Month: July 2016

Broadjam Artist: Sergio Simone
Song: Snowflakes in the Sun

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Diana Williamson (Songwriter, Music Supervisor)

Pro General Comments: Please note I don't rate individual instrumentation since my expertise lies more in marketability, lyric, melody, and overall performance.HI Sergio from Kleinburg! I am considering creating a studio in that neck of the woods- what a strange coincidence! Love it there.Great to start with a visual title. That is usually half the battle. I love the idea of your story- and the story title invites curiousity. You want to pull your listener in and you do.Love the opening visual -mood has that "Vincent" song quality. Your hook really comes into its own when that bg vocal comes in on snowflakes. They really add a great dimension to the song.The vocals are nice but feel a tad tentative in the beginning which draws me out of the song. I think the vocalist can do it but maybe with a bit more conviction to make it a lot stronger. It feels a bit sing/songish in parts- with too much emphasis on the rhythm when a more fluid vocal might help it "flow" a bit better.You might also want to try it with a hot female session singer who can really sell the song for you- especially since its from a female pov. The song sounds like it's worth it. I can see it in films about aging- that hook sells your song.Appropriate instrumentation and arrangements effectively build your songs momentum. You got that hard part down. Your melody and marriage of melody to lyric works nicely.If it's the old woman who is the singer you might want to make the language a little less formal so that she is talking to us, - such as "as I sit on my worn out chair" instead of "upon" or "and wonder how the years moved on" instead of "at how" (just little picky thoughts- not totally necessary)- but to make you aware. Also "I'll never forget" sounds less formal and better than "I'll not forget".. If I could only "just" hold on to one- adding the word just- makes it that more poignant desperate.Guitar solo captures the wonderful emotion of the song. However they are getting to be a thing of the past unfortunately. It seems like it dates the song a bit. (though I can live with it- I'm still a big fan of guitar solos) However, since the song feels like it's running a bit long, you may want to cut the guitar solo and just use the piano part- maybe double the piano instead. It's really such a pretty part. Piano solo instrumentation, takes you out of the song for a minute to give the musical palette a little rest. It's got a great feel and flows effortlessly from part to part transition wise. Guitar works- don't' get me wrong- but it also declares itself and you may want a softer transition for the song story.Overall wonderful soulful work!

Quote From Pro: Song has soul and a delicate grace.

Broadjam Artist: COSTA / Costa Ioannides
Song: Let this in

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Malik Williams (Producer, Artist, Engineer, Composer)

Pro General Comments: Hey Costa,Thank you for the opportunity to review your songs. I really like the drive of this track. A lot of the new songs out these days seems to have some type of flair from an older song from say the 80s or 90s and I always like hearing that. Especially because of the musicianship it might take to pull that off. In this case, I referred to an artist names "Dino" from the late 80's because of your vocal tone and his dance songs (hits) were very upbeat and fun. I think Maroon 5 might be the closest I could refer you to because you have that Adam Levine vocal tone that's pretty smooth. I'm always careful how to constructively compliment an artist regarding a throwback sound but so much of today's music is derived from songs of the past anyway. First off, I chose the title Can't Let It Go because I thought your vocal performance really drove that point home... stuck in my head a bit more to me.The intro flange fx is nice coming into the song. I like the drum programming and percussion programming. The bass guitar works overall but at about 2:52 and at the break, the timing or quantization could be tighter. It's a bit mechanical... It's really important to keep that kick and bass grove in the pocket. The piano and synth arpeggiation is great. Also, the funky guitar plucking and the nylon guitar sound in your break add a lot to the song. Vocally, the lead is pretty good and so are the lyrics. The backgrounds in the pre-chorus could be tighter and maybe even spread out a little wider. On that note the overall mix is good. Although, I'd like to hear a fatter but still punchy kick drum mix under your bass guitar. Other than that I think the choice of instruments and your preliminary mix is all in the right direction!

