I was rapidly approaching peak-melancholy when I decided that composing a "cheer me up" song was the only cure. This little ditty is my weapon of choice against the blues. If you are kind enough to give it a spin I hope it offers you a moment of levity and perhaps a little positive energy will rub off. ֍ 💨 If it doesn't land, at least you can laugh at my earnest (and possibly misguided) attempt. 😭 Please sharpen your pencils, folks! All feedback (sweet, sour, or somewhere in between) is welcomed with open ears and a slightly frantic heart. I'll chew on every word and offer my sincerest replies. (•‿•)
As always- Thanks to BIAB for enabling me to bring my songs to life. Lyrics on SC. Key is Ebm Tempo 125 Style is _TEXASRK.STY (Texas Rock Even) RealTracks in style: 1419:Bass, Electric, TexasRock Ev 120 RealTracks in style: 657:Guitar, Electric, Rhythm TexasRockChop Ev 120 RealTracks in style: 660:Guitar, Electric, Rhythm TexasRockCrisp Ev 120 RealDrums in style:RockTexas^1-a:Snare, Hihat , b:Snare, Loose Sync 4546 Horn section Background R&B Funky Intro drop-samples on my HD.
Got me right from the title, Izzy. Once in the 60s a friend kept his pot in a Life ceral box just to give a new meaning to the expression. You got it, sir!! THis song is quite the happy vehicle. I'm sitting here bouncing around with a big smile on my face, and I haven't even had my ceral yet. The lyrics grabed me right in the first couplet: "Worn-out shoes but I’m walking tall Empty pockets but I’ve got it all" and it keeps getting even better. "I’m short on cash but i'm high on life." Yep, I'm diggin' your ernest attempt and declaring mission accomplished. Good job on the horns. Did you have to regenerate parts of it?
I thought the best cure for the blues was the blues.
Cool intro, horns sound great. Nice harmonies. The bridge and modulation worked like they should. The final harmonies at the end sounded a bit reminiscent of the Steve Miller.
Hey Izzy! Another great addition to your catalogue! I’m loving the variety in styles you put out.
Some things that tickled my ears … - love the rhythm guitar on the left side just doing its thing - the step up of dynamics and addition of a second rhythm guitar for the second verse - some really big interval steps in the vocal melody makes it really catchy - the first line jumped out at me - the pushed vocals on ‘compromise’ - a nice bit of rawness - subtle yet complementary harmony vocals - a bit of bling - really good lyrics - each line was worthy of consideration in its own right
An unexpected thing for me - my ear and natural inclination is to hear the line ‘I’m high on life’ rise up in melody - with it heading down, it gives me the impression that the highness is not authentically felt? Of course it could be a sign of contentment. Consequently, it took me a couple of listens to realise *that* was the chorus. (This might be MY problem in always thinking that the chorus has to be some kind of stand out.) While the horns are a great addition to the chorus, their use was in the form of punctuation between lines, and in a small way, I was waiting for each horn phrase to pass so I could hear the next vocal line. This is all personal preference, so take it with a pinch of salt.
This one’s going straight to my ‘favs’ playlist! Good job.
Terrific, Izzy! It sounds like you're looking for constructive criticism, but I got nothing. Everything about this sounds great to me. I've worked with BIAB horns a lot and I know they often involve a lot of cutting and pasting. Sometimes you get lucky, but not usually, (no matter how many times you regenerate). Vocal was superb and that's always a given. Def a winner here!
Windows 11, Intel Core I5 10400, 16 gig ram, Scarlett 2i2, Sony Acid Music Studio 10, BIAB 2020 UltraPlus Pak
Man oh man this forum is confusing me man. I know I responded and I know that I pressed enter so I don't know why I didn't show up but here I go again.
Absolutely totally love this from top to bottom and all around.
The vocals are awesome and it's catchy as all get out.
I think you should get depressed more often. Robert Smith often said that he liked to get depressed and sit in the bathtub.
Funny that he should say that because your song actually makes me feel the same way that I feel when I listen to the link below. And that's a good thing.
