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Hi fellows. Every day I try to find some time to read some posts on this forum. Some stuff is great and very informative. What I can not find is this... There is a showcase of songs, here is a songwriting thread. Is there one which deals with critique of specific songs/tunes?? Let me explain. I am not a professional musician in any way, music is strictly a hobby and joy for me. But I do want to get better at it. Some musicians are very protective of their stuff and take suggestions or opinions that might not seem positive to them very painfully. To me, and I am sure to quite a few people, healthy critique might be very beneficial. For example, it could work like a "showcase" thread but only for suggestions/critique. Sort of song making 101 (or 501). Meaning, post would have to contain song! No "songless" posts! For those who feel that there might be something they can take from suggestions, not just "showcasing" music. For example, I listen to the track of a fellow member and I just feel that bass would feel better if it was quieter ... So I say it . Or vocals are too dry, say it....Basically specific thread for those who want a critical, but respectful ear. Not specifically professional  just "how it feels". P.S. Showcase is ok, but comments are 99% sweet and positive, not much critique there. Let me know what you think about it. Thanks, Mike.
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There is no reason that you can't do what you are describing - in the Showcase.
Simply start your post by stating that you want critiques. You can even say something to the affect of "hard critiques" - with whatever aspect you are wanting feedback on. The subject line could have some type notice, too... "Critiques Wanted: My New Song"... I'm sure you would get some feedback from all sides...
And... you can take those comments/suggestions with a grain of salt if you choose. I have had critiques of song lyric and structure (in the Showcase) that were some of the most ridiculous song suggestions I've ever heard...
And, you can let folks know - in the Showcase - that you think there is some aspect of a production that could use "a tweak" - if done in a respectable, polite manner. (I remixed a song recently based on comments about an odd sounding harmony).
(I think we have too many separate sections on this forum as it is... just a personal observation, of course)
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Yes, I agree with Floyd. I will often end a post with "all comments welcome", or if I'm looking for feedback on particular aspect I will ask for it specifically.
And I have no problem in providing feedback to others if I hear something in their mix that I think could use improvements.
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Hmmm... FJ...Can not agree with you.
99% of comments are not suggestive in any way at "showcase", but praising.
Which works as designed... but I believe even a name "SHOWCASE" suggests a final product.
What I propose is a thread that deals with... not fully baked things. For people with open mind about their tunes, mostly for people who want critical opinion, not "showcasing".
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Just because people are generally nice (in the Showcase) does not mean that you cannot get valid critiques if you made it a point to ask.
Why not try it and see what happens?
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FJ, simple...
I could not find anything similar, and that might be because people are shy to ask or do not want to ask, because as I mentioned "Showcase" in my mind as probably in other people minds suggests a finished product.
From dictionary:
showcase:
exhibit; display.
"the albums showcase his production skills"
What I am talking about is not "showing" skills, but actually asking for improvement suggestions.
In similar manner there are art shows and art workshops. Which are very different in their nature. In one, people display their art in other people learn.
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You are posting in the correct forum.
"Discussions, Tips-n-Tricks, Resources and Questions about Songwriting"
Regards,
Bob
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I have given you a valid suggestion.
Other people HAVE posted "unfinished" work in the Showcase and asked for valid critiques. And they get it. Granted, most often the songs in the Showcase are (considered by their creator) "finished" and most people do want folks to "appreciate" their work.
BUT...that does not mean you cannot get valid critiques IF YOU ASK FOR IT.
You seem unwilling to do so and simply want to argue a point of your own making.
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FJ, Ok.
Let me try it your way. There is a tune I finished this morning. I will try to post it now to "showcase" to see if you are correct about asking for suggestions.
Thank you.
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Let me know what you think about it. Thanks, Mike. Well.... IMO.... This particular subject has come up in the past. The Showcase is generally an 'encouragement' and it's all good sort forum and to 'showcase' what BIAB is capable of.....which is fine. As Floyd states....post your song in the "Songwriting" forum and just be very specific about the aspects of the song you want a critique on.Many years ago I would politely offer "suggestions" based on a poster's request. I rarely do anymore for a few reasons. Candidly submitted comments can easily be taken personally by those who have thin skin vs. having the skin of a snow tire. I'm critical about what I like, the genre that is actually appealing to me or what I perceive to be vapid, cookie cutter creations. Unless a song actually moves me with well chosen, non cliche subject matter and well recorded I stay out of the commentaries. Why would I think my candid assessment of their creation would be well received anyway especially if they don't like my material. If I hear a song that has musical merit/original creativity to me....I might just comment. But, about a year or so ago I posted a request for only 'mix' comments only on a few of my BIAB songs. I'd never post a song asking 'what do you think of my (masterpiece:)) creation'. I did not ask for comments about liking my song/material because they may think I suck at song writing....but, they kindly listened and I appreciated ALL the "mix" responses/suggestions. If people post their material on the public forums they should not get offended by anyone's comments knowing there will always be someone who is honest about their critique but the poster will end up being offended in some fashion. I'll visit your 'critique my new song' thread and see how it evolves. That's my take on it....back to topic.
