Yes, I know, I've been absent for a while AGAIN & yes, I was "Rookwood" AGAIN. But nothing horrifying and long term just what happened with some long term medications sometimes.
This one started life as a backing that I'd done in early January. I finished that aspect of it and left it alone waiting for inspiration. Inspiration came later in the month & I had a set of lyrics. I toiled & toiled to get a melody but wasn't very successful. It was clear the song needed a voice that didn't need a bucket. I contacted Janice & Bud, as I do when in need, & left it with them. After some listening and playing around with the SGU Janice found a key that best suited her and responded that she'd also done as I'd hoped and fixed the melody, timing & phrasing...it does take a singer to do those things. I was super happy with the news and set about relearning the song in F rather than A. I learnt some new chords, reworked the bass line, regenerated the BIAB parts and bango...had a new backing for Janice to work with. Janice & Bud were super quick with their side of things and the song was off to the M.E. who was very impressed with the vocal. BIAB performs the acoustic solo, drums & organ. Janice did the melody, vocal arrangements and vocals. Bud tracked & treated Janice's work. I did the bass, classical guitar, electric guitar as well as the midi based Melloton flutes. I wrote the midi parts with a midi editor and used the Redtron VSTi for the sounds. I had played them in "live" in the 1st recording but couldn't get my fingers around the key change. Video incorporates BIAB Video tracks for drums & keyboard. It's "DONE' but please, any suggestions, critiques etc. are just as valid so make them if you have them. THANK YOU JANICE & BUD! More details if required.
Last edited by rayc; 04/05/2409:01 PM.
Cheers rayc "What's so funny about peace, love & understanding?" - N.Lowe
Ray, welcome back! Hope you continue to be in good health.
Wow, this sounds GREAT! Catchy tune, and LOVE the bass! Janice's gliding vocals are different from what I've heard her do, but sound FAB as well, as does Bud's vocal production. Overall, a dramatic development in the signature rayc sound. And "Bandhi Nahbox" is too clever by half. Ha!
DC Ron BiaB Audiophile Presonus Studio One ASUS I9-12900K DAW, 32 GB RAM Presonus Faderport 16 Too many guitars (is that a thing?)
First things first: I think the song is very, very well done, the arrangement (with some unusual instruments) works well, the mix is pretty good and Janice is, as always, the highlight of the song (actually, she's the highlight of _any_ song, but we all know that by now).
But I'm not sure I really get the song. You create a constant tension that you don't resolve and that makes the listener uneasy, and I think (if I understand it correctly) that the vocals are trying to do the same thing. If that's your intention, then I'd say you've done brilliantly and it's a GREAT song Kinda unsatisfying, though.
If not, I'm lost and need your help to figure it out
LOVE IT! Lyrics are so cool. Good call leaving it with J&B. Such an excellent mix and Janice's vocals are sensational. Love that harmony. So glad you're doing well, Ray. I really enjoy the progression and drive of this one. Super bassist too, and guitars support the structure well.
Enjoy whatever happens! marty
YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@babumusic51 SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/marty-straub Band in a Box, Reaper, Cakewalk, Ozone 11, EZDrummer
Welcome back Ray, and I'm glad you're feeling better. I really liked that line, "long term love fits like a glove, but deadends the touch." Very creative writing!
Ray, welcome back! Hope you continue to be in good health.
Wow, this sounds GREAT! Catchy tune, and LOVE the bass! Janice's gliding vocals are different from what I've heard her do, but sound FAB as well, as does Bud's vocal production. Overall, a dramatic development in the signature rayc sound. And "Bandhi Nahbox" is too clever by half. Ha!
Thanks Ron, the health issue isn't significant - just an unpleasant uncommon side effect that I, naturally, seem to experience. YES, Janice isn't afraid of moving where the muse takes her. How lucky am I?
Cheers rayc "What's so funny about peace, love & understanding?" - N.Lowe
First things first: I think the song is very, very well done, the arrangement (with some unusual instruments) works well, the mix is pretty good and Janice is, as always, the highlight of the song (actually, she's the highlight of _any_ song, but we all know that by now). But I'm not sure I really get the song. You create a constant tension that you don't resolve and that makes the listener uneasy, and I think (if I understand it correctly) that the vocals are trying to do the same thing. If that's your intention, then I'd say you've done brilliantly and it's a GREAT song Kinda unsatisfying, though. If not, I'm lost and need your help to figure it out PS: good to see you back!
