Month: February 2020

Broadjam Artist: Alan Lee Carpenter
Song: Make Your Move - Piano

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Elizabeth Elkins (Songwriter)

Pro General Comments: Alan, you really are your best in this modern rock world. It just kicks some serious butt. The vocal feels very real here, and committed. The sound is modern, leaning a bit toward the blues-rock vibe of bands like the Black Keys. The piano sound is very ragtime in the middle of it, and that might need to be mixed in a bit more sonically. The only thing that bugs me is the "make it smooth" line, only because in the States there is a tea called "Smooth Move" that improves digestion and I immediately think of that and wonder if others would too. Heck, maybe it could be in an advertisement for that. But a quick change of word could keep this out of that realm. I might cut your intro in half, because I wasn't sure of the genre right out of the gate, but when the song kicked in it felt awesome. Might be worth getting that faster. As I always say, your vocal is an A+. You're just such a great emotional singer. This is your genre. I highly suggest focusing in this realm, and releasing these songs under an artist name to try to get playlist action in the digital service provider world, and also to increase interest from music supervisors. The production is master quality, and the melodic choices feel fantastic. This is no doubt one of your strongest submissions.

Quote From Pro: A killer rock tune with a huge chorus and a vocal from the gods. Great for an action scene in a film, or simply to crank up your speakers and enjoy a well-produced and incredibly-sung rock song a la the Black Keys.

Broadjam Artist: Soulscript
Song: Face to Face

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Todd Herfindal (Songwriter, Musician, Producer, Engineer, Indie Record Label)

Pro General Comments: Nice punchy recording. You've got a classic 80s inspired pop/rock sound here somewhat reminiscent of bands like the Knack, the Jam. I dig the syncopation in the overall rhythmic approach, as well as the minimalist but essential electric rhythm guitars. The drums and bass are solid contributors and help to convey a solid, believable pop/rock ensemble vibe.I dig how you manage to help push the momentum by adding musical elements, like the flowing electric guitar in the 2nd verse. The lyrics tell a kind of socio-technology story of emotional disconnection in the social media modern age. It's true, it used to be upfront and personal in the good old days when all we had was "face to face." It's a solid lyrical payoff and an obvious twist on the FB name. One lyrical area worth noting may be the opening verse lyrics where Facebook, Twitter, Myspace all get name-checked in one way or another. This strikes as a little heavy handed where perhaps just one social media reference might do a more believable job and not come across as too obvious or too tongue and cheek. The best lyrics get personal like "Years ago this would never have happened, wouldn't be subject to this disgrace, Telling the whole world 'bout my business instead of telling me . . . Face to Face." At times the OMG and LOL moments may fall into the heavy handed category I described re: 1st verse. Sometimes we need a feather when we're using a sledgehammer. I know you get the metaphor. There's a kind of retro sentimentality that has some nice appeal here.

Quote From Pro: Punchy, syncopated, happy pop/rock that spins a biting social media warning.

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

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Todd Herfindal (Songwriter, Musician, Producer, Engineer, Indie Record Label)

Pro General Comments: Very cool track. Nice staging of instrumentation as the song rolls along. I appreciate that each section seems to have a unique music textural approach, like the chirping keyboard in the 2nd verse. Overall really nice influences and pretty effective use of musical atmospherics. I can hear the 60's and 70s era inspired attributes like the backward opening guitar and some of the key changes within the structure show a kind of nod to progressive rock.On a lyrical note, I like how the lyrics seem penned from an appreciation of nature perspective, and that they touch on the bounty and wonder in the universe. With that said, I'm not sure I'm hearing quite enough of an impactful chorus lyrical payoff line that comes across as memorable/compelling. It might be worth seeing if you can beat or best the "Mars" line with a slam-dunk lyrical payoff that stays in the perspective and character of the remaining lyrics. Leaving listeners with something more universal to ponder could be a good jump of point for any revision. Good performances all the way around. Lead vocals are good/solid. The vocals could be a little more present and/or punchy in the mix. Noticing that at times, the lyrics can be hard to hear. The vocals tend to be at their best when they're leading the charge, so to speak. If I were your producer I would do everything I could to get the lead vocals to sound as present they can in the context of the mix they live within. Generally this is done in the editing/comping/mixing process. In parting, you guys are clearly doing your thing quite well. You might find that you may possibly benefit from some outside producer help to take your recordings up a notch or two. Collaborations are great when compatible creative minds collide. Thank you and rock on!

Quote From Pro: Spirited, rootsy classic rock with a catchy Cosmos-themed chorus.