Quote From Pro: Costa Ioannides: "you have that Adam Levine vocal tone that's pretty smooth"

Broadjam Artist: TaBoo Timmons
Song: LET'S RIDE

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Serge Durand (A&R/Publisher/Manager)

Pro General Comments: I think this song has great licensing potential. I think the track can be mixed a little better. I think the hook is catchy and memorable. The verses are solid. I would pitch this song to NASCAR, video games, and Film/TV music supervisors. It doesn't strike me as a hit, but it doesn't have to be because it seems like it was written specifically for licensing usage. I think you have something with this record. I would suggest that you have your management pitch it to as manay music supervisors as possible.

Quote From Pro: I think "Let's Ride" is a great licensing song. Makes me mo want to hear more from Taboo Simmons.

Broadjam Artist: COSTA / Costa Ioannides
Song: Comfort Zone (Acoustic/Live at CYBC)

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Malik Williams (Producer, Artist, Engineer, Composer)

Pro General Comments: Hi Costa,Comfort Zone is a really nice pop/world love song! I've listened to this over and over. It's a classic case of "less is more". A very moving soundtrack song with brilliant lyrics that really pull on ones conscience!I like the way you're referring to the worlds tragic issues that most of us can relate to and in my mind, i could imagine the scenes vividly. It's the common message of dealing with negative live experiences but still being able to find solace in that person or thing you love the most. Sometimes you just want to hide or lose yourself just to feel safe. Pretty much, everyone can relate to that.. It's the classic formula for a great song. In the second verse you say "I lie to God again". That's a really powerful line. What I took from that is Sometimes in life it's so hard to believe or understand. We ask the question "why", over and over, with no definite or logical answer, so we have to keep the faith just to stay sane. This live recording was done very well. You've managed to capture a very warm and classic Ovation guitar sound. Very smooth vocal performance with a nice touch of reverb in the mix! Knowing that it was recorded live makes it that much better. You vocal tone and expression works well on this song. I was listening from the perspective of this being produced in a more dramatic fashion. Maybe with rhythm and orchestral production... Just a thought. I still think the simple version prevails but it could be fun to have a version 2. If you haven't considered the music licensing route, this is a good song to pitch. Great job overall!

Quote From Pro: Comfort Zone - A very moving soundtrack song with brilliant lyrics that really pull on ones conscience!

Broadjam Artist: Flava Hype
Song: A Soldier

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Serge Durand (A&R/Publisher/Manager)

Pro General Comments: I think this is an admirable song. It has a lot of potential to be an American anthem. I think you did a great job of writing this song. I also like your conviction. You sound very believable. You sound passionate about being a soldier and being an American. I believe what you are saying. You have good story telling skills. If I was a soldier, I would listen to this every day when i woke up. It's a good motivational song. It doesn't strike me as a huge radio hit, but it can be a fan favorite because of the subject matter and the message. One doesn't have to be in the army to appreciate this record. They can just be a soldier in their own right with waking up everyday and conquering their dreams. I also appreciated the adlibs and the sound effects. I really enjoyed the 2nd verse.

Quote From Pro: Flava Hype's "A Soldier" is a great motivational record. He did a good job of telling his story, expressing his feelings and what he stands for on this record.

Broadjam Artist: COSTA / Costa Ioannides
Song: Don't be Cruel ( Aphrodite & I )

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Malik Williams (Producer, Artist, Engineer, Composer)

Pro General Comments: Costa,I can appreciate the diversity in your songwriting and composition. Don't be Cruel is a really cool mixture of electronic/pop production with a flair of Spanish flamenco style guitars creating a very exotic sound. Although the overall production sound is more modern, the only other popular pop song that comes to mind is Madonna's "La Isla Bonita". Super popular globally!Constructively There's a lot going on... in a good way. I listened on my studio monitors as well as with headphones. I really like your drum and percussion programming along with the bass guitar parts. They compliment each other and fill up the bottom well. The acoustic piano is layered with the synth pads nicely. The other delayed synth parts are very tastefully done as well. Those aren't too overbearing and they don't overtake the acoustic "island" feel of the song that the rhythm and lead guitars are creating.The overall mix of the instrumentation is done well. The verse vocals at a good level and the reverb and delay effects are good. In the chorus, I'd like to hear a fuller vocal sound and the backgrounds / ad-libs could come up in the mix slightly.Your guitar parts and arrangement could be spread out a little more to better define the different tones you're using... even consider some auto-panning techniques just for fun. Mind you, these comments are just creative mix and engineering ideas to try... hopefully to inspire future compositions. Don't be afraid to experiment with your post-production. You really do have a good ear and great feel for unitizing acoustic and electronic instruments in your music.. very cool man!

