Dad3353 Posted February 23, 2016 Share Posted February 23, 2016 [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Play of the Day...[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Feel free to 'follow' this topic to be alerted (warned..? ) when new posts arrive. I'll be using this same topic throughout for this month's Challenge.[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4] [/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Good day, all...[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Here is my own, personal, view of the compositions presented in the monthly BC Composition Challenge, in randomly chosen order. I hope that at least some of you may be inspired to give the pieces a listen, and perhaps vote for your 3 favourites. All of them can be heard here...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://basschat.co.uk/topic/279691-february-composition-challenge-voting/"][color=#0000ff][font=Arial][size=4]February Composition Challenge - VOTING![/size][/font][/color][/url] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]... and this 'Play of the Day' here …[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/dredd-and-the-badass-weed/feel-the-burn"][color=#0000ff][font=Arial][size=4]'Feel The Burn', from Leonard Smalls ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]A 'tappety-tappety' entry, a hip-hop holler and we're away, with a smartly rolling bass riff, floating guitar sustain, lightly percussive keys and a very effective hi-hat back beat driving from the back seat. In comes the vocal, not so far from Cap'n Beefheart in style; not too heavily treated, so almost comprehensible. There's some murky swirling going on in the background as the bass takes on a more pronounced role, filling the foreground with a jaunty riff – solo. A spot of modulation for a 'middle eight', with funky piano stabs; the bass stays to the fore. Back to the original strongly-paced motif, although there is constant variation and ornamentation from divers instruments and vocals; there is no sense of repetition. A change of mood as we reach the finale; the guitars come forward with sustain, almost feedback, until cut short with a sharp trill from the piano.[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]A complex piece, which easily bears repeated listening, as there is so much happening that, for a casual 'once-through'; much detail would be missed, which would be a shame. A great gait, fast without hurry nor stress, urgent but posed. A very effective arrangement, despite the rich filling-in of the background; the principal elements find their place very naturally in the crowded soundscape, and the clean production keeps the overall palette easy on the ears. A surprising twist on the picture, but why not..? Splendid playing, more than a wry smile of humour, what more to ask for..? Full marks, lad; full marks.[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/robert-palmer-1/motion-capture"][color=#0000ff][font=Arial][size=4]'Motion Capture', from Bilbo ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 23, 2016 Author Share Posted February 23, 2016 (edited) [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4] [/size][/font][/color] [size=4][color=#000000][font=Arial]T[/font][/color][color=#000000][font=Arial]his 'Play of the Day' …[/font][/color][/size] [url="http://soundcloud.com/robert-palmer-1/motion-capture"][color=#0000ff][font=Arial][size=4]'Motion Capture', from Bilbo ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]A lumpy, muted-sustain solo bass riff, with an unusual syncopated timing sketches out a canvas as backdrop to a rather skittish bass (guitar..?), doubled by a very distant orchestral trumpet, and accompanied with an equally distant pattering of drums (toms, or snare with snare off..?). Fast runs and short, pregnant pauses, an impression of melody, wandering close to oriental scale tones at times, lured into counter-pointing the underlying bass, only to break off again into another fantasy tack. Sudden rupture as the piece closes with a last trumpet and final flourish from the lead bass.[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]A technical piece, rather unsettling at first listen, but holding up well with repeats. No mean feat of virtuosity, as the lead line is followed very closely by the trumpet; the timing is excellent. The link to the picture is equally technical, but it works, which is the main thing. I would have liked an interlude, or transition, somewhere, as the work retains its intensity from start to finish; a breathing space may have relieved the musical apnea. Impeccable production, a very clean performance; quite a show-piece. Yet another gem from The Master...[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/foolsjourney/sacred-places"][color=#0000ff][font=Arial][size=4]'Sacred Places', from Bleat ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Edited February 23, 2016 by Dad3353 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 23, 2016 Author Share Posted February 23, 2016 [size=4][color="#000000"][font="Arial"][/font][/color][/size] [size=4][color="#000000"][font="Arial"]T[/font][/color][color=#000000][font=Arial]his 'Play of the Day' here …[/font][/color][/size] [size=4][url="http://soundcloud.com/foolsjourney/sacred-places"][color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"]'Sacred Places', from Bleat ...