A New Song Every Day

Song366_When We Meet Again (FINAL DAY!)

2010-07-01T18:54:00.001-07:00

Today was the final day of this project. It's bitter-sweet, for sure. In fact, it still hasn't hit me completely. I was excited yesterday about crossing the finish line today, but I listened to the final version of today's song while I was packing all my guitars away...and it made me sad. Carly and I are moving, so Threebynine(TM) recording studio will be relocating also. I've already packed a large portion of the studio (mics, stands, guitars, cables, drums, etc)...it looks pretty empty already.

I took a pay cut this past year, and I (we) made some other sacrifices in order to make this project possible. I continued working my job throughout this project, but my job was only 30 percent of my week (about 15-20 hours/week), and 70 percent being music (about 40 hours/week). Now, unless someone is willing to pay me a fair salary to continue recording, my focus will shift back to 90 percent work and 10 percent music. Anyone? Anyone?

I'm very excited about the prospect of forming a band to play a few songs from this project. The 6 people that I've contacted have already expressed interest, so I'll let you know if it works out.

Thanks for your interest and support! If you haven't already, please join the Mailing List at www.anewsongeveryday.com to get updates on future projects.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song365_Silent Fiction

2010-06-30T16:44:00.001-07:00

Today's song completes ONE YEAR of writing, recording, mixing, and publishing a new song every day. I'll be recording one more song tomorrow (since it's better to run "through" the finish line and not "to" the finish line), so the final album of this project will be available tomorrow evening at http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/.

Today's instrumental took about 3 hours to complete and it's 8-10 tracks (including: drums, bass guitar, 3 electric guitars, and a variety of synth sounds). I set the 'click' to 140bpm, and then I created 4 different chord progressions (1=E-F, 2=E-G#m-B-E, 3-B7-E, and 4=A, E, B7-E). Each section repeats a few times then moves on to something else...not much repetition.

By the way, my wife (Carly) is having an art show at the Starbucks in Colleyville this weekend (near the intersection at Precinct Line Rd and Hwy 26). She's a great photographer, designer, artist, etc, and she'll be displaying about 20 framed photos of flowers/nature. You can see some of her photos at http://www.carlydarly.com/.

One more day.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song364_Into the Light

2010-06-29T21:24:00.001-07:00

I started this project on July 1, 2009 (a Wednesday). Each album in this project contains 7 songs...the product of a new song every day from each Wednesday to the following Tuesday. Anyway, today is Tuesday, but there will be no album released today. I've decided to wait a few extra days and release the final album on Thursday. It will be the only album in this project with 9 songs.

I got another late start on today's song. I had Freehand projects (also on deadlines) that kept me busy until 1730. I ate dinner, napped for an hour, and I started this recording session at 2150...cutting it pretty close. I chose to start with the electric guitar, set the 'click' to 80bpm, and I recorded a few simple progressions. I got this track recorded in one take all the way through (First Section=C#m-D-A, Transition=D-E, Second Section=D#m-E-B, Transition=E-F#). Next, I added drums, bass guitar, two additional electric guitars, tambourine, and a string section. I also added a few vocal tracks (each one recorded in 2 takes because of time constraints). I edited each track as I recorded it, so it was close to ready when the final track was recorded (around 2311). I got this one uploaded at 2340.

I heard today that a company in Washington now makes bacon flavored vodka. Genius! I've had a chocolate bar with bacon strips in it...excellent.

Tomorrow's song will complete one full year of writing, recording, mixing, and publishing a new song every day!

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song363_Start at the Ending

2010-06-28T21:08:00.000-07:00

I started writing this song around 2100...recording drums (96bpm), then bass guitar, then 3 electric guitars (in that order). Additionally, there are 4 synth tracks. The initial guitar progression is kind of strange...though I guess I should blame that on the bass player (Intro=F#-E-B-A, Center=A-E-D#m-B). The other two guitars don't exactly play the same chords, but it somehow fits...kind of. The dissonance is purposeful, and I like how the melodies work for and against each other at different times. I completed this song at 2300, but I wasn't happy with the levels on the first mix. The second attempt worked much better...done at 2322.

Only 3 days left...

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song362_Line of Sight

2010-06-27T19:58:00.001-07:00

I started today's song around 1900, and I wrote and recorded the 3 electric guitars first (130bpm). This is a very simple chord progressions...just 'A' and 'G,' but hopefully the combination of rhythms and the way the layers are applied (and removed) make this one interesting. The next instrument that I added was the bass guitar, followed by drums, tambourine, and 3 synth tracks (about 10 tracks total). I completed this one around 2205.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song361_Under the Surface

2010-06-26T11:50:00.000-07:00

Friend/guitarist, Thiago Silva, joined me for today's recording session. This was his 3rd time to help during the past year. We have similar styles, but we excel in different areas, so it's fun collaborating. We scheduled today's session for 1000 to 1400, but I decided to lay the foundation before he got here...thinking that it would allow more time for him to experiment on the guitar while he was here. I structured the session into 3 main parts...starting with drums. The first two sections were recorded at 60bpm, and the ending (which is like a second song in the same key) is set to 120bpm. After arranging the drums I added bass guitar (first part=A-E, second part=A-Bm-C#m-D-E, ending=C#m-D-E-A), did some minor editing, and then Thiago arrived.

I gave Thiago a brief overview of the session, and before I could even get his track ready he was playing along. We tackled one section at a time. The opening has 2 main electric guitar parts (panned to opposite sides of the stereo-field), and the ending has 3 main parts. (All of the guitars today were recorded spontaneously by Thiago). I added a few vocal tracks to the end section that mirror the guitar solo. We also decided to add an organ to the intro, which made that section smoother and fuller. The mix came together in one try, and we finalized this song at 1355!

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song360_Congratulatory Kisses

2010-06-25T13:17:00.000-07:00

I started today's recording session around 1230...right after completing a video project for a client, and just before a late lunch of chicken and couscous. I approached today's song different than usual. The first 3 tracks that I recorded were synth (one repetitive sequence that also contains a solo trumpet, one string section, and another synth sequence). Next, I added a few different drum rhythms, followed by the bass guitar (which mostly plays E-A in various rhythms). I also added 2 electric guitars that add single-noted melodies in contrast to one another. None of these (12 or so) tracks are great on their own, but I like the way they combine and evolve throughout the song. I completed this one at 1528.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song359_Signal Exchange

2010-06-24T18:01:00.000-07:00

Today's instrumental was written on the electric guitar. I strummed a simple progression (verse=G-D-C-D, change=Em-D-C) using a guitar effect with lots of reverb and delay. I chose 60bpm, but I recorded most of the tracks to 120bpm...just because there was too much time between 'clicks' at 60bpm (too hard to anticipate changes or keep steady rhythm). Next, I added a simple drum sequence, followed by bass guitar. I also added: 2 additional electric guitars (picking solo notes), cymbal swells, a tambourine, a string section, a choir section, and a solo violin. I spent about 3.5 hours (at various times throughout the day) writing and recording this song.

I've been doing some marketing work for a Christian organization that is starting a live Internet broadcast. They already have a number of authors, speakers, etc that are willing to be guests, but they have asked me to be the very first guest. The first week of shows will be pre-recorded so we can work out any technical issues in private, but then it will move to a live format with a consistent broadcast time the following week. We're recording this coming Monday. I'll post a link when I know when/where it will be shown.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song358_Check the Mic

2010-06-23T07:51:00.000-07:00

Today's song begins a new album, Week52_Final Transmission. This will be the only album in this project to have 9 songs (instead of 7), since I've decided to record for "one year and one day" (i.e. 366 consecutive days). In some ways this album has been the toughest one to approach. I've been having lots of "last-minute" ideas and desires for this project, but it can't last forever. Each album has required me to choose: song titles, album titles, lyrical themes, musical styles, groupings of instruments, etc, and hopefully all of these decisions each week combine to form one cohesive album. It's already 1000, but I'm still making the final decisions. I have about an hour to think it over (while I change the strings on 4 guitars).

Random Note: My friend of 20(+) years, Adam, has asked me to officiate his wedding later this year. I'm honored that they asked, so of course I'm going to do it. They currently live in California, and they've decided to have two ceremonies...I'll officiate the Texas version. The state of Texas allows three types of people to legally conduct marriage ceremonies: 1) ordained ministers, 2) judges, and 3) those authorized by their religion. Anyone can legally become an "ordained minister" online (it's simple and free), but the catch is that you have to be willing to be affiliated with those groups. One of the most common sites states "We are all children of the same universe" and makes you promise to "do only that which is right" (though what's "right" is never discussed). It's almost like a group of anarchists nominating you to be president. No thanks. The funny thing is that there have been lots of problems in the past with "unofficial" officiators conducting weddings. So, now "the Texas Family Code provides that if you believe the person is authorized, the marriage is valid even if the person officiating the ceremony was not authorized." That's hilarious.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song357_Three Fifty-Seven

2010-06-22T15:42:00.000-07:00

Today's song was completely written, recorded, mixed, and uploaded within one hour! That is a new record for me. This instrumental completes another album, Week51_Won, which will be available for sale later today at www.anewsongeveryday.com.

I worked on Freehand projects today until 1500, and then I took a break and ran 5 miles. It was pretty hot outside. I got back around 1600, ate 2 hard-boiled eggs and fell asleep on the couch until 1700. This song was recorded from 1700 until 1755, and it consists of: drums, bass guitar, 2 electric guitars, and one string section (only 5 tracks). Now it's time to design this week's album cover.

Tomorrow begins the final week of recording for this project. If you have any last-minute requests or suggestions, then let me know now.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song356_Perfect Silence

2010-06-21T18:25:00.000-07:00

I started today's song by structuring the rhythm section (100bpm): synth sequence, drums, and bass guitar. Next, I added the 2 electric guitars, an extra synth sound to the second half, and I added some congas to the fade-out. This song has 8 tracks, and it took about 3.5 hours to write, record, and mix. I wasn't able to start until 1700 because of other work obligations, but it's only 2035 now. Plenty of time to run, eat dinner, design the album cover for Week #51 (due tomorrow), watch a movie, feed the rabbits their mandatory midnight snack, sleep...

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song355_The Rise

2010-06-20T13:27:00.001-07:00

Today's song is another random instrumental that started with a few electric guitar parts. I chose a key, hit 'record,' and just played for about 4 minutes (124bpm). I touched on all 3 of the major sections of this song within that take, so I honed in on the parts that I liked, and then re-recorded them one-by-one. I added a few drum sequences, and then the bass guitar. I left room for a second electric guitar, but I wanted to get the foundational elements in place first. The second electric guitar (on the opposite side of the stereo-field) is a combination of picking and strumming that compliments the main part. I also added a string section and a synth sequence. I had to 'bounce' this file twice to get the Mastering process right, but I like the end results.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song354_Facing Forward

2010-06-19T21:18:00.000-07:00

This past week was very busy, and I ended up working 4 or 5 nights until midnight. Today is Saturday, so I took a relaxed approach to recording today...opting not to start this session until late in the day. Earlier today I had an hour-long appointment with a "wellness specialist." It was a combination of Chiropractic manipulation, deep tissue message, and acupressure. It was great and much needed. Next, Carly and I went to look at motorcycles (for me). I'm not getting one immediately, but I have a friend that works at a KTM shop, so it was fun to look. KTM has a nice variety of street bikes (my favorite is the 990 Super Duke...all black). Anyway, we got home around 1600, loaded our bikes (the kind you pedal), and rode 20-miles at Legacy Park (1:11:35). I finally started recording after dinner (around 2100). Today actually felt like a day off.

