Feature: Patti Zlaket Decodes ‘Bliss [Deluxe Edition]’
Credit: Photo by Taylor Ballantyne
What was the creative process like for this particular album?
This album was all about spontaneity. The band and I had only played live together a couple of times and we really tried to capture that vibe in the studio. We didn't do much rehearsing. One night, we simply set up our gear, talked through the tunes, and started recording. That’s where the album began. Everyone brought their spirit and musical creativity to the record, and I think you can really hear that in the tracks. There was some overdubbing, and a few songs added after that, but many of the vocals you hear on the record are the original passes from that one night in the studio. It was one of the most freeing and enjoyable music experiences I've ever had.
Were there any specific recording techniques or equipment used to achieve the desired sound?
We worked in a small studio and that helped create a truly authentic sound—it was very intimate, and that made us all feel very connected during the recording process. Small spaces also “contain” a band’s sound in a way that’s quite lovely, especially when you're trying to capture an emotional vocal performance.
Can you talk about any standout tracks on 'Bliss [Deluxe Edition]' and what makes them special to you?
I’m so glad “Fractured Fairy Tales” is now a part of this deluxe-edtion album as a bonus track—remember Saturday morning cartoons? When I was growing up, we had everything from Schoolhouse Rock, to Bugs Bunny, to Rocky and Bullwinkle. Fractured Fairy Tales was a quirky little segment that showed up in the midst of all that delightful entertainment. I never forgot it, and at some point, I thought, ‘what a great idea for a song.’ "Painted Picture" is still one of my favorites from my catalog. I love the haunting nature of it. I still perform that song regularly, and it continues to resonate with audiences. I also love the song "Home," because it brings back memories of a specific time in my life and relationship that I was in when I wrote it. That feeling of being so in love (or at least thinking you're so in love), and being so vulnerable, comes through. And it's just me and the piano, which is always special for me. That's my "home."
What were some key milestones in your early career that helped shape who you are as an artist?
Making this record was a milestone in itself. It was the first time I was in charge of the recording process, the songs, the musicians, the whole thing. It felt good to create something and to know I had the final say in the finished album. It was empowering. Touring the UK was also a milestone for me. Performing for audiences overseas, for people who didn't know me and who received me and my music with such love and appreciation was very validating and joyful. Where I am right now is a milestone. Maybe the most important one. Coming full circle to record once again with stellar musicians, some of whom I've known and worked with many years ago, stepping back into music full force at this time in my life with a much deeper understanding about who I am as a person, and an artist, and working with a team, for the first time, that truly understands my artistry and is committed to help me develop and share it. This is a pivotal time for me, and I'm cherishing every second of it.
Do you have any memorable on-stage moments or performances that stand out to you?
Recently, I had the good fortune to perform onstage with a drummer/friend, Herman Matthews, who I've known for more than 30 years. I’ve worked with him in the studio, but never played with him in a live setting. It was thrilling for me, not only because he's an exceptional musician, a master of the universe in every way, but because I was finally able to experience the joy of not just playing with him, but performing with him for an audience. The crowd really enjoyed it, but I guarantee no one had more fun than I did. Playing with musicians who are that good brings out the very best in me as an artist and performer. I love "leaving it all on the field" at a live show, and with him, I know that I did.