[/font][/color][/url][/size] [size=4][color="#000000"][font="Arial"]Lapping water, swelling, swirling keys, children's voices... The build-up is subtle, sensitive, resolving into a delicate arpeggio and the vocals. And what vocals..! Top notch, perfectly adapted to the composition, the theme and the arrangement. Augmented by a 'heartbeat' throb, the emotion is felt fully, and given a touch of sparkle by the apt use of violin soars. The mood shifts, taking on a tinge of melancholy as the instruments give way to the beach again, all but a finger-style guitar and soft vocals. In come the keys, levering the vocals upwards towards a luxuriant bountiful orchestration, complete with thick bass and firm drums and a controlled explosion of key layers. The Voice returns, floating like cream topping, taking us through to the suddenly subdued ending with a sigh and a final childish chuckle.[/font][/color][/size] [size=4][color="#000000"][font="Arial"]Not much to say about this; it speaks (or rather 'sings' for itself. Faultless. Gold standard. Special mention for the superb use of ultra-discreet voice doubling. Top marks, and more still, from me. Nice one, Rachael. I'm glad that this is a 'Challenge', and not a 'Competition', as this is in a league of its own, and far out-shadows anything [i]I'm[/i] ever likely to come up with. The one that gets more votes than this will be bloomin' good, I'd say.[/font][/color][/size] [size=4][color="#000000"][font="Arial"]My next post in this topic will feature...[/font][/color][/size] [size=4][url="http://soundcloud.com/skollob/dive-dive-dive"][color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"]'Dive Dive Dive', from Skol303 ...[/font][/color][/url][/size] [size=4][color="#000000"][font="Arial"]Until then...[/font][/color][/size] [size=4][color="#000000"][font="Arial"]Have a nice day[/font][/color][/size] [size=4][color="#000000"][font="Arial"]Douglas[/font][/color][/size] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 23, 2016 Author Share Posted February 23, 2016 (edited) [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4] [/size][/font][/color] [size=4][color=#000000][font=Arial]T[/font][/color][color=#000000][font=Arial]his 'Play of the Day' here …[/font][/color][/size] [url="http://soundcloud.com/skollob/dive-dive-dive"][color=#0000ff][font=Arial][size=4]'Dive Dive Dive', from Skol303 ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]A sub-aqua start ([i]Please tell me that this effect was created using Sonar..?[/i]) 'pinging' a submarine heralds a mid-slow relentless beat from the drums, over which float a slow filtered synth and bass, and an arpeggio synth lead riff. These continue as the vocals enter but for the bass, which takes on a far more active role. The timbre changes for the chorus vocals, whilst retaining the incessant, constant drum beat. A second verse, a second chorus then... All drops away, leaving simply a skeleton of drums and a lone synth, while the delayed and doubled (tripled..?) vocals spread out until the return of the full orchestration and out.[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Deep stuff; deep stuff indeed. A sombre mood, in dark contrast to the picture's apparent sunny innocence, but, when the Muse strikes... Fine arrangement and orchestration filling out a steady, staid composition, well recorded and mixed to give a polished production. Effortless contrasting vocals giving an extra dab of colour to an otherwise solemn piece. Not suitable for dance floors, but is that such a bad thing..? Deep stuff; deep stuff indeed.[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/nigel-jewell/divedivedive"][color=#0000ff][font=Arial][size=4]'Dive, Dive, Dive', from fingers211 ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Edited February 23, 2016 by Dad3353 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Leonard Smalls Posted February 24, 2016 Share Posted February 24, 2016 Cheers Douglas; witty, insightful and excellent reviews, as ever! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Skol303 Posted February 24, 2016 Share Posted February 24, 2016 ^ Ditto! Always enjoy reading these. You certainly got the gist of mine. It's supposed to be about "escapism". Diving into something, to get away from something else. Well that was the Muse Anyway, great stuff mate. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 24, 2016 Author Share Posted February 24, 2016 [sharedmedia=core:attachments:167485] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 24, 2016 Author Share Posted February 24, 2016 [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"] [/size][/font][/color] [size=4][color=#000000][font=Arial]T[/font][/color][color=#000000][font=Arial]his 'Play of the Day' here …[/font][/color][/size] [color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"][u][url="http://soundcloud.com/nigel-jewell/divedivedive"]'Dive, Dive, Dive', from fingers211 ...[/url][/u][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]The piece starts before it has even started..! A fuzz guitar is already ringing out over a fast pulsating extravaganza of thrash double pedal drums, simply as preamble to the clear, harsh but precise vocals, the fuzz guitar fleshing out a counter-riff as the frenetic drums and buried bass pounder on. A neat chorus, still under pressure, gives way briefly to a cooler half-pace four-bar respite, but the chase is on again for another verse and 'hook'. Back to the slower tempo, this time for the full eight bars, only for the urgency to return as the solo guitars kick in, racing each other riff for riff, building up the tension, then allowing sonic space for a relatively restrained keys interlude. The bubble bursts, as the vocal exhortion seizes the forefront, taking the verse and 'hook' right up to the brink.