Quote From Pro: Don't be Cruel is a really cool mixture of electronic/pop production with a flair of Spanish flamenco style guitars creating a very exotic sound.

Broadjam Artist: Hugo Bass
Song: Alpha Dancer (Remix)

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Diana Williamson (Songwriter, Music Supervisor)

Pro General Comments: Please note I don't rate individual instrumentation since my expertise lies more in marketability, lyric, melody, and overall performance.Hi there, Hugo. First off you have a winning attitude. I always encourage people to give me truth and can't stand anyone who says they like something then secretly hates it. My one cardinal rule is to tell the truth- because that's how everyone LEARNS and gets better! The fact that you ask for the brutal truth is a feather in your cap! Of course you have to be careful who you listen to and disregard people with unworthy intentions. You are only going to grow and that's how you perfect your craft. So that is major step one.The good news is you have a great handle on this type of writing. You lured me in immediately with the intro and vibe. The song has a very cool vibe to it. The instrumentation and arrangement has a tasteful flavor that is easy on the ears.One of the easiest and overlooked things to fix is to always try to have a title with an emotional lure to it. Something that everyone immediately gets curious about. Alpha Dancer is interesting but could be more interesting. I'm left wondering what it means. For eg "Dancing in the Moonlight" suggests a midnight rendevous- so we're wondering "who" are the lovers- something relating to our own emotional experiences. So if it was something like "Dancing into Love" it makes it more personal for the listener because they can relate to it. Something to keep in mind.Great opening- nice feel. Nice choice of vocalist. Interesting vocal effect part round 48 & 2:48, some sonic bells and whistles give the track a fun feel.When verse comes in you might want to add a little more ear candy- you want it to build a little more rapidly. The vocal is mixed a little low in places so I can't really make out the lyrics. Lyrics are important so make sure we can hear them.When getting reviews- be sure to include them so you can get feedback on them.It seems that perhaps the rhymes may be a little forced (but since I can't really hear the words- a clearer mix would help- ) I can't say for sure- but humanity /sanity and dominant/prominent seem a bit awkward. The general rule is to keep lyrics conversational so they have a good flow to them. Prominent and humanity may be a bit formal for a song. Be careful on this.Lyric comes out off the top a little preachy- be very careful with this- big words such as "humanity" can scare someone off. Today's society is all about instant gratification - so if you want to say something important- you have to lure them into it. Music is escape for most people so you have to deliver escapism and then add something deep in a fun way so they don't realize they are being preached to. It's very hard to talk about issues without coming off preachy- it's a fine line. You don't want to alienate your listener.I can't seem to follow lyrical story. Part of it is the mix buries some of the words but I think also that the lyric may need a bit of going over. Make sure it progresses from the beginning and evolves. I like what you seem to be trying to do- (your intent) but it feels a bit confusing- as mentioned- when you keep it conversational versus overly poetic- it feels natural to the listener and flows.

Quote From Pro: Track has beautiful feel and suggests writer would be good at crafting commercials and scores.

Broadjam Artist: Nonviolenze
Song: Girl in Rags

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Jonathan Weiss (Music Supervisor, A&R)

Pro General Comments: Quite a unique sounding vocal and arrangement. Hard to categorize this piece, but if I had to, I would say it lends itself to more of a song from a staged musical. Obviously the music, chord structure and vocal quality conveys a state of heartbreak, either from the melodic lines and from the haunting, plaintive lead vocal and background flute/synth counter melodies. Acoustic guitar accompaniment is well played and and conceptually works for this genre. If this was part of a staged musical production, it would make sense that this kind of lyrical content would be able to convey to the audience the loneliness that this woman in rags is suffering from. Beyond that however, as a piece of contemporary pop music, I don't really see how it fits in. The vocals are solidly performed, on pitch and the overall arrangement is rich and full sounding. I guess you could call it progressive rock as you say in your bio, but to me, it does not connote that type of sound.Lyrically, beyond some of the visual connotations that it evokes, I'm not seeing a consistent through line of what its about. To me, its a bit vague, but definitely sad sounding in all areas.

