CD signing and release party for Craig Hella Johnson’s first solo album, Thorns on the Rose, Thurs., March 12th, 5:00-6:30PM, at Waterloo Records, 6th and Lamar. Refreshments provided by Shiner.

Conspirare’s gifted Artistic Director and Conductor Craig Hella Johnson shares another side to his musical personality in his first ever solo CD as singer/pianist/songwriter and arranger, Thorns on the Rose. Conspirare fans around the country who know Johnson’s extraordinary gifts as conductor and creator of innovative and moving programs will be delighted by this additional aspect of his artistry. One noted collaborator recently said of Johnson: “When he sings, everything in the room just stops and time stands still. His singing speaks directly to the heart.” Thorns on the Rose is an exquisite and fascinating mix of songs– covers of Bob Dylan, Billy Jo Shaver and Eliza Gilkyson as well as four of Johnson’s originals, set to original lyrics and poems of Emily Dickinson and Tagore. The final track, a hauntingly beautiful rendition of “Killing Me Softly,” is a memorable culmination to this extraordinary debut album. In all Thorns on the Rose is a fascinating hybrid of pop, folk ballads and art songs. The arrangements are fresh and unique, the singing is magnificent and heartfelt. Thorns on the Rose is destined to become a cherished classic.

Visit Craig’s website to see more about this release.