Broadjam Artist: Alan Lee Carpenter
Song: Country Waltz

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Elizabeth Elkins (Songwriter)

Pro General Comments: This is a tougher one, because it's not country. It's not even quite Americana in its approach. Though you sang the heck out of it, it would not be something you can pitch to country artists. Nashville is so pop, and so lyric-specific these days that it really takes a ton of studying the Top 20 Billboard Country songs to get a grasp on the lyrical perspective and writing style that lands cuts there days (heck, we're all chasing it around) - but this song is more of a pop song, more of a Laurel Canyon dreamy song like the band Dawes, than anything in the country world right now. The melody in the verses isn't as compelling as a lot of what you have submitted, and overall this one didn't stay with me as much. That could be because I write daily in Nashville and am so close to the genre. I wouldn't rule out this having possibilities for sync, or for an indie pop artist, but I don't see this one for a country artist. It's more background, sweet atmospheric vibes than radio. Nothing wrong with that, it just wasn't quite my cup of tea. You have hit a sweet spot with some incredible radio pop / modern rock hooks on previous songs and, in my opinion, that is the best place for you to soar. As I asked in my previous evaluation, if you can include more notes on your plans and the intent for each song, it will help me give you the best advice. I'm a big fan of your voice and what you do , so I look forward to being as supportive as I can.

Quote From Pro: A lilting memory of a sweet dance, somewhere between pop and Americana.

Broadjam Artist: Alan Lee Carpenter
Song: Winds

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Elizabeth Elkins (Songwriter)

Pro General Comments: This is good stuff. A great lyric, hooky melody - and, as usual, ridiculously good vocal performance. And a master quality recording. The only thing I don't like here is the Arabian-inspired ending, it seems to take it out of the modern pop feel it's in, and it's a bit late to introduce such a unique element in my opinion. Once again, this feels like radio pop - though leaning heavily on the British side, the Robbie Williams, One Direction kind of writing and production. The lyric is complex, but not too confusing, and it's the kind of hook writing that you see more often in Nashville than in LA/London. Really strong showing, you should be pitching this to pop artists whenever you can. Keep writing them at this level for sure. Your vocal is so compelling that you could sing the phone book, as they say, but I see it as a huge asset as you try to get songs cut by other artists. Your voice is that likeable. I still think it's worth focusing on what you love to write and trying it as an artist because of the strength of your singing. Are you writing and producing all of these songs yourself? How can I be most useful to you? Knowing more about your goals and plans will help me tailor these reviews to better guide you. You've got the goods, you've just got to mold things in to the direction you most desire, rather than doing so many things!

Quote From Pro: Radio-friendly pop song about love found and lost, so hooky you'll think of it ever time the wind blows.

Broadjam Artist: Alan Lee Carpenter
Song: Yesteryear - Piano

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Elizabeth Elkins (Songwriter)

Pro General Comments: Alan, I'm a big fan of what you do - and you seem to do it all. That may be the hardest part of what to tell you, which is that it is hard to do it all in the music industry. People want to know exactly what you do so much of the time. This is a lovely composition, the recording is top-notch and the hook is memorable and emotional. For me, this shows you could score television and film very easily, and that you have an innate sense of musicality that can take you far. Was this written with a certain pitch in mind? In general, instrumentals are "hard to sell" as is, unless you're working off a pitch sheet or leads from a music supervisor. The more I hear what you do, the more I think you should focus on finding a publisher in that field, because you can write and sing whatever is needed. Since you're not playing out as an artist, this is likely the best approach. This song is really quite beautiful, and reminds me more of the score you would hear in a '60s or '70s film, or some of the independent cinema being made today. The recording quality is master level, and the playing is equal, so you are on the right track. You may want to start researching companies that look for work-for-hire composers. I know folks that make a great living doing this, and you can do it from whatever part of the country you're in.

Quote From Pro: A lovely piano instrumental reminiscent of "On Golden Pond", ready for a moving scene about loss and/or memory.

Broadjam Artist: Andre Kerek
Song: Heart In Vain (Orchestral Theme)

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

Pro General Comments: Dear Andre: This may be one of the best pieces I've heard so far on this platform. First of all this is astoundingly beautiful and it would be a crime NOT to have your music out there. The emotion behind this is superb. Are you sure you didn't score Dr. Zhivago? I can hear this in that dramatic movie. Not only is it beautiful - it moves so well that you aren't bored- unfortunately- that happens with too many instrumentals. It's its own animal. And you picked a title- that grabs the curiousity. Well done. In addition, you have a sense of humour. That is a strong trait in your favour, people adore that in someone you have to work with. (Please note of course- I don't comment on indiv instrumentation as that is not my forte)

Quote From Pro: Andre must be channelling music from the heavens, his ability to draw emotion into his superb melodies- would be a crime not to be heard.