David Snyder Songwriter/Renaissance Man Studio + Fingers
Wow! That is an awesome song! The arrangement, the vocals, and the mix are all top-notch. A really infectious groove.
BTW, those horns sound amazing. Loved it!
Bob
Hi Bob Thank you so much for the incredibly kind words! Hearing that you dug the tune – and called the groove "infectious," which is exactly what I was going for, really makes my day. Thanks for taking the time to listen and leave such a fantastic review. It’s reviews like yours that make all the blood, sweat, and tears (and the occasional instrument-throwing temper tantrum) worthwhile. 😎 Cheers, Izzy
Got me right from the title, Izzy. Once in the 60s a friend kept his pot in a Life ceral box just to give a new meaning to the expression. You got it, sir!! THis song is quite the happy vehicle. I'm sitting here bouncing around with a big smile on my face, and I haven't even had my ceral yet. The lyrics grabed me right in the first couplet: "Worn-out shoes but I’m walking tall Empty pockets but I’ve got it all" and it keeps getting even better. "I’m short on cash but i'm high on life." Yep, I'm diggin' your ernest attempt and declaring mission accomplished. Good job on the horns. Did you have to regenerate parts of it?
Marty, you are a magnificent cereal-box-philosopher, your review is the best thing since they put marshmallows in Lucky Charms! 👋 And I'm absolutely stealing your "Life cereal" pot-stash anecdote. Pure gold, Marty, pure gold. It's going straight into the Izzy Hall of Fame, right next to my worn-out shoes. Seriously though, your comment about the lyrics hitting home? That's what it's all about. Sometimes, you just gotta embrace the walking-tall-with-empty-pockets vibe. Glad you're digging it. "Good job on the horns. Did you have to regenerate parts of it?" Not a lot because the BIAB RT Horns are so good that it was only a matter of cut and paste. Thanks a million, Marty. You've officially made my day! Now go have that cereal, you deserve it! 👍 😁
I thought the best cure for the blues was the blues.
Cool intro, horns sound great. Nice harmonies. The bridge and modulation worked like they should. The final harmonies at the end sounded a bit reminiscent of the Steve Miller.
Thumbs up from me!
Dearest Mr David Thanks for the thumbs up! I'm so glad my musical attempt to punch the blues in the face with more blues actually worked for you (i think). And extra glad the horns were up to snuff - they can be divas, you know. Mr Gannon secretly told me they demand imported reeds and they only speak in a register he can barely understand. (official lie).🙄
As for the Steve Miller comparison at the end…thanks muchly. After all, who doesn't want to be cruising down the highway feeling like the Space Cowboy? 🤑
Seriously though, your feedback is hugely appreciated. Knowing the bridge and modulation "worked like they should" is surprisingly thrilling. It's like a tiny, perfectly executed plumbing job in the metaphorical house that is my song. So, thank you for noticing the small victories as well as the big ones. I'm off to celebrate with a slice of pie and a deep dive into the Steve Miller discography!
Much luv and gratitude, Izzy (and the occasionally temperamental horns)
Hey Izzy! Another great addition to your catalogue! I’m loving the variety in styles you put out.
Some things that tickled my ears … - love the rhythm guitar on the left side just doing its thing - the step up of dynamics and addition of a second rhythm guitar for the second verse - some really big interval steps in the vocal melody makes it really catchy - the first line jumped out at me - the pushed vocals on ‘compromise’ - a nice bit of rawness - subtle yet complementary harmony vocals - a bit of bling - really good lyrics - each line was worthy of consideration in its own right
An unexpected thing for me - my ear and natural inclination is to hear the line ‘I’m high on life’ rise up in melody - with it heading down, it gives me the impression that the highness is not authentically felt? Of course it could be a sign of contentment. Consequently, it took me a couple of listens to realise *that* was the chorus. (This might be MY problem in always thinking that the chorus has to be some kind of stand out.) While the horns are a great addition to the chorus, their use was in the form of punctuation between lines, and in a small way, I was waiting for each horn phrase to pass so I could hear the next vocal line. This is all personal preference, so take it with a pinch of salt.
