The project, FLYING HIGH… AT THE HEART OF IT (Part 1) – Featuring Gary Burton, was written intentionally by Norton for an octet. Using the analogy of chemistry, the simple Octet Rule – where atoms are most stable when their valence shells are filled with eight electrons – was very much in mind. Norton applied this concept to the compositions and orchestration of his octet. The octet creates perfect musical chemistry using percussion instruments, guitar, violin, double-bass, cello, drums, piano, flute and even incorporating extra vocals. This is Part 1 of a forthcoming trilogy.