I started today's song by layering a few synth tracks and then adding a drum sequence (90bpm). This set a mood that was easy to elaborate on with electric guitar(s). I also added bass guitar and tambourine...making this song around 8-10 tracks. I completed recording around 2300, edited, mixed, and finalized this instrumental at 2344. Another song complete.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song353_Won

2010-06-18T16:41:00.000-07:00

I woke up at 0700, mowed the yard, and then I had to prepare for a meeting. The meeting lasted over 2 hours...an hour and a half longer than I expected, but I got 4 new projects for Freehand Productions (web design and audio/video). I worked until 1700, ran 3 miles, ate a quick dinner, and started today's song at 1810. We have 12-15 guests coming over at 1900! Yes, it's Game Night at the Otto home.

It's 1850 right now, and I already have 2 electric guitars, bass guitar, and one drum track in place. I plan on adding more tracks sporadically throughout the night. Today's song will be ready sometime before midnight.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song352_Taken

2010-06-17T15:45:00.001-07:00

Today's song is an instrumental that began with the main electric guitar (Intro=Am-C-Em-D, Center=C-D). Additionally, I added: bass guitar, cymbal swells, xylophone, 2 electric guitars (panned to opposite sides of the stereo-field), and 3-4 synth tracks. I worked on today's song in 2-3 sittings that totaled about 3 hours.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song351_Unbreakable

2010-06-16T21:36:00.001-07:00

Well, it's 2356...a little too close to the daily deadline. This song was "finished" when I realized that it was 2300. At that point I stopped recording, edited the 6 tracks I had recorded, mixed, mastered, and bounced it into a "WAV" file (which I then converted into an MP3 file). Anyway, today's song is the first song on the newest album, Week51_Won.

I worked on a few design projects today until 1700, ran 5 miles (I think it was over 100 degrees), woke up on the couch at 2040, and then I recorded from 2145 until 2345). There are other things that I could've done to enhance this song, but I simply ran out of time. It's wasn't originally structured to be an instrumental (until I chopped it up at the end), but I like the contrast of the 2 electric guitars and the solid, balanced mix that these tracks produced.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song350_Another Eden

2010-06-15T20:33:00.000-07:00

Today's song completes another album, Week50_The Other Side. It will be available for sale within the hour at http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/.

Today's instrumental is a 10-track song that consists of: 2 drum sequences, tambourine, synth bass (though it sounds like a guitar), 3 electric guitars, piano, a synth pad that sounds like a ghost (in the center section), and a synth violin (in the final section). This song has 3 major sections (90bpm): Intro=C-F, Center=G-F, Ending=Em-D. I had other work to do until 1700, and I trashed everything that I recorded from 1700 until 1800. This song is the product of my efforts from 2000 to 2220. I didn't have the album cover designed yet either, but fortunately Carly saved the day. She created this week's artwork while I recorded today's song. Bravo, Senorita.

50 weeks complete...only 2 remaining.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song349_Golden Roads

2010-06-14T20:13:00.000-07:00

I started this song with the synth sound that you hear in the intro (played to a 'click' set to 100bpm). I actually recorded a few other guitar parts on top of this track with the intention of creating the entire song out of that initial part. But, when I picked up the guitar I was hearing much faster rhythms. I left the synth intro, but I deleted the other tracks (for dramatic effect). Then, I changed the session time-clock from 100bpm to 160bpm. (By the way, can anyone tell me how to change the tempo on just one section of a ProTools session? I've successfully changed the timing within sessions...from 4/4 to 3/4 then back to 4/4. I did this by highlighting the section that I wanted altered and then making the change in the shuttle window. This didn't work when I tried it with BPM.) The ending section is a mixture of 2 electric guitars, bass guitar, and drums. I enjoy creating (and playing) fast, unique strumming patterns, so I wrote two parts into this song. Each guitar is panned to opposite sides of the stereo-field. There are about 6 tracks in today's song, and it took a total of 3 hours.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song348_Evermore

2010-06-13T20:21:00.000-07:00

I started writing today's song at 1900, and I was pleased with how quickly it came together. I started by recording the main electric guitar (with a 'click' track set to 136bpm), and then I had the idea to record two additional electrics (each one panned to opposite sides of the stereo field). These 2 electrics, during the 'verse' (F-E-Am-C) and 'transition' sections (Am-C), have dueling patterns that alternate by strumming every other chord in the progression. The guitars in the 'chorus' section are 3 separate melodies that work in harmony. About 2.5 minutes into this song it changes abruptly. I added a completely different chord progression...in a different key. I've done this before, but I like unpredicted endings that make you forget how the song started. Next, I recorded the bass guitar, and then I edited these 4 tracks. I did all of this within the first hour.

I took a break for dinner and returned to this session at 2100. I added a few separate drum rhythms, tambourine, and cymbal swells. Also, I added 2 electric guitars playing single-note solos during 'transition' sections (I played the same solo twice...the second one starts a measure late...kind of like singing "Row Row Row Your Boat" in rounds). I only added one keyboard to this song since the guitars provide plenty of texture, volume, energy, etc.

Kristen stayed at our house this weekend to help Carly with a garage sale. She brought a xylophone with her (to sell). No one bought it, so I used it for today's song (thanks, Kristen!). That was the final track of the day. I completed this song around 2240, it's about 15-18 tracks, and it took just under 3 hours to write, record, and mix.

I got 4 hours of sleep last night, and 4 the night before. It's 2315 now...less than an hour from Day #349.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song347_Plus One

2010-06-12T19:51:00.000-07:00

Today's song is mostly guitar...2 electrics (with dueling, gritty strumming patterns), one electric guitar with lots of reverb/delay, and bass guitar. I also added drums and 3 synth tracks.

I didn't get to bed last night until 0130, and I was up at 0530 to help my wife and her friend set up for a garage sale. I didn't have to do much...except buy the donuts, so I was able to start recording around 0630. I recorded most of this song within a few hours, but I didn't come back to finish it until 2100. I added the last few tracks (synth), and I got this one uploaded around 2220.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song346_Expectations

2010-06-11T12:54:00.000-07:00

I started today's song around 1000, and I wrote and recorded most of the guitars before adding any percussion (156bpm). I heard the vocal melodies while recording a few synth parts, so I wrote some lyrics and recorded the vocals before making final adjustments (like adding cymbal swells and a synth choir). I took a few breaks during this session, but I completed it by 1500.

LYRICS: "Feels like you've been away too long. Feels like I'm losing track of it all. (It's all that you wanted.) There isn't time for us to be afraid. No expectations for beyond the grave. There isn't time to pack your favorite things. Leaving Earth the way we came."

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song345_The Crossing

2010-06-10T20:45:00.001-07:00

Today's instrumental began with the electric guitar, but I quickly added some foundational elements (i.e. bass guitar and drums) before adding any synth melodies. There are a few main sections to this song, but I tried to incorporate different sounds and melodies to give the repetitive parts some variance.

I have 3 design projects going right now, so I worked until 1500 today. I took a quick break to eat some grits and peanut butter (not together), and then I started this recording session. I took another break for a bike ride and dinner with Carly, and I just completed this song. It's 2310, and I'm ready for bed.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song344_The Other Side

2010-06-09T06:19:00.001-07:00

I took a break last night around 1930, and Carly and I went out to celebrate another successful week of recording (steak and martini's at La Hacienda). Carly put the finishing touches on the album cover when we got back, I uploaded the album at 2320, and I sent out the email at 2355! I've already gotten a handful of responses to the album design for Week #49. The most common response was, "LMAO." I had to look that one up. It means I did good.

Today's song begins a new album, Week50_The Other Side. The melody of this song came to me while the computer was warming up, so I picked up the guitar and found chords to compliment the melody (G-D-Em). The first instrument that I recorded was a synth part that gave the song some structure and mood at the same time. Next, I added the foundational guitar (the 'washy' electric sound that's heavy with reverb and delay), and then I added the bass guitar. There are a variety of percussion sounds: two drum tracks, a stereo mic'ing of cymbal swells, tambourine, and sleigh bells. There are about 18-20 total tracks in this song.

LYRICS: "You will never win if you stop trying. You will never live if you're fearful of dying. I'll see you on the other side. A place beyond space and time."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song343_Covered

2010-06-08T15:38:00.000-07:00

Today's song completes another album (and another week of recording). The newest album, Week49_Undercover, will be available later tonight at www.anewsongeveryday.com.

Today's instrumental is only 6 tracks (drums, bass guitar, 2 electric guitars, and 2 synth sounds). I started by writing the initial electric guitar progression, which is two main sections (Part 1=Dm-A-A#-C, and Part 2=A#-D#-A-D-G#-C#-G-C).

The artwork for this week's album cover was fun to create. I usually make fun of friends and family when I play in Photoshop, but this time I chose to make fun of myself. My face hasn't appeared on many (any?) of the album covers so far, so it's especially ironic that I appear on this one. The photo is a self-portrait (taken a few nights ago), the background was inserted, and the tattoos were placed on my body one-by-one earlier today. If you know me, then you'll probably think this is funny. I realize that those who don't know me might see this and think that I'm scary and/or crazy, but I think that's kind of funny too.

I enjoyed this past week of creating music. I found a few new guitar tones that I'll be using again, I experimented with some unique chord progressions (and formations), and I overcame some mixing challenges that came up on a few songs.

Only 3 weeks remaining!

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song342_These Eyes

2010-06-07T16:57:00.000-07:00

Today's song was created like most of the others this week. I started with the electric guitar (and a 'click' set to 122bpm). Today I actually recorded the 2nd electric guitar and the bass guitar before adding any drums. I took a 30-minute break to eat a few egg rolls and write some lyrics, and then I recorded the vocals (3 separate tracks). I decided not to add any synth sounds to this song...I like the rough edges and the intricacies of the two electric guitars. The final product is only 7 tracks, and it was written and recorded in about 4 hours.

LYRICS: "Perched above a city in ruins. A birds-eye-view of fresh destruction. Tell me how to accept this fate, and still live in the moment. It gets complicated, and I know you hate it. It's more than a reaction. Open your eyes, open your heart. Your broken heart and tainted mind. Qualify for a new start. It gets complicated, and I know you hate it. It's more than a reaction. Open your eyes, open your heart."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song341_Distraction

2010-06-07T14:18:00.001-07:00

This blog site was undergoing some construction all day yesterday, so I was not able to post this information until today (one day late). This is the first time this has happened since I started this project. I hope you didn't think that I gave up, but if you're on the Mailing List you still got this song on the day it was written and recorded (yesterday).

I started this song around 1700. I wrote the main electric guitar part first, and then I added drums and bass guitar. I took a break for dinner, and I finally started writing lyrics around 2230. The lyrics were thrown together quickly (see below). Fortunately, I got the mix that I liked on the first try, and I completed this song around 2320.