This one’s going straight to my ‘favs’ playlist! Good job.
Andrew D
G'day Andrew You bonza, grouse music Sherlock, you! Thanks a million for the deep dive into the sonic depths of my little tune. I feel like you've just performed an autopsy... on a song that's still alive... in a good way! A very insightful and complimentary way! 😳
The "rhythm guitar just doing its thing" - I'm so glad you noticed! It's basically the musical equivalent of that friend who's quietly awesome but never seeks the spotlight. Glad it resonated!
"Bling harmony vocals" - YES! That was the goal! A subtle sprinkling of sonic glitter to keep things interesting. 🎜 ♫ ♬
And the "high on life" conundrum! You've touched on something I hadn't consciously considered. That descending melody line... maybe I'm subconsciously admitting that I'm only moderately high on life. Like, "moderately intoxicated" level high. Perhaps contentment is the new high. Or maybe I just need a bigger trampoline. I appreciate you flagging that up! I feel like I should now go and write a deconstruction of that line, and the philosophical meaning of it all.
And the horns... you were waiting for them to shut up so you could hear me sing! That's... brutally honest and hilarious. I'll tell the horn section they're officially "punctuation," not "stars." They'll be thrilled... I think. 😕
Seriously though, thanks for taking the time to dissect the song with such attention and humour. I REALLY appreciate you adding it to your "favs" playlist! You've made my day. Now, if you'll excuse me, I'm off to ponder the true meaning of being "high on life" and to have a serious talk with my horn section about their punctuation habits. Thanks again for your ripper review Andrew!😎 ɹǝpunuʍop ʎzzI
Terrific, Izzy! It sounds like you're looking for constructive criticism, but I got nothing. Everything about this sounds great to me. I've worked with BIAB horns a lot and I know they often involve a lot of cutting and pasting. Sometimes you get lucky, but not usually, (no matter how many times you regenerate). Vocal was superb and that's always a given. Def a winner here!
Hi Bob "Looking for constructive criticism, but I got nothing" - I was all prepped to bravely face the firing squad of constructive criticism, bracing myself for tales of wonky intonation and rhythmic trainwrecks... and you hit me with this? "Nothing"? You've robbed me of my existential dread! I'm practically useless now! 😬 Seriously though, thank you so much. Your words mean the world, especially coming from someone who knows the trials and tribulations of wrangling those BIAB horns. It can be a wee bit like playing Russian roulette so I may or may not have offered my laptop a blood sacrifice to the algorithm gods for this one. And to call the vocal "superb"... well, you've just single-handedly fueled my ego for the next month. I might even start wearing a monocle. 😉 Thanks again, Bob! You're a legend. And if you ever do find something constructively critical, please, for the love of all that is holy, keep it to yourself. (- ‿◦ ) Best,
When that finished, I thought "Could that be That Good?" So I listened again. And....again.
Yes. It really IS - That Good.
Respect.
fj
Hi Floyd Always a thrill to hear from you! ♕ 💗 That kind of feedback is like rocket fuel for a songwriter. I'm just glad it resonated.Thanks for the multiple spins and the respect; it means the world from someone whose insights could make even the Muses jealous. Maybe I owe you a royalty check...or at least a beer. 😉 Best tunes and warm regards, Izzy
Man oh man this forum is confusing me man. I know I responded and I know that I pressed enter so I don't know why I didn't show up but here I go again.
Absolutely totally love this from top to bottom and all around.
The vocals are awesome and it's catchy as all get out.
I think you should get depressed more often. Robert Smith often said that he liked to get depressed and sit in the bathtub.
Funny that he should say that because your song actually makes me feel the same way that I feel when I listen to the link below. And that's a good thing.
David, thanks so much for taking the time to listen and for the incredibly kind words! I'm so glad you enjoyed it.
