Scattered

Yeah, I know. Delinquent blog. I’m not much of a writer, but I DO like blogging this stuff…

What’s been happening? As I said before, the music is complete. Just need to record the vocals. I’ve been trying to lay down the tracks, and they just haven’t been sounding right. I think there’s too much reverberation in my studio, so I’m going to look at building a vocal booth. For now, some supports and a couple of blankets should make a “fort” that will deaden the sound going into the microphone (no jokes about my voice, right?).

I got a little frustrated with the lack of vocal success the other day, and watched Stand Up Guys. Al Pacino, Christopher Walken, Alan Arkin… can’t go wrong with that cast! What struck me was the killer soundtrack. Old soul music, Detroit & Philly grooves. I took some inspiration, and have tried to re-arrange and re-record some of the songs with that late 60s/early 70s feeling. It’s pretty cool, but far from the more “guitar pop” genre that I normally focus on.
So now I’m going back and forth between the two. If I could compete with my ambitions, I’d record both. It’s like having 2 hot dates on the same night, and not being sure which to pick.
I remember my dad once telling me (lies) about how he managed to do it before meeting my mum. Also, I’m expanding my instrument collection.

For Christmas last year, my wife gave me a cheap harmonica. I really liked the instrument, and have written a few pieces that really suit it. So for my birthday a few weeks ago she bought me a set of good ones. I’m loving them, and they’ll certainly be on the roster for whatever comes next.
I also picked up a new ukulele last night. It won’t be a big addition to the music, but is perfect in small doses. No “tiptoe through the tulips,” I promise!


Here's some Baby Huey.  Inspired me, maybe it'll give you a kick too!