Last edited by chulaivet1966; 10/20/18 05:52 AM.
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chulaivet1966,
Love your "snow tire skin" comment.
This is a perfect song theme/title!!!
Well put!
My problem is that hearing "own" stuff is always tricky, I always appreciate and take honest side opinions seriously. Even from friends that have no clue about music making.
Thank you.
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chulaivet1966, Love your "snow tire epidermis?" comment.
This is a perfect song theme/title!!!
My problem is that hearing me "own" stuff is always tricky, I always appreciate and take honest side opinions seriously. Even from friends that have no clue about music making. Being specific in one's request is the key. I've always liked to write. It takes me a while flesh out the story but I'm quite comfortable with my subject choices and lyric writing (no, doesn't mean anyone else thinks it has any merit) so I wouldn't ask for opinions on those aspects. I'm concerned more with how my mix translates to other monitor systems. I use KRK Rockit 8's and any generous listener may be using Tannoy's or JBL's. That's the most important aspect to me to get a feel for. Back to topic.......
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chulaivet1966, I agree with most of the things you said. Especially about specific questions. The thing that troubles me the most is mixing. Sadly, I am a bit sloppy at that. I am getting a bit better, after I discovered that for mixing it is better (in my view) to use open or semi-open back headphones. I had tough time with settling on monitor speakers. I considered KRK Rockit, but then got Roland DM-20 at great price and decided to keep them. The "professional" monitors are out of my budget. I used cheaper Edirol's in the past, so I knew what to expect. Like you, I am concerned how mix translates to other systems. As Floyd Jane suggested, I posted my recent tune to "showcase" section and within few hours the replies I got shared a view that mix has issues which I believe are in part of the "how mix translates" dilemma Thank you.
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Here's a single mixing tip I got recently about how it sounds on different set-ups. Mix in mono. Certainly set your tracks to luscious stereo, but do your main mix (levels, EQ, compression, sweetening) in mono. Unless one is wearing good phones, or good-earbuds AND sitting still, mono (more or less) is how they will hear your song. Mixing in mono will get you more quickly to good results across all systems. Then open it up and feel the glory.
A bonus tip: use a professionally mixed reference track (your basic genre, instrumentation, overall "feel". Set it on an aux bus and reference it frequently to see if your mix is close. I've chosen Steely Dan recordings as mine. They were less sloppy and muddy than I tend to be, and I like the way they sound. Pick something you like.
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The thing that troubles me the most is mixing. Sadly, I am a bit sloppy at that. I am getting a bit better, after I discovered that for mixing it is better (in my view) to use open or semi-open back headphones. First....I never mix on head phones. Second....anyone can get a good (acceptable on most systems without being anal) mix on their monitors whether their cheapies or not. The challenge is that over time one must get to know their monitors. Knowing what frequencies/instruments that may always need an EQ massage before the mix process. That takes time and some aural focus when you're starting to mix and trying to employ mix suggestions from others. But...that's just me....to each their own.
Last edited by chulaivet1966; 10/20/18 12:20 PM.
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MY SONGS...Audiophile BIAB 2024
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Rusty/Mike,
There are a lot of people on the forum who are professional-level mixers, producers and songwriters. That is a resource to be valued and honored and treated with respect.
The showcase, I think, is generally a place where people like to post songs that they are proud of and get a little encouragement—in a world that is filled with a lot of discouragement.
But, if you want experts on the forum to critique a certain part of your mix, I suggest you be specific, as others have cited, because it takes time to listen to a drum mix, for example, and make meaningful suggestions.
So my advice would be, let the showcase continue to be a place of encouragement for those who are working so hard and want to celebrate with their friends and show off what they have done.
