April Composition Challenge - VOTING!

[Skol303]

[color=#b22222][b][size=5]Voting has now started on April's Composition Challenge![/size][/b][/color]

[size=5]Here's the inspiration for this month's music, chosen by last month's winner [b]AL-the-Bassman[/b]:[/size]



[size=5]And here are the compositions. Please listen to each track and pick your favourite:[/size]

[b]Dad3353[/b] [url="http://soundcloud.com/dad3353/find-your-destiny"]Find Your Destiny[/url]

[b]lurksalot[/b] [url="http://soundcloud.com/lurksalot/funky-cow"]Funky Cow[/url]

[b]Bilbo[/b] [url="http://soundcloud.com/robert-palmer-1/improvisation-on-a-funk-motif"]Improvisation On A Funk Motif[/url]

[b]AL-the-Bassman[/b] [url="http://soundcloud.com/al-the-bassman/what-on-earth-is-funk"]What On Earth Is Funk?[/url]

[b]Lord Sausage[/b] [url="http://soundcloud.com/dreaded-ted/04a"]Dekhop[/url] [i][unfinished, but still up for it!][/i]

[b]the boy[/b] [url="http://soundcloud.com/theboysings/aint-nobody-hurtin-2"]Ain't Nobody Hurtin....[/url]

[b]MikeBass[/b] [url="http://soundcloud.com/collm2002/funkingreen"]FunkinGreen[/url]

[b]Skol303[/b] [url="https://soundcloud.com/skollob/never"]Never[/url]

[b]timhiggins[/b] [url="http://soundcloud.com/timothy-terrence-higgins-iv/sunshine-serenade"]Sunshine Serenade[/url]

[color=#b22222][b][size=5]Voting ends at midnight on Thursday 1st May.[/size][/b][/color]

Well done to everyone who submitted a track. Sterling work, as always

Edited April 25, 2014 by Skol303

[Lord Sausage]

Just got the boy, tim higgins and mike bass left to listen to. Will do tomorrow, then vote.

[Mornats]

I thought I'd be the first one to vote but honestly, I have to listen to them all again as I can't pick one out above the others.

[Dad3353]

I listened as they were produced, but need to go back over each again. Each month it gets tougher, they're so individually worthy. Back later (... and well done for putting the voting up, once again. Thanks...).

[Lord Sausage]

Voted, was my favourite and had a bit more compositional elements than the others. I enjoyed them all, but a few could have benefited from different sections within them.

[Bilbo]

Voted.

[Bassman Sam]

Voted. Some great funky vibes going on here, congrats to you all.

[Roland Rock]

I have very definite ideas of what funk means to me. A past band singer once suggested that we play Cissy Strut "funkier than the Meters", and when I questioned him, he meant faster! I got really irrationally angry and couldn't speak to him for about two weeks!

Anyway, lots of great stuff, but one in particular grabbed me from the start, moved me, then made my arse cheeks clench so tight there was a slight tingling sensation That's what great funk should do. That's the one that got the vote.

[Mykesbass]

[quote name='Lord Sausage' timestamp='1398415782' post='2433805']
Voted, was my favourite and had a bit more compositional elements than the others. I enjoyed them all, but a few could have benefited from different sections within them.
[/quote]

Funnily enough, I was umming and erring on whether to be a little bit critical this month and seeing that Lord Sausage seems to be on the same wavelength as me I will.

There is absolutely no doubt there is some great playing and great ideas every month in this competition and I have supported it every month for a good while now, but what his Lordship says is very true, there is a tendency to forget the compositions side of things. Way to much cool riffage going on, not enough sections as said, but also, not enough attention paid to a top line - I'd love to hear some more tunes!

So keep up the good work, but if you're after my vote you now know what I'm after next month!

Cheers,
Mike

[AL-the-Bassman]

[quote name='Mykesbass' timestamp='1398444200' post='2434238']
Funnily enough, I was umming and erring on whether to be a little bit critical this month and seeing that Lord Sausage seems to be on the same wavelength as me I will.

There is absolutely no doubt there is some great playing and great ideas every month in this competition and I have supported it every month for a good while now, but what his Lordship says is very true, there is a tendency to forget the compositions side of things. Way to much cool riffage going on, not enough sections as said, but also, not enough attention paid to a top line - I'd love to hear some more tunes!

So keep up the good work, but if you're after my vote you now know what I'm after next month!

Cheers,
Mike
[/quote]
[b]Funk[/b] is a [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Music_genre"]music genre[/url] that originated in the mid-late [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/1960s_in_music"]1960s[/url] when [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/African-American"]African-American[/url] musicians created a [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhythmic"]rhythmic[/url], [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dance"]danceable[/url] new form of music through a mixture of [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Soul_music"]soul music[/url], [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Jazz"]jazz[/url], and[url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhythm_and_blues"]R&B[/url]. Funk de-emphasizes [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Melody"]melody[/url] and [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Harmony"]harmony[/url] and brings a strong [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rhythm"]rhythmic[/url] groove of electric bass and drums to the foreground. Funk songs are often based on an extended [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vamp_(music)"]vamp[/url] on a single [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chord_changes"]chord[/url], distinguishing it from R&B and soul songs, which are built on [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Chord_progression"]chord progressions[/url].