LYRICS: "Too many lies. 'Seek and destroy' in action. Candles for eyes. A hollow mess on the inside. Too many times. Not enough speed and traction. Too many lies. The 'seek and destroy' in action. Deep inside, someone turned the switch 'on,' so here we go. Too many times. Driven to distraction. By too many lies. 'Seek and destroy' in action. Deep inside, someone turned the switch 'on,' so here we go."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song340_Names and Faces

2010-06-05T17:23:00.001-07:00

This song started with a drum rhythm, and then I recorded the bass guitar parts (in sections). This instrumental is structured into a few main sections, and there is one electric guitar that plays throughout (another electric guitar plays occasionally on the opposite side of the stereo-field). Additionally, there are 3-5 synth tracks (a string section, a choir, etc).

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song339_Undercover

2010-06-04T14:50:00.001-07:00

Today's song is an instrumental with only 5 tracks: drums (x2), bass guitar, and 2 electric guitars. I built this song into 3-4 main sections. It evolves as it goes...doesn't repeat previous sections. So far, I really like the style and tone of this week's music. Also, sessions like these (with common pre-sets and common instruments from day to day) allow me to find trends with the EQ/mixing. I like how this combination of instruments sound together.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song338_Invader

2010-06-03T14:05:00.000-07:00

This song came together quickly. I followed a similar process that I used yesterday, which has proven to work a few times in the past. There are about 8-12 tracks...a good variety of tones and textures that combine for a good final mix. I started by finding a tempo and chord progression on the electric guitar, layered a few drum rhythms, and then I recorded the main electric guitar part (Chorus=E-B-A, Verse=C#m-B-A-E, Transition=B7, Ending=Am-Em-C). Next, I added bass guitar, another electric guitar, and 2 synth tracks (the ghost-like sound was added to correlate with today's topic: secret drone attacks). I had about 3 hours invested in the song at this point, so I took a 30-minute break, ate some tuna, and I wrote a few lyrics.

The lyrics today are in response to a few recent news stories involving US drone attacks. (This one by David S. Cloud of the Chicago Tribune) "The escalating campaign of CIA drone strikes against suspected militants in Pakistan has made the United States 'the most prolific user of targeted killings' in the world today, according to a U.N. official who said the spy agency should not be in charge of the program." Philip Alston, the United Nations' special investigator "criticized the U.S. for asserting 'an ever-expanding entitlement for itself to target individuals across the globe.'" However, "the U.S. does not officially acknowledge the CIA drone strikes, much of the report (by the U.N.) was dismissed by Obama administration officials." CIA spokesman, Paul Gimigliano, said, "Without discussing or confirming any specific action, this agency's operations are, of course, designed to be lawful and are subject to close oversight within our government."

The other recent news story (taken from The New York Times) is in reference to an American-born citizen recently put on the CIA kill list by the Obama administration. "The notion that the government can, in affect, execute one of its own citizens far from a combat zone, with no judicial process and based on secret intelligence, makes some legal authorities deeply uneasy." Mr. Tierney, chairman of a House subcommittee on national security says that it "certainly raises the question of what rights a citizen has and what steps must be taken before he's put on the list." The same article also states that "Counter terrorism officials say the drone missile strikes have proved to be an extraordinarily successful weapon against militants in the tribal areas. By their count, the missiles have killed more than 500 militants since 2008, and a few dozen nearby civilians."

LYRICS: "Maybe it's best we don't know. Knowing makes us targets, more work for secret drones. Who's in control of the drones? What if the 'bad guys' hide places we can't go?"

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song337_Defender

2010-06-02T16:33:00.001-07:00

Today's song begins a new album, Week49_Undercover. This album will be upbeat, rough/edgy, slightly dark (in a fun way), and guitar-heavy.

I started this song by layering a few drum rhythms (120bpm), and then I recorded the main electric guitar. Bass guitar was next...followed by another electric guitar and 2 synths. To me, this song deals with self-absorption, arrogance, and the inner voices that we do our best to ignore.

LYRICS: "The subtle winds that blow, sending us off course. A gentle hand can still strike with deadly force. Candor is a condor. Constantly. Defender. Fight! Your unsaved soul will follow you all the way to Hell, where the sign over the door says, "Welcome and farewell." Candor is a condor. Constantly. Defender. Fight! Just in time we pull up to the station for some fuel and milk. Energy for car and man. Strength for each's inner-self. Onward down the road we go, chasing dreams of pride and wealth. Potholes in the superhighways. Detours fixed to every route. Your one and only is defender of the one and only human race."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song336_Invisible Boudaries

2010-06-01T20:49:00.000-07:00

Today's song completes recording for Week #48. Today is also the first day of June, which is the final month of this project. Every song is free this month for those on the Mailing List (sign up at www.anewsongeveryday.com). Also, I have some unique plans for this month that include: a full week of live recordings with Brandon Steach on drums, a rare look at my (seldom seen) tattoos will be featured in upcoming artwork, and I am forming an all-star kazoo choir for the final day of recording.

I wrote and recorded today's instrumental in under 3 hours. I had a work meeting earlier today, completed some web design work for a client (that builds elaborate structures using reclaimed lumber), ran 3 miles (it's starting to feel like summer in Texas), ate dinner, designed this week's album cover, then finally started this song around 2133.

The newest album, Worldwide, will be available within the hour at www.anewsongeveryday.com.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song335_The Spaces Between

2010-05-31T17:34:00.000-07:00

Today's song is an instrumental that has two main sections. Each section has its own set of drum rhythms, which I built and arranged first (134bpm). Next, I added bass guitar followed by 2 electric guitars and 2 synth tracks. I worked on this song from 0900 until 1100, then I took a long break. It's Memorial Day, so my wife and I went for a 20-mile bike ride at Legacy Park. I came back to the song around 1820 and finished just before 2000 (about 3.5 hours total).

Tomorrow begins the final month of recording for this project! Every song in June will be free if you're on the Mailing List. Join at http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song334_Temptation

2010-05-30T11:49:00.000-07:00

I wrote today's song on the electric guitar (while recording), and then I added bass guitar, drums, another electric guitar, and 4 synth tracks (in that order). It's Sunday. I worked on this song from 0900 until 1200, took a break for lunch, and completed it around 1330.

Tomorrow's song is the final song of the month. And, next month is the final month of this project. Crazy. All music will be free next month to those on the OTTO mailing list. You can add your name to this list at www.anewsongeveryday.com.

On my way to run stairs at the local stadium...

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song333_Sudden Illumination

2010-05-29T20:45:00.000-07:00

I started this instrumental by layering drum sequences (150bpm), and then I added the bass guitar in sections. This was a solid foundation. I decided to add 2 electric guitars before adding any synth tracks. I edited a few versions of this song, but this is the version that was left standing when the music stopped. I started around 1350, but I took a long break for dinner (and I got new running shoes). I completed it around 2320...moments from a new day.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song332_In The Open

2010-05-28T21:06:00.000-07:00

I wasn't able to start today's song until 2000, but I still managed to complete it before midnight. I'm doing some marketing work for an organization that sponsors missionaries in Fiji. We met earlier today, and they needed a few web design features created by tomorrow (for an upcoming event on the island). I am doing a family portrait tomorrow (and recording), so I devoted a good chunk today to this project, which went very well.

Anyway, I started this song by finding some rhythms and chords on the electric guitar. The progression that I found was in 3/4 time, so I recorded it and started searching for percussion, but I wasn't happy with how the tempo, strumming pattern, and drums were combining. The initial tracks are critical (like the foundation is to a house), so I started over. This used up some time, but it was worth it in the long run. I switched to 4/4 timing, changed the tempo (from 80bpm to 100bpm), and got it down in a few takes. Next, I added drums and then bass guitar. The next guitar that I added is featured in the 'Chorus' sections only, and it's a series of octave notes that create a contrasting melody with the other guitars. Next, I added an e-bow part (i.e. "electric bow"), a picking guitar, a string section, and a female synth choir (featured in the 'Bridge' section only). This layout and tune of this song would've worked well with vocals, but I ran out of time. I still like it as an instrumental.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song331_Worldwide

2010-05-27T15:32:00.001-07:00

The music for this song was written in about 3 hours. I started by layering some drum rhythms, and then I created the foundational electric guitar part (that opens the song). Next, I added bass guitar, 2 additional electric guitars, and 2 synth tracks. I took a 2-3 hour break so I could get other work done. When I came back I edited, mixed, and then wrote and recorded the vocals. Before writing the lyrics I sang a variety of melodies into a digital voice-recorder (while the song played in the background). This gave me an idea of how many words I needed. The lyrics were written while eating chicken and peas, and a few of the parts I only sang 1-2 times. I completed the final mix around 1800, so I probably spent around 4.5 hours writing and recording today's (12-track) song.

LYRICS: "Where the wind blows, and things grow in silence. Cut it down low. Kill the tree to save the house. Stranded on the edge of time. Base camp is set, traps are baited, we're transmitting worldwide. As wars go on, nothing is won."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song330_Late Inning Rally

2010-05-26T20:48:00.000-07:00

Today's song begins a new album, Week48_Worldwide. I wrote this one on the electric guitar, using a clean/gritty hybrid pre-set (so there's clarity and strength in the notes). Once I decided on a tempo (100bpm) and a chord progression I quickly put some 'scratch' drums in place to assist with the timing of the bass guitar. The initial guitar part inspired a bass line, so I recorded that track before finalizing any drum rhythms (which is somewhat backwards). Next, I added: drums, tambourine, and 2 additional electric guitars. I really like the way the 3 guitars harmonize, so I decided not to add anything else (such as synth/keys) that could potentially mask this feature. At this point I went ahead and edited and mixed the song, took a long break for dinner, and returned around 2130 to create lyrics and melodies. I completed this one in the final hour...2335.

LYRICS: "You were never one for superstitions. You had never thought to save your soul. Here they go again around the bases. Here we go again with the same old same old. Late inning rally uprise under lights. See how the champs were taken by surprise. Don't be mistaken. We can't just take this. Fight till you win it. There's too much on the line."

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song329_Rumors

2010-05-25T09:40:00.000-07:00

Today's song completes another week of recording. The newest album, Week47_Giant Blind Spots, will be available for sale later today at http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/.

Today's song is an 8-track instrumental that consists of: drums, percussive tics, bass guitar, an electric guitar strumming chords (First section=Bm-C-G-D, Second section=Em-C-G-D), 3 electric guitars picking solo notes, and one synth part that appears in the center section only. I wrote the chord progression in 10-minutes, recorded the initial guitar in one take, and the rest fell into place within 2 hours. This is good because I still have to create the album cover, update the website, create the weekly email/links, prepare for tomorrow's song (which begins a new album), eat lunch, mow the yard, run, work on a web design project, buy a new drawing pen, feed the rabbits, etc.

Only 5 weeks remaining!

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song328_Streamline

2010-05-24T10:44:00.001-07:00

The initial guitar track for this song was captured in one take from start to finish (without much preparation). A few of these changes were written during the recording process...fortunately I remembered to repeat them later in the song. Next, I added bass guitar and then drums. I layered 4 additional guitar tracks and then I edited, mixed, and mastered. I started this song around 1000 and it was completed by 1300.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song327_Stuck in Motion

2010-05-23T10:07:00.001-07:00

Today's song is a 7-track instrumental....drums, bass guitar, and 5 tracks of electric guitar. One of the guitars is being played with an e-bow (i.e. "electronic bow"), which provides some extra volume, intensity, and cohesiveness. I started writing this song around 0900, and I had it completed by 1217. It's Sunday, sunny, and I'm going for a long trail run.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song326_Feels Like Stereo

2010-05-22T10:52:00.001-07:00

Today's song, another instrumental, is a linear progression in the key of 'C.' There are about 18-tracks total, but they were layered and edited to purposefully create different moods, levels of intensity, textures, volumes, etc. I tried to keep it interesting, since there's not much change in the chord progression.

