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Posted By: Janice & Bud The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 09:57 AM
The Way Things Are

Times are tough and this is not upbeat song but it was an enjoyable production and collaboration. Regardless of that caveat we hope you find it of interest and comments are both welcomed and appreciated.

Big thanks to PeterF all the guitar parts and, as always, to PG Music for their products, support and this forum community.

Lyrics are on SoundCloud.

Janice: lead vocal, harmony vocal, melody & arrangement
Peter: guitar solos / fills / rhythm & arrangement
Bud: lyric, arrangement, mix & mastering

Drums: RD AmericanaRoots16th-04-SdStk,Tms

Bass: RT 2877 Acoustic, AmericanaSlow16thsByron Ev16 060

Piano: MidiSuperTrack / Logic Pro Grand Steinway sound

RT/RD tracks comped from multiple generations

Track Effects: Logic Pro X EQ / Nectar 2 / Waves CLA Drums / Neutron 2 / Waves CLA Unplugged / Waves Bass Rider

Mastering: Logic Pro X EQ > Ozone Dynamics > Ozone Maximizer > Ozone Tonal Balance > YouLean Loudness Meter
Posted By: musician17 Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 10:32 AM
Wow. One of the best I've heard from you. It feels like a long time since I've heard Janice sing a full song, as opposed to harmonies etc. for other people, so this was a real treat.

Who wrote the lyrics??? It's not clear from the SoundCloud post, but whoever did it ... hats off.

Please keep writing and creating ... these times are perhaps also an opportunity for us creators to create and alleviate some of the pain so many of us are going through, through music, lyrics ... in one word, through art. So let's do it. THANK YOU for regaling us with this beautiful, beautiful song!
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 10:44 AM
Originally Posted By: musician17
Wow. One of the best I've heard from you. It feels like a long time since I've heard Janice sing a full song, as opposed to harmonies etc. for other people, so this was a real treat.

Who wrote the lyrics??? It's not clear from the SoundCloud post, but whoever did it ... hats off.

Please keep writing and creating ... these times are perhaps also an opportunity for us creators to create and alleviate some of the pain so many of us are going through, through music, lyrics ... in one word, through art. So let's do it. THANK YOU for regaling us with this beautiful, beautiful song!


Thanks James. I (Bud) wrote the lyric and I struggled to try and tell it from a child’s perspective using child like word choices. But Janice the eternal child smile helped me.

We much appreciate your generous comments!

J&B
Posted By: BlueAttitude Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 11:19 AM
Really enjoyed this one!

Great writing, Bud, man I wish I had skills in that department! My favorite of many:

"a friend said her neighbor
was gonna go to hell
they went to a different church
was all she could tell"

Janice as always sounds great, love it when she brings in the harmonies.

Peter sounds a bit like Clapton to me on this one, very good indeed (cool ending!)

And a pro sounding mix to top it all off.

Excellent!
Posted By: jannesan Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 11:40 AM
Nice to hear an original from you and what a touching one it is! Hopeless story, powerful lyric writing. I was expecting something relieving in the end, but that's the way things usually are in real life, no happy endings. But luckily the excellent production makes me smile, Janice's voice and the guitars sing the ode of sadness very gently.

Janne
Posted By: furry Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 12:38 PM
Oh Man, this is simply outstanding. Janice your voice is perfect for ballads, and it's time you did an album.
Peter, brilliant guitar work as always
Posted By: dcuny Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 01:25 PM
As usual, excellent production, clear mix, and emotive singing.

Mind you, I'm not a fan of this sort of song, because they're as subtle as getting continually smacked over the head with a 2x4 cluestick.

Then again, who likes taking medicine? So I guess you can put that down as a measure of the song's success. smile
Posted By: Birchwood Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 01:36 PM
Hi Janice and Bud,

What beautiful song! Such a nice melody and so wonderfully performed. Only you can sing it that way, Janice!
You all, including Peter, did a very good job on this song!
You almost forgot what sorrow you sang about. Maybe I have to criticize you on that...
and what coincidence I have posted a song myself about that worrisome times we live in. And I sang very angry, maybe even ugly. But that nasty world made me do that ;-)

But then you sang: 'all you have to do is pretend it’s just a play'. Well, there I became speechless. What a cynical, but also wonderful way of telling how to deal with it!
I don't think you need more compliments, otherwise you will walk beside your shoes (a Dutch proverb meaning: you become too vain).