Quote From Pro: A haunting vocal melodyballad and solidly played acoustic guitar, make this a very entertaining piece that I could hear being performed in a staged musical production.

Broadjam Artist: Bill Zeffiro
Song: What The Hell It's Christmas

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Diana Williamson (Songwriter, Music Supervisor)

Pro General Comments: Please note I don't rate individual instrumentation since my expertise lies more in marketability, lyric, melody, and overall performance.I apologize for being a few days late- I fell down like a dead soldier with the flu- but am now back in action.This song the way it is, would be perfect for theatre. It sounds tailor made for theatre. However there may not be that many appropriate plays. However one of the beauties of the season is there are new xmas movies out each year that are always looking for songs and original Christmas songs can be hard to come by.There is the one publisher Justin Wylde's company that specializes in placing Christmas songs in movies and you may want to see if he is interested. You'd have to google him to find his contact info. The demo the way it is would have to be given a fresh coat of paint. It sounds "theatre-ish" and would need a bit more finesse.Infact Justin may be able to give you a good review of how he sees it fitting into the marketplace- you may want to ask him in your email to get his thoughts since he knows the Christmas marketplace very well.It would have to be a Christmas comedy of course that would use such as song. Since it's very specific, it makes it a bit tougher to place because it is like a story song and not "universal" which are easier songs to place. However some of the most remote songs in my library have been some of the ones I've placed the easiest for some reasons. A song such as "I'm dreaming of a White Christmas" is a bit easier to place since it's not so specific.It's great to write comedic Christmas songs which is why the one about a reindeer running over Grandma or whatever that title was- was such a hit. There hadn't been many out like that before. Woody Allen could probably have a field day finding all the funny things that go on at Christmas.You did a great job on the lyric. It sounds old school of course with the words like "frisky", etc. One way you could also use this version is to perhaps make a comedic video for youtube with a talented videographer. (doesn't have to be expensive these days). Have an older couple playing off each other in a comedic way. If done well, you could attract some attention to the song and use this as a marketing tool.Another clever thing you did is make it into a duet. There are a lack of duets around. Stars always want to find a way to work with their heroes such as David Bowie and Bing Crosby. So delivering a duet is a smart move in itself. Very good work. I wish you the best of luck with it.

Quote From Pro: Songwriter has a flair for writing a rare and tricky thing, a comedic Christmas song.

Broadjam Artist: COSTA / Costa Ioannides
Song: Looking at Me

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Malik Williams (Producer, Artist, Engineer, Composer)

Pro General Comments: Costa,You've really locked in on this track. Looking At Me is a really great commercial dance song.. super catchy... classic! This is also.. by far my favorite song style from you thus far. I really like the opening line "Guess who's been bleeding blue now they've lost it?" It made me wonder where the song would go. The lyrical melody flows nicely and is very easy to sing along with... and I think if it wasn't for the love of music, we'd all love our minds! So many people can relate to that. The song concept is pretty universal and I really like the vocal performance. Good idea to create the video as well. Using the disgruntled employee concept was brilliant. The video really supports the concept of the song and really fun to watch. (For those that haven't seen it, check it out here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=irXulC5I6iA)Solid music and vocal arrangement! I like the breaks and the background and ad-lib vocal parts flying in and out. The production quality is pretty tight overall as well. One again, I really appreciate your drum programming and on this one, the bass sound you chose is really edgy and fat. The base line itself is also really good and it's cutting right though the track.. really cool!The song has a lot of energy and movement just with the bass and drums. That's the foundation you need with this kind of dance track. You definitely nailed that. The mix on this song is really clear and tight and with so much going and all the instrument parts, that can be a difficult task!Very good low-end and pretty crisp high-end. You are a very talented songwriter and producer! Keep up the good work.. I'm looking forward to hearing more of your music!

Quote From Pro: Looking At Me is a really great commercial dance song.. super catchy... classic!