Funk utilized the same [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Extended_chords"]extended chords[/url] found in [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Bebop"]bebop[/url] jazz, such as minor chords with added sevenths and elevenths, or dominant seventh chords with altered ninths. However, unlike bebop jazz, with its complex, rapid-fire chord changes, funk virtually abandoned chord changes, creating static single chord [url="http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Vamp_(music)"]vamps[/url] with little harmonic movement, but with a complex and driving rhythmic feel
from wikipedia

in my mind Composition isn't writing a song.. its exploring musical possibilities.
I agree with what your saying.
But funk is Funk because it stays put, if it kept changing every 4 bars. How would i Get my groove on ?

Edited April 25, 2014 by AL-the-Bassman

[Bilbo]

I agree that compositions should have some sense of theme and variation but 'sections' is not the only way to do that. For me, there has to be some element of forward motion and momentum and there are all sorts of ways of doing that. Doing it successfully is the art of it. I don't think I do that at all well and really struggle with any form of modulation so a lot of my compositions feel frustratingly 'static' to me. So, hands up, I think I am guilty of the charge as levelled. Will try harder next month!!

{PS worthy of note is the fact that I also wrote a second tune this month (after the above was uploaded) but it was not inspired by the picture in any way and so was not submitted}

[Dad3353]

There have been a fair number of themes over the months that this challenge has been operating. Here's the brief for this one...

[quote]Here's the image for your inspiration, as chosen by last month’s winner AL-the-Bassman…[/quote]

"...image for your inspiration...". Inspired by the image. The inspiration could be anything. We've had Angry Birds, Blitzed Father Christmases, Painted Faces and Quiet Lakes. The inspirations were, without exception, completely divers. This month is no exception. From the pic supplied, the inspirations are different. That's good, isn't it..? There are many characteristics that the voters may choose to express their appreciation (virtuosity, easy on the ears, most representative of the picture, most complex, simplest...). Each listener will choose what they think is 'best' in their opinion. That's good too, isn't it..? Every one is a winner, here.

[AL-the-Bassman]

[quote name='Bilbo' timestamp='1398445879' post='2434266']
I agree that compositions should have some sense of theme and variation but 'sections' is not the only way to do that. For me, there has to be some element of forward motion and momentum and there are all sorts of ways of doing that. Doing it successfully is the art of it. I don't think I do that at all well and really struggle with any form of modulation so a lot of my compositions feel frustratingly 'static' to me. So, hands up, I think I am guilty of the charge as levelled. Will try harder next month!!

{PS worthy of note is the fact that I also wrote a second tune this month (after the above was uploaded) but it was not inspired by the picture in any way and so was not submitted}
[/quote]

I Really Like your pieces Bilbo.
they are unique and tasteful , and sublime on the double bass. no one else on here does it ...
and ya funk motif is cool. with great fills and phrasing

[AL-the-Bassman]

[quote name='Dad3353' timestamp='1398446132' post='2434274']
There have been a fair number of themes over the months that this challenge has been operating. Here's the brief for this one...



"...image for your inspiration...". Inspired by the image. The inspiration could be anything. We've had Angry Birds, Blitzed Father Christmases, Painted Faces and Quiet Lakes. The inspirations were, without exception, completely divers. This month is no exception. From the pic supplied, the inspirations are different. That's good, isn't it..? There are many characteristics that the voters may choose to express their appreciation (virtuosity, easy on the ears, most representative of the picture, most complex, simplest...). Each listener will choose what they think is 'best' in their opinion. That's good too, isn't it..? Every one is a winner, here.
[/quote]

WHOOP WHOOP.
Exactly,
the challenge is actually submitting your piece , and over coming any personal doubts.
but its a great way to be creative to a deadline

Edited April 25, 2014 by AL-the-Bassman

[Mykesbass]

[quote name='Dad3353' timestamp='1398446132' post='2434274']
There have been a fair number of themes over the months that this challenge has been operating. Here's the brief for this one...



"...image for your inspiration...". Inspired by the image. The inspiration could be anything. We've had Angry Birds, Blitzed Father Christmases, Painted Faces and Quiet Lakes. The inspirations were, without exception, completely divers. This month is no exception. From the pic supplied, the inspirations are different. That's good, isn't it..? There are many characteristics that the voters may choose to express their appreciation (virtuosity, easy on the ears, most representative of the picture, most complex, simplest...). Each listener will choose what they think is 'best' in their opinion. That's good too, isn't it..? Every one is a winner, here.
[/quote]

The only reason I'll disagree with you here Doug is that it is called a Composition Competition - virtuosity shouldn't really come in to it, and in fact one month an absolutely virtuoso performance came second in my book with you getting my vote because your piece had more of the elements of composition. Representative of the picture - we'll that could be done in so many ways, it should really only be the springboard. It is of course the perogative of you guys who regularly participate to see it the way you do, I'll carry on supporting from the sidelines, but I do stick to my criticism (which is meant in a very positive way).