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]An excellent interpretation of the picture, with a very effective lyric; top marks for that alone. There is authenticity galore; the instrumentation and arrangement are in perfect adequation, driving us along at a cracking pace. I hear echoes of a German group, Einstürzende Neubauten, in the vocal style; no bad thing. Altogether an exciting, well-constructed and interesting work, which sounds as if it was fun to play. It's certainly fun to listen to..![/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/dad3353/scintillating-curved-air"][color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"]'Scintillating Curved Air', from Dad3353 ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 24, 2016 Author Share Posted February 24, 2016 [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]This 'Play of the Day' here …[/size][/font][/color] [color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"][u][url="http://soundcloud.com/dad3353/scintillating-curved-air"]'Scintillating Curved Air', from Dad3353 ...[/url][/u][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]A solo piano taps out a slow, poised melody-riff, then stammers a repeat. In comes a violin, with a calm air over the piano, now even more delayed. Once again, this time a cello is ushered in, with a soft counter-melody; the piano is now almost trilling behind the strings. At last, the piano takes on a more flowing role, a melodic arpeggio giving grounding to the hesitant theme; the violin floats along with its own ascension. An apogee is reached, the violin descends as the piano and the now-pressing cello strive to attain those same heights. A vain task, but the ascending descent is now mirrored by inversion of the strings, the piano stubbornly continues to climb. The tension breaks as the piano returns, still stammering, to its original key role, to be joined by the accomplice strings for a final, clean bow out, leaving only a trail of resonance.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Despite the joyous nature of the picture, I was in a more sombre mood when I embarked on this piece. It served as a thoughtful outlet and quiescent solace in a moment of mourning, and fulfilled that task for me. I would hope it to strike a more positive note for others; apologies for the shadow cast on the fine sunshine of the occasion portrayed.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/christofloffer/sunburnt-toes2"][color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"]'Sunburnt Toes', from christofloffer ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 24, 2016 Author Share Posted February 24, 2016 [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]This 'Play of the Day' here …[/size][/font][/color] [color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"][u][url="http://soundcloud.com/christofloffer/sunburnt-toes2"]'Sunburnt Toes', from christofloffer ...[/url][/u][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]A 'ratatata' from the snare launches a moderately slow rocking ¾ time, focussing on a rather melodic bass line, and strummed chords. A peaceful tastefully-rolled swing snare kit helps establish the atmosphere. A jaunty accordion enters, adding a complementary melody and syncopated stabs to the unfolding tapestry. The sonic picture suddenly fills as the drums kick in fully, and the accordion adds sustained full chords whilst the bass plays on, using rich, robust roots and octaves to full effect. The swing continues unabated right up to a final flourish from the accordion, and the dance is over.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]A tasteful interpretation of a fine detail in the picture, aptly executed and well recorded. The relaxed atmosphere comes across well, and the clean, uncluttered mix give a deceiving sense of simplicity. The composition could well support further evolution still; the arrangement chosen builds up very nicely, and could go further. More than a pleasant listen, and a refreshing change in the use of uncommon instruments; well done.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/rikki-boyes/take-the-jump"][color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"]'Take The Jump', from Rikki1984 ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 24, 2016 Author Share Posted February 24, 2016 [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]This 'Play of the Day' here …[/size][/font][/color] [color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"][u][url="http://soundcloud.com/rikki-boyes/take-the-jump"]'Take The Jump', from Rikki1984 ...[/url][/u][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]A solo bass riff opens, quickly followed by 'rock' drums and a filtered 'crunch' guitar, then the low-pitched vocals for the first verse. A short break, featuring a distant guitar riff, then the chorus swings in, aided by backing vocal harmonies and a bubbling synth arpeggio. A second verse, the break, and again, the chorus, taking us through to a solo in which the guitar takes the spotlight, the bass and drums continue to drive relentlessly on. The solo closes neatly, and the tone changes to a unison guitar/bass riff, with suitable power drums put to good use, chundering along with gusto until the final sustained notes.