Pastiche Nostalgique by Jay Deen

Pastiche - Italian: Pasticcio or French: Pȃté
In art, works comprised of stylistic elements of other artist’s work
Nostalgia - Greek - Nóstos: meaning homecoming +
Álgos: meaning pain or ache

When the Top 40 dictated the playlist of radio stations everywhere the airwaves were full of every style, genre, voice, and musicality you could imagine. Casey Kasem would play the hits and you would go out and buy the album. I believe in the album. Which I know is odd to say in this day and time when everyone seems to only release singles and people flock to playlists, but I stand by it just the same. Songs set down in an order by the artist to tell a story or create a concept journey made the album experience one of my favorite things!

It should be no secret that I loved those times and the plethora of music available. So that explains the Pastiche part but what about the Nostalgia? What about the homecoming and ache?

Well, I am an amalgam of all I know. So it stands to reason that my music is an amalgam of all I’ve ever heard; in a manner of speaking. And all those sounds have become memories that I cherish. Some bring a longing for home and some are painful but all of them together make me and my music who I am.

Most musicians or artists emulate all the stuff that inspires them to some degree and, it would seem, I am no different. The saying goes that imitation is the sincerest form of flattery. And even though I didn’t set out to copy anyone or anything, my memories of home and ache have created a Pastiche that has influenced my style.

If anything then, I hope that what I’ve created here honors those who have influenced me over the years and pays tribute to their genius and their style. Their influence can be felt in some songs more than others but they are all there. So, as you listen to this collection of songs, you might hear something familiar, maybe something new, and very possibly something I hope you truly enjoy!

Cheers!

Jay Deen has been playing piano since he was a child. He is from Jacksonville, Florida and has played in numerous bars and shows and dives. He has finally decided to take playing music seriously!