Song #9: Predictions

This week's song is highly influenced by Radiohead. I've been a pretty big fan of theirs ever since OK Computer came out. To be more specific, I would say the song, Videotape was a big inspiration for the sound and feel of this song. I tried a few new things: 2 harmonizing ebow guitar tracks (recorded direct, without an amp), a "choir" of harmony vocals (at one point there are 8 vocal tracks), and a "blippy-sounding" techno beat I created by playing each part on the keyboard, looping it, and layering effects on top. I'm really pleased with the results. I think it's my favorite song of the series so far. Hope you enjoy it!

Song #8: Beyond My Control

This week's tune is a sad song influenced by David Bazan (AKA Pedro the Lion). I wrote this late one night when I was contemplating whether or not I should try to keep making music. People always say "follow your dreams" but what if following your dreams means you'll be broke for the rest of your life? I think ultimately, I concluded to just make music for music's sake and not worry so much about the outcome... and here we are. What do you think?

Song #7: I Waited For You

This one is an oldie written back in high school (around 2000). This is one of my first attempts at country influenced folk rock. I think the inspiration lies somewhere between Travis and Bob Dylan. I think I'd like to add drums, bass, and an organ. What do you think?

Song #6: Apology

This week's song was inspired by one my new favorite bands, Beach House. There latest album, Teen Dream, is excellent! I highly recommend it. What do you think of the sound of this song? Is it too far away from the sound of my other songs? Would a more sparse approach better suite this song?

Song #5: Petals + Roses

This week's song is super chill and inspired by Elliott Smith (especially the double tracked vocals and guitars). It's about boldly going into a relationship without knowing what the outcome will be. I'm not really sure where to take this song in terms of additional arrangment. Any ideas?

Song #4: Outside

This song is about admitting that you are wrong in a relationship. The approach to this recording I've had in my head for a long time (kind of early Coldplay maybe?) but is there another way to approach the song that might be better? Also, does it need some harmony vocals?

Song #3: The Golden Age

Another old song written back in 2003. It's about where we've come as a people and how we define progress. I kept the instrumentation sparse with just a piano and vocal. It's influenced by Coldplay and Aqualung (and now that I think about it, John Lennon). Do you like it sparse or should I add some drums to it? Maybe a cello?