And wow, comparing it to The Cure's "Just Like Heaven" is a serious compliment! I'm blushing. Maybe I should invest in a good bathtub and a steady supply of melancholy... for artistic purposes, of course! 😉 Seriously though, that means a lot. Thanks again! best rgards Izzy
What a fantastic groove. The bass introduction really caught my imagination and then, when the horns came in, your really grabbed hold of me. This is excellent listening. I love lyrics. Everything about this presentation is infectious in the best musical way possible. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey.
Great vocals and lyrics, plus the song is very excellently orchestrated.
Some favourite Waoist Adages: #1: Play on the Way. #13: Ask not for whom the flower blooms, it blooms for you. #58: Bring consciousness to it. #63: On the road to effortlessness, effort must be made. #92: Be Love Now, the rest will come on its own.
The intro certainly was a walk down a path to an un-forshadowed garden. VERY Cool song. The horns are a little bright/plastic but otherwise it's a great arrangement.
Cheers rayc "What's so funny about peace, love & understanding?" - N.Lowe
Great song, great arrangement, AMAZING vocals. Love everything about this. Super lyrical sentiment and sonic energy. Hooks on hooks. My favorite details are the opening ramp and the harmonies. GREAT job here!
DC Ron BiaB Audiophile Presonus Studio One StudioCat DAW dual screen Presonus Faderport 16 Too many guitars (is that a thing?)
Very cool. This has an infectious groove that pushes along and those staccato horn stabs are ear candy. Kinda like Tower of Power meets The Cars.
The intro was really interesting. A lot going on in there.
That was enjoyable.
Hi Herb I'm glad the intro didn't scare you off. My initial plan was to make it even more chaotic, but my therapist suggested otherwise. 😲 Now I can be happy knowing I've created something that sounds like a bizarre mashup of two bands I love. I'm now accepting applications for a band name reflecting that combo... Tower Car? The Towers of Power Steering? Open to suggestions!" (◔_◔) Thanks for taking the time to listen and comment Herb. regards Izzy
Izzy, I had a smile on my face for the entire song Super song Great vocal Fantastic backing band I really liked this one
𝕄𝕒𝕣𝕚𝕠-𝕟𝕚𝕗𝕚𝕔𝕖𝕟𝕥 Thanks so much! Glad I could provide a sonic smile. I'm considering marketing the song as an alternative to Botox... slightly less painful, I think. Now I just need to figure out how to clone you so I can get a thousand more reviews just like that! 😀 Thanks again!
Great vocals and lyrics, plus the song is very excellently orchestrated.
Hi Chay
Thanks a bunch! 'Great vocals and lyrics' is what I tell my grandkids, but 'excellently orchestrated' is the real compliment. Appreciate you listening!" cheers Izzy
The intro certainly was a walk down a path to an un-forshadowed garden. VERY Cool song. The horns are a little bright/plastic but otherwise it's a great arrangement.
Ray, thanks so much for taking the stroll through my sonic garden. I'm thrilled you liked the arrangement. As for the horns, well, I guess I was going for that 'vintage Tupperware' sound. 🙄 Appreciate the kind words. 👍 Cheers mate. Izzy
What a fantastic groove. The bass introduction really caught my imagination and then, when the horns came in, your really grabbed hold of me. This is excellent listening. I love lyrics. Everything about this presentation is infectious in the best musical way possible. I thoroughly enjoyed the journey.
--Noel
G'day Noel,
Thanks a million for the wonderful review! I'm ecstatic you dug the groove – I've been feeding it Victoria Bitter and motivational speeches, so it's good to know it's paying off. 😜 I'm genuinely thrilled you enjoyed it. I usually just play to my cat, and he's a notoriously tough crowd. So your feedback means a lot. Oh and you have sparked an idea - I'm officially adding "Infectious" in the best musical way possible to my tombstone.! 👌 Thanks again Noel Izzy. 🙃
“The sun keeps shining when it sees my grin” and “The moon’s a lamp and it’s smiling at me” and “Dreams ain’t heavy they’re easy to hold The heart’s the engine not silver or gold”
The horns sound great and like they are punctuating the happiness. And the vocals are pure joy.
