Month: August 2018

Broadjam Artist: Justin Seegert Music
Song: Everything is Anything

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
A.J. Gundell (Songwriter, Composer, Music Supervisor, Producer)

Pro General Comments: Probably the most captivating and enjoyable part of "Everything Is Anything" is the most important part of all: the hook. The words come out the the singer's mouth like a fusillade of gunfire notes--super-singable, memorable, repetitive, and hook'y. The fact that this is also the chorus and title of the song makes for a very promising beginning for this indie alt-folk rocker.From there, I think some deeper lyrical analysis and critique would be helpful. First, the lyric begs the question of... "okay, but, what's the point?" If the answer comes in the next line, "everything don't mean nothing to me," then my question as both reviewer and listener is--then why are you singing about it? And I don't really believe the singer, that none of this means anything. The verses say "I was cold, and you made me warm" and "I was old, and you made me young." On both counts, well written, it makes me think the singer DOES care... and should. It's almost like the singer wants to say "Everything... means EVERYTHING... to me." Not only does that make more logical sense, it's also a more positive foundation to build the song around. As written, it not only doesn't make sense, it also makes me wonder as reviewer/listener why I should care myself. Not the setting we're looking for to grab a listener. And all the more disappointing because, per above, the hook is so strong musically and melodically. I think the lyric needs to come up to that level.Singer's performance, and backing harmonies, are believable and strong--they will sell a stronger, more believable message in the story. Beyond that, the recording tap-dances around being acceptable broadcast quality. If there's a bass, it's too low in the mix--and a rockin' folk song like this really needs it. Drums are solid, except in the breakdown sections, where both the drummer and the band need to be a little tighter to the groove both the lead guitar and keyboard solos could be more in the pocket. I'm also hearing a fair amount of digital clicking going on--I would check the recording to make sure it's clean, and there aren't some sample rate frequency issues with the DAW.I'd love to hear Justin and the band build around a killer melodic hook with a hard look at the song/story/lyrics and recording. There's a "holy trinity" of song/singer/record going on in here--it just needs a little more work. And, as songwriters/recording artists, we all have to be willing to call a first draft a draft--and dig a little deeper to make it all undeniable. Rock on.

Quote From Pro: Probably the most captivating and enjoyable part of "Everything Is Anything" is the most important part of all: the hook. The words come out the the singer's mouth like a fusillade of gunfire notes--super-singable, memorable, repetitive, and hook'y. The fact that this is also the chorus and title of the song makes for a very promising beginning for this indie alt-folk rocker.

Broadjam Artist: Justin Seegert Music
Song: Everything is Anything

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
A.J. Gundell (Songwriter, Composer, Music Supervisor, Producer)

Pro General Comments: Probably the most captivating and enjoyable part of "Everything Is Anything" is the most important part of all: the hook. The words come out the the singer's mouth like a fusillade of gunfire notes--super-singable, memorable, repetitive, and hook'y. The fact that this is also the chorus and title of the song makes for a very promising beginning for this indie alt-folk rocker.From there, I think some deeper lyrical analysis and critique would be helpful. First, the lyric begs the question of... "okay, but, what's the point?" If the answer comes in the next line, "everything don't mean nothing to me," then my question as both reviewer and listener is--then why are you singing about it? And I don't really believe the singer, that none of this means anything. The verses say "I was cold, and you made me warm" and "I was old, and you made me young." On both counts, well written, it makes me think the singer DOES care... and should. It's almost like the singer wants to say "Everything... means EVERYTHING... to me." Not only does that make more logical sense, it's also a more positive foundation to build the song around. As written, it not only doesn't make sense, it also makes me wonder as reviewer/listener why I should care myself. Not the setting we're looking for to grab a listener. And all the more disappointing because, per above, the hook is so strong musically and melodically. I think the lyric needs to come up to that level.Singer's performance, and backing harmonies, are believable and strong--they will sell a stronger, more believable message in the story. Beyond that, the recording tap-dances around being acceptable broadcast quality. If there's a bass, it's too low in the mix--and a rockin' folk song like this really needs it. Drums are solid, except in the breakdown sections, where both the drummer and the band need to be a little tighter to the groove both the lead guitar and keyboard solos could be more in the pocket. I'm also hearing a fair amount of digital clicking going on--I would check the recording to make sure it's clean, and there aren't some sample rate frequency issues with the DAW.I'd love to hear Justin and the band build around a killer melodic hook with a hard look at the song/story/lyrics and recording. There's a "holy trinity" of song/singer/record going on in here--it just needs a little more work. And, as songwriters/recording artists, we all have to be willing to call a first draft a draft--and dig a little deeper to make it all undeniable. Rock on.

