Norman Johnson's "The Art of Life" is a beautifully crafted recording. Featuring five songs penned by Johnson and one written by his longtime friends and music companions, Alex Nakhimovsky and June Bisantz. We are given groove, beauty, and a message. Changing directions from projects of the past, Johnson has included in this recording, two vocal songs which show a different side of his writing and playing. Johnson always keeps it smooth and this recording is no exception. "Slide" is a slick, groove-oriented song which features Chris Herbert on alto sax. Moving to a different sound for Johnson is his song "Sing On," which features the wonderful vocals of Grayson Hugh. In what has always been a troubled world, this song is Johnson's message of hopefulness for all of us. "Old Skool" brings a 70's vibe with a modern sound. It's totally guitar driven swing. The title cut, "The Art of Life," was inspired by Stewart Stephenson's painting "Sassy Wildflowers." It is amazing how visual art and music can elicit the same emotions. The song is a picture in sound and includes the beautiful background vocals of Atla DeChamplain. "It's You" is sung by Johnson's longtime friend, June Bisantz. When Johnson first heard the song, he knew that it had to be included on his next recording. It's infectious. This song offers so much - a latin groove with Bisantz's lush vocal and Johnson's sweet guitar. "Summer Dance" is what the title says, a song that just makes you think of warmth and movement. Johnson says "I wrote this song in the summer of 2016 while on vacation in Florida. Driving along the coast in Sarasota and heading over the bridge to St. Armands Island, the view was so beautiful. This melody came to me that day." Art and music, sight and sound, The Art of Life is for all of your senses. This recording brings a variety of sounds to your aural palette and like a good painting, can make you think, imagine, and maybe, smile.