Previous Thread
Index
Next Thread
Print Thread
Go To
Page 1 of 2 1 2
User Showcase
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 3,357
Veteran
OP Offline
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 3,357
Signs and Wonders

A new song from the 3 Levellers; its dystopian rock but don`t let it bring you down!

Style is _UPWARD.STY (Upward Acoustic Rock)

RealTracks in style: 995:Bass, Electric, HardRockLA Ev 120
RealTracks in style: 1535:Piano, Acoustic, Rhythm PopPowerPushA-B Ev 120
RealTracks in style: 2929:Guitar, Acoustic, Rhythm PopFunkyJoe Ev16 110
RealTracks in song: 2304:Synth, Rhythm DanceRockKoto Ev 120
RealTracks in song: 3182:Guitar, Acoustic, Rhythm GrungeUnpluggedQuinn Ev16 090
RealTracks in song: 3267:Cello, Background CelticAirFlowingNatalie Ev 085
RealDrums [in style:RockHardEven8^1-a:Snare, HiHat , b:Snare, Ride

Lead Guitars: ScottC
Bass & Rhythm Guitar RayC
Vocals: Robertkc



Signs and Wonders

in the ruins of a song
radio radiation
ripples of a sandstruck bell

call us to witness
crimes of obedience
vines crack the walls of our cell

gripped in talons
steel clone falcons
scan your heart from the king`s hand

in streets lie bleeding
doves stopped believing
wings were never meant for man

they say no price is too great
will against fate
open the flood gates

gargoyle judges angels on crutches
lovers in towers
signs and wonders
in anothers eyes

a tear to cover your day
a breaking wave
wash the stain away

militant mystics childrens logistics
angels in towers
signs and wonders
in anothers eyes

in the ruins of a song
radio radiation

© Robert Cordrey Dec, 2020


Last edited by Robertkc; 02/05/21 04:00 PM.
User Showcase
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 8,075
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Oct 2008
Posts: 8,075
well, you had me with the description: "It's dystopian rock, but don't let it bring you down"

I like this a lot. You write interesting lyrics. Not everyone can write in cryptic terms and make it work. Most often it comes across as an exercise in lyrical awkwardness, but in this case your words create ethereal images to which the listener can reasonably apply his/her own interpretation. That's an art form in its own right. Once you're famous and talking heads start to analyze your songs, nobody will be able to agree on what they mean, because you've made them so open-ended.

The three of you work well together. All of your contributions are rock solid. Hats off to the entire team.

I like the way the song's intro draws me into what's to come. Very nice intro.

The clean guitar panned center was very interesting, except at times (on my setup) it seemed a bit loud in the mix... to the point of competing with the vocals. But I liked the recurring theme it added to the song. Haunting. Or maybe dystopian, to use your word.

I like the chord progression for this song, the repetition itself being a bit hypnotic.

Every time the cello enters the mix, I love it. Good job with that.

User Showcase
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 22,553
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2003
Posts: 22,553
"its dystopian rock but don`t let it bring you down" well that got my attention. This is really good. I liked the chord progression and lyrics. The other parts are good but to nitpick I thought the guitar was a tad loud and the vocal a tad to quiet. Bring up that vocal, those lyrics are to good to be buried in the mix. Note that is just my opinion and others may or may not agree.


My dad showed me a 30-minute PowerPoint presentation of why one should always wear a condom during sex. They were all pictures of me!

64 bit Win 10 Pro, the latest BiaB/RB, Roland Octa-Capture audio interface, a ton of software/hardware
User Showcase
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 1,081
Expert
Offline
Expert
Joined: Jun 2012
Posts: 1,081
Very unsettling, which is good in this case. Otherworldly is another term that comes to mind. Damned good probably describes it best. Everyone meshes good, including BIAB. Good job to all involved.


My music can be heard at: The Cracks
User Showcase
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 3,357
Veteran
OP Offline
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 3,357
Originally Posted By: Pat Marr
well, you had me with the description: "It's dystopian rock, but don't let it bring you down"

I like this a lot. You write interesting lyrics. Not everyone can write in cryptic terms and make it work. Most often it comes across as an exercise in lyrical awkwardness, but in this case your words create ethereal images to which the listener can reasonably apply his/her own interpretation. That's an art form in its own right. Once you're famous and talking heads start to analyze your songs, nobody will be able to agree on what they mean, because you've made them so open-ended.