Quote From Pro: Probably the most captivating and enjoyable part of "Everything Is Anything" is the most important part of all: the hook. The words come out the the singer's mouth like a fusillade of gunfire notes--super-singable, memorable, repetitive, and hook'y. The fact that this is also the chorus and title of the song makes for a very promising beginning for this indie alt-folk rocker.

Broadjam Artist: Justin Seegert Music
Song: Lanterns in the Sky

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
A.J. Gundell (Songwriter, Composer, Music Supervisor, Producer)

Pro General Comments: "Lanterns in the Sky" is a sweet, endearing heartland/acoustic contemporary folk song with strongly crafted lyrical messages, a simple memorable melody, and appropriately supportive harmonic motion. The song paints a vivid, inspiring picture of an earth mother/almost goddess woman with the charms and talents to "light lanterns in the sky, make a garden grow, craft stars and angels and help them fly." We see her and feel her powers... as well as the way that that they seduce the singer through his performance--all good, really nicely done. And again, along with the singer(s), the melody and chords lend just the right folk-Americana touch that the song and the main idea are selling.As I often reference in my Pro Reviews, I believe in the essential importance of what I call the "holy trinity" in independent music submitted for licensing: song, singer, record. In this case, I think the artist/producers have nailed the first two of three--but the last, the recording, needs work. Broadjam licensing listings, referenced below, are almost always asking for "Broadcast Quality". Home recordings are fine, we all work on our DAWs now. But records that feel like demos are not. Media clients are looking to make "all-in" song and master deals with indie artists--so the recording needs to support the song and the singer and come along with the package. If/when it doesn't, clients likely will pass.For me, "Lanterns" falls short here. The basic drum track is really well done, builds well, and is almost certainly programmed. It works but it's timed to the click of the DAW. A lot of the phrasing and performances--mostly the acoustic and lead/fill electric guitars, some of the lead singing--drifts in and out of the pocket. Mix is also a little off--electric fills too loud. Is there a bass? If not, there should be if so, it should be louder. The effect is that 'demo'y' quality I refer to. I'd just revisit these performances and tighten them up, and it should all be there. Not significant aside, I feel the addition of the female vocalist's harmonies and answers is a fantastic touch that works really well--suggesting the presence of the goddess with her voice. With these adjustments to the recording, "Lanterns in the Sky" has some real potential to interest licensing clients looking for a simple, charming Americana folk song for their projects.

Quote From Pro: "Lanterns in the Sky" is a sweet, endearing heartland/acoustic contemporary folk song with strongly crafted lyrical messages, a simple memorable melody, and appropriately supportive harmonic motion. The song has some real potential to interest licensing clients looking for a simple, charming Americana folk tune for their projects.

Broadjam Artist: Justin Seegert Music
Song: Lanterns in the Sky

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
A.J. Gundell (Songwriter, Composer, Music Supervisor, Producer)

Pro General Comments: "Lanterns in the Sky" is a sweet, endearing heartland/acoustic contemporary folk song with strongly crafted lyrical messages, a simple memorable melody, and appropriately supportive harmonic motion. The song paints a vivid, inspiring picture of an earth mother/almost goddess woman with the charms and talents to "light lanterns in the sky, make a garden grow, craft stars and angels and help them fly." We see her and feel her powers... as well as the way that that they seduce the singer through his performance--all good, really nicely done. And again, along with the singer(s), the melody and chords lend just the right folk-Americana touch that the song and the main idea are selling.As I often reference in my Pro Reviews, I believe in the essential importance of what I call the "holy trinity" in independent music submitted for licensing: song, singer, record. In this case, I think the artist/producers have nailed the first two of three--but the last, the recording, needs work. Broadjam licensing listings, referenced below, are almost always asking for "Broadcast Quality". Home recordings are fine, we all work on our DAWs now. But records that feel like demos are not. Media clients are looking to make "all-in" song and master deals with indie artists--so the recording needs to support the song and the singer and come along with the package. If/when it doesn't, clients likely will pass.For me, "Lanterns" falls short here. The basic drum track is really well done, builds well, and is almost certainly programmed. It works but it's timed to the click of the DAW. A lot of the phrasing and performances--mostly the acoustic and lead/fill electric guitars, some of the lead singing--drifts in and out of the pocket. Mix is also a little off--electric fills too loud. Is there a bass? If not, there should be if so, it should be louder. The effect is that 'demo'y' quality I refer to. I'd just revisit these performances and tighten them up, and it should all be there. Not significant aside, I feel the addition of the female vocalist's harmonies and answers is a fantastic touch that works really well--suggesting the presence of the goddess with her voice. With these adjustments to the recording, "Lanterns in the Sky" has some real potential to interest licensing clients looking for a simple, charming Americana folk song for their projects.

