trendy train model

"Dreaming of trains... The jazz version."

While I finagle with track plans, contemplate the relative benefits of single deck vs. multi-deck and digest the much-appreciated thoughts of friends and readers, I do so listening to soft jazz on one of my cable provider's 'Music Choice' stations. In fact, unless I have a ballgame on when I'm downstairs, the flat screen is always tuned to the relaxing instrumental sounds of, among others, The Rippingtons, Acoustic Alchemy, Peter White, Chris Botti, Earl Klugh or David Benoit.

It's particularly relaxing to be at my drawing board, or at my computer or working on the layout to this music. One artist with whom I was not familiar, but who has grown to be a favorite, is guitarist Ken Navarro. Ironically, one of his most popular albums is entitled, 'Dreaming of Trains.' Now that's  kind of a neat coincidence! But there's more.??

Released in 2010, the album features the title cut, plus hits like, 'The Stars, The Snow, The Fire,' 'Self Propelled' and 'Shared Air.' The artist's current album, his 21st, is entitled, 'Ruby Lane,' with hits as the title cut and 'Running Toward the Sun.'

Influenced by the likes of Pat Metheny, Ken was born in Lafayette, Indiana, but it is his current place of residence that makes his inclusion on this unusual entry most appropriate.

Duffy particularly enjoys chilling downstairs to soft jazz, while Stormy, Chief of Security in the mold of Barney Fife, remains upstairs dutifully policing all doors and windows.