It's Saturday, and it's nice to have the song completed at a reasonable hour (it's 1320). Carly and I are going for a long bike ride.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song325_Chain Reactions

2010-05-21T10:10:00.001-07:00

Today's song is actually two different instrumentals (in the same key) pieced together within the same recording session. There are about 12-tracks per song for a total of about 22-24 tracks. Only 2 of these tracks appear in both songs. I wrote the initial parts using synth and electronic drums, and then I added the synth bass. There are 4 electric guitars and a host of other synth sounds and noises. The main challenge today was mixing two separate songs while trying to maintain a consistent E.Q./level throughout.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song324_Scratching the Surface

2010-05-20T12:39:00.000-07:00

Today's song, another instrumental, in an 8-track recording that I wrote in about 4 hours. I started by playing the initial electric guitar progression with a 'click' track (128bpm), and then I recorded the bass guitar. Next, I added drums, e-bow guitar, and a few synth tracks.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song323_Giant Blind Spots

2010-05-19T21:48:00.000-07:00

Wow...I finished this song with only 2-minutes to spare (uploaded and emailed it at 2358)! I don't like working that close to a deadline, but I had a busy day at work...then I ran far, ate late, fell asleep for an hour, and didn't get started on today's song until 2150.

Today's song begins a new album, Week47_Giant Blind Spots.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song322_Atoms in Harmony

2010-05-18T09:16:00.000-07:00

Today's song completes another week of recording. The newest album, Week46_Atoms in Harmony, will be available later tonight at http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/.

The artwork for this week's album design is a freehand ink-drawing that I did a few nights ago. I didn't have a plan...just started making a ball of circles on a blank sheet of paper, and 2 hours later the entire page was inked. I scanned this drawing and added color in Photoshop.

I realized (before staring today's song) that I like the music that I wrote this week more than I like the lyrics/vocals, so I decided to create another instrumental today. This album has been heavy with guitars, and I enjoy building songs with this instrument.

-Matthew

www.anewsongeveryday.com

matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song321_Flyby

2010-05-17T20:01:00.000-07:00

I was able to write and record today's song, an 8-track instrumental, in 2 hours. I got a late start, so I took a simple approach to writing this song...one that worked even better than expected. I started by selecting, editing, and altering 3 different drum sequences. Next, I recorded the bass guitar, which provided a solid foundation for layering guitars. There are 4 separate electric guitar tracks...each with a different pre-set. I like the combination of sounds, notes, textures, etc...so I decided not to add any synth tracks.

Even though this song came together quickly, I had some trouble with the final Mastering process (which took an additional 1.5 hours). I made slight adjustments to frequency levels and overall levels multiple times, but I was having trouble getting the overall levels raised without over-emphasizing certain frequencies. The compression plug-ins were doing their job too well, and the clarity was compromised from trying to get a strong overall volume. I think I found a balance. I want each song to be loud, yet 'clipping' (i.e. too much signal which causes an unwanted 'digital distortion') is unacceptable. Also, I try to have variance in the volume. If the entire song is loud then it reduces the dramatic effect of the purposeful 'ups-and-downs.' I like that music is artistic AND scientific. I like that I still have room to grow in both areas.

Tomorrow's song will complete the next album, Week46_Atoms in Harmony. I spent a few hours last night drawing this week's album design, and I should have everything posted by mid-afternoon tomorrow (Tuesday).

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song320_Brace

2010-05-16T13:50:00.001-07:00

Today's song is similar to yesterday's. It has a dark, low-fidelity sound, but it also has abrupt changes in the progressions as well as the overall mood. I started this session with a series of drum sequences, and then I added the main electric guitar that plays throughout the song. I like the gritty/clean sound of the main guitar. Next, I added bass guitar and 2 additional electric guitars. There are also 4-5 synth tracks and 4 vocal tracks. Today's song took about 5 hours to write and record.

LYRICS: "Brace for the troubles on the rise. Brace for the waters rollin' in high. Brace for the weather, the winds, the fire. Brace for the worst, earth is on the decline. Brace for the impact of your new metal outfit. Brace for the whiplash as reality shakes it. My pants are full of ants. It's time to get things started. But, you're all I want, and you're all I need."

PS: Kroger is having a 7-day "Meat Mania" sale. I guess that's better than an "Expired Meat Give-Away," but it made me laugh when I thought of the graphic artist having to find clip-art to coincide with the 12ft meat-themed banner.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song319_Future Human

2010-05-15T14:57:00.001-07:00

Today's song is a little odd...low-fi, somewhat dissonant, often abrupt, slightly sloppy (in a precise way), and full of interesting nonsense. I started this recording session by layering a series of drum sequences (130bpm), and then I wrote/recorded 3 electric guitar tracks...followed by the bass guitar. There is only one synth track in today's song, and it only appears at the end of the song. I was able to complete the music for this song (8-tracks) in under 3 hours. I spent an additional hour writing lyrics and recording the vocals.

LYRICS: "Here comes the final invasion. Don't show fear to their faces. Ride through the enemy-soaked lines. Howl at the gods past the bloody skies. Here comes the real-life 'Death Star,' (and) The Maker's son to save the whole world. The need grows for robot appendages, and bullet-proof men with invisible outfits. No need to talk things over. Bullets carry out their orders. Break through the enemy-soaked lines. Howl at the gods past the bloody skies. Send in the New World Order. One throne, and no more borders. Lend all your helping hands. Live for the future human. There's not just one, there's everyone. One-in-a-million, just like you."

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song318_A Blind Eye

2010-05-14T12:38:00.001-07:00

The chord structuring of today's song was created on the electric guitar...4 individual sections that only appear once each. Next, I created a series of drum sequences (118bpm), and then I added bass guitar. I also added 3 additional guitars and 2 vocal tracks, but there are no keys in today's song. This (10-track) song took about 4 hours to write, record, and mix.

LYRICS: "You started running from your problems, and ended right back where you started. Though everyone else saw it coming, what we don't know is sure to hurt us."

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song317_Seconds Like Hours

2010-05-13T16:28:00.000-07:00

I started today's song by layering 4-5 guitar progressions (100bpm), and then I added drums and bass (in that order). This song has two main sections, 12-14 tracks, and it took about 4.5 hours to write and record.

LYRICS: "You're lashing out. You unfed, rabid animal. Your blood runs hot. Bad genes, standard issue. Take your time before it takes you. You try to talk like a foreign action hero. You'd have better luck pretending to star in a cartoon. Take your time before it takes you. Place your hand on the open flame, and watch seconds become hours. Hold your questions until the very end...when there's no time for answers."

PS: There was a full-grown fox in our front yard this morning...impressive creature.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song316_The Things We've Lost

2010-05-12T18:44:00.001-07:00

I got some great news earlier today...my first sales report for songs (from this project) played on satellite radio stations last month. They told me they have only gone through a portion of the (250+) songs that I sent them, but I had about 15 songs play on stations across the nation (a total of just under 200 plays in about 3 weeks). About 30 of those plays were from subscribers in the Dallas area...some are businesses, which means there's a chance for me to hear my music while at a restaurant or while walking through the mall. That would be interesting.

Today's song was written and recorded with long-time friend, Adam Smith (www.myspace.com/theethels). We started by creating drum sequences in 3 main sections, then we took turns adding guitar parts until there was a foundation of chord progressions throughout the song. Next, I added bass guitar. We each added a few more guitar parts, then Adam wrote/sang the only vocals in today's song. We started this song around 1330, Adam left around 1730, and I had it completed by 2100. I took a break for dinner, so this (28-track) song took around 6.5 hours to write and record.

By the way, today's song begins a new album, Week46_Atoms in Harmony. Last week's album, Week45_Magnification, is now available at http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song315_Congratulations

2010-05-11T09:44:00.000-07:00

Today's song, Song315_Congratulations, completes another album (Week45_Magnification). The newest album will be available later today ($5) at http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/.

I just completed the artwork for this week's album. I decided last week that I'd do some form of freehand artwork for the remaining (8) albums, but I didn't have any specific ideas at that time. This idea came to me a few days ago. In effort to create a relationship between the artwork and this week's title (Magnification), I decided to do an ink drawing of a detailed (yet fictional) bug. The drawing below took about 1-2 hours...no erasers, no drawing or photo to mimick, and no "do-overs." I had borrowed a magnifying glass from Carly's parent's, so I set it up about 4-8 inches above the drawing and took a series of photos...experimenting with the depth-of-focus and the framing of the drawing within the enlarged area. It was fun, and I like the results.

-Matthew

http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/

matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song314_Above the Lights

2010-05-10T14:46:00.000-07:00

Today's song, another instrumental, was written primarily on the electric guitar. After adding a few foundational guitar tracks I added 3 separate drum sequences, bass guitar, and one synth sequence (which plays in the background throughout the song).

Tomorrow's song will be the final song on the upcoming album, Week45_Magnification. I've decided to create the remaining (8) album covers using some form of freehand artwork. This week's drawing is still in the early stages, but I'll have it ready before tomorrow evening.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song313_The Plan

2010-05-09T20:51:00.000-07:00

Today's song is an instrumental. I didn't start writing this song until 2030, but I had it completed by 2300 (around 2.5 hrs total). I like how it turned out. I'm not sure that I would've done anything else to this song even if there had been more time to work on it.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song312_Magnification

2010-05-08T20:59:00.001-07:00

Today's song evolved in an unusual way. I wrote the foundational part on the electric guitar (with a 'click' set to 90bpm). Next, I added 4 additional electric guitars before recording the drums and bass. I also added cymbals, tambourine, and 4-5 synths. I worked on this song in 2-3 sittings, but it took a combined time of about 4 hours to write and record.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song311_For Forever

2010-05-07T20:32:00.001-07:00

I woke up at 0500 today, ate breakfast, played Super Mario Bros until 0630 (on my original Nintendo set), mowed and weedeated commercial properties in Ft. Worth until 1230, slept for 2 hours, and then started writing today's song. I created the foundation by strumming chord progressions on the electric guitar (set to a 'click' at 134bpm). Next, I recorded the second electric guitar which is slightly more distorted. For this part I played the same chords but lower on the neck of the guitar...and sometimes in 'open' or altered formations. Then, I recorded the bass guitar. I liked the rough and gritty sound of these 3 instruments without any drums, keys, vocals, etc. I kept a few sections of the songs without any drums, but I thought about these 3 tracks being the only instruments in the entire song. I wrote and recorded the vocals before adding any keys. I did this by experimenting with melodies while the record button was enabled. From there, I wrote a few lyrics and gave each part a few tries (by now it was after 2200). Carly, my wife, sings in the 'chorus' sections. I added 3-4 synth tracks to add texture and contrast to each of the sections.

I completed today's song at 2348.