The three of you work well together. All of your contributions are rock solid. Hats off to the entire team.

I like the way the song's intro draws me into what's to come. Very nice intro.

The clean guitar panned center was very interesting, except at times (on my setup) it seemed a bit loud in the mix... to the point of competing with the vocals. But I liked the recurring theme it added to the song. Haunting. Or maybe dystopian, to use your word.

I like the chord progression for this song, the repetition itself being a bit hypnotic.

Every time the cello enters the mix, I love it. Good job with that.



Pat,
First off- boy do you write awesome song reviews! I`m slightly dyslexic- it takes me 10 minutes to write 3 lines of legible English, but still- you listen carefully and take the time to express your whole impressions- a big Thank You for that.
Your comments on the vocal level vs Scott`s guitar led me to check the mix: this song has so many tracks and effects I found it bogged my puny laptop- couldn`t listen to the mix entire without rendering and at the end I`ve discovered some effects were checked out changing the balance.
Should be better now.
I`m glad you enjoyed our efforts to unsettle and entertain.

Robert

User Showcase
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 7,334
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Sep 2010
Posts: 7,334
While I can't say I enjoyed the song - it's a bit too much of a downer for that - it's well done, well played with the music a good match to the poetic language.

Like Mario, I also though the vocals are mixed a bit low to make out the words clearly, but that seems to be part of the effect.

Not a toe tapper, but it hits the mark. smile


-- David Cuny
My virtual singer development blog

Vocal control, you say. Never heard of it. Is that some kind of ProTools thing?
User Showcase
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 5,526
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Nov 2007
Posts: 5,526
Love the intro! Very effective.

As is that repeating melodic guitar line from Scott, nice hook.

Great lyrics!

Good vocal and rock solid bass, another solid team effort. Enjoyed!

User Showcase
Joined: May 2019
Posts: 4,124
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: May 2019
Posts: 4,124
"...its dystopian rock but don`t let it bring you down" haha. Read the opening before pushing play. Not many songs could start out with "in the ruins of a song" but you guys turn up the interest early and keep it going strong. I love the alliteration that follows: "radio radiation ripples". Man, Spirit Level is rises every time you guys collaborate, even in the dystopian world.


Enjoy whatever happens!
marty

YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/@babumusic51
SoundCloud: https://soundcloud.com/marty-straub
Band in a Box, Reaper, Cakewalk, Ozone 11
User Showcase
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 1,572
Expert
Offline
Expert
Joined: May 2020
Posts: 1,572
Hi Robertkc,

Well-written lyrics. I love the sound of the lead guitar which reinforces the mood you wanted to create. Dark atmosphere in which you plunge us. The discreet cello reinforces the enigmatic atmosphere. I liked it.

Kindly regard
Take care of yourself
Derochette
alias JaniJackFlash


Kindly regards
Derochette
alias JaniJackFlash
User Showcase
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 8,174
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2012
Posts: 8,174
Quite a project! Glad I didn't have to mix it!!!

As mentioned, cryptic and dark. Robert, you have such a way with lyrics and have a unique (in a good way) voice. Personally, I'm okay with the vocal being deep in the mix. I think it only adds to the drama and emotion you are striving to deliver - and you deliver it most effectively.

Definitely not a fun song, but that said, I song well done and delivers the message as intended. Ands that's what's important - did the song effectively deliver the message and the mood. And I would say - Yes and Yes.

The intricate melding of the many tracks must have taken quite some time and patience. However much time and effort you put into this, from my perspective, you were nicely rewarded.

Tip of the hat to all involved. Well done!

Alan

Last edited by Al-David; 02/06/21 09:06 PM.

