Monthly Archives: September 2013

McGraw exults in creative 'Freedom'

Posted on by

Tim McGraw

Two Lanes of Freedom

(Big Machine)

Veteran country star Tim McGraw resolutely refers to independence and the highway in the title of his new album, Two Lanes of Freedom, his first since leaving Curb Records, his label for two decades. The title cut flaunts that freedom by employing world-music instruments, harmonies and rhythms to communicate just how creatively liberated he feels.

But McGraw's always pushed at the boundaries of country music. Here he balances experimental arrangements with hat tips to contemporary country the hit Truck Yeah follows the current trend of matching rural signifiers with pounding rock, while One of Those Nights nicely weaves in slice-of-life sentiments, a common McGraw theme.

Elsewhere, he succeeds at broadening his sound with hip-hop, bluegrass and piano pop. He also bridges the generations on Highway Don't Care, assisted by Taylor Swift and Keith Urban, which says even freedom needs an anchor in true love.

Michael McCall, Associated Press

Here is the original post:

McGraw exults in creative 'Freedom'

Freedom Specialty Insurance Company® Named Antonio C. Albanese VP of Surety

Posted on by

NEW YORK--(BUSINESS WIRE)--

Freedom Specialty named Antonio (Tony) C. Albanese vice president of Surety, a new product line for Freedom. Mr. Albanese will be responsible for building and managing Freedoms surety bond business in the U.S. He will report to Mr. Craig Landi, senior vice president of Freedom Specialty Insurance Company, based in New York City.

I am looking forward to building the Surety Division at Freedom, Mr. Albanese said. Freedom, with the backing of Nationwide Insurance, brings the financial strength, name brand recognition, talent and innovative culture that are optimal for building a premiere surety operation.

Mr. Landi commented on the appointment, stating, Tonys skills and reputation in the surety bond market are invaluable. With his leadership qualities, expertise and long-standing relationships, Tony will develop a strong, successful surety operation at Freedom Specialty. We look forward to working with Tony as we continue to diversify and expand our product offerings.

Tony entered the surety industry upon graduating from college. He has spent 28 years in various roles within the surety operation of insurance companies, ranging from working in the field office to corporate headquarters. Most recently, he was with Torus, where he built its domestic and international surety operations. Prior to Torus, Tony led Selective Insurance Companys surety operation. Tonys experience extends beyond surety into reinsurance, flood business and managing agency networks.

Tony received a BA in economics from Drew University and an MBA in finance from New York Universitys Leonard N. Stern School of Business and holds AFSB and ARe designations. He also participates in various committees for the Surety & Fidelity Associate of America (SFAA) and serves as the vice chairman of the executive committee of the New Jersey chapter of the NYU Stern Alumni group.

About Freedom Specialty

Freedom Specialty Insurance Company, a subsidiary of Scottsdale Insurance Company, represents a wealth of experience in specialty liability insurance, and provides specialized expertise, dynamic problem-solving, and decisive responsiveness to the needs of their clients. Backed by Nationwide Insurance and an A.M. Best Rating of A+ (Superior), FSC XV, the companys financial strength and stability allow it to serve as a vanguard in specialty liability lines. Visit freedomspecialtyins.com to learn more, or call Craig Landi at 212-329-6901.

Follow this link:

Freedom Specialty Insurance Company® Named Antonio C. Albanese VP of Surety