Thanks B.D., Yes, unreleased tension, though the solo comes close, was the aim. The narrative is in two parts: the verses are the unexpressed or unfulfilled desires of an older person. Three snapshots of regret/loss/unaddressed need. The choruses address the way long term relationships amongst those who are elder are often shaped by habit and a more dominant personality. No release there.
Cheers rayc "What's so funny about peace, love & understanding?" - N.Lowe
LOVE IT! Lyrics are so cool. Good call leaving it with J&B. Such an excellent mix and Janice's vocals are sensational. Love that harmony. So glad you're doing well, Ray. I really enjoy the progression and drive of this one. Super bassist too, and guitars support the structure well.
Thanks Marty. This bassist is super happy to have translated the bass line across keys while holding the groove. Janice? OF COURSE!
Cheers rayc "What's so funny about peace, love & understanding?" - N.Lowe
Welcome back Ray, and I'm glad you're feeling better. I really liked that line, "long term love fits like a glove, but deadens the touch." Very creative writing!
Brad
Thanks Brad, Could've been a country song eh?
Cheers rayc "What's so funny about peace, love & understanding?" - N.Lowe
Interesting tune - Ron mentioned "gliding", and I'm too lazy to figure out it's something chromatic or just sliding around with her voice. But it's very ear catching, which is good.
Nothing useful to suggest other: this doesn't sound like anything else, which is also good.
Ray, welcome back! Hope you continue to be in good health.
Wow, this sounds GREAT! Catchy tune, and LOVE the bass! Janice's gliding vocals are different from what I've heard her do, but sound FAB as well, as does Bud's vocal production. Overall, a dramatic development in the signature rayc sound. And "Bandhi Nahbox" is too clever by half. Ha!
Thank you! It was a pleasure to join in on Ray’s production.
Janice
Our albums and singles are on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Pandora and more. If interested search on Janice Merritt. Thanks! Our Videos are here on our website.
First things first: I think the song is very, very well done, the arrangement (with some unusual instruments) works well, the mix is pretty good and Janice is, as always, the highlight of the song (actually, she's the highlight of _any_ song, but we all know that by now).
But I'm not sure I really get the song. You create a constant tension that you don't resolve and that makes the listener uneasy, and I think (if I understand it correctly) that the vocals are trying to do the same thing. If that's your intention, then I'd say you've done brilliantly and it's a GREAT song Kinda unsatisfying, though.
If not, I'm lost and need your help to figure it out
PS: good to see you back!
You are too kind but I much appreciate it!
Janice
Our albums and singles are on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Pandora and more. If interested search on Janice Merritt. Thanks! Our Videos are here on our website.
But I'm not sure I really get the song. You create a constant tension that you don't resolve and that makes the listener uneasy, and I think (if I understand it correctly) that the vocals are trying to do the same thing. If that's your intention, then I'd say you've done brilliantly and it's a GREAT song Kinda unsatisfying, though.
Yes, unreleased tension, though the solo comes close, was the aim.
Thanks Ray for confirming that I understood the song. So the "brilliant" still applies
Splendid composition. I like listening to Janice sing in a different style. It's very airy and pleasant. The video is well produced and fits perfectly into the composition. Well done. I appreciated.
Ray, you are a multi-talented musician. Janice is a fantastic singer. So when I saw you two together I knew I was in for some outstanding ear candy. And I was right. Excellent song and mix.
I'm in a fitness protection program. I'm been hiding from exercise.
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
It's good to have you back. You were noticeably absent.
Complex piece (at least it sounds so to this simpleton). All the parts work well together. I like the melody. I enjoyed this and listened a few times. Janice voice is the icing on this seven-layer cake.
LOVE IT! Lyrics are so cool. Good call leaving it with J&B. Such an excellent mix and Janice's vocals are sensational. Love that harmony. So glad you're doing well, Ray. I really enjoy the progression and drive of this one. Super bassist too, and guitars support the structure well.
Thanks a bunch, Marty. When I first read the lyric I wanted to be a part of this song as it reminded me of times that my sisters and I had questioned our Mama and our Granny about the “why” of events from the past and they’d reply, “well, honey, your Daddy (or Grandaddy) wanted to.” Ray’s chord structure and his band were the perfect accompaniment for the poignant lyric. I loved the light touch of the guitars and flute with the intensity of the drums and his bass is always perfecto.