LYRICS: "I know that the future is just seconds away, but you're that habit I just can't break. Come on, be mine. From the depths, hold on. For forever."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song310_You Keep My Heart

2010-05-06T21:26:00.000-07:00

I woke up today at 0530, shoveled and spread mulch (at a 2.5 million-dollar home in Vaquero) from 0730 until 1300, slept for an hour, and then I started writing today's song. I took a similar approach to yesterday's song...sat with the acoustic for 20-30 minutes constructing chord progressions and melodies before doing any recording. This song has about 24 tracks (written, recorded and mixed in about 6.5hrs)...including 2 of my wife singing on the 'Chorus' sections. Once again, I didn't have my vocals completed until late in the day (around 2230), so she only had 30-minutes to learn and sing her part. Once she had a few takes that we liked (after only 5-6 tries) I got busy editing and mixing. I was able to mix the entire song in about 30-minutes...completing it around 2350! I'm up at 0500 tomorrow...better sleep fast.

LYRICS: "Don't miss it this time. Keep your eyes open wide. It's moving fast...always changing. Let's keep up this time around. You keep my heart on its toes."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song309_Heart

2010-05-05T20:53:00.000-07:00

Today's song begins a new album, Week45_Magnification. This week's album will have singing on every song (unlike last week...all instrumentals).

I started the day by changing the strings on my acoustic guitar, and then I spent about 20-minutes trying out different chord progressions, rhythms, and tempos. I had a general sound in mind for today's song, so I had a good idea of what instruments I wanted to use, but the chord progression was the missing link. Once I found a few things that I liked, I actually spent 15-20 minutes writing some lyrics. This approach is uncommon for me in this project. For about 80% of the songs I start by turning on the computer, and I write as I record. It works both ways, but I felt like I had solid direction before beginning this song, which helps in certain ways. This song contains: drums, acoustic guitar, bass guitar, distorted electric guitar, keys, slide guitar, electric guitar picking solo notes, and vocals...recorded in that order. Additionally, there are 4 tracks of vocals (18-20 total tracks in this song). Carly, my wife, sang on today's song. She had never done any formal recording until a few hundred songs ago, but we'll be experimenting with her voice all week...should be fun. Today was a challenge because she got home at 2000, I completed my vocals at 2010, and I had to leave at 2030. She sang her part about 6 times, and I kept the best 2 (for a natural stereo effect). I got home around 2245, and I completed the song at 2344. Close one. There are a few other things that I would've liked to do to this song, but I ran out of time.

LYRICS: "Who would've thought, it's not the act it's about the heart. The weakest opponent could win. The enemy hides out within. I've been waiting my whole life for someone like you. Now it's not mine, it's our life...since we said 'we do.' All the time...all the while. It's more of a feeling than a storybook formula. Two lovers falling fast in love, for sure."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song308_Chosen

2010-05-04T14:54:00.001-07:00

Today's song (Song308_Chosen) completes another week of recording. The newest album, Week44_Future Eras, will be available in a few hours at www.anewsongeveryday.com.

I wrote today's song by layering a series of drum sequences, and then I recorded the bass guitar (first section=A-C-E, second section=A-G-F#m-F). Next, I added a few electric guitars...one distorted, one using an e-bow, and one picking solo notes. Finally, I added 6-8 synth tracks.

Thanks, Carly, for designing this week's album cover!

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song307_Havoc

2010-05-03T15:45:00.000-07:00

Today's song is another instrumental, but I started this song in reverse order. First, I created the drum sequences, and then I wrote the bass guitar progressions (in the key of 'C' @ 80bpm). There are two other guitars in this song...one clean picking electric, and one electric e-bow (with delay). It's the 6-8 tracks of synth that give this song depth and texture. This song is 14-16 tracks and it took about 3.5 hours to write, record, and mix.

Tomorrow's song will complete another album, Week44_Future Eras.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song306_Static

2010-05-02T18:08:00.000-07:00

Today's song is another instrumental that I wrote (primarily) on the electric guitar. I structured a few chord progressions (first section=D-G-D, second section=A-C-E-A, center section=C-A...C-D-A), and then I layered a variety of rhythms. Next, I added bass guitar followed by 5-6 synth tracks. I like the mood and progression of this song.

I didn't get much sleep last week, so I slept today until 1300...been a while since I've done that. I wrote this song in two separate sittings...1430-1630, and 1830-2030...about 4 hours total.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song305_Vacuums

2010-05-01T14:16:00.000-07:00

Today's song was recorded in a unique and uncommon way (for me). I did not use a 'click' track (i.e. metronome) to record or edit this instrumental. (There's a synth sequence that has rhythm. It didn't line up with the click, but it was helpful to cue off this instrument.) Back when I recorded music using a 4-track cassette-tape machine this was standard. In fact, I had never used a 'click' track until I entered digital/computer-based recording. Of course, it has been a standard process since then, and it has it's benefits...particularly for an overdubbing, solo-recording-artist like me. Another thing that made today's recording process unique was the number of instruments that I was able to track in only one take (4 out of 7). So, I was able to write and record this instrumental in under 2 hours...including mixing and mastering. (For this project, it has typically taken 5-7 hours to write, record, and mix one song).

Earlier today I rode the North Shore trails at GV Lake (12 miles in 1:56:35). It's been a long week, so I'm going to celebrate the early completion of this song by taking a nap before the fight starts (Mayweather vs. Mosley).

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song304_Future Eras (10 months complete!)

2010-04-30T21:14:00.000-07:00

Today, the final day of April 2010, completes my 10th month of consecutive recording for http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/. Also, this past month of music was FREE to everyone on the Mailing List...hope you enjoyed the music.

Today was similar to yesterday. I woke up at 0530, mowed yards until 1300, took a 1.5hr nap, ate some cottage cheese, and then started recording today's song. I found a synth sequence that sparked the idea for the strumming guitar (section 1=E-D, section 2=C-A, section 3=G-B). Next, I added bass guitar and an electric guitar (with tremolo) that picks single notes. I took about an hour editing and mixing these tracks, took a break for dinner (around 2000), and I came back to finish the song around 2100. I spent another 2 hours adding keys/synth, re-arranging and re-editing the percussion sections, and doing a final mix. I completed this song at 2329.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song303_Voices of the System

2010-04-29T21:01:00.000-07:00

Today was another long/busy day. I decided this song was "complete" when I noticed that it was after 2300...not because I was through working on it. This project dictates that each song is written and recorded within a 24hr period...even if I only have 6 hours to record on a particular day.

I woke up at 0530, mowed (overgrown) yards until 1400, took an hour nap, and starting writing today's song around 1530. I started this song by inserting a 'scratch' drum rhythm (100bpm), and then I wrote the guitar progressions on the distorted guitar (Verse=G-A#...G-A#-A, Chorus=G-F-C-G). Next, I added bass guitar and structured the percussion section. I decided not to get too involved with layering additional tracks until I had mapped out some vocal ideas. I spent over an hour trying different lyrics and melodies. I eventually kept 3 of these tracks, but I wasn't 100% happy with them, so I took a break, went to the gym, ate dinner, and I came back to the song around 2100. I 'muted' the vocals and layered 4-5 synth tracks in various places. These tracks gave the song lots of depth and texture, but they didn't fit the vocals as expected. I spent another 30-minutes editing and mixing, and then I realized that it was after 2300! The synth tracks gave me a few new vocal ideas, but there wasn't enough time to re-record vocals and still have the song uploaded by midnight. Fortunately I didn't even try because it took 4 tries to get the mix right. Today's song was uploaded with 10-minutes to spare.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song302_Machine-Like

2010-04-28T16:05:00.000-07:00

Today's song begins a new album, Week44_Future Eras.

I wrote this one by first recording a few chord progressions at 112bpm (first part=A-E-D-E, second part=A-F#m-Bm-E). Next, I added a ('scratch') drum track to assist with timing while recording the bass guitar. Then, I deleted the strumming guitar and recorded the two solo/melody guitars. There are also a few tracks of strings, but this song is only 7-8 tracks total.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song301_Channels

2010-04-27T20:25:00.001-07:00

Today's song (Song301_Channels) is the final song on the newest album (Week43_Sense), which is now available for sale at http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/.

I went to sleep last night after midnight, woke at 0530, and mowed yards from 0700 to 1300. I started writing today's song around 1500, recorded until 1900, took a break to eat dinner, and returned to the song around 2100...completing it around 2250. I uploaded the song, updated the website, uploaded the new album to the online retail store, created the weekly email, backed-up the hard drives, etc, and I finalized another week of recording at 2344...just in time to prepare for another day/song.

I didn't start today's session with any specific ideas. I set the metronome to 110bpm, found a guitar pre-set/tone that I liked (which almost sounds like a rotary organ), and I recorded the main strumming guitar progression first (first section=E-A, second section=F#-B). I like how each chord has it's own unique strumming pattern. Next, I structured the rhythm section. I found one drum sequence that fit the style I wanted, and I used that rhythm to write the bass guitar track. I also added 2 electric guitars (picking solo notes) and 2 synth tracks. I took a 20-minute break and wrote a half-page of lyrics, but I liked the textures and the combinations of instruments without vocals interfering.

Another album begins tomorrow.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song300_Sleight of Hand

2010-04-26T20:55:00.000-07:00

300!

Today's song took a little over 5 hours to write/record. I had other work things going on so I started writing this one around 1400, and it was recorded in two sittings. I had the majority of the song complete by 1800, but I took a break to spend time with family and prepare for work tomorrow. I came back to the song around 2200, and I uploaded it around 2333.

Work projects have been slow this week, so starting tomorrow I've agreed to help a few friends mow yards for extra money. The three of us will be mowing 112 yards between tomorrow (Tuesday) and Friday.

A new album will be available tomorrow (Week43_Sense).

LYRICS: "I know it's strange. I know it's hard to explain. Never seen this before. A clever trick with mirrors and motion. Ugly and gray, the falling sky, the eminent downpour. Never seen this before. One switch that could turn off the whole world. Next time around let's stick together. This time around could be much better with one quick sleight of hand. Try harder today. Yesterday has already gone away. This 300th try is a formulaic attack on the airwaves. Next time around let's stick together. This time around could be much better with one quick sleight of hand."

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song299_Signs of Life

2010-04-25T18:04:00.000-07:00

I built today's song by first structuring the rhythm and bass sections (90bpm). The main chord progression was played on the keys using a classic organ tone. Next, I layered a variety of guitar melodies: one e-bow guitar, one distorted guitar picking solo notes (during the 'Chorus' only...it mimics the e-bow melody on the opposite side of the stereo-field), one clean picking guitar (during the 'Verse' sections), and one choppy/muffled guitar hitting the main chords on each downbeat. Additionally, there are 4-5 synths and a piano track. The lyrics and melody were both last-minute, but they fit.

LYRICS: "Sometimes the chemicals misfire, but the heartbeat says you're alive. We are just bundles of nerves, but the heartbeat says you're alive. The sound of these thoughts of mine stays inside, but the heartbeat says I'm alive."

299 songs complete!

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song298_Sense

2010-04-24T16:47:00.000-07:00

I went flying with a friend today, so I didn't start today's song until 1500. We flew out of Northwest Regional Airport...the busiest uncontrolled (i.e. no tower) single-runway airport in the country. However, it wasn't that busy today due to high winds (19mph ground winds with gusts up to 25mph). We flew over Texas Motor Speedway, did a few touch-and-go's at Alliance Airport, and then came back. Good times! Thanks, Mike!