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Well constructed, composed over a well-tested format with enough of a twist to revendicate originality whilst remaining familiar to our ears. The performance has authority, all instruments fulfil their roles and lend cohesion to the ensemble. I'd have liked a little more 'sparkle' in the final production; I found the whole to have a certain veil over them, especially the bass and drums (perhaps it's me..? ), but this takes nothing from the merits of the playing. The lyrics sit nicely alongside the picture if taken as allegory; again, no bad thing. Altogether a worthy piece which bears repeated listens with repeated pleasure. My thumb's up.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/user-145360766/divingdive-in-bathysphere-dub"][color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"]'Diving/Dive In (Bathysphere Dub)', from Dapper Bandit ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 24, 2016 Author Share Posted February 24, 2016 [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]This 'Play of the Day' here …[/size][/font][/color] [color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"][u][url="http://soundcloud.com/user-145360766/divingdive-in-bathysphere-dub"]'Diving/Dive In (Bathysphere Dub)', from Dapper Bandit ...[/url][/u][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]A languid, hesitant start from a cross-sticked snare with shuffle hats and a rather soporific alternating bass, over which flows a heavily treated guitar, wandering with little apparent direction towards a shift, as the tapping fades out and the bass steps forward. Not for long, as again we slip back towards the alternating riff, this time on guitars and bass, drifting in and out of focus, meandering in free form over an approximation of the opening riff until fade-out.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]To be honest, I'm not a fan, or maybe I missed something important. I'm not completely hermetic to a minimalist approach in general, but here I capture little structure nor forethought, simply a repeated pattern with strong opiate tendencies; rather more numbing than mesmerizing. I would like to give encouragement for the effort put in and the patience required for playing all of that, but didn't get much out of the listen. My loss, quite possibly; sorry.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/lurksalot/acacapulco"][color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"]'Acacapulco?', from lurksalot ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 25, 2016 Author Share Posted February 25, 2016 [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4][/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]This 'Play of the Day' here …[/size][/font][/color] [color=#0000ff][font=Arial][size=4][u][url="http://soundcloud.com/lurksalot/acacapulco"]'Acacapulco?', from lurksalot ...[/url][/u][/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Congas set off the lilting beat, followed by a mariachi-style trumpet over a compelling Cuban 'son' swing from the bass. Light, breezy, very warm; we're definitely in the tropics. The theme plays through, resolving to a resounding cry from a chorus of happy vocalists. The orchestration shifts, relying more on gently-strummed guitars, with faint stabs from the brass section and divers percussions. In comes the 'big beat', a solid, stomping bass drum and enthusiastic hand claps, as the trumpet takes the solo melody line. The bass resumes its rocking beat, and we return to the opening arrangement, evolving into a short exuberant flourish, a shot from the timbales and a final vigorous shout... 'Acapulco..!'[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]An exotic introduction with a 'Gon Bops' clave setting the scene, and what a scene..! We are somewhere in the Latin quarters of either Pacific Mexico, Cuba or Trinidad, we're not quite sure. Does it matter..? Fun throughout, with a totally authentic series of 'cheesy', warm, exotic ambiances and sonorities. The effervescence is catchy, and feet are tapping from beginning to end. If I could only dance..! A brilliant 'take' on the picture; as an aside, whilst looking up some background information, I stumbled across this picture, taken at the 40m-high cliff at Acapulco. It could hardly be more apt...[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4] [/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Thanks for the welcome dose of sunshine.[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Oh, the Challenge..? Oh yes... Full marks, obviously, for composition, arrangement, recording, mixing, production, fit to picture, musicality, dance-ability, fun factor, sunniness, humour, originality, tongue-in-cheekiness ... I've surely left out a few criteria. Top drawer, here; sheer brilliance.[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/organicpulseensemble/suspense-release-breeze"][color=#0000ff][font=Arial][size=4]'Suspense - Release - Breeze', from Bastav ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 25, 2016 Author Share Posted February 25, 2016 [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]This 'Play of the Day' here …[/size][/font][/color] [color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"][u][url="http://soundcloud.com/organicpulseensemble/suspense-release-breeze"]'Suspense - Release - Breeze', from Bastav ...