That seems to be the general spirit and I applaud it. It’s how you grow. 99% encouragement and 1% helpful suggestion is a good mix I have found over the years. UNLESS people specifically ask for something else.
If YOU on the other hand want hard criticism, ask for it, but, again, be specific on what you think you want to improve.
As a closing FYI, most people give praise remarks because everybody is busy and trying to cover all their bases returning favors for people who have kindly listened to their songs and given encouragement in return. It has nothing to do with being disingenuous.
Mixing is really, really, really, really hard. It takes years just to make the smallest improvements.
There is a deep learning curve with today's technology, so we should all be thankful there is a place like this where people can learn in a respectful environment.
Disrespect, as you know, kills everything.
So, dive in and learn. I have made some great friends on this forum, and have wonderful mentors here. It is a marvelous place if you treat people well.
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chulaivet1966, I must disagree with you about headphones mixing for two reasons. 1) this has been a loong debate...I am on Noel side (Noel, I read your post on mixing technique, thank you.)to use/alternate between headphones/speakers. 2) is more serious .. I do not have much choice...my son goes to bed at 8:30  So for most of mixing, headphones are my best friends. The EQ massage...on my mixes I need a combination of skilled chiropractor and a strong handed Thai massage therapist to gain flexibility. David, we have somewhat different goals. I am not a musician, just a hobbyist. My goal is not to "produce" or to gain "popularity" but just improve my flow of doing things as well as the output. I am always trying to be my best with people who are respectful to me. Me thinks you did not grasp the point I was trying to make, which I still believe is valid. To sum it up semi-haiku style: Would be nice to have a workshop-thread based on actual audio material as reference for those who seek specific or general advise on particular tune or such. Thank you!
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If I've made a "constructive criticism", then I feel obligated to offer a constructive fix. Problem is, I've got problems of my own with mixing. I know a few "fixes", but they can be arrived at in various ways. Nobody needs them all. Which one (or a couple) work for you depends on your genre (and it's expectations), your own taste and preference, and the taste and preference of the one giving counsel--as well as your skills and "equipment", both hard and soft. All I can do is tell you what I heard and in the broadest terms possible what might work better.
I've been clicking "play" on sites like this for most of more than 20 years. Only once in thousands of listens have I wanted what I heard to suck. What I offer in advice (take it or leave it) is determined by what I hear. I know within a few bars "where" the person I'm listening to is in terms of talent and sound. I try to respond accordingly (and sometimes fail).
I'm new here and just beginning to learn who the "players" are. Still, I don't know them well enough to know their own goals with music. I'm not even sure about my own. So I don't know if it is someone who wants to improve over time, or someone who wants to work this particular mix to the highest level possible, or even if it's someone who doesn't care that much about the mix if what they've done gets across what they want to "showcase". I'm OK either way, for their sake. I don't have time, however, to run comparison listens for subjective takes on mixing decisions.
There are only a few mixing "squicks" for me. 1. Constant or momentary over-compression. 2. Heavily muddied EQ balancing. 3. Levels of vocals (if any)--either too loud or too soft. 4. Overall master levels (too loud or too soft). That's pretty much it.
If someone has done a decent job with those, then I'm happy enough. If they have done a good job with all or most of these with the occasional "problem", then I figure they know at least as much as I do about what they are doing and don't require anything more than a passing comment. If someone demonstrates little or no competence (or care) on any or all those things, then I'm not the one to teach them in a song review. I'm just a guy on the internet.
Clearly there are those among us who are artful and masterful at mixing. Seems to me, however, on this forum that they are also making their own music...in addition to living their own lives. You mentioned time-restraints.
Maybe in addition to seeking comment and or advise on a mix, you might also mention what your own goals are with the song. People will either play along or they won't. Who can blame them?
Last edited by Tangmo; 10/20/18 09:17 PM.
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Bonus mixing tip: If you hear that two instruments are battling over a frequency range, if is better to cut than to boost.
On the other hand, there is another method if it is, say, two guitars that by nature are going to share frequencies. A parametric EQ is, probably, the best tool to use for this.
Pair the instruments. Determine which is the dominant. Find the best center frequency that delivers the "punch" you are looking for, whether is is high, mid, or mid-low. When you've found that frequency, boost it 2 or 3 db. Doing this will "roll-up" neighboring frequencies depending on how wide you've set your range. Then with the same settings, lower the gain on the other instrument the same--2 or 3 db. It may sound thinner solo, but combined it is the aural equivalent of lead vocals and harmonies. The goal is to stop the two similar instruments from sharing too much of the same frequencies, not to eliminate the frequencies.