Hans
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 02:47 PM
Originally Posted By: BlueAttitude
Really enjoyed this one!

Great writing, Bud, man I wish I had skills in that department! My favorite of many:

"a friend said her neighbor
was gonna go to hell
they went to a different church
was all she could tell"

Janice as always sounds great, love it when she brings in the harmonies.

Peter sounds a bit like Clapton to me on this one, very good indeed (cool ending!)

And a pro sounding mix to top it all off.

Excellent!


Dave, thanks for everything you said. Writing is a struggle for me but I try to eke out a few each year. Janice always has a zillion melodies in head so that helps smile Glad you liked the mix - my usual paucity of tracks. Yeah Peter does have that Clapton edge! Thanks again,

J&B
Posted By: MarioD Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 05:28 PM
I wish I could write like Bud.
I wish I could sing like Janice.
I wish I could play guitar like Peter.

After hearing something so professional it almost makes me want to sell my instruments.

Everything is perfect, as usual from you all!
Posted By: PeterF Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 05:50 PM
Originally Posted By: musician17
Wow. One of the best I've heard from you. It feels like a long time since I've heard Janice sing a full song, as opposed to harmonies etc. for other people, so this was a real treat.

Who wrote the lyrics??? It's not clear from the SoundCloud post, but whoever did it ... hats off.

Please keep writing and creating ... these times are perhaps also an opportunity for us creators to create and alleviate some of the pain so many of us are going through, through music, lyrics ... in one word, through art. So let's do it. THANK YOU for regaling us with this beautiful, beautiful song!


Bud wrote an excellent lyric for this one and the vocal is sublime. A real pleasure to be asked to play.

Peter
Posted By: rayc Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 06:21 PM
The narrative & perspective are terrific.
"that's just the way things are"
Says it all really.
The lies we tell children, (science, faith & education are full of them as stepping stones to further understanding), form the adult they become.
Cool song on all levels.
Thank you.
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 06:32 PM
Originally Posted By: jannesan
Nice to hear an original from you and what a touching one it is! Hopeless story, powerful lyric writing. I was expecting something relieving in the end, but that's the way things usually are in real life, no happy endings. But luckily the excellent production makes me smile, Janice's voice and the guitars sing the ode of sadness very gently.

Janne


Janne, that was a very eloquent response to our song. We thank you for those thoughts and are very happy that you liked it.

J&B
Posted By: cubanpete Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 07:19 PM
Janice and Bud, after all the comments here is hard for me to add anything to top it. Anything that you all do is simply great. Production, vocals ,lyrics, you name it. All perfect!

Mike B.
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 09:46 PM
Originally Posted By: furry
Oh Man, this is simply outstanding. Janice your voice is perfect for ballads, and it's time you did an album.
Peter, brilliant guitar work as always


Thanks Graham! We appreciate your comments and, yes, Peter did a great job.

J&B
Posted By: jptjptjpt Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/18/20 10:19 PM
What a collaboration and with BIAB too! Great lyrics. Absolutely outstanding. Wonderful and full vocals. Beautiful Great guitar playing. I love that style. Someone said Eric Claptop. Yes . I'd throw in Mick Taylor too. Great production (mix, etc.) too.
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/19/20 09:47 AM
Originally Posted By: dcuny
As usual, excellent production, clear mix, and emotive singing.

Mind you, I'm not a fan of this sort of song, because they're as subtle as getting continually smacked over the head with a 2x4 cluestick.

Then again, who likes taking medicine? So I guess you can put that down as a measure of the song's success. smile


Subtlety has never been my strong suit smile

But, hey, no intentions of continually smacking you. Glad you survived the listen! We get it and ultimately take the compliment. It’s fun having one’s thoughts provoked!