Yes, there is a Steve Miller vibe but also a Traveling Wilburys vibe too, and that’s a good thing.
Be Here Now. 😊
J&B
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.
Another good song! Remembering your intention to life your spirits, I had this music video image in my head while listening of clowns tooting their red horns while dancing in an otherwise serious video, which of course, made me laugh. Really enjoying your sounds, Izzy.
I love the song, Izzy. Unusual intro and when the vocal came in and started rocking, it took my by surprise. All good. And the vocal is simply awesome. Cool ending!
Strong! I was going to mention everything I like about this song, but I would need several pages to do that. In summation, after two listens: Better than excellent. When one listens to something so good you can't find all the superlatives to express the quality, you know you've heard exceptional excellence. And that's what I just heard.
Izzy, I've heard this couple of weeks ago and was amazed back then, but wanted to re-listen before responding. One of the coolest songs I've heard in showcase this year. It's great on so many levels, like eating a thousand layer napoleon that my granny used to bake. Fantastic show of creativity, skill and technical knowledge. Enjoyed it very much and thank you for sharing. Misha.
Wow x 3!! Nothing to criticize here. Wonderful all around. Sorry, too perfect.
Mike B.
Mike (sorry for the late reply) You wound me! Too perfect? Is that even a thing? Thanks, I'll try to add some intentional flaws next time, just for you. 🎷😉 Seriously though, appreciate the kind words! Oh and it is nice to finally cyber "meet" you".
Another good song! Remembering your intention to life your spirits, I had this music video image in my head while listening of clowns tooting their red horns while dancing in an otherwise serious video, which of course, made me laugh. Really enjoying your sounds, Izzy.
Beth (sorry for the late reply) You've officially made my day! Clowns tooting horns in a music video? ♬♪ 🎷🎪 That's a mental image I'll cherish. Thanks for the laugh and the listen!. 😊
I love the song, Izzy. Unusual intro and when the vocal came in and started rocking, it took my by surprise. All good. And the vocal is simply awesome. Cool ending!
Hi Scott (sorry for the late reply)
I'm blushing louder than my amp stack.😂 Seriously though, thanks for the awesome feedback. Glad the vocal resonated with you. I'm glad you liked the ending. It was a close call - almost ran out of song! ʘ‿ʘ ✂
Strong! I was going to mention everything I like about this song, but I would need several pages to do that. In summation, after two listens: Better than excellent. When one listens to something so good you can't find all the superlatives to express the quality, you know you've heard exceptional excellence. And that's what I just heard.
Love the ending!
Alan
Hello Alan (sorry for the late reply) Alan, thank you so much for your incredibly kind words. Hearing you say that means a great deal to me. I really appreciate you taking the time to listen and offer such thoughtful feedback, especially given everything you're going through. It's truly appreciated. ❤️🧡💛💚💙💜 My VERY Best Regards to you Izzy
Izzy, I've heard this couple of weeks ago and was amazed back then, but wanted to re-listen before responding. One of the coolest songs I've heard in showcase this year. It's great on so many levels, like eating a thousand layer napoleon that my granny used to bake. Fantastic show of creativity, skill and technical knowledge. Enjoyed it very much and thank you for sharing. Misha.
Misha (sorry for the late reply)
You just made my day (and possibly my year)! To compare my song to your granny's thousand-layer napoleon...that's high praise indeed. I might need to print that out and frame it. Thanks so much for taking the time to listen, re-listen, and offer such a generous and insightful comment. I'm thrilled you enjoyed it! Now, if only I could figure out how to bake a song as delicious as your granny's napoleon...(◔_◔)ԅ( ͒ ͒ ) 🥄 Your Fan Izzy
I have NO idea how you got the horn section to do what they did, but that was some brilliant producing. The guitar riff base of the song was also brilliant.
I loved every minute of it.
Keep doing what you're doing friend, you're making some killer songs!
Cari amici
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