Again, thanks Marty and a big thank you to Ray!
Janice
Our albums and singles are on Spotify, Apple Music, Amazon Music, YouTube Music, Pandora and more. If interested search on Janice Merritt. Thanks! Our Videos are here on our website.
Band-in-a-Box 2026 Video: AI Stems & Notes - split polyphonic audio into instruments and transcribe
This video demonstrates how to use the new AI-Notes feature together with the AI-Stems splitter, allowing you to select an audio file and have it separated into individual stems while transcribing each one to its own MIDI track. AI-Notes converts polyphonic audio—either full mixes or individual instruments—into MIDI that you can view in notation or play back instantly.
Bonus PAK and 49-PAK for Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®
With your version 2026 for Windows Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, Audiophile Edition or PlusPAK purchase, we'll include a Bonus PAK full of great new Add-ons for FREE! Or upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK for only $49 to receive even more NEW Add-ons including 20 additional RealTracks!
These PAKs are loaded with additional add-ons to supercharge your Band-in-a-Box®!
This Free Bonus PAK includes:
The 2026 RealCombos Booster PAK:
-For Pro customers, this includes 27 new RealTracks and 23 new RealStyles.
-For MegaPAK customers, this includes 25 new RealTracks and 23 new RealStyles.
-For UltraPAK customers, this includes 12 new RealStyles.
MIDI Styles Set 92: Look Ma! More MIDI 15: Latin Jazz
MIDI SuperTracks Set 46: Piano & Organ
Instrumental Studies Set 24: Groovin' Blues Soloing
Artist Performance Set 19: Songs with Vocals 9
Playable RealTracks Set 5
RealDrums Stems Set 9: Cool Brushes
SynthMaster Sounds Set 1 (with audio demos)
Android Band-in-a-Box® App (included)
Looking for more great add-ons, then upgrade to the 2026 49-PAK for just $49 and you'll get:
20 Bonus Unreleased RealTracks and RealDrums with 20 RealStyle.
FLAC Files (lossless audio files) for the 20 Bonus Unreleased RealTracks and RealDrums
MIDI Styles Set 93: Look Ma! More MIDI 16: SynthMaster
MIDI SuperTracks Set 47: More SynthMaster
Instrumental Studies 25 - Soul Jazz Guitar Soloing
Artist Performance Set 20: Songs with Vocals 10
RealDrums Stems Set 10: Groovin' Sticks
SynthMaster Sounds & Styles Set 2 (sounds & styles with audio demos)
Join Tobin as he takes you on a tour of the new user interface in Band-in-a-Box® 2026 for Windows®! This modern GUI redesign offers a sleek new look with updated toolbars, refreshed windows, and a smoother workflow. The brand-new side toolbar puts track selection, the MultiPicker Library, and other essential tools right at your fingertips. Plus, our upgraded Multi-View lets you layer multiple windows without overlap, giving you a highly flexible workspace. Many windows—including Tracks, Piano Roll, and more—have been redesigned for improved usability and a cleaner, more intuitive interface, and more!
Introducing XPro Styles PAK 10 – Now Available for Windows Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!
We've just released XPro Styles PAK 10 for Windows & Mac Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) with 100 brand new RealStyles, plus 28 RealTracks and RealDrums!
Few things are certain in life: death, taxes, and a brand spankin’ new XPro Styles PAK! In this, the 10th edition of our XPro Styles PAK series, we’ve got 100 styles coming your way! We have the classic 25 styles each from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, and rounding out this volume's wildcard slot is 25 styles in the Praise & Worship genre! A wide spanning genre, you can find everything from rock, folk, country, and more underneath its umbrella. The included 28 RealTracks and RealDrums can be used with any Band-in-a-Box® 2026 (and higher) package.
Here’s just a small sampling of what you can look forward to in XPro Styles PAK 10: Soft indie folk worship songs, bumpin’ country boogies, gospel praise breaks, hard rockin’ pop, funky disco grooves, smooth Latin jazz pop, bossa nova fusion, western swing, alternative hip-hop, cool country funk, and much more!
Special offers until December 31st, 2025!
All the XPro Styles PAKs 1 - 10 are on sale for only $29 ea (Reg. $49 ea), or get them all in the XPro Styles PAK Bundle for only $149 (reg. $299)! Order now!
XPro Styles PAKs require Band-in-a-Box® 2025 or higher and are compatible with ANY package, including the Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, and Audiophile Edition.
