In this episode, we sit down with Benjamin Taylor to discuss his latest album, “The Legend of Kung Folk”.

Buy “The Legend of Kung Folk” now!

Sometimes having house-guests can be challenging, but in the Simon household, sometimes those house guests become extended family and musical collaborators. This was the case for England native David Saw, who came to the island as a guest of Carly’s son Ben Taylor at their Vineyard home (see Vineyard Scene - Episode 4). Since arriving on this side of the Atlantic, Saw not only has recorded an album on Ben’s independent label Iris Records, but he’s also had his songs recorded by Carly Simon, in addition to playing guitar and singing back-up vocals on her latest projects, he has collaborated with her in writing the song featured in this episode, “How Could You Ever Forget?” which is on Carly’s latest release, “This Kind of Love”.

Buy David Saw’s new CD,Broken Down Figure

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Singer/songwriter Ben Taylor tempts some of his friends from London to come to the Vineyard for the summer to create and record music. First we see Ben artfully explain to his mother Carly Simon the imminent British invasion and then we follow him as he hosts David Saw, Carrie Tree, Rumor Joyce, Amity Fletcher, Jonathon Quarmby and his family.

Aside from being a gifted musician, Ben Taylor co-owns his own independent record label, Iris Records. Since this episode was shot, Iris Records has released David Saw’s latest CD, “Broken Down Figure”.

Pre-Order Ben’s new CD The Legend of Kung Folk: Part I Ben Taylor and David Saw.

Read an article about Ben’s forthcoming album and indie label Iris Recordson CCN Money.
Connect with musicians from this episode on MySpace:
Ben Taylor on MySpace, David Saw on MySpace, Carrie Tree on MySpace, Carly Simon on MySpace, Rumer Joyce on MySpace, Iris Records on MySpace

It is only fitting that David Saw be this week’s Musician of the Week because 1) a couple of our loyal readers suggested him, 2) he is an incredibly talented singer/songwriter and 3) just this week he released a KILLER album “Broken Down Figure” that you’ve GOT to check out.

Don’t be fooled by the title - the work is as uplifting and fun as it is introspective. There is really something for everyone in the thoughtful lyrics, haunting melodies, and toe-tapping, irresistible collection of songs that feel like instant timeless classics. If you choose to download his songs from iTunes, there is no need to cherry-pick tracks. It’s well worth the complete download, as each song is an accomplishment unto itself.

I was privileged to hear this album in its early stages, because my husband and I met David about 3 years ago, when he first arrived on Martha’s Vineyard to work on some musical projects with my cousin, Ben Taylor. Over the years, Ken and I have been filming David recording, performing, and working with Ben as well as Ben’s mom Carly Simon, who is also a fan of David’s music. She even recorded the first song David ever penned on her last album, “Into White”. When you have that level of endorsement, you know you’re on the right track.

The video above is just a small sample of what we shot. We’ll be releasing a DVD of these great moments we’ve captured with David coming soon, so keep your ear to the ground. In the meantime, you can buy Broken Down Figure here.