J&B
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/19/20 09:54 AM
Originally Posted By: Birchwood
Hi Janice and Bud,

What beautiful song! Such a nice melody and so wonderfully performed. Only you can sing it that way, Janice!
You all, including Peter, did a very good job on this song!
You almost forgot what sorrow you sang about. Maybe I have to criticize you on that...
and what coincidence I have posted a song myself about that worrisome times we live in. And I sang very angry, maybe even ugly. But that nasty world made me do that ;-)

But then you sang: 'all you have to do is pretend it’s just a play'. Well, there I became speechless. What a cynical, but also wonderful way of telling how to deal with it!
I don't think you need more compliments, otherwise you will walk beside your shoes (a Dutch proverb meaning: you become too vain).

Hans


Thank you Hans. Your thoughtful comments are greatly appreciated. Even more so because you understand what we were attempting to say. We will stay in our shoes!

J&B
Posted By: HearToLearn Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/19/20 04:29 PM
Ok, this song IS emotion! It's one of those songs that captures a feeling so well that you sort of lose sight that it's a song and feel like you've just witnessed something. It's a story told so unbelievably well.

To expand on that a little bit without going too far, The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald is one of those types of songs. I'm not saying this sounds like that, just the power of the writing and performance get you to that place.

You three have so expertly accomplished this through the use of a well-delivered melody and harmonies, fantastic guitar work, production, and extra attention to the details of the lyrics. Instead of using words like Mom or Dad you chose words like Mommy and Daddy. Those words I want really drive it home.

The feel has even taking on life in the cover photo. From what I've seen, a lot of your covers have a really cool blue Spectrum to them. The Earth Tones had me expecting something different, and it was delivered

I lend on the overall sobering subject matter. I commend you for bringing it into perspective for those of us who may have forgotten the fears of a child. it's especially poignant given the times were in.

I am sitting in sitting in a parking lot as I write this. And by right, I mean speak it into my phone. I'm quite certain there will be many typos and it's not overly easy for me to go back and put in correct. I'm getting better at not worrying about that and just getting the comment out. that's what's most important in a work as amazing as this is! Thank you so much for sharing this with us. It is truly top-notch in every aspect!
Posted By: Scott C Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/19/20 07:53 PM
Loved the intro. Love the tone of Peters guitar. Excellent vocal Janice. Professional level production. Well done
Posted By: Leon1 Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/19/20 09:06 PM
Janice, Bud and Peter

Heartfelt, poignant lyrics from Bud, superb singing from Janice (who would expect anything else) and tasteful guitar work from Peter. Great job by all.

I know Peter will particularly enjoy the Clapton comparison in the comments. In our early teens, he and I both bought our first guitars cause we dreamed of playing like EC. These days, Peter actually can. Me, I’m still strumming a few simple chords to help me write lyrics. Goes to show that dedication, hard work and perseverance pays off (and vice versa).

Regards,
Leon
Posted By: PeterF Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/19/20 10:14 PM
Originally Posted By: BlueAttitude
Really enjoyed this one!

Great writing, Bud, man I wish I had skills in that department! My favorite of many:

"a friend said her neighbor
was gonna go to hell
they went to a different church
was all she could tell"

Janice as always sounds great, love it when she brings in the harmonies.

Peter sounds a bit like Clapton to me on this one, very good indeed (cool ending!)

And a pro sounding mix to top it all off.

Excellent!


Thanks Dave - appreciate that!

Peter
Posted By: Crossroads Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/20/20 07:56 AM
Dear Janice, Bud & Peter,

this is really something special !!!

Thoughtful and heartfelt lyrics - Bud: KUDOS !!!. Janice you sing these outstanding lyrics with a deep emotion without any artificial sentimentality, that is just fantastic.

I love the arrangement and the overall sound of this production - oh Bud, you always get things right!

Peter, great playing (like usual).

Like I said, "This is really something special".

Stay healthy - there's more than just a storm ahead...

All the very, very best to all of you,

Stefan
Posted By: Guitarhacker Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/20/20 11:17 AM
This website forum is the hidden gem on the internet for the best, most original, and creative artists, songwriters, and their songs.

THIS song is one of the reasons why.

