Andy Middleton - Water and Sky

This recording had been sitting on Andy Middleton’s computer for 12 years, and he was very pleased to finally finish it and share it with others. Between the recording date in 2012 and its release, much had happened—years full of life, loss, growth, and music. While some things were lost along the way, even more were gained.

In June 2021, Andy experienced a profound personal loss: Sheila Cooper—his life and music partner, and the mother of their daughter—passed away. He lovingly dedicated this recording to Sheila and the deep, lasting influence she had on his life. Sheila had been both his most enthusiastic supporter and his toughest critic. Her steadfast encouragement for his music and personal growth is reflected in the compositions and saxophone playing throughout the album, which he titled Water and Sky.

Andy’s quartet, featuring Tino, Paul, and Alan, continued to evolve alongside him. From their first recording in 2005 (The European Quartet Live), through Between Worlds in 2008, this 2012 session, and with another recording planned for February 2025, the band has remained on a meaningful artistic journey. The way these musicians interpret Andy’s compositions takes his ideas far beyond what he imagined—yet exactly in the spirit he envisioned. He extended deep gratitude to Alan, Tino, and Paul.

Andy also acknowledged the important roles his brothers, Tom and Rob, have played in his artistic development. He thanked them for their unwavering support of his music—Tom, for contributing beautiful artwork to three of his album covers, and Rob, for a lifetime of musical inspiration and encouragement.

In 2021, Andy also lost his father, Bob, who had always been a source of encouragement and support—from attending concerts to engaging with Andy’s musical path from childhood on. Bob’s belief in him helped make it possible for Andy to follow his muse.

Available on online platforms click here

1. “Slant of the Sun”
2. “Desert Blossom” - dedicated to Sheila Cooper
3. “And Again” - dedicated to Rob Middleton
4. “Water and Sky” - dedicated to Tom Middleton
5. “Wangari Maathai”
6. “Turn of the Season”
7. “Echo of the World” - dedicated to Calli Middleton
8. “Worthy Opponent” - dedicated to Alan Jones

Andy Middleton - Tenor and Soprano Saxophones
Tino Derado - Piano
Alan Jones - Drums
Paul Imm - Acoustic Bass

Produced by Andy Middleton and Sheila Cooper
Mixed by Alan Jones
Mastered by Robert Eder
Session photographs by Isben Onen
Cover artwork photograph by Tom Middleton
All Compositions by Andy Middleton, BMI

Recorded August 11, 2012

4tune Audio Productions Studio, Straußengasse 14/1, 1050 Vienna, Austria
Recording engineer Martin Klebahn