A special note on why there are 2 versions of this record: In truth, both have significant compression applied, but the versions on top are the ones I will be sending to streaming services. They received an additional EQ boost and hit a limiter with a bit of force. They are much louder, and probably sound "better" at first listen. I think the versions with less compression actually sound nicer, especially played through a decent stereo. I have litereally driven myself crazy over how to release it and changed my mind about 100 times, so my solution is to provide both and let you decide what you like. Maybe you too can drive yourself mad trying to decide which one is "better"- maybe you're blessed to have such decisions come easily.


I am very pleased to introduce my Family Band on a recording for the first time. In an effort to learn the tunes better and give my buddies some more ownership over the Music, we are going back to re-record some hand-picked selections from my catalogue. This is an exciting opportunity for me- with a new studio, plenty of practice mixing and mastering, and a great ensemble of Musicians, I have the chance to present some old songs in an exciting new way. In general, the songs haven't been changed much, but there are bits of fire that the band brought to the works that I never could have created on my own. I can confidently say that my Music has never sounded better.

Building a consistent Musical family has proven to be quite difficult, and yet, here are four strong recordings. While it feels like I've been at this goal, trying and failing for years- perhaps this is just the beginning of the story. Either way, I'm learning more and more what it really means to create a spirit of longevity in a project. In that spirit, old songs are finding themselves relevant again in more ways than one- like the Spiral I sang about 6 years ago, things always seem to come back around. This is just vol. 1- the journey never really ends.

I'm extremely grateful to my friends for their Musical contributions to this record. Furthermore, I am grateful for all the time they have spent putting up with me in rehearsals and being willing to do what it takes to get it right. I'm really happy with how the Music sounds and proud to feature some of my most favorite local artists. This is some of my best work behind the desk, but the music sounds so good because of the Musicians who played it and their inner groove.

To Matthew, thanks for truly listening to the Music, letting me play it over and over, and learning the full scope of the songs well beyond just the drums. Your powerful beat has infused these four songs with an energy that they always craved and always lacked. Thank you for your vocal performance on My Drum, keep the words close on your journeys.

To Reilly, your strength of spirit, steady groove, and unbreakable style inspire me daily. Thanks for having the creativity and flexibility to be my vibraphonist- it gives a special new sparkle to Love is Forever. Your new bass sounds thunderous on Waiting for the Phone. Thank you so much for all the hours of practice and just shootin the shit. Keep it in the groove, I'm proud to be your friend.

To Brother Jon, I sure love the way you play the guitar. We've already walked the road for a while, I can't wait to keep making more music with you- especially to dig back in to your record! Thank you for digging in to new sounds, styles, and effects for this Music- that being said, it's great hearing you in your wheelhouse tearing up Waiting for the Phone, great performance!

To Joe, you've learned and grown enormously in the time I've known you. You're quickly becoming a super versatile Musical powerhouse and I feel really privileged to have you in my band. Thanks for always being extra prepared and going the extra mile. It means the world to me that you've learned the words and harmonies for my songs. Thanks for bringing your keys, horn, and voice to this project- nice work figuring out the organ!

To Jack, we didn't have a lot of time to track, but fortunately you always get it in one or two tries. The solo on Love is Forever is beautiful, sparkly and bright. It suits the song perfectly, I had a great time doing that session with you. Keep shreddin and thanks for rockin' the wah.

To Marty, I've always had a lot of admiration for you- you've got a lot of soul power and a great personal sound. This EP would be lame without your features. Your harp adds a ton of flair to the band's sound- I know retirement is busy, but lets keep practicing!

To Eric, thank you for being dependable, strong, and musical when I needed you. You're a pro bassist, rock steady and reliable. I appreciate all of your contributions to this band and other projects at Inner Groove. Thanks for always making me and my friends sound great.

To Nate, I love your musical flexibility and can-do attitude. Thanks for always being ready to step in to any part where I needed you. You're a great musician and an easy guy to work with. The percussion adds a lot of extra cook to these tracks, I'm really happy to have you on board!

To Ben, it's awesome to have a strong horn section again! I couldn't do it without you, thank you for picking up the lines fast and playing them strong. You've got a great ear and a huge sound, you make this section powerful! Thanks for keeping us fed with honey and always maintaining your remarkable hustle, I admire your work ethic and kindness towards all living creatures.

To Mike, none of it would happen without you- we both know it. Thanks for being my best friend, my creative companion, my sounding board and wisdom-giver for all things great and small. Playing and practicing Music with you is one of the greatest joys of my life. It's an honor to keep walking the path with such a great friend, mentor, and musician at my side. I'm overjoyed to add some more recordings we've made together to the memory book- your performance on My Drum is amazing, thank you so much for your incredible effort!

To the listeners, my deepest gratitude and appreciation. I sincerely hope you find something within that offers you some joy. I did my best for you.

Keep it in the Groove,
Casey Frensz



Recorded at Inner Groove Studios in Northeast Minneapolis in Spring of 2023.