Nicely done.
Posted By: BabuMusic Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/20/20 11:37 AM
Love your genius, Bud, and Janice's superb delivery. Excellent song with so much sadness. Peter's guitar work is superb as always. What a great song!
Posted By: floyd jane Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/20/20 11:59 AM
Janice, Bud, Peter...

Superb.

Everything is just as it should be to tell your story.

A solid write. Nice progression in the lyric/story. A well-matched melody.
The BAND does its job perfectly - as does the guy who put them in place...
Peter's guitar work is wonderfully supportive.
Seems silly to even mention Janice's vocal. PERFECTION.

A crystal clear mix. Sounds SO good on my monitors!!

One to be proud of (of course, they all are...)

fj
Posted By: PeterF Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/20/20 06:30 PM
Originally Posted By: jannesan
Nice to hear an original from you and what a touching one it is! Hopeless story, powerful lyric writing. I was expecting something relieving in the end, but that's the way things usually are in real life, no happy endings. But luckily the excellent production makes me smile, Janice's voice and the guitars sing the ode of sadness very gently.

Janne


Appreciate the comments Janne.

Peter
Posted By: Ezekiel's Storm Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/20/20 07:11 PM
This is one of your best. Bud, I really like how your crafted that first verse to lead smoothly into the chorus--that really hooked me.
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/20/20 09:23 PM
Originally Posted By: MarioD
I wish I could write like Bud.
I wish I could sing like Janice.
I wish I could play guitar like Peter.

After hearing something so professional it almost makes me want to sell my instruments.

Everything is perfect, as usual from you all!



Good grief. We’d love to have your instrumental, compositional and arrangement chops!

Thank you!

J&B
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/21/20 02:31 PM
Originally Posted By: rayc
The narrative & perspective are terrific.
"that's just the way things are"
Says it all really.
The lies we tell children, (science, faith & education are full of them as stepping stones to further understanding), form the adult they become.
Cool song on all levels.
Thank you.


We thank you Ray. Your reaction to that line is exactly the way we felt. Your thoughtful perspective is greatly appreciated.

J&B

Originally Posted By: cubanpete
Janice and Bud, after all the comments here is hard for me to add anything to top it. Anything that you all do is simply great. Production, vocals ,lyrics, you name it. All perfect!

Mike B.


Thanks Mike!

J&B
Posted By: PeterF Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/21/20 05:59 PM
Originally Posted By: furry
Oh Man, this is simply outstanding. Janice your voice is perfect for ballads, and it's time you did an album.
Peter, brilliant guitar work as always


Thanks Graham.

Peter
Posted By: TuneMonger Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/21/20 06:40 PM
Well, I bet a lot of full grown adults wonder the same stuff every day, I know I do. I appreciate that in mentioning religion you touched on the good and the bad in it. Production was first rate as usual. And that voice! I'm out of superlatives. Thanks!
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/21/20 10:21 PM
Originally Posted By: jptjptjpt
What a collaboration and with BIAB too! Great lyrics. Absolutely outstanding. Wonderful and full vocals. Beautiful Great guitar playing. I love that style. Someone said Eric Claptop. Yes . I'd throw in Mick Taylor too. Great production (mix, etc.) too.


Thanks for the great supportive comments. We all appreciate them. And, hey, your mention of Mick Taylor was very cool. We love his playing!

J&B
Posted By: Rustyspoon# Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/22/20 05:24 PM
J@B + Peter,
Beautiful and sad original! I jumped into listening and was pretty sure I knew it. Turns out I did not smile Well, just wait 100(?) years and it will become a public domain... and somebody will re arrange and re-post it here. Very well done! Great teamwork! Thank you for sharing.

Misha.
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/22/20 08:28 PM
Originally Posted By: HearToLearn
Ok, this song IS emotion! It's one of those songs that captures a feeling so well that you sort of lose sight that it's a song and feel like you've just witnessed something. It's a story told so unbelievably well.

To expand on that a little bit without going too far, The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald is one of those types of songs. I'm not saying this sounds like that, just the power of the writing and performance get you to that place.

You three have so expertly accomplished this through the use of a well-delivered melody and harmonies, fantastic guitar work, production, and extra attention to the details of the lyrics. Instead of using words like Mom or Dad you chose words like Mommy and Daddy. Those words I want really drive it home.

