Charles Bradley Instagram – This month marks the 10th anniversary of the release of Charles Bradley’s debut album, No Time For Dreaming, and we’re sharing some words from producer and songwriter, Thomas Brenneck. ・・・ It was nothing short of magic recording what would become Charles Bradley’s debut album No Time For Dreaming in a bedroom on 250 Menahan street many years ago. It’s hard to believe it’s been 10 years since it’s release. I had set up a humble recording situation consisting of a 1/2” 8 track tape machine and an sm58. For years in between tours with Sharon, Budos, El Michels, Lee, Amy, etc I would record as much music as possible at the crib. At some point I invited Charles over and played him what would become Menahan Street Bands debut Make The Road By Walking. He loved the music which meant the world to me and instantly asked if he could sing on it. True story: The first time he came to that apartment i played him the instrumental of The World Going Up In Flames. He immediately asked for a mic and started singing. Within the hour we recorded the vocals to it. After that he would come back once or twice a month to share stories of his life which we would turn into songs. The next song we wrote was “Heartaches & Pain”. You couldn’t ask for a more honest and raw record. No frills. He believed Art was a reflection of suffering and that’s what he spoke about in his lyrics. But by addressing the ugly truths of the world that he had experienced first hand, he in turn made a statement full of hope. Much love to everybody involved and supportive during that incredible time in our lives. @menahanstreetband @budosband @funkmusicinstitute alexkadvan Photos by @funkmusicinstitute Bushwick, Brooklyn