[/url][/u][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Trills from each member of the horn section and a staid sketch on the double bass give a false idea of tempo, then the true rhythm is engaged, a jerky, hesitant syncopation, punctuated with cross-stick tapping from the drums, the background filled out with a very discreet guitar 'comping'. The moderate pace lurches on; there is a hint of vibraphone or similar adding to the almost (but not quite...) random impression. The horns ease off, leaving the flute to reveal a certain virtuosity; the vibraphone, too, affirms its presence more. All comes to a clean conclusion, or so it would seem, except that the bass and percussion decide to attempt a few cautious notes before springing out into silence...[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]A very original work, drawing an almost strict parallel between the picture and the music. A refreshing combination of instruments, very tastefully arranged over an unusual meter, and perfectly executed in all respects. Infectious, impish; one could wish it to go on for longer but, true to the picture still, in the end, the plunge must be taken. Excellent; well done.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/gxmix/start-of-a-party-1"][color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"]'Start Of A Party', from xgsjx ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 25, 2016 Author Share Posted February 25, 2016 [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]This 'Play of the Day' here …[/size][/font][/color] [color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"][u][url="http://soundcloud.com/gxmix/start-of-a-party-1"]'Start Of A Party', from xgsjx ...[/url][/u][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]A rapid fade-in; apparently the party has already started..! The obligatory heavy disco thump, along with the equally ubiquitous 'slap-stick' snare are back from the '80s, along with their partner, the bouncing, mobile, disco bass line. With the piano stabs and a synth melody riff, the atmosphere is set. It's part time. The vocals give a slightly different impression, not unlike J. J. Cale (no bad thing...), and take us through to the first break, where we get some respite from the pounding, as the stabs come to the fore. An accapella section, with highly treated vocals; the orchestration creeps back in little by little, interrupted again by a solitary vocal line introducing the return of the whole band, and the 'big beat' is back once again. An instrumental spot, then back to another verse of vocals and riffs, until the piano is left alone to stab the chords in guise of outro.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Well, it may be a bit obvious, but I'll have to admit to not being particularly enamoured by the 'disco' genre, and see, for my part, little interest in having one's head bashed about by incessant hammer blows. Still, to be fair, and insomuch as I'm far from expert in this style, we have here a fine example of how it was done, back in the day (I spent some years installing disco audio and lights, and was unfortunately exposed sometimes to the result...). To defend (m'lud...), I'd applaud the half-talking vocals, and the very appropriate use of vocoder effects. Well recorded and mixed, well played; well done. ([i]Can we leave now..? Got any aspirin..? What did you say..? What..? Oh, never mind[/i]...)[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/doctor_j_bass/the-first-time-you-jump"][color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"]'The First Time You Jump', from Doctor J ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Bastav Posted February 25, 2016 Share Posted February 25, 2016 Thanks for the words, much appreciated! Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 25, 2016 Author Share Posted February 25, 2016 [sharedmedia=core:attachments:167485] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 25, 2016 Author Share Posted February 25, 2016 [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]This 'Play of the Day' here …[/size][/font][/color] [color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"][u][url="http://soundcloud.com/doctor_j_bass/the-first-time-you-jump"]'The First Time You Jump', from Doctor J ...[/url][/u][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]A peaceful arpeggio electric guitar runs leisurely through the chords, ringing out with much reverberation. The slow vocals join in, as do the drums and a swarm of other guitars, building up from a sparse, almost empty beat to a full slow rock, smothered in fuzz and a thick bass playing eighths. The vocals continue unabated, only to evolve into a chorus of sorts, the drums switching to a semi-military 'U2' beat. A short instrumental section and the vocals return, thickened by secondary and more backing vocals, building up the pressure and intensity progressively towards a thunder of pattering drums and wildly chaotic climax, then, with a sharp intake of breath and a heavy pause, all is resolved in a final chord.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]No problem associating this with the picture, in either musical or lyrical terms; the contract is amply respected. Excellent evolution throughout, as the mood changes from utter peace and tranquillity to pent-up tension and blessed release. All instruments played entirely in keeping with the composition (the drums are maybe a little too 'dry'..?), and the overall production very clean and well controlled, despite the very heavy use of fuzz on the guitars. There's an undercurrent of pace beneath the laboured tempo (which is good...), and an altogether balanced feeling from the whole work. Very good; very good indeed.