Today's song is an instrumental. I created the rhythm section first, which consists of 3 separate drum sequences (160bpm). I added synth bass next, which contains the main chord progressions. Next, I added the only electric guitar in today's song (part picking, part strumming). Additionally, there are about 8 synth tracks that provide the filling/icing. I tried to arranged the synth tracks so that different sounds play each time a section repeats. I completed and uploaded today's song around 1920.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song297_Villains and Dinosaurs

2010-04-23T16:12:00.000-07:00

A took a slightly different approach to writing today's song, and I had better results than the past few days (which were somewhat of a struggle). I'm not saying that I don't like the past few songs, but they were a challenge to write/record, and it was because I needed a more strategic approach. So, I built the rhythm section first today: drums (90bpm), bass guitar, and the fuzzy synth bass. I took about 30-minutes to write some lyrics and melodies, and then I spent the next hour recording the vocals. From there, it was easy (and fun) to fill in the blanks.

LYRICS: "Shipwrecked on a distant island. I'm stranded with the fallen. I'm surrounded by open waters, so I'm building a wooden submarine. Can you hear the voices say, 'Hey!'? Cool like a dinosaur. An interesting, irrelevant animal. A villain on holiday, looting as his god looks away. I'm cool like a dinosaur. An interesting, irrelevant animal. Can you hear the voices say...? Speechless, (like) a tree stump in the forest. I'm always sitting in 'standing room only.' Restless, (like) a once-each-decade comet. I'm building ancient melodies. Can you hear the voices say, 'Hey!'? Cool like a dinosaur. An interesting, irrelevant animal. A villain on holiday, looting as his god looks away. I'm cool like a dinosaur. An interesting irrelevant animal. Can you hear the voices say...?"

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song296_Rise Up

2010-04-22T19:26:00.000-07:00

The songwriting formula for this week is still taking shape, which was very evident today. I got home last night around 0010, so I recorded some foundational tracks for today's song until 0200. I continued work on this session for another few hours (after a long nap), but at 1300 I decided to start over. The second effort, which is today's song, also took some time before it starting taking shape. I came close to setting this session aside also, but there were a few tracks that changed my mind. At 2100 I was tired, I wrote and recorded the vocals in about 45-minutes, edited the final tracks, finalized the mix, adjusted the Master EQ and levels, and uploaded it by 2230.

LYRICS: "The traffic lights blink red at night. The open road's too short to speed. In the time it takes us... Others see the light, put on their wings and fly. Come on, rise up tonight. We were born for life. The earth and body will expire. The hour glass will run empty. In the time it takes us... Others see the light, put on their wings and fly. Come on, rise up tonight. We were born for life."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song295_Temperature Steady

2010-04-21T16:29:00.000-07:00

Today's song begins a new album, Week43_Sense. By the way, it's not too late to join the Mailing List (www.anewsongeveryday.com) and receive every song this month for FREE.

The music this week will have a different formula than the past few weeks. The songs on this album will be more synth and rhythm based with simple melodies and off-beat lyrics. Today's song was step one in achieving this sound, but I think I can do better. This one is a 2-chord progression that has 2 main sections. It's fairly repetitive, but there are a variety of sounds (and hopefully enough rhythm) to keep the ears occupied. I was pressed for time today. I had a 5-hour window to write and record this (20-track) song.

Thanks to Brandon Arnold for helping me capture footage for a video idea that I am pursuing. He filmed me walking backwards as airplanes landed over my shoulder. I'll post the link when it's ready.

LYRICS: "I'm climate-friendly. Body temperature: Steady. A reward's been posted for the truth. 'Dead or alive.'"

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song294_Broken

2010-04-20T14:08:00.001-07:00

Today's song (Song294_Broken) completes another album (Week42_Common Denominators). The newest album, which consists of 7 songs plus original album artwork, will be available for sale later today at www.anewsongeveryday.com.

I started today's song with a drum sequence, and then I layered the violins, electric guitar (picking along with the chords: Verse=C-Dm, Transition=Bm-A-G-A, Chorus=Am-G-C), and synth bass. I also added: 3 vocal tracks, 3 additional electric guitars, and 2 additional percussion tracks.

LYRICS: "I was far from hopeless, but strong winds buried my ship. I control the rudder, not winds or other factors. You are not alone. I'm broken, but for what it's worth it was worth it all."

I took about 1-2 hours early this morning to create the album cover for this week (Week #42). Everything is complete now, so I should have the new album uploaded and available within a few hours.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song293_Cornerstone

2010-04-19T14:55:00.001-07:00

I started today's song with the rhythm section (drums and bass guitar), and then I added 2 electric guitars (picking solo notes), one e-bow electric guitar, and a string section. The chord progression is a little odd, and it loops instead of resolving (Em, D, Em, C, D, Em...). I experimented with a few vocal melodies, but lyrics would've distracted from this songs ability to make the mind wander.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song292_One Step More

2010-04-18T17:20:00.000-07:00

I woke up early today, ran 3 miles in a light rain, then started writing today's song. Once again, I started this song by writing some chord progressions on the electric guitar. Then I added bass guitar, drums, one e-bow electric guitar, and two electric guitars picking single notes. There are no synth/keys in today's song, which is rare. I liked the grittiness of the strummed electric guitar, so I decided not to smooth it over with any synth sounds.

I enjoy endurance events (running, cycling, hiking, recording a new song every day for a year, etc), and I hope to continue improving in these areas as life goes on. Life is also an endurance event. It takes lots of focus to do it right, and the mind truly can make-or-break the body. Today's lyrics reflect that thought.

LYRICS: "In the time it takes for you to form complaints, you could've made up time...could've come from behind. You're halfway done, tongue stuck to the floor. You're out of breath, now take one step more. You've made it far, but so have ones before. You can't stop now, keep taking one step more. Don't just get through life. Winning is a state of mind. You can still make up time. You can still come from behind. You're halfway done, tongue stuck to the floor. You're out of breath, now take one step more. You've made it far, but so have ones before. You can't stop now, keep taking one step more."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song291_Frayed

2010-04-17T15:29:00.000-07:00

I started writing today's song around 1100, and I had the main guitar, bass guitar, and drums recorded and edited within an hour. I wrote and recorded the vocals next, which is earlier in the process than usual. Only about half of the lyrics that I wrote ended up in the song, but I like that the vocals have sparse appearances. Other instruments include: 2 e-bow guitars, 2 electric guitars picking single notes, cymbals, tambourine, 3-4 synths, and 6 separate vocal tracks. I completed this song around 1750.

LYRICS: "Some things can't be bought or sold. Your 'ups and downs' are in vein, but you need to feel in control and have balance in every day. But having faith is not the same as a relentlessly positive attitude. God's love for you is not measured by your degree of happiness. Some things can't be bought or sold. Your 'ups and downs' are in vein, but you need to feel in control and have balance in every day. But having faith is not the same as a relentlessly positive attitude."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song290_Common Denominators

2010-04-16T17:15:00.000-07:00

Today's song is an instrumental, 18-track song that's upbeat and repetitive (yet changes often). Once again, I started today's session by writing chord progressions on the electric guitar. After adding percussion and bass guitar I added 2 e-bow guitars in the 'Chorus' sections. Next, I added 4-5 synth parts and 2 additional electric guitars (which added meat to the bones).

I didn't have any specific ideas before starting today...this song is just a product of writing one instrument at a time, then using the inspiration created from each track to write and layer new parts.

I had to work on other things today from 0900-1300, took an hour break to run, then I recorded from 1400-1930.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song289_The Slow Fade

2010-04-15T19:26:00.000-07:00

I wrote today's song on the electric guitar (Verse=E-A-E-B-E, Transition=A-B, Chorus=E-A-C-B, Bridge=A-B...E). Next, I wrote and recorded the drums, bass guitar, and the e-bow guitars (i.e. the smooth, continual guitar notes that sound like a bow is being raked across the strings). There are about 12 additional layers (6 of them are vocals), which gives the song around 20 tracks total. I recorded today's song in 2-3 separate chunks of time that totaled around 5 hours.

The lyrics today are about aging, which we all experience. I hope to live a long life with my wife. And, although I am enjoying my youth, I don't fear being an old man. Every birthday is an accomplishment. Every day is a gift.

LYRICS (taken from the Bible: Ecclesiastes 12): "Before the silver chord is severed. Before the golden bowl is broken. All is meaningless. Before the pitcher is shattered. Before the wheel is broken. All is meaningless. When the street door's closed and the keeper goes inside, and the sound of grinding fades out with the light. When the keeper comes. When the song grows faint. When the strong all kneel to accept their fate. As time goes on we need not be afraid. We all move on as time goes on. Before the dust returns to soil. Before you finally reach your home. God gives, and God takes. When the street door's closed and the keeper goes inside, and the sound of grinding fades out with the light. When the keeper comes. When the song grows faint. When the strong all kneel to accept their fate."

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song288_Normal's Relative

2010-04-14T19:37:00.000-07:00

Today's song begins a new album, Week42_Common Denominators. In some ways, this week will be a continuation of last week's style. However, I am altering a few things such as: guitar settings, types of percussion, adding more e-bow guitars, more synth sounds, and smoother (more cohesive) transitions than last week. This song is a pretty good example. Hopefully I can continue this theme without being repetitious. The lyrics today are slightly goofy, but they're fitting. After I had recorded 97% of the instruments I sat down with a blank sheet of paper, and 20-minutes later this is what I had.

LYRICS: "We all wait in lines and struggle with traffic and loneliness. We all want more time, money, freedom, and happiness. We're so much the same. A little like distant relatives. Take it day by day. We're all strange. Normal's relative."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song287_Pulling Stranger's Teeth

2010-04-13T15:37:00.000-07:00

Today's song completes another album! The newest album, Week41_Pulling Stranger's Teeth, is now available at http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/ for only $5. Or, you can join the Mailing List and every song in April is FREE.

I kept today's song simple...purposefully. I wanted to see how much noise I could make as a 4-piece band, but then I added a few extras at the last minute (it's only about 10 tracks...including 4 separate vocal tracks). I'm happy with the outcome...fast, full, rhythmic, and melodic. The lyrics were intended to be about groups of humans with a common cause (i.e. a "higher purpose") that let smaller issues distract them from the larger goals.

LYRICS: "Time has come to measure up. Shave your head, join the line-up. I try to love you, but it's just like pulling teeth. We act like strangers even though we're family. We're both at fault here. (There's) Lots of noise, finger-pointing, silent treatments, and hesitance towards reuniting. Something's lost when we misfire. Let's try again. There's no 'last try.' I try to love you, but it's just like pulling teeth. We act like strangers even though we're family. We're both at fault here. (There's) Lots of noise, finger-pointing, silent treatments, and hesitance towards reuniting."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song286_Tongue-Tied

2010-04-12T18:00:00.000-07:00

I got to play 9 holes of golf early this morning. I had great company and great weather, so it didn't matter that I can't play. I came back and worked on a Freehand project, then I started working on today's song around 1500. That's later than usual, but nothing compared to yesterday (in which the bulk of the song was recorded between 2200 and 2350!).

I wrote the initial chord progression for today's song on the electric guitar (Verse=G-D-C-D, Transition=Bm-E...C-D, Chorus=G-A-Em...C-Em-D). Next, I added drums, then bass guitar, and then acoustic guitar. Then, I created two synth sequences to accompany the 'Verse' and 'Chorus' sections. The song had a full sound at this point, so I decided to complete the vocals before adding any other instruments. The lyrical message today deals with those select people in your life that truly keep you grounded, and the difficulty (at times) with finding the right words or actions to equal the thankfulness you have for them.

