Over and Over - Tracks 1 and 9.
This was written as a simple folk song but I re worked it in a waltz
rhythm beat using the twelve string guitar. The orchestration and
harmonies have transformed this simple folk song into a pop
ballad. The piano version transforms the song into the genre of
film music, which is a genre I would like to explore in the future
I long for the summer - Track 2.
This is the first time I have been able to record this song with the
two tunes synchronised. It was great fun. The drums are brilliant
and I am also pleased with my twelve string guitar playing. I had
to teach myself how to play with a plectrum. I hope people who
listen see the song as having a bit more meaning than being
about some one who has seasonal affective disorder.
In the glow of a light - Track 3 and 10.
This was written in my university days and was my protest song
about inequalities in the world. Perhaps I could write it in a more
subtle way today but essentially I still believe in what I said. The
guitar version was an opportunity to document my guitar playing. It
was the first time I have been able to record a guitar harmony on
top of an existing guitar track. I am very pleased with it
He used to say - Track 4 and 12.
Ben saw the potential for this track to be sung by a choir and he
demonstrated the choral arrangement in his orchestration on
track 4. A simple tune, brilliantly transformed into a work for a full
orchestra and choir. I must admit that the middle section for the
song is new and was written during the process of recording. This
again made me realise the potential of my songs for film music.
The choir version was recorded at the Artist Studios in June 2009
and it took about 5 hours. The singers were all recruited by Ben
through their involvement with the studio. In total there were 18 of
us singing in four part harmony. Ben has produced a terrific
version for the album. Many thanks to all those who participated.
The choir version is on myspace link. One of my next tasks is to
try to persuade a full choir to perform the song
My Girl - Track 5.
This song was written in open tuning on the guitar. I realised
much later that Joni Mitchell used this tuning on many of her
songs. I am very pleased with my guitar work on this song.
The Summer Sun - Track 6.
Here you see the influence of the folk music referred to above.
This was written in a traditional folk style and I am pleased with all
aspects of the recording - guitars, harmonies and drums.
Listen - Track 7.
Another piece played in open guitar tuning. This song had no
words and it really was a late addition to the album. When I saw
the success of orchestral arrangements in the other songs,
especially 'Over and Over' and 'He used to say' I decided to do the
same with this track. I did, however, write an extra section to the
song. The use of the flute has worked well. This is the oldest
melody, written when I was 19. It is one of my favourites from the
album.
The boy on the sand - Tracks 8 and 13.
I had all the songs recorded on to a tape. When I listened to the
tape for the first time in about 25 years I came across this song. It
was like listening to a song for the first time because I had
forgotten all about it. It was an overwhelming experience. The
song was probably the hardest to get right. I wanted to sing it but
it was recorded in too high a key. It eventually turned out just as I
had hoped and is another of my favourites. The backing track was
so good that I decided to include it on the album. Some people
who listen for the first time don't realise that it is the same song.
Over the Ocean - Track 11.
Another song written in traditional folk style and also with a
traditional folk theme. People tell me that this is one of the best
tunes on the album.
Now I know I can smile again- Track 14.
This is the only country style song. I don't know what it is really
about but I guess some people might interpret it in a religious way.
There is a big market for Christian music - watch this space! We
worked hard on the harmonies and this is one of only two songs
on the album where all 3 of us sing together
Far, far away - Track 15.
The unfinished song. I will finish it sometime in the future. It could
be one of the few songs that took over thirty years to write.