The feel has even taking on life in the cover photo. From what I've seen, a lot of your covers have a really cool blue Spectrum to them. The Earth Tones had me expecting something different, and it was delivered

I lend on the overall sobering subject matter. I commend you for bringing it into perspective for those of us who may have forgotten the fears of a child. it's especially poignant given the times were in.

I am sitting in sitting in a parking lot as I write this. And by right, I mean speak it into my phone. I'm quite certain there will be many typos and it's not overly easy for me to go back and put in correct. I'm getting better at not worrying about that and just getting the comment out. that's what's most important in a work as amazing as this is! Thank you so much for sharing this with us. It is truly top-notch in every aspect!


One thing that will always brighten our day is a review like this! We hugely appreciate your comments on the write. I (Bud) did my best to try and present it from a child’s view w/o it sounding stilted. And thanks for mentioning the photo. I thought it was appropriate for the tune.

We thank you for all!

J&B
Posted By: Al-David Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/22/20 11:58 PM
WOW!

This so worth the price of admission ... plus a fine dinner afterwards. there is so much fabulous talent on this forum. You two put out the cream of the crop entertainment in these parts ... and a lot of other parts, I would imagine.

Janice shines on this ... she always does, but this one is extra special. The harmony is beyond sweet. And Bud, you knob twisting talent is to die for.

Wishing you both everything good. take care ...

Alan
Posted By: PeterF Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/23/20 12:04 AM
Originally Posted By: MarioD
I wish I could write like Bud.
I wish I could sing like Janice.
I wish I could play guitar like Peter.

After hearing something so professional it almost makes me want to sell my instruments.

Everything is perfect, as usual from you all!



Appreciate that Mario!

Peter
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/23/20 09:17 AM
Originally Posted By: Scott C
Loved the intro. Love the tone of Peters guitar. Excellent vocal Janice. Professional level production. Well done


Thanks for listening and commenting Scott.

J&B
Posted By: edshaw Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/23/20 09:22 AM
All around powerhouse of a track.
Posted By: PeterF Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/23/20 05:04 PM
Originally Posted By: rayc
The narrative & perspective are terrific.
"that's just the way things are"
Says it all really.
The lies we tell children, (science, faith & education are full of them as stepping stones to further understanding), form the adult they become.
Cool song on all levels.
Thank you.


Thanks Ray.

Peter
Posted By: PeterF Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/24/20 03:16 AM
Originally Posted By: jptjptjpt
What a collaboration and with BIAB too! Great lyrics. Absolutely outstanding. Wonderful and full vocals. Beautiful Great guitar playing. I love that style. Someone said Eric Claptop. Yes . I'd throw in Mick Taylor too. Great production (mix, etc.) too.


Thanks a lot (head swells).

Peter
Posted By: animarorecords Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/24/20 03:31 AM
Janice, Bud and Peter,

Wonderful collaboration!
Very nice intro guitar.
Very pop with a lot of Folk feel.
Janice's Vocals are excellent as usual.
Great production.
Enjoyed my listen a lot.

Best regards.

Shigeki Adachi
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/24/20 08:17 PM
Originally Posted By: Leon1
Janice, Bud and Peter

Heartfelt, poignant lyrics from Bud, superb singing from Janice (who would expect anything else) and tasteful guitar work from Peter. Great job by all.

I know Peter will particularly enjoy the Clapton comparison in the comments. In our early teens, he and I both bought our first guitars cause we dreamed of playing like EC. These days, Peter actually can. Me, I’m still strumming a few simple chords to help me write lyrics. Goes to show that dedication, hard work and perseverance pays off (and vice versa).

Regards,
Leon
Posted By: PeterF Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/24/20 11:04 PM
Originally Posted By: HearToLearn
Ok, this song IS emotion! It's one of those songs that captures a feeling so well that you sort of lose sight that it's a song and feel like you've just witnessed something. It's a story told so unbelievably well.

To expand on that a little bit without going too far, The Wreck of the Edmund Fitzgerald is one of those types of songs. I'm not saying this sounds like that, just the power of the writing and performance get you to that place.