I completed this one around 2100, but I had taken an hour break to work on lyric/melody ideas and an hour for dinner (so around 5 hours to write and record this one?). Tomorrow's song will be the final song on the next album (Week41_Pulling Stranger's Teeth). I'll be working on album design ideas until I fall asleep.

LYRICS: "In some lights you can't hide. We all get tongue-tied. Sometimes tongue-tied. I can't lie. I need you tonight. I've been lost and alone, and your love brings me back home...back on my way. Stretched thin, you need a 'win.' But we all get tongue-tied. Sometimes tongue-tied. I can't lie. I need you tonight. I've been lost and alone, and your love brings me back home...back on my way."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song285_Cyberville

2010-04-11T20:00:00.000-07:00

I barely completed today's song before midnight! I started writing lyrics around 2300, and I completed the final mix at 2350! That means it's time to start writing a new song!

The lyrics today (which were intended to be sarcastic and humorous) are about "Cyber Sociology." I don't know if that term exists, but I think you know what I mean. "Social networking" has been around for ages, but human interaction online is still fairly new and has its own unique set of social challenges, rewards, and consequences. Technology has given us knew ways to communicate, and it has its obvious benefits. However, it has also revealed new problems such as: Internet addiction (the US now has in-patient facilities that cater to this problem) and legal issues (note the recent case in which a son is suing his mother for altering his Facebook profile). Also, it currently seems like most people are in a (secret?) competition to be the wittiest human ever. Clever is the new normal, right? Then there are those that post factual information in 'tweet' form such as, "TGIF...I'm glad today is Friday!" Or, "I'm at the park, going to eat lunch after, then going to store." What inspires someone to log into an online account and share that kind of information with large audiences? I'm being purposefully sarcastic, of course, because the irony is that I participate in this madness (to a certain extent). Every day after completing a new song I add to this online journal and send a tweet. And, although I tell myself it's for documentation/posterity, I could just as easily be keeping an off-line journal. I understand that everyone thinks they're interesting, and that's okay. But I also think it's healthy to realize that far more people write about themselves that read about others.

LYRICS: "Online with the masses 27/7. My online followers and friends, waiting for wisdom, let's meet again. Everybody wants to hear what I say. They haven't said so, but I know that they want to. Everybody wants my thoughts on today, but they haven't said so 'cause they're busy doing the same thing. The safety and comfort of a password 24/7. The Home page makes me feel at home more than my home does, so let's meet again. Everybody wants to hear what I say. They haven't said so, but I know that they want to. Everybody wants my thoughts on today, but they haven't said so 'cause they're busy doing the same thing."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song284_Transformer

2010-04-10T20:40:00.001-07:00

Today's song is an instrumental that evolves as it goes...never returning to previous sections. There are 4 main progressions that somehow or another slur into one another (sometimes abruptly, sometimes eloquently). I wrote the foundational chord progressions on the electric guitar, then I added drums and bass guitar. Next, I added 4-6 synth sounds in various sections. There are also 2 e-bow guitars and 2 picking electric guitars (added last).

More tomorrow...

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song283_Captive

2010-04-09T15:50:00.001-07:00

Today's song is an instrumental, and it came together quickly. I didn't have any specific ideas before starting this session, but I found the initial part by experimenting on the electric guitar (the guitar that picks 3-note patterns throughout the song). The chord progressions are simple, but they fit together well (Verse=C-Am-Em, Transition=D, Chorus=C-D-G). Next, I wrote and recorded the bass guitar, drums, and distorted guitar. These tracks were completed, edited, and mixed in about 2 hours. Additionally, I added 2 other electric guitars (picking solo notes) as well as 4 individual synth parts (about 10 tracks total). I tried out a few vocal melodies, but I liked this one better without singing.

I hope you enjoy today's song. Join the Mailing List and you'll get a FREE new song every day in April.

I always appreciate comments, questions, suggestions... matthew@anewsongeveryday.com.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song282_Storm the Gates

2010-04-08T16:51:00.001-07:00

Today's song was also written on the electric guitar. I chose 4 sets of chord progressions (Intro/Chorus=E-Em-D-Dm-A-A#-E, Verse=E-B-A-B, Transition=A-E-B, Ending=D-G), and a few of the chords were played using non-standard formations. This song could've worked as a 4-piece song, but it layered well...about 18 tracks total. I am enjoying this style of writing, and I like the new guitar sounds for this week.

The lyrics today are about people overthrowing governments. This actually happened yesterday (on the other side of the world)...though this song is not about that particular situation.

LYRICS: "All these fences must come down now. No more order, we want out now. You gambled to get it. Now this is your time. But what will you do when it becomes you on the run? Sometimes patience doesn't fix 'now.' You gambled to get it. Now this is your time. But what will you do when it becomes you on the run? A pinch of salt, a stitch in time. Storm the gates, what's left is mine. A carrot stick, a children's rhyme. An overthrow will undermine."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song281_A Well-Known Face

2010-04-07T07:41:00.000-07:00

Last week's album, Week40_Permanent Records, is now available at: http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/.

Today's song begins a new album, Week41_Pulling Stranger's Teeth. I woke up early today, Carly and I went for a long bike ride, then I changed the strings on my electric guitar while deciding the best way to approach the songwriting/recording this week. It helps to have a genre in mind before approaching a blank session. Also, it helps to decide on a common starting point for each day. Last week I wrote the initial part on the acoustic guitar, but other weeks it has been the piano, a synth sample, the bass guitar, a vocal melody, or a drum rhythm that creates the starting point. This week it will be the electric guitar. I like finding unique strumming rhythms and chord progressions on this instrument. It also helps to consistently use the same instruments/pre-sets each week so the music has a consistent sound. The instruments still vary, but I choose a few foundational instruments to be the same. I know that each song this week will have: rhythm, bass guitar, clean electric guitar, and distorted electric guitar. However, before I started recording I auditioned many new guitar pre-sets (in Guitar Rig 3) before deciding what the main sounds would be this week. I chose two pre-sets that I haven't used so far, and then I altered each one slightly to make it my own.

The strumming on this song is quick (140bpm), and the chord formations are odd. Actually, the chord progressions are pretty odd too, but they seem to work for this style of music (Verse=A#-B, Transition=C-F-Fm, Chorus=G-A). After tracking the electric guitar I completed the drums, acoustic guitar, and bass guitar. Next, I worked on the lyrics and the melody...testing each part in "record" mode. I got all 6 vocal tracks written and recorded within 45 minutes. The melodies, purposefully dissonant, remind me of the The Swirlies.

The lyrical theme this week is broad, but each song will have something to do with social interaction. This one was going to be about angry drivers, but it's also about people with status that abuse their privileges (these people act the same at times).

LYRICS: "A gift to your race. You're a well-known face. Like on library walls, (or) militant memorial halls. Come on, and pull over the car. We all know who you are. Don't pretend to be bitter when you get what you want. Hello, welcome. You got the pick of the room. You're 'on.' Idiot drivers annoy idiot riders. Who throw things from your window as a moronic symbol. Come on, and pull over the car. We all know who you are. Don't pretend to be bitter when you get what you want. Hello, welcome. You got the pick of the room. You're 'on.'"

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song280_Permanent Records

2010-04-06T15:03:00.000-07:00

Today's song completes another album, Week40_Permanent Records. This album will be available for sale ($5) in a few hours at: www.anewsongeveryday.com. Or, you can still join the Mailing List and you'll get every song recorded in April at no charge.

I took about 5-10 minutes to strum through ideas on the acoustic guitar (Em-F-C...G), but I actually recorded the electric guitars (distorted electric, clean/reverb electric, and bass guitar) before tracking the acoustic guitar at 100bpm. I thought this instrumental was a nice way to end this album. This song is not very complex (maybe 10 tracks), but it has some subtle characteristics that I like such as: the repetitive progression (that starts with a minor chord), the choppy/muffled distorted guitar that never breaks into a full strum, the long fade-out, etc.

I'm going to change up the music style for next week's album, but I don't have a definite plan yet. I'm going to use the next 6 or so hours to rest my brain, then I'll probably make some decisions before bed (or early in the morning). Mandatory decisions before tomorrow include: album title, musical style, songwriting approach, lyrical themes, and song title (for Song #281).

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song279_Promises

2010-04-05T15:33:00.000-07:00

The foundation of today's song was written on the acoustic guitar around 1300 (Verse=F#-B, Transition=G-F#, Chorus=E-F#-B). I was able to write and record the other foundational instruments within the next hour (bass guitar, drums/cymbals, clean electric guitar strumming, and distorted guitar). The song was pretty full at this point, so I focused on writing lyrics and melodies for about an hour. I wanted to have the vocals in place before adding a few extra synth and guitar parts (to fill in gaps, enhance vocals, etc). This song ended up being about 20-24 tracks, and it took about 4.5 hours from start to finish.

LYRICS: "Words and promises seeded deep inside. Carry a single order out to the letter. Orders are: follow-through. All that you say. All the promises you make. Whatever happened to 'always?' All these promises you make. True, we argue, (and) build forts to hide. Carry a single order out to the letter. Orders are: follow-through. All that you say. All the promises you make. Whatever happened to 'always?' All these promises you make."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song278_Take Note

2010-04-04T19:19:00.000-07:00

I decided not to use any drums today, so this song centers around the acoustic guitar, electric guitar (heavy with reverb and filling the stereo field), and bass guitar. There are a variety of other instruments that appear throughout this song such as: 3 additional electric guitars (picking single notes), a synth choir, a string section, 2 sequences (that provide a certain amount of rhythm to that section), 3 tracks of vocals, and...well, a few other things that I can't think of right now. This session ended up being 14-16 tracks, and it took about 5 hours to write and record.

LYRICS: "Take note of rising oceans. Unmanned planets changing courses, and love defeating forces too big for war."

Happy Easter.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song277_Ruler of Undergrounds

2010-04-03T17:55:00.001-07:00

Carly and I met some friends in Fort Worth last night (Rick and Brooke), ate some dinner, walked the streets, and ended up at a small tavern that played great (loud) music. I was inspired (must've been the Digital Underground), so I started recording today's song when we got home at 0020. I wrote and recorded the acoustic guitar, bass guitar, drums, clean electric guitar (the strumming that's heavy with reverb), and distorted electric guitar. I went to bed around 0340 and slept until 1000...returning to complete this song at 1600.

Fine-tuning this song took some time. I had tracked 4-5 synth parts, but I wasn't happy with the sounds, so I re-recorded each one. Also, I added the ending of this song (A-Adim-D-E) after everything else had been recorded. It took time to add those parts, and to blend them to the rest of the song. The lyrics were written around 0300...just before I slept, but fortunately I was able to find a melody and singing style that fit the pattern of each section. There are over 20 tracks in this song, and the mix took a few tries. I took a few breaks (one to eat, one to change strings), and I completed this song around 2100.