BIAB 2024 Ultra Plus-all StylePaks*Win11*32GB DDR5*Rhyzen 9745x*AT 2035 Mic*Peavey Nashville 112 Amp*Ibanez ART120* Acoustic/Electric/Washburn D200S Acoustic*Stromberg Monterey Jazz Guitar

Loops: https://aldavidmusic.wixsite.com/bestmusicloops

User Showcase
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 3,357
Veteran
OP Offline
Veteran
Joined: Jun 2016
Posts: 3,357
Originally Posted By: MarioD
"its dystopian rock but don`t let it bring you down" well that got my attention. This is really good. I liked the chord progression and lyrics. The other parts are good but to nitpick I thought the guitar was a tad loud and the vocal a tad to quiet. Bring up that vocal, those lyrics are to good to be buried in the mix. Note that is just my opinion and others may or may not agree.


Thanks Mario-the vocal has been lifted above the guitar since your listen.Thanks for your positive comments!

Originally Posted By: jptjptjpt
Very unsettling, which is good in this case. Otherworldly is another term that comes to mind. Damned good probably describes it best. Everyone meshes good, including BIAB. Good job to all involved.


I like that: "unsettling" and "otherworldly" fit very well I think, so I appreciate your receptive listen!

Originally Posted By: dcuny
While I can't say I enjoyed the song - it's a bit too much of a downer for that - it's well done, well played with the music a good match to the poetic language.

Like Mario, I also though the vocals are mixed a bit low to make out the words clearly, but that seems to be part of the effect.

Not a toe tapper, but it hits the mark. smile


David,
I`m listening mostly on headphones and (on the new mix) find the vocal/lyrics very clear now... be interesting to see if later listeners agree.
Thanks for taking the time to comment.I understand your take on the mood, though to me its a song of resistance to oppression; galvanising rather than depressing.

Robert

User Showcase
Joined: Apr 2018
Posts: 1,998
D
Expert
Offline
Expert
D
Joined: Apr 2018
Posts: 1,998
Spirit Level,

Vintage sound for you all . . . like the build from the intro into the first verse. Really good vocal, Robert—lot of emotion there, and pulls the listener in. Not sure why this reminds me of Live—a combo of the vocal and those chord changes maybe—but really cool track, gentleman. I think for me among your best,

Hope all is well in your worlds (dystopian or otherwise),

Deej

User Showcase
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 7,867
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 7,867
Thanks for the awesome comments we appreciate you checking out the song.


Scott Collingwood
https://soundcloud.com/scottt709
https://soundcloud.com/spiritlevel-ca
https://www.youtube.com/@SpiritLevel-ge3hm/
User Showcase
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 708
Journeyman
Offline
Journeyman
Joined: Apr 2019
Posts: 708
Nice one, guys. Spirit Level has established an instantly recognisable sound, which is no small thing. Another very enjoyable outing.
Regards,
Leon

User Showcase
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 12,315
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Aug 2012
Posts: 12,315
Robert, Scott, Ray...

This sounds like a group that has been making music together for a long time.
I think that you've ALL done some of your best work here.
Scott's lead, Ray's rhythm and bass, Robert's lyric and vocals.

I like the way the vocals are processed and how they sit in the mix. Seems appropriate for the genre (whatever one might call it).

I like it.

fj

User Showcase
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 4,286
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: May 2011
Posts: 4,286
All three of you have been producing some fine work. To me the lyrics and the mood of the instrumentation sounds medieval like. If you set up the amps and drums in an old English castle it would be perfect for the video. Very good playing and vocals. I enjoyed it,Tom

User Showcase
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 15,057
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 15,057
We see sentient beings returning to their home planet and finding it
destroyed...they are in a shuttle flying over the ruins. All meaning
very cool dystopian imagery.

What to say? Hey, it's SL...mesmerizing, ethereal and all the while engaging.
The passionate vocal, soaring guitar and ever solid bass are all hittin' the note...
as Gregg Allman would say.

Fine production you three!

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.
User Showcase
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 197
A
Apprentice
Offline
Apprentice
A
Joined: Mar 2012
Posts: 197
Great intro and interesting lyrics! Reminds me a bit about Bowie.

Last edited by Alexander Paul; 02/07/21 11:53 AM.
User Showcase
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 2,329
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Jan 2014
Posts: 2,329
Really interesting lyrics which held my interest.
Shades of Dire Straits in parts.

Great stuff.