You three have so expertly accomplished this through the use of a well-delivered melody and harmonies, fantastic guitar work, production, and extra attention to the details of the lyrics. Instead of using words like Mom or Dad you chose words like Mommy and Daddy. Those words I want really drive it home.

The feel has even taking on life in the cover photo. From what I've seen, a lot of your covers have a really cool blue Spectrum to them. The Earth Tones had me expecting something different, and it was delivered

I lend on the overall sobering subject matter. I commend you for bringing it into perspective for those of us who may have forgotten the fears of a child. it's especially poignant given the times were in.

I am sitting in sitting in a parking lot as I write this. And by right, I mean speak it into my phone. I'm quite certain there will be many typos and it's not overly easy for me to go back and put in correct. I'm getting better at not worrying about that and just getting the comment out. that's what's most important in a work as amazing as this is! Thank you so much for sharing this with us. It is truly top-notch in every aspect!


Thanks a lot - we all appreciate that review.

Peter
Posted By: bluage Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/25/20 05:47 PM
Dear 'Bud', Ms. Janice and 'PeterF'...

I think a song could be 'upbeat' even while it expresses sorrow, regret, anger, loss, or any other unwelcome feeling, because the act of setting to music the sentiments expressed in the lyrics is in itself an act of faith and hope. People normally don't raise their voices in song to purposefully make themselves feel bad -- they do it to release the bad feelings and free themselves from despair, as any worthwhile 'blues' song does.

Thoughtful lyrics and Ms. Janice's gentle, empathetic vocal treatment of them make the song, The Way Things Are, something to take to heart. 'PeterF', I believe I have not heard you play an electric guitar in such a somber, questioning manner (to my ears, at least), but your performance cleared a quiet space for itself and deeply affected my experience of listening to the song.

'Bud', I think I would not use the word 'mixing' to describe what you do on the production end of a song -- instead, I would say that you tend to your 'sound gardens' with care, sensitivity, and love, even.

If there are 'intelligent' aliens out there in the cosmos somewhere, I hope they'll detect this song, be moved by it, and come to Earth to help us fix things up laugh !!!

LOREN
Posted By: Tangmo Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/25/20 10:52 PM
A very poignant listen. Janice's vocal very well covers the weary resignation of a parent in this world. The change of meter under the title line perfectly frames this. "Enjoy" is not a word to use, but it was a time of listening and reflecting and identifying that was much appreciated. The band softly supports and the mix sits just right. Peter leads the band here, even though I expect he came "last". Wonderfully summed up in his play.
Posted By: Sundance Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/26/20 01:50 AM
Love the "...wish on a star, ...that's just the way things are" hook Bud. One of my new fav Janice vocals and loved the guitar tone Peter used - fit like a glove.
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/26/20 09:48 AM
Originally Posted By: Crossroads
Dear Janice, Bud & Peter,

this is really something special !!!

Thoughtful and heartfelt lyrics - Bud: KUDOS !!!. Janice you sing these outstanding lyrics with a deep emotion without any artificial sentimentality, that is just fantastic.

I love the arrangement and the overall sound of this production - oh Bud, you always get things right!

Peter, great playing (like usual).

Like I said, "This is really something special".

Stay healthy - there's more than just a storm ahead...

All the very, very best to all of you,

Stefan


Thank you Stefan. You are very generous with your comments. I (Bud) am obviously biased but I think the lack of artificial sentimentality is a hallmark of Janice’s vocals. She puts her heart into them. I much appreciate you mentioning that!

J&B
Posted By: PeterF Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/26/20 05:31 PM
Originally Posted By: Scott C
Loved the intro. Love the tone of Peters guitar. Excellent vocal Janice. Professional level production. Well done


Thanks Scott.

Peter
Posted By: Greg Johnson Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/26/20 06:04 PM
WOW!!! This is a forum Wall of Famer for sure!! Everything is beautifully done!! Everything!!! An instant classic!!! Take care. Greg
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/27/20 11:40 AM
Originally Posted By: Guitarhacker
This website forum is the hidden gem on the internet for the best, most original, and creative artists, songwriters, and their songs.

