So very much has happened since we last updated the progress of this project. First, and perhaps most importantly, we last mentioned that the book previously referred to as Mastersounds was in the midst of being renamed for publication. It is our pleasure to announce that our entertaining and informative upcoming book will be titled Rhythm in the Rain: Jazz in the Pacific Northwest. Also since our last update, we adopted a wonderful cover designed by Ooligan alumna Erika Schnatz. By February, this cover will be visible on bookstore shelves throughout the Pacific Northwest.

Getting into the nuts and bolts of the project, author Lynn Darroch is currently in the process of putting the finishing touches on his manuscript. This means that within the month, the process of designing the book’s interior should be underway. Preparing all the elements for the final product has been a demanding process only made possible by a determined author, a steadfast editing team led by Ooligan’s Olenka Burgess, and many others who have put countless hours into hunting down photographs that will properly complement the text. It is also with great pride and appreciation that we announce the author of the book’s foreword: nationally renowned jazz icon and Portland State University music instructor George Colligan.

After taking this project over, I quickly realized that to produce a quality book requires the hard work and care of countless people working behind the scenes. It would be nearly impossible to name and thank everyone who has made it possible for this book to continue evolving into what it will become, but I would like to take a moment to give appreciation to my predecessor, Margaret Schimming. For over a year Margaret molded an idea into a project, and a project into a reality. The Rhythm in the Rain team simply wouldn’t be what it is today without her guidance and vision. This book has been a beast of a project—one of the most challenging that Ooligan Press has undertaken—but the finish line is in sight, and we are giddy with anticipation to share it with jazz lovers everywhere.