"No tradition in my heart, never, from the very start," that is how Greg Verner describes the style of music that was presented to him as a child growing up in Cape Breton. His parent's eclectic collection of recordings tweaked his curiosity to experiment in creating his own music. Though formally trained in piano and music theory, Greg's innate creative flare led to some "innovative" home recordings as a teenager. This desire to create his own music has continued to inspire him in his musical career.

Experience in playing in a wide variety of bands for fifteen plus years has provided Greg the opportunity to gain a firm grasp on what really makes a band work. Greg has formed and played with such bands as Pegasus, Ian Aker and Player, Xtatik Clang, The Elements, Rockamatic and, on occasion, The Blues Merchants. Greg was invited to play with Sam Moon for a series of shows for the 2000 Millenium celebrations in Sydney and Halifax. Greg brings to the stage a lot of enthusiasm and fun. In performance Greg has an obvious concern for audience enjoyment and participation. Among his colleagues he has earned a very solid, professional name. Musicians are keen to play with Greg because they know it will be a lively, challenging and positive experience.

The innovative style found in Greg's early recordings has carried through to his present day musical repertoires. He challenges traditional combinations of sound and instrumentation. As a result his music stands out as completely personal. The cuts on his debut album "Strange Curves and Angles" are a declaration of his dedication to writing songs which, engage the listener's imagination and appeal to their individuality. Each song speaks of the artist's joy in creating a very unique musical experience. The lyrics are as vital as the music; thought-provoking, surreal, whimsical and always positive.

"Strange Curves and Angles" has been meticulously recorded with careful attention to studio craft. It is the culmination of years spent refining his songwriting art. Greg has written a combination of smooth melodic songs, others harder edged, some groove-based pieces and several featuring unusual rhythms. Each piece exists as its own individual entity yet the CD presents itself as a cohesive theme of inspiration and optimism.

This being Greg's first CD, there has been considerable anticipation by those who have followed his evolution and worked alongside him. In fact, the CD includes many musicians who were very enthusiastic about being involved in the project. The wealth of musical talent laced throughout the songs is truly impressive. Now that the long awaited CD is here, Greg has upped the ante by putting together an outstanding band to accompany him in performing in Nova Scotia and beyond.

It would appear Greg Verner has had something to say through his evocative songwriting ability for a long time. Now, we get to hear it. There is no doubt people will be drawn toward the imaginative aura of this album. This looks like the beginning of a remarkable journey which, will undoubtedly wow audiences with music that is energetic, sensitive and life-affirming. The artist's style is fresh, the CD; a tour de force! It takes many years to acquire the level of experience and finesse demonstrated here. An innate ability expressing a very personal musical experience is key to putting together the subtle messages found throughout the CD. To quote a lyric from "Strange Curves and Angles", it is obvious that "the end links the beginning" in that the completion of this recording is an exciting debut.