Again, do this in mono first. When you can clearly make out what each of the two is doing, then you are "there". That's the fastest way to get there with EQ--mix in mono.
The above advice is in addition to, not a replacement for, what's been shared by others.
An observation and question: Even though I'm just getting started, so far I haven't seemed to have to do much EQ work with real-tracks--at least from the same style. Is that anybody else's experience?
Last edited by Tangmo; 10/21/18 06:06 AM.
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Charlie...
You could of said it in single line, a quote from your post:
"BIAB doesn't seem fitted to be a mixing seminar forum for me"
I feel that you probably did not understand the concept that I proposed.
I proposed a thread where people who want help would ask for it, based on specific audio.
(Mixing or non mixing issues)
If I am filling the tune with some 70%-80% content from BIAB, I think I can ask people who are familiar with that content. People who mixed with that content!
Thanks.
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<<< You could of said it in single line....
I feel that you probably did not understand the concept that I proposed. >>>
I understand your concept and your comment. I have graciously removed my wordy comment.....
BIAB Ultra Pak+ 2024:RB 2024, Latest builds: Dell Optiplex 7040 Desktop; Windows-10-64 bit, Intel Core i7-6700 3.4GHz CPU and 16 GB Ram Memory.
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Tangmo,
Thank you for detailed post! As you mentioned referencing audio....
I am lucky owner of Neutron 2. I picked it up at very reasonable price because I wanted couple of plugins within main VST, but never went beyond of what I was comfortable with.
Janice & Bud suggested yesterday very similar approach to what you are describing. This morning I located the "extra" plugin within the Neutron suite, which is magical. It is called "Tonal control" It analyzes reference track and shows your frequencies and how they stack up against targeted "feel". Then it lets you tweak EQ for individual channels in single VST window. I am overwhelmed with fantastic response that people gave. Most importantly, views shared many similarities which focused on couple of items that I should take more seriously when mixing.
Thank you!
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I proposed a thread where people who want help would ask for it, based on specific audio. (Mixing or non mixing issues) There are multiple paid and free web sites that offer exactly what you are proposing. One of the websites, +++ Mix Challenge +++ accepts audio files for use in the contests. +++ Modern Mixing +++ offers prizes for winning mixes. Another forum I'm a member of has a section VERY similar to what you're requesting. The Cakewalk forum "Song" section is very well known for the critiques members provide. +++ HERE +++ is a sample thread. In my mind, the public face of the forum is more about encouraging others and praising effort than it is about critiques. I do know that many members private message other members with ideas and analysis "off the record". But even then the messages are gentle and offered only after each member feels a personal connection is established.
Jim Fogle - 2024 BiaB (1111) RB (5) Ultra+ PAK DAWs: Cakewalk by BandLab (CbB) - Standalone: Zoom MRS-8 Laptop: i3 Win 10, 8GB ram 500GB HDD Desktop: i7 Win 11, 12GB ram 256GB SSD, 4 TB HDD Music at: https://fogle622.wix.com/fogle622-audio-home
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The EQ massage...on my mixes I need a combination of skilled chiropractor and a strong handed Thai massage therapist to gain flexibility.
BOLD: chuckle....I think we've all been there when our amount of tracks becomes sonically unwieldy and listening to the song ad nauseum isn't helping matters. For the record: my comment was only that I never mix on phones. Not to infer that others should not. There are different approaches to arrive at the same quality result. We all have developed our own way to proceed when we are at the 'mix' stage and it's not for me to lecture others how they should proceed. I'll only comment and others can assess if it works for them. When I begin the 'mix' process my first few mixes I always monitor at very low volume.Not moderate volume or loud volume....very low volume through my 32 year old pair of Tascam S1010M's. (powered, with 3 inch speakers) If I were in a different room than your child my mixing volume would not be bothersome at all. That's the first rule I employ when I approach the 'mix' process. I have other personal 'rules' I adhere to also. Just wanted to clarify those points. That "Thai massage" path is sounding pretty appealing to me. Back to topic.....
Last edited by chulaivet1966; 10/21/18 07:06 AM.
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Jim, Sorry to say, but I do not see the reason behind your post.
BIAB is a composing/arranger software, Realband is kind of DAW.