LYRICS: "You're an outcast's best kept secret...ruler over undergrounds. You're a stalemate's best investment. Money spent on growth. A pathway known by candlelight. An outlet drawn to us by sight. Never lonely. Never alone. A slave to motion. Born to roam. You're a lesson in forgiveness...the reason for the rule of law. You're an outcast's best kept secret...ruler over undergrounds. A pathway known by candlelight. An outlet drawn to us by sight. Never lonely. Never alone. A slave to motion. Born to roam."

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song276_Spoken For

2010-04-02T16:17:00.001-07:00

I had a limited amount of time to work on music today...only about 5 hours total, but I was able to get it done. This song is similar to yesterday's in a few ways: the initial idea was written on the acoustic guitar (Verse=G-C, Chorus=Em-C-G-D, Ending=Am-E-B7-E), it utilizes similar instruments, and each session has about 20 tracks. The repetition of recording every day has improved my ability to visualize and hear the entire song (as well as individual parts) as I record. Also, I've gotten much quicker at getting ideas from my head onto the hard drive. I think about songs before approaching the process, but I don't physically "write" music anymore unless the 'record' button is enabled. Also, 3 of the 5 guitar parts today were each recorded in one take. That helps since I spend a good amount of time doing detailed editing, mixing, creating vocals, etc.

LYRICS: "Take your time. You don't have to rush through life. This moment won't stick around. You are what you don't like. You want changes inside. You say this is your life. You need better advice. Down on love. The hurt is building up. Let's turn this train around. You are what you don't like. You want changes inside. You say this is your life. You need better advice. But love has spoken. The curse is broken."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song275_Together Now

2010-04-01T20:36:00.000-07:00

Today is April 01, 2010...the first day of my 10th consecutive month of writing and recording a new song every day! Today is also the first day of the FREE month. Everyone on the Mailing List will receive a daily email with the link to the newest song. It's not too late to sign up (http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/).

Today's song was written on the acoustic guitar (Verse=E-A-Am-E, Transition=C-E, Chorus=E-B7), and then I wrote and recorded: bass guitar, electric guitar (the 'washy' strumming that plays throughout the song), and a few other electric guitar parts (which didn't make the final mix). I had recorded a drum rhythm before tracking the acoustic, but the rhythm didn't fit the mood that I wanted to create. I deleted that track and added 5 separate rhythms plus cymbal swells (tracked with two mics and mallets). I started working on this song around 1300, and I had most of these things completed by 1700. I took a break to run, eat dinner, and spend time with Carly. I was fortunate that I found lyrics and a melody that I liked (since I didn't start writing and recording the vocals until 2145). I like the dynamics of this song, and I'm very happy with the final outcome.

LYRICS: "Crazy how much things change from one day to another. Great that you and I get to rely on each other. Come together now. Come together. Darkness in the distance, soon the night will take over. But nightfall means a new day waits around the corner. Come together now. Come together."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song274_Long Way Around

2010-03-31T10:48:00.000-07:00

Today's song begins a new album, Week40_Permanent Records. It's time to get back to writing structured songs with vocals and repeating parts (i.e. verse, chorus, bridge). My plan for this week is pretty loose, but I will follow a few guidelines each day that will inevitably shape the sound of this album. One, I will write each song this week by creating a series of chord progressions on the acoustic guitar. Two, I will use the same basic instruments each day, and each instrument will utilize it's own unique pre-set for all 7 songs. In addition to the acoustic guitar I will also be using: bass guitar, distorted guitar, strumming guitar (heavy with delay and reverb), and a solo guitar (either picking notes or using an e-bow).

The idea for this specific song came to me early this morning. I was able to hear and predict most of the chord changes in my head (Verse=C-Em-C-Em-C-Em-Am-D, Chorus=G-D-Em repeated). I wrote down the chord progressions and a few lines of lyrics, then I ate breakfast and worked on a web design project. I came back a few hours later, picked up the acoustic guitar, and I worked out the tempo, the strumming pattern, and the 'Bridge' section (Am-Em-C-Em-Am-Em-C-D). I recorded a drum sequence (110bpm) before tracking the acoustic, which helps the strumming sound more natural and less mechanical (as it often does when recorded using only the 'click' track as a guide). Next, I added bass guitar (written and recorded in one take), distorted and clean electric guitars, and 2 tracks of piano (featured in the 'Bridge' section only). There are also 2 electric guitars (picking solo notes), a string section and 4 vocal tracks. The lyrics came to me as I was trying to find melodies (with the "record" button enabled). There are just a few lines of lyrics that seemed to fit the mood of the song. It took about 4.5 hours to write and record this song.

LYRICS: "You're taking the long way. Taking the long way around. You're taking the long way across new ground. How can you say that you believe in love, then fall apart when things start getting rough. Enough is enough. You're better off that most."

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song273_Standby

2010-03-30T15:18:00.000-07:00

Today's song was written by first creating a simple foundation of synth instruments (mostly a variety of string sections). Next, I added synth bass, and then I build a rhythm section. Additionally, there are 4 guitars: clean strumming, distorted strumming, distorted e-bow, and clean picking. I edited this song so that it gradually builds and then stops all together. I think this is a good, appropriate ending to Week 39's album (which will be available in a few hours at: www.anewsongeveryday.com).

Tomorrow is the last day of month #9 (March), and all music is FREE in April to those on the mailing list. This next album will be different from the last few. One, I will re-incorporate singing into every song. Two, each song will have a more purposeful (and predictable) structure. There's a song that I recorded a few weeks ago that had a nice combination of guitar sounds, and I think I'll center most of the songwriting around guitar progression (using those particular pre-sets). The titles, the lyrics, the chord progressions, etc will all be determined on a daily basis (as usual).

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song272_At This Distance

2010-03-29T20:38:00.000-07:00

This song was fun to create. I approached it, at first, as a technical/editing challenge. I created and arranged 5 different rhythms, then wrote the bass guitar progressions (such as: C-F, Em-F-C-G, and C-Em-Am-Em). Next, I wrote and recorded the main (clean/strumming) guitar, which plays throughout the entire song. Next, I added distorted guitar (in 2 main sections), e-bow guitar, 2 additional electric guitars (picking solos), and 4-5 synth sounds (from random effects to vibrato string sections). I like the ups and downs of this song, and I think this would be fun to perform with a full band (if only to watch the drummer play the last part of the song).

Tomorrow's song will be the final song on this album (Week39_Life-Sized Kids).

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song271_Through the Corners

2010-03-28T16:18:00.000-07:00

Today's song is another collection of rhythms, bass lines, guitars, and synth sounds. I pieced together a series of 2-chord progressions...simple changes that slide up/down (such as: C-D, G-F, and A-B). I've used a few of these progressions in other songs already, but the combination of progressions and instruments is new. This song, like a few others this week, has a low-fi sound to it...as if some of the sounds are coming out of a distant, broken speaker. I used synth bass today (performed on the keys instead of the bass guitar), which I haven't used for a while.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song270_Convertables

2010-03-27T20:56:00.000-07:00

Today's recording is another upbeat instrumental that's heavy with rhythms, bass guitar, large synths, and fast low-fi guitar strumming. The original song was written in two sections (both in the key of 'E'), and each sections repeats once. The song that starts after the first one ends was created in spontaneously in the last 30 minutes of recording. I spent about 4 hrs writing, recording, mixing, and uploading this song.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song269_Stampede

2010-03-26T21:02:00.000-07:00

Today's song is unique, and appropriately named. It randomly changes direction (and keys), but it does so all together. It turned out to be 12 (or so) tracks, but the 4 stampeding guitar tracks sit on top of the mix. The structure consists of 3 main sections, but all of the guitar parts are different in each section (even the ones that repeat the same chord progression). I added a synth vocal choir in the background to smooth the rough edges, but the bass and drums drive this song.

I started writing this song after work today (around 1500), but I ran into a few software glitches around 1700, and I wasn't able to continue this song again until 2200. I stopped working on the song around 2320, got the mix right on the first try, and got it uploaded around 2335. Close call, but I learned a few things from this experience. To fix the software issue I had to dive into some manuals and open some windows that I hadn't opened before. Throughout the process of identifying the problem I was able to customize my sessions in a way that will save time in the future. I like learning experiences, but I prefer to learn technical lessons when the clock is not running.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song268_Soapbox Derby

2010-03-25T20:43:00.000-07:00

I started writing today's song around noon, and I approached this one a little different than ever before. I found about 6 individual rhythm tracks, and I edited and arranged the entire percussion section before recording anything else. I've started songs with drums before, but I usually don't determine what will go where (and for how long) until I've written another foundational part (usually guitar, sometimes bass guitar, sometimes keys). The next instrument that I recorded was the bass guitar. I played along to each section...writing each part as I recorded. The bass happened quickly (1-2 takes on each section), and then I was able to edit, EQ, and mix these tracks before taking a break.

I ate lunch around 1330, and then Brandon (Steach) came over. We had scheduled some time to work on his mom's CD project (a 20-plus song double-disc of quality gospel music). Half of these songs have a pre-recorded backtrack (i.e. they tracked it karaoke-style), and the other half Brandon arranged and recorded himself. We worked on one song for about 4.5 hours with minimal progress, and then we took a break and went running (nice day...went 3 miles). Our session today helped us realize some ways to make progress more efficiently, so in some ways it was productive.

I returned to today's song around 2000, and completed it around 2300 (4.5 hrs total to write, record, and mix). I really like this arrangement, and it was fun to record (especially the guitar parts, which seemed to write themselves). The mix took a few tries. I found a track with some rogue frequencies after the first mix, fixed it, raised the overall levels, and re-mastered the song. Another day complete.

-Matthew
www.anewsongeveryday.com
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

Song267_Doodles

2010-03-24T17:22:00.000-07:00

Today's song begins a new album, Week39_Life-Sized Kids. In some ways, I wanted this week to be a continuation of last week's style. Last week consisted of all instrumentals, the changes evolved slowly, and the spaces were large (lots of reverb and synth pads). There are a few reasons that I wanted to continue this style. One, it was pushing me to find new sounds and to alter existing sounds. Two, it was enhancing my editing skills. Three, I'm learning to be more deliberate and precise with instrument placement, sound, E.Q., etc. There are no vocals, and the song structures are not very predictable, so every bit of the arrangement has to be purposeful.

Brandon (Steach) was able to come over and help with today's song. He got here around 1000, and we talked about how we were going to approach this recording session. In that 30-minutes I decided on the album title (I had 3-4 options for this week), and we also outlined some specific ways to continue last week's style without having the exact same sound/mood. These are broad goals, but since each day is from scratch they help to hone the daily process. Goals for this week are: don't use a BPM below 160, (re)incorporate acoustic guitar, make the mood brighter and punchier (last week's was more serious and contemplative), have more abrupt changes (and pauses), utilize more cymbals, continue to make songs that evolve (and don't repeat).

This song, Song267_Doodles, is about 24-28 tracks, took about 5 hours to write and record, and consists of 4-5 different ideas pasted together (all in the same key). Some sections have completely different rhythm sections and their own unique set of instruments, so it was a challenge to keep EQ's and levels consistent. It helped to have a few consistent instruments (such as bass guitar and acoustic guitar), and the cymbals tie each section together nicely. We finished around 1930 and thought we were going to run, then we felt thunder rattle the house...followed by rain. It seems like there's just enough time to eat dinner and catch up on work before it's time to record another song. These days fly.

-Matthew
http://www.anewsongeveryday.com/
matthew@anewsongeveryday.com

-Matthew