"However, the internet needs a smaller file to make transfers feasible; hence, compression schemes. The one we all know (and love – not!) is mp3, which is actually the audio 'layer' of the MPEG3 (Motion Picture Experts Group) video format. Running the high-resolution 45 MB file through another conversion yielded an mp3 file that is 10% of the original size with 70-80% of the original subjective sonic quality.

"The final step was to change the name; Sweet 17 sounds like the name of the upcoming Lolita sequel. I changed it to a favorite word and concept of Lydia's, Earthstar. The composition itself is strong, as my friend, famed drummer Sherman Ferguson, guitar giant Pat Martino's original Philly stick-man, liked it enough to volunteer to record a real drum part to replace the programmed one – forgoing his usual fee, too! As it is now, I think the production rates pretty well, say, a C+ or a B maybe, all things considered. Judging the production qualities as opposed to artistry, the strengths are great guitar sounds in particular, good sounds in general, good panning and instrument placement, and a fairly clean and warm final mix; the weaknesses are a slightly diminished overall level, some editing glitches and clicks, and a few percussion sound levels too high and dry in the mix, and of course, programmed parts where real ones would be much better. As for the result, you be the judge!"

Style Alert: This is pretty, mid-tempo Latin-ish instrumental jazz, so if you don't like that kind of music, check out Vertical or some of the clips from Erik's Heart & Soul & Mind CD instead, okay?