Introducing Xtra Styles PAK 21 – Now Available for Windows Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!
Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Windows & Mac Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) is here with 200 brand new RealStyles!
We're excited to bring you our latest Xtra Styles PAK installment—the all new Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher)!
Rejoice, one and all, for Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box® is here! We’re serving up 200 brand spankin’ new styles to delight your musical taste buds! The first three courses are the classics you’ve come to know and love, including offerings from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, but, not to be outdone, this year’s fourth course is bro country! A wide ranging genre, you can find everything from hip-hop, uptempo outlaw country, hard hitting rock, funk, and even electronica, all with that familiar bro country flair. The dinner bell has been rung, pickup up Xtra Styles PAK 21 today!
In this PAK you’ll discover: Energetic folk rock, raucous train beats, fast country boogies, acid jazz grooves, laid-back funky jams, a bevy of breezy jazz waltzes, calm electro funk, indie synth pop, industrial synth metal, and more bro country than could possibly fit in the back of a pickup truck!
Special offers until December 31st, 2025!
All the Xtra Styles PAKs 1 - 21 are on special for only $29 each (reg $49), or get all 21 PAKs for $199 (reg $399)! Order now!
Note: The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 21 requires the 2025 or higher UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition. They will not work with the Pro or MegaPAK version because they need the RealTracks from the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition.
Introducing XPro Styles PAK 10 – Now Available for Mac Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!
We've just released XPro Styles PAK 10 for Mac & Windows Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) with 100 brand new RealStyles, plus 28 RealTracks and RealDrums!
Few things are certain in life: death, taxes, and a brand spankin’ new XPro Styles PAK! In this, the 10th edition of our XPro Styles PAK series, we’ve got 100 styles coming your way! We have the classic 25 styles each from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, and rounding out this volume's wildcard slot is 25 styles in the Praise & Worship genre! A wide spanning genre, you can find everything from rock, folk, country, and more underneath its umbrella. The included 28 RealTracks and RealDrums can be used with any Band-in-a-Box® 2026 (and higher) package.
Here’s just a small sampling of what you can look forward to in XPro Styles PAK 10: Soft indie folk worship songs, bumpin’ country boogies, gospel praise breaks, hard rockin’ pop, funky disco grooves, smooth Latin jazz pop, bossa nova fusion, western swing, alternative hip-hop, cool country funk, and much more!
Special offers until December 31st, 2025!
All the XPro Styles PAKs 1 - 10 are on sale for only $29 ea (Reg. $49 ea), or get them all in the XPro Styles PAK Bundle for only $149 (reg. $299)! Order now!
XPro Styles PAKs require Band-in-a-Box® 2025 or higher and are compatible with ANY package, including the Pro, MegaPAK, UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, and Audiophile Edition.
Introducing Xtra Styles PAK 21 – Now Available for Mac Band-in-a-Box 2025 and Higher!
Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Mac & Windows Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher) is here with 200 brand new RealStyles!
We're excited to bring you our latest Xtra Styles PAK installment—the all new Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box version 2025 (and higher)!
Rejoice, one and all, for Xtra Styles PAK 21 for Band-in-a-Box® is here! We’re serving up 200 brand spankin’ new styles to delight your musical taste buds! The first three courses are the classics you’ve come to know and love, including offerings from the rock & pop, jazz, and country genres, but, not to be outdone, this year’s fourth course is bro country! A wide ranging genre, you can find everything from hip-hop, uptempo outlaw country, hard hitting rock, funk, and even electronica, all with that familiar bro country flair. The dinner bell has been rung, pickup up Xtra Styles PAK 21 today!
In this PAK you’ll discover: Energetic folk rock, raucous train beats, fast country boogies, acid jazz grooves, laid-back funky jams, a bevy of breezy jazz waltzes, calm electro funk, indie synth pop, industrial synth metal, and more bro country than could possibly fit in the back of a pickup truck!
Special offers until December 31st, 2025!
All the Xtra Styles PAKs 1 - 21 are on special for only $29 each (reg $49), or get all 21 PAKs for $199 (reg $399)! Order now!
Note: The Xtra Styles require the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition of Band-in-a-Box®. (Xtra Styles PAK 21 requires the 2025 or higher UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition. They will not work with the Pro or MegaPAK version because they need the RealTracks from the UltraPAK, UltraPAK+, or Audiophile Edition.
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