THIS song is one of the reasons why.

Nicely done.


Thanks Herb. We very much appreciate that!!

J&B

Originally Posted By: BabuMusic
Love your genius, Bud, and Janice's superb delivery. Excellent song with so much sadness. Peter's guitar work is superb as always. What a great song!


Thanks for listening and commenting!

J&B
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/28/20 10:37 AM
Originally Posted By: floyd jane
Janice, Bud, Peter...

Superb.

Everything is just as it should be to tell your story.

A solid write. Nice progression in the lyric/story. A well-matched melody.
The BAND does its job perfectly - as does the guy who put them in place...
Peter's guitar work is wonderfully supportive.
Seems silly to even mention Janice's vocal. PERFECTION.

A crystal clear mix. Sounds SO good on my monitors!!

One to be proud of (of course, they all are...)

fj


What a bright spot! We’ve only read it about a hundred times smile Obviously given your vocal, writing and production chops this review is very special to us.

Thanks...a bunch!

J&B
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/29/20 05:00 PM
Originally Posted By: Ezekiel's Storm
This is one of your best. Bud, I really like how your crafted that first verse to lead smoothly into the chorus--that really hooked me.


Thanks and we appreciate you mentioning the arrangement!

J&B
Posted By: dani48 Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/30/20 04:52 PM
Hi, Janice.Bud & Peter !:))


This tune is very, very good
in every aspect, Janice´s vocals
Bud´s mixing and Peter´s playing
not to forget those lyrics !
What a wonderful collab
I like it very much !

Cheers
Dani
Posted By: Robertkc Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/30/20 09:10 PM
J&B,
I think this is one of your best lyrics, Bud; engaging,accurate details of a child`s view and you can just hear the mum & dad`s caring, universal response.
Wonderful warmth and phrasing in Janice`s vocal- of course!!

Robert
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/31/20 10:09 AM
Originally Posted By: TuneMonger
Well, I bet a lot of full grown adults wonder the same stuff every day, I know I do. I appreciate that in mentioning religion you touched on the good and the bad in it. Production was first rate as usual. And that voice! I'm out of superlatives. Thanks!

Thanks for the listen and the kind remarks!

J&B

Originally Posted By: Rustyspoon#
J@B + Peter,
Beautiful and sad original! I jumped into listening and was pretty sure I knew it. Turns out I did not smile Well, just wait 100(?) years and it will become a public domain... and somebody will re arrange and re-post it here. Very well done! Great teamwork! Thank you for sharing.

Misha.


Thank you Misha. Glad you liked it. Cool little scenario you painted
Posted By: F.M.M. Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 03/31/20 02:01 PM
Hi Janice, Bud and Peter man this is good!! the vocal was super great changes guitar work fit perfect loved the lyrics thanks for sharing Eric
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 04/01/20 11:03 PM
Originally Posted By: Al-David
WOW!

This so worth the price of admission ... plus a fine dinner afterwards. there is so much fabulous talent on this forum. You two put out the cream of the crop entertainment in these parts ... and a lot of other parts, I would imagine.

Janice shines on this ... she always does, but this one is extra special. The harmony is beyond sweet. And Bud, you knob twisting talent is to die for.

Wishing you both everything good. take care ...

Alan


Thanks a bunch Al and, man, did we ever love your repost with Di singing!

J&B
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 04/03/20 03:37 PM
Originally Posted By: edshaw
All around powerhouse of a track.


Thanks Ed.

J&B

Originally Posted By: animarorecords
Janice, Bud and Peter,

Wonderful collaboration!
Very nice intro guitar.
Very pop with a lot of Folk feel.
Janice's Vocals are excellent as usual.
Great production.
Enjoyed my listen a lot.

Best regards.

Shigeki Adachi


Thanks for the nice comments Shigeki. They are appreciated.

J&B
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 04/04/20 07:10 PM
Originally Posted By: bluage
Dear 'Bud', Ms. Janice and 'PeterF'...