People record music/ discuss all aspects of music making. Here is the forum, where people share ideas and techniques. I do not see anything wrong with me asking or requesting something that I do not believe is out of line with PG forum.
My point is, you can discuss music until smokes comes out from computer keyboard, but unless you hear it, all of that would be just typed words.
In my opinion, it is very logical to have thread on music creating forum that deals specifically with specific audio and that has those audio samples. Especially when BIAB is used to make these!
But hey, it is me. I suggested a thought, that's all.
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Yes, the tonal balance control that comes with Neutron 2 is great! I use that here all the time. I set the target to “modern” and enable the fine display mode. Then you can left click (I think, I’m not on my music computer) with your mouse, zoom right over the problem areas and you can hear exactly where the problem is.
I have also loaded a target song into the tonal balance control from time to time if I want to emulate a specific mix.
I saw your request for details on how I mixed the vocals in my latest song and I’m more than happy to share that. I’ll do that either later on this afternoon or on Monday.
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chulaivet1966,
Yep, I try to do it sometimes sitting 20 inches from monitors, which I believe are also 3" and listen mix on low volume.
I used to listen to mixes on AKG 240s, the vintage ones until few years ago drivers gave up completely. Went through couple of other brands, but was disappointed. Finally found a good set of open back AKG, that sound neutral and feel good on ears.
My goal is not to record full fledged songs, I like..hmmm how to put it right, more improvisation style things. Just to get idea out of the head. I rarely spend more than couple of days on song. Just want those mixes to sound acceptable to ear so I can come back to them at some point in my life when I have more time.
P.S. I liked your Time Travellin tune. Very positive!
Thanks,
Mike.
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Dave, Thank you!
Take your time. There is no rush.
As I mentioned, I am interested to know how vocal is routed. I really like it. It is upfront, not over saturated and yet warm, clear and most importantly (for me) not "overproduced", has a lot of life in it.
Thank you,
Mike.
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My goal is not to record full fledged songs, I like..hmmm how to put it right, more improvisation style things. Just to get idea out of the head. I rarely spend more than couple of days on song. Just want those mixes to sound acceptable to ear so I can come back to them at some point in my life when I have more time. I've had my AKG240DF's since the Pleistocene Epoch.....light on the head, clear sounding and I still think they're great. I approve of your mixing at low volume. Hmmmm.... If you're not actually doing 'full fledged songs' and writing 'more improvisation style things' that allows you far more subjective decision making on the final mix as mixing an actual song does have some default approaches and expectations by many that may comment....me included. Sounds like you're more into esoteric/interpretive/sound track pieces. Hopefully you got some sound advice to use in this thread. (Sidebar: it's very kind of you to give a listen and comment favorably on Time Traveling. I actually like the song myself and it took a few weeks to flesh out the lyrics/story line/imagery to my satisfaction. The time traveling concept has always been fascinating to a science geek like myself....so, I had write about it. Can't believe it was 26 years ago! thx again)
Last edited by chulaivet1966; 10/21/18 02:18 PM.
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Dave, Thank you!
Take your time. There is no rush.
As I mentioned, I am interested to know how vocal is routed. I really like it. It is upfront, not over saturated and yet warm, clear and most importantly (for me) not "overproduced", has a lot of life in it.
Thank you,
Mike.
Mike, ok I have the project file for In the Still of the night open. In the past I have used some quite complicated effects chains for vocals, always experimenting, but this one is quite simple. No hardware, all software. 1) Neutron 2. I get the initial setup by running it's track assist function, that is great for finding the interesting EQ nodes and setting the initial parameters for the compressor. Similar to the tonal balance control you can press ALT left mouse button and zoom over those nodes it has identified and hear exactly what is happening there and tweak if needed. For this mix I am only using the EQ portion and the first compressor, I disabled the other modules. 2) Waves De-Esser 3) Waves Vocal Rider. This is a great little plugin that saves lots of time drawing in volume automation to keep the levels more constant. Depending on the track sometimes it is all you need, and I see that on this track I didn't do any manual volume automation. That's pretty much it! Also I have two sends coming from this track, one is going to a dedicated reverb track, the other to a delay track. Reverb is set to 100% wet, and I adjust the volume of that track until I get the amount of reverb I want. I prefer having the reverb on a separate track because I find it's easier to control that way. The delay track is using a stereo delay (the one that came with reaper) with two different delay times. The one panned left is set to 100ms, the one panned right is set to 150ms. Subtle but effective. Hope this helps a little!