Vic

User Showcase
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 7,867
Veteran
Offline
Veteran
Joined: Dec 2011
Posts: 7,867
Boy some awesome comments on the tune. So glad you checked out the song..


Scott Collingwood
https://soundcloud.com/scottt709
https://soundcloud.com/spiritlevel-ca
https://www.youtube.com/@SpiritLevel-ge3hm/
Previous Thread
Next Thread
Go To
Page 1 of 2 1 2

Link Copied to Clipboard
ChatPG

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.

PG Music News
Update to RealBand® 2025 Build 5 Windows Today!

Already using RealBand® 2025 for Windows®? Download Build 5 now from our Support Page to ensure you have the latest enhancements and improvements from our team.

Get the latest update today!

PowerTracks Pro Audio 2025 for Windows is Here!

PowerTracks Pro Audio 2025 is here! This new version introduces many features, including VST3 support, the ability to load or import a .FLAC file, a reset option for track height in the Tracks window, a taller Timeline on the Notation window toolbar, new freeze buttons in the Tracks window, three toolbar modes (two rows, single row, and none), the improved Select Patch dialog with text-based search and numeric patch display, a new button in the DirectX/VST window to copy an effects group, and more!

First-time packages start at only $49. Already a PowerTracks Pro Audio user? Upgrade for as little as $29!

www.pgmusic.com/powertracks.htm

Video: Summary of the New Band-in-a-Box® App for iOS®

Join Tobin as he takes you on a tour of the new Band-in-a-Box® app for iOS®! Designed for musicians, singer-songwriters, and educators, this powerful tool lets you create, play, and transfer songs effortlessly on your iPhone® or iPad®—anytime, anywhere.

Band-in-a-Box® for iOS® :Summary video.

Check out the forum post for more information.

Introducing the New Band-in-a-Box iOS App!

We’re excited to introduce the new Band-in-a-Box iOS app, designed to enhance your music creation. The Band-in-a-Box iOS app is the perfect companion to your desktop version, giving you the freedom to sketch out ideas wherever you are and develop them further when you're back at your workstation. Now, you can create, play, generate, and transfer songs seamlessly between your iOS device, and desktop.

Key Features:

- Easily Create and Play Songs – Build and play songs effortlessly on your device.
- MIDI and RealTracks/RealStyles Support – Generate MIDI tracks and RealTracks/RealStyles right on your iPhone or iPad (RealTracks/RealStyles require an internet connection).
- Notation Support – View chord sheets, professional notation, tab, and drum notation for all tracks.
...and more!

Watch the Band-in-a-Box iOS Overview Video.

Visit the Band-in-a-Box for iOS support page for more information and to listen to demos of our RealStyles catalogue.

Download the Band-in-a-Box iOS App from the Apple App Store today!

Update your Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Windows® Today!

If you’ve already purchased Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Windows®, great news—a new update is now available! This update introduces a handy new feature: a vertical cursor in the Tracks window that shows the current location across all tracks, and more.

Discover everything included in this free update and download it now at https://www.pgmusic.com/support_windowsupdates.htm#1124

Video: Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Windows®: Boot Camp: The AI Lyrics Generator

With Band-in-a-Box 2025® for Windows®, we've introduced an exciting new feature: the AI Lyrics Generator! In this video, Tobin guides you step-by-step on how to make the most of this new tool.

Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Windows®: Boot Camp: The AI Lyrics Generator video.

Check out the forum post for more information.

Video: Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Windows®: Using VST3 Plugins

Band-in-a-Box 2025® for Windows® now includes support for VST3 plugins, bringing even more creative possibilities to your music production. Join Simon as he guides you through the process in this easy-to-follow demonstration!

Video: Band-in-a-Box® 2025 for Windows®: Using VST3 Plugins

Join the conversation on our forum.

Forum Statistics
Forums58
Topics83,612
Posts767,736
Members39,372
Most Online25,754
Jan 24th, 2025
Newest Members
Jon Rambo, Jim4453, ysabelbristol, welove, SoundSwag77
39,372 Registered Users
Top Posters(30 Days)
MarioD 218
DC Ron 149
Al-David 104
WaoBand 96
rsdean 93
Today's Birthdays
John Kern, sampai
Powered by UBB.threads™ PHP Forum Software 7.7.5