Hi Andrew, Tano, Ron, Chay and Dave,

Sorry for the late reply, but I already said I completely destroyed my recording studio and am now rebuilding everything, hopefully in a better way...
The demolition took a long time, but the rebuilding will take even more time and effort.
I'm already regretting my plans, but... I see a light at the end of the tunnel, or studio.
But Marty keeps texting me asking when I can record again (I promised to make a song with him...). So I'm a bit stressed, because of these confusing times, but first I need to respond to your very nice comments!

Originally Posted by Andrew Dee
Hi Hans!
Your song took me a verse or two to get into, but once I did, it gripped me and took me all the way to the end. As written elsewhere today, I love these songs that are unfamiliar initially but long for repeated listens. I love your use of the cello and fiddle. It was a good combination of instruments all ‘round.
Loved it!
Andrew

Hello Andrew, yeah, I get what you wrote! When I was writing the song, I was a bit hesitant too. It was my wife who told me she really liked the crazy violin in the chorus. And a few friends (and Marty) thought so too.
But when I swapped the drums for congas, I started liking the sound more and more. It was a process similar to what you described. And thanks for becomming 'a follower'. I will follow you too!

Originally Posted by Tano Music
Really interesting project! I liked the way you used unconventional elements--came out great! And your idea of the "themed" verses--creative, for sure. Overall, it was a really engaging listen and I commend you for your inventiveness!!

Hi Tano, thanks, but I have to be honest: the idea for the theme came during a session with ChatGPT about mastering the language of song lyrics. In short, he gave me some rhyming tips, and that's when I got this idea.

Originally Posted by DC Ron
Hans, love your song! The backing track is really dense, but like how you've used panning to create "empty space" for the vocals. Cool use and arrangement of BiaB tracks. The epic feel you've created really makes this one sing. Of course, your vocals make this sing, too. smile So cool. So very nice. So...YOU. Superb stuff.

Wow, Ron, what a nice reaction! The song itself was an experiment in my songbuilding approach. I wanted something different. A different way of singing too. That was quite a challenge. I think my next song will be much calmer. The violinist is stressed out...

Originally Posted by WaoBand
Great song, Hans! Love the strings and also that excellent solo. Excellent construct all around.

Hello Chay, thank you very much! You like 'the wild stuff!'

Originally Posted by BlueAttitude
Good song overall, Hans.
For me there is too much going on, you have everything in there including the kitchen sink! I think if you made the backing a bit simpler it would make your excellent vocals stand out better.
But, that's just my opinion and I'm just a simple blues guy, so what do I know? eek
Overall a good listen wink

Hey Dave, this is a change from playing the blues, man ;-)
I could have said something about "old men," but I'm one myself, so that wouldn't be a funny "joke"... No, I get what you mean, but this song was about confusing times, so if the kitchen sink appeals to that feeling, it should be in the song!
But thanks a lot for your thoughts, and compliments.

Have a nice day!
Hans

Hans Berkhout
(Birchwood)
https://soundcloud.com/user-296497130