make it tonight : new album release (buy now)
In addition to his already successful album and EP releases, Daniel has now released his new album, 'make it tonight', which features a host of recently self-penned songs and can only be purchased through Daniels website (click here) or at certain outlets in Australia.
Aside from a few hand selected guest musicians, Daniel is
responsible for almost every facet of the album including production,
performance, songwriting, arranging and engineering - it's no wonder he feels
great affection for every track on the album.
The emotive and incredibly personal ballad 'Still With Me' was written as a
dedication to his biggest fan, his late grandmother. Daniel explains that
"though the song was written upon her passing, I live with the strength and
peace of mind that so much of her, remains with me."
"To write and release something so personal makes me feel incredibly vulnerable, but I hope others can gain a sort of positivity from it."
– daniel (on his new original 'Still With Me')
(Listen to 'Still With Me' below)
'Still With Me' - sample only (click below)
Still fresh off the
press, a further 3 originals, 'Everyday is Harder,' 'How Beautiful' and 'The
Vision', have received overwhelming recognition and request in the realms of
radio airplay, international media avenues and most importantly, with his fans.
"Though the song was written upon her passing, I live with the strength and peace of mind that so much of her, remains with me."
– daniel (for his biggest fan, his late grandmother)
national showcase winner
Short-listed following a nationwide talent search, Daniel was selected after performing alongside several variety acts in a prestigious showcase in Sydney in early November. Daniel has won a holiday on Australia’s first superliner - P&O Cruises’ Pacific Dawn - and has now secured performances on the Pacific Star beginning before the New Year and into 2008.
Speaking after the showcase event, Brett Annable, Entertainment Services Manager for Carnival Australia – which represents the sister cruise lines in Australia – praised Daniel for his performance, singing New York State of Mind (listen to the song below). “He has great stage presence and a terrific voice – he’ll be an excellent addition to our guest entertainer line-up on our ships,” Mr Annable said.
'New York State of Mind' - sample only (click below)
"He has great stage presence and a terrific voice."
- Brett Annable, Carnival Aus. commenting on Daniels performance
Daniel described his win as “very
unexpected” and went on to say,
“it was an awesome feeling
performing alongside people who
are so good at what they do.”
The Showcase was held at Waters Edge at Pier One on Sydney Harbour and was attended by almost 200 travel industry members. A panel comprising well-respected members of the entertainment and travel industries selected Daniel from the final field of eight, praising him on his passionate performance, which earned big applause from the audience.
"I had the rhythm section from the Aussie Idol band backing me...they were awesome."
- daniel
honoured with Bachelor of Music
"I saw professionalism, maturity and musicianship unlike anyone his age."
- Lizanne Smith, music tutor
In between time spent performing, recording, songwriting, arranging, teaching and furthering his skills on a series of instruments, Daniel has been working towards completing his full-time Bachelor of Music at the Australian Institute in Sydney. Majoring in contemporary voice, Daniel received an illustrious acknowledgement when he was awarded honours after an outstanding final recital performance, and officially graduated in July.
'Loving, Living, Life' - sample only (click below)
(feature song of Daniels final recital)
The time spent discovering new concepts and honing his skills has been extremely valuable for Daniel, but he recognises that the networking and relationships he has forged over the 2 years are even more priceless. "It is an excellent learning environment and the people there have been very good to me." Daniel declares. "Initially, I was reluctant to study so extensively but the benefits have been immeasurable...I have learnt from the very best musicians this country has to offer."
“I carry with me a great pride and ambassadorship for every young Australian musician; it’s time to rejuvenate the industry before we take it to the world,”
- daniel
Daniel says he would love to return to the Institute of Music to accomplish the honours title that awaits him; however, he assures all that know him that he has a much great desire to spend time performing and songwriting on his way to becoming a full-time professional in the industry.
Click here to watch Daniel in action at his final recital.