Quote From Pro: "Lanterns in the Sky" is a sweet, endearing heartland/acoustic contemporary folk song with strongly crafted lyrical messages, a simple memorable melody, and appropriately supportive harmonic motion. The song has some real potential to interest licensing clients looking for a simple, charming Americana folk tune for their projects.

Broadjam Artist: Soulscript
Song: Resting My Head On A Raindrop

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
A.J. Gundell (Songwriter, Composer, Music Supervisor, Producer)

Pro General Comments: "Resting My Head On A Raindrop" has to be one of the most intriguing song titles ever. And while it took me a few listens to drill down to what I think Soulscript is onto lyrically, with those few listens the song and hook became a classic 'song worm' for me... and I couldn't stop singing the chorus. A good thing--for this original roots/rocking/Americana band charting some new territory for itself.Stylistically and musically, I think the band and its sound/performances fits perfectly in their genre--the record and vocal have an authentic, earthy roots'y vibe--indie acoustic/electric rock band, little lo-fi, some nice guitar shredding, working eq filtering to cool effect a couple of times. As I said, the title and hook keep coming at you and linger long after the listening has stopped. In part due to my feelings about the lyrics, I could use a little more vocal in the mix--some lines get lost in the band. Today, regardless of the genre, our ears want to hear everything loud... especially the vocal/singer.The most intriguing and essential element--that killer chorus/title, and the lyrics/story--is also the spot that needs closer examination and I think a little more work. I had to ask myself... 'what's Soulscript trying to say here?" My conclusion is that the singer is sending us an existential message about the universe, the tiny place each one of us occupies, and how we might find some comfort resting on that raindrop and feeling connected to the larger cosmos. But... there's a little too much work the listener needs to do to make those connections--I think I'd look to tighten up the internal flow of ideas so we get it, more clearly. There are numerous lines that suggest it's not so much restful on that raindrop as it is overwhelming. I'd try to go for a little more clarity... so the listener doesn't have to wonder.End of the day, this is a pretty heady, philosophical topic--and Soulscript has made a cool sounding, provocative record that gets our wheels turning at the same time we're grooving on it.

Quote From Pro: "Resting My Head On A Raindrop" has to be one of the most intriguing song titles ever. And while it took me a few listens to drill down to what I think Soulscript is onto lyrically, with those few listens the song and hook became a classic 'song worm' for me... and I couldn't stop singing the chorus. A good thing--for this original roots/rocking/Americana band charting some new territory for itself. End of the day, this is a pretty heady, philosophical story--and Soulscript has made a cool sounding, provocative record that gets our wheels turning at the same time we're grooving on it.

Broadjam Artist: Soulscript
Song: Resting My Head On A Raindrop

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
A.J. Gundell (Songwriter, Composer, Music Supervisor, Producer)

Pro General Comments: "Resting My Head On A Raindrop" has to be one of the most intriguing song titles ever. And while it took me a few listens to drill down to what I think Soulscript is onto lyrically, with those few listens the song and hook became a classic 'song worm' for me... and I couldn't stop singing the chorus. A good thing--for this original roots/rocking/Americana band charting some new territory for itself.Stylistically and musically, I think the band and its sound/performances fits perfectly in their genre--the record and vocal have an authentic, earthy roots'y vibe--indie acoustic/electric rock band, little lo-fi, some nice guitar shredding, working eq filtering to cool effect a couple of times. As I said, the title and hook keep coming at you and linger long after the listening has stopped. In part due to my feelings about the lyrics, I could use a little more vocal in the mix--some lines get lost in the band. Today, regardless of the genre, our ears want to hear everything loud... especially the vocal/singer.The most intriguing and essential element--that killer chorus/title, and the lyrics/story--is also the spot that needs closer examination and I think a little more work. I had to ask myself... 'what's Soulscript trying to say here?" My conclusion is that the singer is sending us an existential message about the universe, the tiny place each one of us occupies, and how we might find some comfort resting on that raindrop and feeling connected to the larger cosmos. But... there's a little too much work the listener needs to do to make those connections--I think I'd look to tighten up the internal flow of ideas so we get it, more clearly. There are numerous lines that suggest it's not so much restful on that raindrop as it is overwhelming. I'd try to go for a little more clarity... so the listener doesn't have to wonder.End of the day, this is a pretty heady, philosophical topic--and Soulscript has made a cool sounding, provocative record that gets our wheels turning at the same time we're grooving on it.