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Dave, nice! Thank you! I had a feeling that you used Vocal Rider. I had it on previous computer, but could not re-activate on new one. Have to call them today. If I remember correctly, the beauty of this plugin is that it just rides the volume slider, without cutting dynamics. Looks like our setup for vocal is very alike. I have Neutron 2 + Nectar that I use. I am glad you mentioned use of ALT in Neutron. I was mousing and clicking all over yesterday trying to figure out how to do that Final question about Neutron please. I know it has to be on Master bus... As I understand, you can hear(see) the whole mix tonal balance, but you can change EQ from the plugin only if you have an instance of Neutron in FX on the specific track. The reason why I am asking is that I also have Nectar VST (Also Izotope) that I use on vocals and just do not want to "over" EQ the track. So the question is, if I use Neutron EQ in tonal control, I should bypass Nectar EQ? Thank you, Mike
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Hi Mike,
Yes, vocal rider just rides the volume of the track, adjusting up or down as needed, that's the beauty of it.
I have Nectar here too, it's a nice one to have. In my example above the reverb I'm using on the reverb track is actually the reverb from Nectar (with all the other modules disabled). It was Bud that turned me onto using that reverb, that's what he uses, and it's a great sounding reverb IMHO. Nectar also has a pretty good de-esser, I could have used that instead of the waves one I used.
If I had both nectar and neutron on the vocal track I would probably disable the EQ in nectar, but you could let your ears be the judge of that I guess.
When you say Neutron has to be on the master bus, I think you mean the tonal balance control module? Yes, that has to be on the master bus. And from that tonal balance control you can adjust the EQ of all the neutron modules used in the session.
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Dave, Thank you for insight and help!!! I re-activated my Vocal Rider today. Should of done it 6 month ago, my tunes would have been more even Best regards, Mike.
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chulaivet1966, I like to complete my songs including lyrics (once the backing track is completed) in no more than 2-3 sittings (well, standing for singing) It goes something like this... At times I feel like a pregnant woman in her last trimester (and at times like a constipated man), and in either case I have to get it out of me, the faster the better. So I rarely bother to re-do lyrics or music. You can make a kid wear teeth braces, but you can not change the shape of his/her nose. That's life My goal is try to do things as neatly as possible from the start, so I do not pull remains of my hairs later. Advice I got was awesome and very detailed! This is probably the first time I did it in such manner, none of my close friends do home recordings, so there was nobody to ask in "live" setting. Mike.
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Yup.... I consider the Showcase as the "catch all" category for music. Everything gets posted there from rough scratch ideas to finished songs. I personally think the Showcase should be a "SHOWCASE" for your finished tunes. Mixed, polished, and ready for prime time. However, that's not always the case. I've posted there and said Comments Welcome.....and as a result of those comments felt it necessary to go back to the DAW and make changes to one degree or another. When one person points out something, OK... it's a personal preference, but when 2 or 3 say the same thing.... maybe it is time to have a second look.
There's no problems in asking for "comments welcome" or.... "critique the mix please". Everything from great song.... to the mix needs work.... are valid comments. Some folks don't want comments, don't want critiques, and don't want advice. But if I think comments more than good work are deserved, I will comment and if it's a "heavier" critique, I will often comment by PM. Even then I have been told all sorts of things from I should mind my own business to where I could go and what I could do when I got there. Kid you not.
The songwriter forum is more ( IMHO ) for the folks looking to collaborate or having an idea and asking someone else to jump in and offer some writing advice. Partial, unfinished musical snippets to almost or completely done are fair game there. It's also the place to post links to writing videos and articles. It's all about becoming better writers over there.
Not mentioned is the Recording, Mixing, and production forum...... this one, well, all three kind of are in the same general area in my book..... with subtle differences. You can also post in there if the thrust of the post and info sought is more into the recording and production area.... such things as does the bass sound clear? Is the snare too loud? Is the overall EQ and reverb levels good on this? I'd suggest using this forum section for the unfinished mixing questions, but.... you can do the same thing in the Showcase.
You can find my music at: www.herbhartley.comAdd nothing that adds nothing to the music. You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both. The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.
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My take on this is that any song that is posted on the Internet is open to honest, friendly, helpful critiques. If one has thin skin then don't post.
