<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cNone! Thanks to Orchestrator and Producer Bill Runge<\/strong>, everything was smooth sailing, which took all the pressure off of me. When you have the right team, you can achieve anything.\u201d<\/p>\n What\u2019s your go-to snack or drink when you\u2019re pulling an all-nighter in the studio?<\/strong><\/p>\n \u201cBeer and popcorn.\u201d<\/p>\n
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