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/theboysings/goodbye-gail"][color="#000080"][font="Arial"][size="4"]'Goodbye Gail', from the boy ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Mornats Posted February 25, 2016 Share Posted February 25, 2016 I love your write-ups Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 25, 2016 Author Share Posted February 25, 2016 [sharedmedia=core:attachments:167485] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 26, 2016 Author Share Posted February 26, 2016 [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]This 'Play of the Day' here …[/size][/font][/color] [color="#0000ff"][font="Arial"][size="4"][u][url="http://soundcloud.com/theboysings/goodbye-gail"][color="#000080"]'Goodbye Gail', from the boy ...[/color][/url][/u][/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Slow-picking guitar fades in, an indolent descent on the bass string heralds the softly-spoken lyrics. The story unfolds over the constant, hypnotic guitar, metronomic throughout. No frills, no embellishment, just the picking and the story. Sometimes, less is more. This is such a time.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]A lesson in sobriety, using one chord, one rocking rhythm, one vocal tone. This is not designed to get the pulses racing, but rather to draw us in, listening with bated breath to the tale, aptly fitted to the picture. Faultless execution; an altogether quality offering. There could be numerous possible arrangements and orchestrations, but it's been left to each to imagine their own, or to enjoy the bare bones 'as is'. The stuff of greatness; top marks.[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]My next post in this topic will feature...[/size][/font][/color] [url="http://soundcloud.com/mornats/dive"][color="#000080"][font="Arial"][size="4"]'Dive', from Mornats ...[/size][/font][/color][/url] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color="#000000"][font="Arial"][size="4"]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Dad3353 Posted February 26, 2016 Author Share Posted February 26, 2016 (edited) [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4][/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]This 'Play of the Day' here …[/size][/font][/color] [color=#0000ff][font=Arial][size=4][u][url="http://soundcloud.com/mornats/dive"][color=#000080]'Dive', from Mornats ...[/color][/url][/u][/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]A rather rasping sample sets off a delayed melodic marimba(..?) riff, supported by a modest bass arpeggio. An uneasy peace is disturbed by more sample interjections. A sequenced synth provides anticipation of a total thunder of drums, with a suspended high-pitched note adding anguish. The percussion fleshes out, with continued ejaculations [/size][/font][/color][color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]punctuating the whole. The scene is rather full. The pressure is eased as the insistent riff ceases, along with the tumultuous drums, leaving space for a plaintive voice to ring out like an enchanting siren (no, you dolt, the mermaid, not the alarm..!). The tranquillity is shattered; urgent strings and pressing percussion push for space as impelling ghostly vocals inject drama and pace, the siren returns (OK, now it's more like an alarm; I take back the 'dolt'...). The chase is on, there's no remission, no relenting, no let-up. Things come to a head; we are left in suspension as the piece ends with a final detonation from the drums and a falling siren.[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]A complex piece, best listened to with the picture firmly in view; it comes alive as the music plays through (I caught several glimpses of actual movement, I'm certain..!). A dramatic, rich soundscape, using a wide array of effects, samples and interwoven themes to bring to life, in our imagination, a powerful narrative. I found the lo-fi voices to be excessively harsh-sounding, although that's, in part, inherent in the source of these; it doesn't detract from the overall show being played out. Exciting, original, appropriate; another fine twist on the subject, for which there is evidence of much care and attention to detail. Very good indeed; well done.[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Here endeth my ramblings for this month; more next time, I hope. Until then...[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Have a nice day[/size][/font][/color] [color=#000000][font=Arial][size=4]Douglas[/size][/font][/color] Edited February 26, 2016 by Dad3353 Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Doctor J Posted February 26, 2016 Share Posted February 26, 2016 Always enjoy reading these every month. Thanks Douglas. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
Rikki1984 Posted February 26, 2016 Share Posted February 26, 2016 [quote name='Doctor J' timestamp='1456516526' post='2990013'] Always enjoy reading these every month. Thanks Douglas. [/quote] I was just about to post exactly that. Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
lurksalot Posted February 26, 2016 Share Posted February 26, 2016 Wow , I humbled by your kind words Douglas , many thanks. I will add to the others that find your reviews to be so insightful, perceptive and a darn good read Quote Link to comment Share on other sites More sharing options...
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