I have given some critiques as well as received some very helpful critiques on my posts. You can respectfully give advice without trashing the song. It has happened on the Showcase many times.
Although there are a few members who could do it the Showcase is not about critically analogizing each and every song. If that is your goal their are free and paid serves that do that sort of thing. But again you better have some very thick skin.
My vote, if we are voting, is for keeping the Showcase just the way it is now. YMMV
Me, it's not about how many times you fail, it's about how many times you get back up.
Cop, that's not how field sobriety tests work.
64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
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RustySpoon#,
I'm sorry you missed the points I tried to make. Perhaps it is better for me to just let it be.
Jim Fogle - 2024 BiaB (1111) RB (5) Ultra+ PAK DAWs: Cakewalk by BandLab (CbB) - Standalone: Zoom MRS-8 Laptop: i3 Win 10, 8GB ram 500GB HDD Desktop: i7 Win 11, 12GB ram 256GB SSD, 4 TB HDD Music at: https://fogle622.wix.com/fogle622-audio-home
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Herb, Mario thank you for posts. Maybe I misinterpreted initial request a bit... Showcase worked very well for what I needed. It is not my intention to ask a "critique" or "tips" for every (or every fifth) tune I make. I guess, next time (if it comes) I will post a small audio snippet to "Recording, Mixing, Performance and Production" To rephrase initial request: "audio issues when using BIAB / RB programs / content" -Not specific to mixing. That was just a thought. It would be nice...If there is no traction, who am I to speak? Beggars can't be choosers P.S. You know... When I let my wife or friends listen to my new tune I say.. tell me what you do not like about it. That's what friends are for, to give honest opinion if asked for one. I know I am a crappy musician, but for a part time hobbyist, I am ok. I love it!... Lucky for me, I do not get hurt very easily and take critique very well. I believe when it is honest, it is the only thing that could make one better, trying to re-evaluate & re-imagine things constantly. P.S.S. Maybe a thread topic: "A Skin Of A Snow Tire" (chulaivet1966 (C)) Wayne, it is totally yours, but if you have no use for it, I will gladly use it in future tune and credit you for it. If you are reading this, please let me know. Thanks, Mike.
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P.S.S. Maybe a thread topic: "A Skin Of A Snow Tire" (chulaivet1966 (C)) Wayne, it is totally yours, but if you have no use for it, I will gladly use it in future tune and credit you for it. If you are reading this, please let me know. Thanks, Mike. Chuckle..... Not to worry....I don't create drama to exalt myself and I'd never make any claim regarding that phrase. Use it at your own future whim should you think it worthy in any context. No one else will know. Back to topic weed hoppers....
Last edited by chulaivet1966; 10/22/18 06:18 PM.
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Dang. Some of these comments prove y'all are more technologically advanced than I am. And have more money too. ;-)
Brings to mind that episode of Star Trek TNG where the sterile aliens kidnapped the Enterprise children and one of the little girls was given an instrument that played the music in her soul. Maybe next year?
Carry on.
Last edited by Tangmo; 10/22/18 05:37 PM.
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Tangmo, I am a bit confused by your comment... Listening to your songs (The Way You Look, for example)... I am miles away from that sort of composing. Money part... Probably the most expensive and complex piece of software I own is BIAB and Cakewalk DAW (which is free by the way) If you are talking about Neutron, I got lucky and bought it second hand for fraction of the retail cost P.S. I like some of your tunes, some of them strangely remind me of Dr. John. Seems to me you are using a lot of MIDI for arrangements. I am just curious, you are using basic synth for specific reason, or because you could not find a better sound set? Tobias, I get inspired by reading some kids poetry and some classics
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Rustyspoon#. I was just having a bit of fun. Hence the ";-)". The flow of the thread was leaving me and my little "tips" way behind.
It CAN be a bit annoying though when the answer to a question is "buy more software/gear/computer". Yes, music is a "hobby" for me, too. Technology isn't.
BIAB is the most expensive software I've ever bought too, by a long-shot, but at least it makes music. For me, much else is like buying toys for your toys. But I'm 100% in favor people doing what they want, and I'll applaud them on the way.
Before just a month or so ago, the version of BIAB I had was midi only. It wasn't the only tool in my box, though, and I had fairly ready and regular access to live players/composers over the internet. I don't think BIAB was used at all in "The Way You Look".