I think a song could be 'upbeat' even while it expresses sorrow, regret, anger, loss, or any other unwelcome feeling, because the act of setting to music the sentiments expressed in the lyrics is in itself an act of faith and hope. People normally don't raise their voices in song to purposefully make themselves feel bad -- they do it to release the bad feelings and free themselves from despair, as any worthwhile 'blues' song does.

Thoughtful lyrics and Ms. Janice's gentle, empathetic vocal treatment of them make the song, The Way Things Are, something to take to heart. 'PeterF', I believe I have not heard you play an electric guitar in such a somber, questioning manner (to my ears, at least), but your performance cleared a quiet space for itself and deeply affected my experience of listening to the song.

'Bud', I think I would not use the word 'mixing' to describe what you do on the production end of a song -- instead, I would say that you tend to your 'sound gardens' with care, sensitivity, and love, even.

If there are 'intelligent' aliens out there in the cosmos somewhere, I hope they'll detect this song, be moved by it, and come to Earth to help us fix things up laugh !!!

LOREN


Loren, thank you for offering us some confidence that what we are attempting is perhaps meaningful. One never knows. But reading comments like this are inspiring to say the least. The attention to detail and eloquence in your descriptions never escapes us. We deeply appreciate and cherish it.

J&B
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 04/04/20 07:16 PM
Originally Posted By: Tangmo
A very poignant listen. Janice's vocal very well covers the weary resignation of a parent in this world. The change of meter under the title line perfectly frames this. "Enjoy" is not a word to use, but it was a time of listening and reflecting and identifying that was much appreciated. The band softly supports and the mix sits just right. Peter leads the band here, even though I expect he came "last". Wonderfully summed up in his play.


Thank you. Peter has a genuine feel for supporting not only the groove but also the feel of the lyric. We are glad you liked it.

J&B


Originally Posted By: Sundance
Love the "...wish on a star, ...that's just the way things are" hook Bud. One of my new fav Janice vocals and loved the guitar tone Peter used - fit like a glove.


Thank you Josie!

J&B

Originally Posted By: Greg Johnson
WOW!!! This is a forum Wall of Famer for sure!! Everything is beautifully done!! Everything!!! An instant classic!!! Take care. Greg


Thanks Greg.

J&B

Originally Posted By: dani48
Hi, Janice.Bud & Peter !:))
This tune is very, very good
in every aspect, Janice´s vocals
Bud´s mixing and Peter´s playing
not to forget those lyrics !
What a wonderful collab
I like it very much !

Cheers
Dani


Thanks for listening and commenting Dani.

J&B
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 04/04/20 11:46 PM
Originally Posted By: Robertkc
J&B,
I think this is one of your best lyrics, Bud; engaging,accurate details of a child`s view and you can just hear the mum & dad`s caring, universal response.
Wonderful warmth and phrasing in Janice`s vocal- of course!!

Robert


Thanks Robert for all and especially for mentioning the lyric. Your description nails what we hoped to achieve. MUCH appreciated.

J&B

Originally Posted By: F.M.M.
Hi Janice, Bud and Peter man this is good!! the vocal was super great changes guitar work fit perfect loved the lyrics thanks for sharing Eric


Thank you Eric. We are glad you liked it.

J&B
Posted By: David Snyder Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 04/05/20 11:01 AM
Wow, this sounds great y'all.

Beautiful production, excellent guitar work, and stunning vocals as usual.

smile
Posted By: Janice & Bud Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 04/14/20 04:01 PM
Originally Posted By: David Snyder
Wow, this sounds great y'all.

Beautiful production, excellent guitar work, and stunning vocals as usual.

smile


Thank David. Apologies for the late response. We do appreciate it. Stay safe.
Posted By: Bawb Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 04/14/20 08:08 PM
Hi Folks (Janice and Bud),

Wow, really poignant lyrics. Captures the "lost age of innocence" we all live in.

Yet, the vocals somehow bring a soothing touch to them...

Wow
Posted By: Torrey Bliss Re: The Way Things Are (with PeterF) - 04/15/20 06:16 PM
J&B and Peter, this is a good one! The lyrics really penetrate the heart! Great vocal perfomance Janice! Peter's guitar has such good feeling in it...the bends and vibratos are super! As always from you guys the song is top notch! Thanks, Torrey
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