NOVO COMBO
NOVO COMBO
45 West 55th
SONG INFO
In the sections below you'll find song info and stories about each song from the album "45 West 55th".
Don't Throw Your Love Away
(3:44)
Written by: Jack Griffith, Pete Hewlett
​
Jack Griffith - Vocal, Guitars, Keys
Pete Hewlett - Vocal
Michael Shrieve - Drums
Stephen Dees - Bass
Jack collaborated with Pete to craft this poignant new song, which speaks to the importance of supporting loved ones who may have lost their way. Backed by Michael's and Stephen's driving groove, Novo Combo returns with a vitality that's as potent as ever.
E-Train Revisited
(5:31)
Written by: Stephen Dees, Desmond Child
​
Stephen Dees - Vocal, Bass, Guitar, Keys, Percussion
Michael Shrieve - Drums
Pete Hewlett - BG Vocal, Guitar
Jack Griffith - Guitars
This newly revamped rendition of 'City Bound E-Train' fulfills the meticulous vision of bassist/vocalist Stephen Dees and guitarist Jack Griffith, bringing their long-held dream for this song to vibrant life. With impeccable attention to detail, the tones and execution align, injecting fresh vitality into this infectious signature track. In a rehearsal of 'E-Train' back in the day, this tune caught the attention of famed Atlantic Records giant Ahmet Ertegun, who remarked, 'This is a great song.'
Everything it Takes to Be Happy
Recorded during an early demo session, the band initially felt it wasn't quite the fit for their debut album. However, stumbling upon it years later amidst a treasure trove of tapes, one can't help but wonder, "What were they thinking?" This track undeniably rocks!
(3:18)
Written by: Pete Hewlett
​
Pete Hewlett - Vocals, Guitars
Jack Griffith - Lead Guitar
Michael Shrieve - Drums
Stephen Dees - Bass, Guitar
Sorry for the Delay
(4:16)
Written by: Stephen Dees
​
Stephen Dees - Vocal, Bass
Pete Hewlett - Vocal, Guitar
Michael Shrieve - Drums
Jack Griffith - Lead Guitar, BG Vocal
Robert Caban - Tambourine
This demo showcases the original version of a popular Novo Combo track. During the band's early days, their gigs attracted attention from notable figures, including prominent fashion models. Writer Stephen Dees observed that some of these individuals seemed disconnected from reality, often displaying an unnecessarily inflated sense of self-importance. The original demo features an additional verse, offering insight into the band's creative process.
Please Don't Do That
(5:14)
Written by: Stephen Dees, Michael Shrieve, Pete Hewlett, Jack Griffith
​
Pete Hewlett - Vocal, Guitar
Jack Griffith - Guitar
Michael Shrieve - Drums
Stephen Dees - Bass
​The original demo marked a pivotal moment in shaping Novo Combo's musical direction. Michael and Stephen first explored the riff of this song during their initial meeting, when it was just the two of them. As Pete and Jack joined the fold later on, they contributed key components that brought the song to fruition. The song is a comment on technology running amok. Sound familiar?
It's Only Temporary
(4:29)
Written by: Stephen Dees
​
Stephen Dees - Vocals, Bass, Guitars
Michael Shrieve - Drums
Jack Griffith - Guitars
Pete Hewlett - BG Vocals
Patricia Ann Dees - BG Vocals
Charlie DeChant - Saxophone
Victor Wainwright - Organ
This fresh new track echoes the irresistible, sing-along chorus reminiscent of fan favorites like Novo Combo's "Up Periscope." With its upbeat melody and relatable lyrics, the song explores the theme of feeling trapped in a rut but finding the clarity to recognize it as merely temporary. With special guest Charlie DeChant (sax), Patricia Ann Dees (bg vocal) and Victor Wainwright (organ).
Hard to Say Goodbye
(5:26)
Written by: Pete Hewlett
​
Pete Hewlett - Vocal, Guitar
Michael Shrieve - Drums
Stephen Dees - Bass
Jack Griffith - Lead Guitar
This original demo unveils a Latin-inspired ballad crafted by the band. Drawing from one of Pete's compositions from his pre-Novo days, they re-imagined it into a mesmerizing, soulful groove, elevated by Pete's exceptional vocal delivery.
aXIS LIVE
(4:31)
Written by: Jack Griffith
​
Jack Griffith - Vocal, Lead Guitar
Pete Hewlett - BG Vocal, Guitar
Michael Shrieve - Drums
Stephen Dees - Bass
Experience the electrifying live rendition of Jack's song "Axis Will Turn" from their self-titled album. Novo Combo's live performances were known for their high-energy, ass-kicking intensity.
Sirocco (drum solo)
It’s Michael Shrieve live on drums! Need we say more?
(2:56)
Written by: Michael Shrieve
​
Michael Shrieve - Drums
Long Long Road
This is the original demo of this reggae-infused track, a heartfelt homage to the memory of Bob Marley. Lyrically delving into the depths of life's journey and contemplating what the future may hold.
(4:04)
Written by: Stephen Dees, Jack Griffith
​
Pete Hewlett - Vocal, Guitar
Jack Griffith - BG Vocal, Lead Guitar
Michael Shrieve - Drums
Stephen Dees - Bass
What's Been Happening with You
This demo recording unearthed from the depths of the closet, is another rock/pop gem infused with a funky groove.
(3:02)
Written by: Michael Shrieve, Pete Hewlett
​
Pete Hewlett - Vocal, Guitar
Michael Shrieve - Drums
Stephen Dees - BG Vocal, Bass
Jack Griffith - Lead Guitar
Another Slow Fade
​In this remake with a new arrangement, Stephen's perspective on life shines through. It's a reminder that life is fleeting, urging listeners to seize the moment and take action to live life to the fullest.
(3:53)
Written by: Stephen Dees
​
Stephen Dees - Vocal, Bass, Guitars, Keys
Pete Hewlett - BG Vocal
Michael Shrieve - Percussion
Alberto Cruz - Drums
Robert Caban - Congas
And I Love Her
BONUS TRACK - CD Only
We all love the Beatles and since we nicked the idea for "45 West 55th" from the Beatles anthology we figured it only fitting to pay tribute to the Greatest Band of All Time.
(3:13)
Written by: John Lennon/Paul McCartney
​
Pete Hewlett- Vocal, Guitars
Michael Shrieve- Drums
Stephen Dees- Bass, Percussion, Keys
Patricia Ann Dees - Tambourine