[Mykesbass]

[quote name='AL-the-Bassman' timestamp='1398446604' post='2434286']
WHOOP WHOOP.
Exactly,
the challenge is actually submitting your piece , and over coming any personal doubts.
but its a great way to be creative to a deadline
[/quote]

Al, I hope you haven't misinterpreted my point - some of your work is stunning and creative and your playing is exceptional. My beef is with people falling into the trap of voting for the wrong thing - a brilliant, well produced riff over a moderately played, poorly recorded great little tune, which to me is what the composition is all about (but then I play in a band that plays loads of Bob Dylan, so what do I know)

[AL-the-Bassman]

[quote name='Mykesbass' timestamp='1398447425' post='2434297']
Al, I hope you haven't misinterpreted my point - some of your work is stunning and creative and your playing is exceptional. My beef is with people falling into the trap of voting for the wrong thing - a brilliant, well produced riff over a moderately played, poorly recorded great little tune, which to me is what the composition is all about (but then I play in a band that plays loads of Bob Dylan, so what do I know)
[/quote]
No not at all Myke
Thank you for your compliments .
All I was saying is that , by definition Funk, doesn't change that much as a structure, therefore there aren't going to be varying sections within this months comp .
But yeah the top line could be whatever, ( listen to tower of powers horn section!)
as far as voting... pick which ever one fits the bill.
sometimes i might base my decision on the perceived Time and Effort spent doing it
i think people vote for there friends?
like eurovision

Edited April 25, 2014 by AL-the-Bassman

[Dad3353]

[quote name='Mykesbass' timestamp='1398447129' post='2434293']
The only reason I'll disagree with you here Doug is that it is called a Composition Competition - virtuosity shouldn't really come in to it, and in fact one month an absolutely virtuoso performance came second in my book with you getting my vote because your piece had more of the elements of composition. Representative of the picture - we'll that could be done in so many ways, it should really only be the springboard. It is of course the perogative of you guys who regularly participate to see it the way you do, I'll carry on supporting from the sidelines, but I do stick to my criticism (which is meant in a very positive way).
[/quote]

I must thank you, of course for your vote (and commend you on your discerning taste... ); I also agree with your propos, but have no control (nor wish to..!) over the criteria that our 'public' use for their choice. Their notion of 'composition' may well be different from my own (wouldn't surprise me in the slightest, atuned as I am to the 'mainstream'..! ). As an absolute, I could even agree with your frustration, but I'm afraid that the enjoyment that I get from simply putting my foot in these muddy waters outweighs by far any high principles I may wish upheld. It's simply for fun (as is the Mixing Challenge, and the Photo Challenge...), and as long as one can come away with a smile, and learn something, it's 'Mission achieved', for me. One could, indeed, start up a 'Virtuosity Challenge', which I would enter, too, to be beaten from the outset by (probably...) all other entrants. Wouldn't stop me enjoying the Challenge. Am I normal..?

Edited April 25, 2014 by Dad3353

[Lord Sausage]

[quote name='Mykesbass' timestamp='1398444200' post='2434238']
Funnily enough, I was umming and erring on whether to be a little bit critical this month and seeing that Lord Sausage seems to be on the same wavelength as me I will.

There is absolutely no doubt there is some great playing and great ideas every month in this competition and I have supported it every month for a good while now, but what his Lordship says is very true, there is a tendency to forget the compositions side of things. Way to much cool riffage going on, not enough sections as said, but also, not enough attention paid to a top line - I'd love to hear some more tunes!

So keep up the good work, but if you're after my vote you now know what I'm after next month!

Cheers,
Mike
[/quote]
I initially didn't put mine up for entry as it isn't finished and there was no vocal or melody development. But Skol asked to put it in and i didn't feel strongly enough about it to say no.

I did enter one month that had melodic development, counterpoint. Returning themes etc. Got very few votes. Not that I'm bitter. ha ha

[Bilbo]

Just to add to the debate, many define improvisation as real-time composition so definitions are as varied as interpretation s. It is what the listener wishes it to be in the same way that it is what the composer considers it to be.

[RockfordStone]

I've got it pinned down to 2 that do it for me, tough choice as they are all good

[Stephen Houghton]

Voted, some really good stuff in this months comp I am impressed how quick the standard is rising especially the production side of things. One really caught my attention and I cant stop listening to it, well done everyone really great entries .

Edited April 28, 2014 by Stephen Houghton

[krysh]

great work guys! it was a hard decision.

[lurksalot]

45 votes at current count , and a close run thing , this months has fired the BC voting Mojo , great stuff and many thanks to all who have taken the time , now to the final furlong.........

[TheGreek]

Hey fellas you've really made voting difficult this month..some really good interpretations of the subject..I was really impressed with the quality of the work here - congrats to everybody - I was torn between 2 or 3 and had to do some re-listening before (eventually) making my final decision.

Best composition challenge for a long while...