I assume you listened on Alonetone. The vast majority of those songs were recorded and mixed before 2010 (or even earlier). Between then and "now" I was pretty much out of the music-making deal. They are also out of order, so don't show a clear line in improvement in mixing even when I was doing the mix. Sometimes my partner did them. So it's a jumble, in that regard. I'm glad you liked some of them, and appreciate you checking them out.
I used the synth I used because I got it cheap, and didn't have or know of any other way to do it. Necessity. Some sounds were outstanding. Some not so much. They all beat GM stock sounds, but sometimes I used them too. I didn't wait till I had all my ducks in a row before I started doing songs. That's just not me.
Do good.
Last edited by Tangmo; 10/23/18 06:38 AM.
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Tangmo, I know you were having fun But a bit on serious note. If you decide to remix some of your music leaving it in midi, look into amazing free drums available for Kontakt (I believe they work on free Kontakt version too) they are called Sennheiser drummic'a These are one of the best ones I have tried for MIDI things. One of the very nice features, it has several drum maps, so it works with most drum arrangements (GM). P.S. I listened to one collaboration you done with Dave (Blueattitude), Couple of unusual electronic journeys, The Way You Look and a tune you posted recently in showcase. I like listening to random tunes of one artist, it gives broad perspective Best regards, Mike.
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P.S. You know... When I let my wife or friends listen to my new tune I say.. tell me what you do not like about it. That's what friends are for, to give honest opinion if asked for one. I know I am a crappy musician, but for a part time hobbyist, I am ok. I love it!... Lucky for me, I do not get hurt very easily and take critique very well. I believe when it is honest, it is the only thing that could make one better, trying to re-evaluate & re-imagine things constantly.
friends and relatives are generally not good for honest opinions. they often don't know how to properly access the deficiencies with a mix or the songwriting. They will tell you a song is good regardless of how badly it is written and recorded. They don't want to hurt your feelings.... many of the folks here are able to let you know from a writer and recording POV.
You can find my music at: www.herbhartley.comAdd nothing that adds nothing to the music. You can make excuses or you can make progress but not both. The magic you are looking for is in the work you are avoiding.
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friends and relatives are generally not good for honest opinions. they often don't know how to properly access the deficiencies with a mix or the songwriting. They will tell you a song is good regardless of how badly it is written and recorded. They don't want to hurt your feelings.... many of the folks here are able to let you know from a writer and recording POV. Rustyspoon#..... See above....:)...but, it allows one's ego to feel warm and fuzzy. Back to it......
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Ha-ha. Actually my spouse understands me quite well to know that I will prefer honesty over pity. Plus she is daughter of professional musicians, she heard enough of good music to have solid reference This forum is great, many interesting and helpful people. Good stuff!
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Ask sales and support questions about Band-in-a-Box using natural language.
ChatPG's knowledge base includes the full Band-in-a-Box User Manual and sales information from the website.
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Update Your PowerTracks Pro Audio 2024 Today!
The Newest RealBand 2024 Update is Here!
The newest RealBand 2024 Build 5 update is now available!
Download and install this to your RealBand 2024 for updated print options, streamlined loading and saving of .SGU & MGU (BB) files, and to add a number of program adjustments that address user-reported bugs and concerns.
This free update is available to all RealBand 2024 users. To learn more about this update and download it, head to www.pgmusic.com/support.realband.htm#20245
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A few excerpts:
"The Tracks view is possibly the single most powerful addition in 2024 and opens up a new way to edit and generate accompaniments. Combined with the new MultiPicker Library Window, it makes BIAB nearly perfect as an 'intelligent' composer/arranger program."
"MIDI SuperTracks partial generation showing six variations – each time the section is generated it can be instantly auditioned, re-generated or backed out to a previous generation – and you can do this with any track type. This is MAJOR! This takes musical experimentation and honing an arrangement to a new level, and faster than ever."
"Band in a Box continues to be an expansive musical tool-set for both novice and experienced musicians to experiment, compose, arrange and mix songs, as well as an extensive educational resource. It is huge, with hundreds of functions, more than any one person is likely to ever use. Yet, so is any DAW that I have used. BIAB can do some things that no DAW does, and this year BIAB has more DAW-like functions than ever."
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If you'd rather listen to these songs in one place, head to our Band-in-a-Box® Radio, where you'll have the option to select the genre playlist for your listening pleasure. This page has SoundCloud built in, so it won't redirect you. We've also added the link to the Artists SoundCloud page here, and a link to their forum post.
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