Quote From Pro: "Resting My Head On A Raindrop" has to be one of the most intriguing song titles ever. And while it took me a few listens to drill down to what I think Soulscript is onto lyrically, with those few listens the song and hook became a classic 'song worm' for me... and I couldn't stop singing the chorus. A good thing--for this original roots/rocking/Americana band charting some new territory for itself. End of the day, this is a pretty heady, philosophical story--and Soulscript has made a cool sounding, provocative record that gets our wheels turning at the same time we're grooving on it.

Broadjam Artist: Justin Seegert Music
Song: Come on Home

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
A.J. Gundell (Songwriter, Composer, Music Supervisor, Producer)

Pro General Comments: "Come On Home" is a very simple, poignant heartland folk song--but one I believe, given the right setting/recording/licensed usage, could rise to the level of a timeless standard. It's very simple, and very good."Come On Home" reminds me a little bit of songs like "Love Me Tender" and "You Are My Sunshine." The main idea and central message are clear--the singer misses his girl, is heartbroken, wants her to come on home. The melody and lyric both achieve that classic simplicity, fit together and sing perfectly. There's next to no uncertainly about the point. Instrumentation and arrangement choices are perfect as well--we have a basic solo vocal, accompanied by guitar, hand drum, and a beautiful, lilting fiddle. All are well played, sung, and mixed. The vocal tone has an appropriate touch of the poignancy of the subject matter, nicely delivered there may be times when the performance feels a tad hesitant, like the singer could be singing out a little more, but it doesn't pull the recording down. Love the harmonic choice for the beginning of the chorus--first inversion D/F#. Really sweet, naturally flowing. It's easy to hear how a little more of a finished record, or a cover by an established artist, could take this demo to a whole other level.There might be a couple of spots where the lyric and song structure could benefit from another look. I'm not too sure what "symphony of youth to grey" means--maybe, play with me from when we're young now until we're old? If so, I think there's a simpler way to say that in keeping with the overall tone. And--nothing broken here--but the repeat of the first verse exactly as the third asks for maybe a small deviation for some ear candy/interest... maybe in line two?Overall, this is a quiet little gem that deserves to find a place in the otherwise too-loud rest of our contemporary music world.

Quote From Pro: "Come On Home" is a very simple, poignant heartland folk song--but one I believe, given the right setting/recording/licensed usage, could rise to the level of a timeless standard. It's very simple, and very good. Overall, it's a quiet little gem that deserves to find a place in the otherwise too-loud rest of our contemporary music world.

Broadjam Artist: Justin Seegert Music
Song: Come on Home

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
A.J. Gundell (Songwriter, Composer, Music Supervisor, Producer)

Pro General Comments: "Come On Home" is a very simple, poignant heartland folk song--but one I believe, given the right setting/recording/licensed usage, could rise to the level of a timeless standard. It's very simple, and very good."Come On Home" reminds me a little bit of songs like "Love Me Tender" and "You Are My Sunshine." The main idea and central message are clear--the singer misses his girl, is heartbroken, wants her to come on home. The melody and lyric both achieve that classic simplicity, fit together and sing perfectly. There's next to no uncertainly about the point. Instrumentation and arrangement choices are perfect as well--we have a basic solo vocal, accompanied by guitar, hand drum, and a beautiful, lilting fiddle. All are well played, sung, and mixed. The vocal tone has an appropriate touch of the poignancy of the subject matter, nicely delivered there may be times when the performance feels a tad hesitant, like the singer could be singing out a little more, but it doesn't pull the recording down. Love the harmonic choice for the beginning of the chorus--first inversion D/F#. Really sweet, naturally flowing. It's easy to hear how a little more of a finished record, or a cover by an established artist, could take this demo to a whole other level.There might be a couple of spots where the lyric and song structure could benefit from another look. I'm not too sure what "symphony of youth to grey" means--maybe, play with me from when we're young now until we're old? If so, I think there's a simpler way to say that in keeping with the overall tone. And--nothing broken here--but the repeat of the first verse exactly as the third asks for maybe a small deviation for some ear candy/interest... maybe in line two?Overall, this is a quiet little gem that deserves to find a place in the otherwise too-loud rest of our contemporary music world.

Quote From Pro: "Come On Home" is a very simple, poignant heartland folk song--but one I believe, given the right setting/recording/licensed usage, could rise to the level of a timeless standard. It's very simple, and very good. Overall, it's a quiet little gem that deserves to find a place in the otherwise too-loud rest of our contemporary music world.