Midnight Light

The ‘Midnight Light’ album with myself on six and twelve-string guitar and sax/flute player Scott Sheerin. Including the super-cool engineer/musician Daniel Lanois at the recording console in his Hamilton, Ontario studio (my birthplace!). Produced by Canadian musician/producer David Essig. We recorded everything live to tape over two intense, exhilarating days.

This listening experience can be likened to a reflection pool with the Canadian North shimmering on the surface.

Contributions from the amazing musicianship of David Essig, Daniel Lanois, Scott Merritt, Bob Becker, Kimberly Boyce, Carleen Amos and Paula Hassard, along with Jude Johnson and Rob Wallinger, made it all happen. After such a long time, I still have much gratitude and always will.

Midnight Light album by John Steins and Scott Sheerin

Listen to some clips on the Spotify player above. It can be purchased for download on iTunes. For the hardcore audiophile, the original vinyl is available, as well as cassette tapes that can be purchased on this site, as well as the CD release. PURCHASE HERE.

Hopefully, this music will live on as a part of Yukon’s rich musical heritage. I like to think that time hasn’t taken the shine off our music. It still resonates for many listeners, all the way from 1981. I hope it does for you as well!

I’m intrigued with the idea of translating imagery into sound. Using the virtual ANS program that allows you to do so, I loaded a picture of Stephen King and manipulated the following piece. Has a creepy tinge to it. How apropos!

This track is a little more accessible from one of our sessions while exploring new ideas.  My dad’s art serves as the background. There’s a bit of distortion here and there because the remix had some issues. I will revisit at some point.

18 Comments

  • John Steins

    Hey Steve, Thanks very much for including Sunfall in your playlist. Rally appreciate it.

    Cheers,
    John

  • John Steins

    Thanks Jimi, yes it’s hard to explain why I haven’t returned to composing music for the guitar. Listening to encouraging and humbling words like yours certainly gives me pause. I suppose it’s never too late. My guitars are in their respective cases waiting to be opened up and played.

  • Jimi

    John:

    If all the teasures of the human creative endeavours over all time were the plums hanging on one tree, we may imagine what; maybe 1,000 plums and that is alot to keep track of, and this would include a Tommy Thompson and for me a David Blackwood and Joni’s Blue but it would also include this musical journey of yours so long ago. Having owned a copy since it’s inception year it has always registered it’s independant place in my memories and feelings.

    How is it that you have not revisited your musical journey and created another work? This somewhat mystifies me. Best to you..J

  • John Steins

    Hi Joanna,

    Thanks so very much for “stumbling” upon my site and for taking the time to write. Thanks also for the kind words. Yes, it’s been awhile since Farrago but I have visited Faro quite a few times over the last few years. Now that their mining boom is over it’s becaome a very agreeable community situated in the most beautiful location.

    I don’t often get to your neck of the woods but I will certainly let you know when I do. There’s another fantastic part of Canada that needs to be explored!

    I’ll email you directly about the CD.

    Cheers,
    John

  • Joanna Finch

    Hello John, I’m delighted to have stumbled upon you- and Scott- in the same night. I had the pleasure of attending the concert in Faro when you and Scott played in 1981, I think it was. Your playing was the highlight of the festival for me. I was absolutely transported.

    This album has remained one of my favourites- it is timeless and rich with Canadian imagery. Thank you for having it available in CD form. I have a signed record, but I don’t own a record player anymore. When I listen to your playing I am transported to a very important time in my life.

    I’d like to buy a CD- I’m like Elizabeth- I don’t buy online…even though my music is sold that way too. Could you please send me one?

    Thanks. I love your art as well, by the way. I especially enjoy your woodcuts and the portraits photos. If you’re ever on Vancouver island I would welcome you and show you around.

    All the best,
    Joanna

  • John Steins

    Thanks so much Valerie. Of course it’s fine to link to me. Glad you are writing about Mr. Farleigh, I enjoy his work so much.

    And glad you are hearing some of my music.

    Cheers,
    John

  • John Steins

    Hey Tim, Long time no see!! Glad the music still resonates, probably the best compliment ever! Thanks.

    How are you doing anyway?

    Cheers,
    John

  • John Steins

    Hi Elizabeth,

    Thanks very much! I’ve sent you an email with all the info.

    Cheers,
    john

  • Elizabeth McVicar

    I’m delighted to see that “Midnight Light” is available on CD. (I have it on vinyl.) Call me old fashioned, but I don’t shop on-line. If you would be kind enough to tell me the total cost of the CD, with taxes and shipping (to Burnaby, BC), I’d be delighted to mail you a cheque along with my mailing address.

  • John Steins

    Hi Bruce,
    Regretfully I’ve been out of touch with Scott for some time now. I believe he lives in Santa Barbara.

So great if you could take a minute and leave your thoughts on this.