Why can't boys be trusted? Were the '70s cool or just dumb? And what is UP with my short-term memory? On DON'T READ BETWEEN THE LINES, songwriter Mike Starling ponders dilemmas big and small to a sly acoustic roots-funk groove... with trombones! 
The genesis of the album was a live-in-the-studio recording session with friends Hans Mayer and Dave Purcell in the mid-'90s, but it would take until late 2023 for the complete record to finally come together (it's a long story). With lots of funky trombone arrangements by Mark Lakmann of the Horns of Vengeance and additional musical contributions from Jason Knox and Jeff Halko, this is the final track list:


For lyrics, more info and a full list of music and production credits, tap any of the song titles above.
Mike Starling's original music is heard on numerous recordings and soundtracks, and his stories and photos have been featured in books, films, mags and other media.
This is the Don't Read Between the Lines music project page on the official website of the writer, artist and musician Mike Starling. Songs written by Mike Starling and published by Bean Hoy Music (BMI). Horn arrangements by Mark Lakmann. Album cover photography/design by Starling. Starling on bass photo by L. Hinzman. Website developed and managed by Nine Volt Media. ©MMXX-MMXXIV. All rights reserved.