Broadjam Artist: KIN
Song: I'm Not That Anymore

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Todd Herfindal (Songwriter, Musician, Producer, Engineer, Indie Record Label)

Pro General Comments: Nice energy and acoustic-based, rustic instrumentation. Enjoying the forward-moving percussion. Good emotion in the vocals and nice overall crisp production values. At times the lyrics delve into a story-telling spirit that gets visually detailed at times. Worth mentioning, as this can sometimes be an issue for film/tv synchs, but tends to be less of an issue for the music listener. Very cool stacked harmonies around 2:35. re: lyric watch out for rhyming "more " with "more", like in the first "tagged" chorus. I like that this song paints your "old self" or pervious situations as the antagonist, thus the payoff line "I'm not that anymore." Now if only we could go back in time and give our younger selves advice!The drums are performed well and nicely-recorded. However, at times the drums and their rhythm, don't seamlessly blend seamlessly with the rest of the music, having a net effect of feeling like the track is being dragged back. This is a subtle push and pull that may be able to be adjusted on your end in some way.The structure or arrangement is solid and consistent with the folk tradition of the chorus or main lyrical payoff, being "tagged" onto the verses. The upside is the payoff stands out nicely. The possible downside is that because the true chorus is so brief, it's naturally de-emphasized.Save for the brief percussion intro, I'm noticing that the track pretty much begins with drums and percussion playing together. To achieve greater dynamics and possibly to help build momentum, you might consider staging these two elements to make their 1st appearances in the track at different times. For example, you could start with percussion then have the drums come in at the end of verse one or even after the first time you sing "I'm not that anymore." Perhaps ideas worth trying. . . for the purpose of adding some dynamic and a touch of momentum. I hear some nice classic influences in the overall spirit. Thanks for letting me listen!

Quote From Pro: An energetic, intense folk-rock track that come across as cathartic. Palpable emotion intensity in the vocals.

Broadjam Artist: Kelvin Benion
Song: Head Bopper

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Roy Hamilton (Songwriter and Producer)

Pro General Comments: I like where you're going with this track but I feel it needs some work. The drum sound selection and mix of the drums need an upgrade. I'd also recommend adding a few other unusual sound FX every so often just to give the listener some ear candy like a Timbaland track. I can hear a rapper like Florida or Pitbull or someone on this too with maybe a female singing on the hook. I've noticed for tv/film, music supervisors like to have both a song and instrumental version so maybe think about working on that! All of the breaks and overall arrangement are solid and I like the transitions. At times i feel like there is a lot going on at the same time so maybe a few breaks would be a good idea too just to change it up.I'd be more than happy to further develop with track with you and Im open to hear some of your other work as well. I like where you're going with this track but I feel it needs some work. The drum sound selection and mix of the drums need an upgrade. I'd also recommend adding a few other unusual sound FX every so often just to give the listener some ear candy like a Timbaland track. I can hear a rapper like Florida or Pitbull or someone on this too with maybe a female singing on the hook. I've noticed for tv/film, music supervisors like to have both a song and instrumental version so maybe think about working on that! All of the breaks and overall arrangement are solid and I like the transitions. At times i feel like there is a lot going on at the same time so maybe a few breaks would be a good idea too just to change it up.I'd be more than happy to further develop with track with you and Im open to hear some of your other work as well.

Quote From Pro: Continue to develop your sound, you're on the right track!

Broadjam Artist: Richard Laljie
Song: Dancing in Electric Dreams

Broadjam Pro Reviewer:
Roy Hamilton (Songwriter and Producer)

Pro General Comments: Overall, I thing the song is very catchy and would do well in a film or tv show. This song could also be sent to labels to have a major label recording artist cover it. I think the production could use some work, especially the drums, maybe better drum sound selection. It would also be cool to incorporate some more edgy synth lead sound, this would make the "Drop" hit even harder. One good reference track that is comparable to your song is "When Love Takes Over" by David Guetta. It's a smooth production but it still has that edgy big sound in the production. These are all things I'd be more than happy to help with on this song because I think it really has some serious potential. Some of the artists that could cover it are: Katy Perry, Britney Spears, Selena Gomez, Jennifer Lopez to name a few. Overall, I thing the song is very catchy and would do well in a film or tv show. This song could also be sent to labels to have a major label recording artist cover it. I think the production could use some work, especially the drums, maybe better drum sound selection. It would also be cool to incorporate some more edgy synth lead sound, this would make the "Drop" hit even harder. One good reference track that is comparable to your song is "When Love Takes Over" by David Guetta. It's a smooth production but it still has that edgy big sound in the production. These are all things I'd be more than happy to help with on this song because I think it really has some serious potential. Some of the artists that could cover it are: Katy Perry, Britney Spears, Selena Gomez, Jennifer Lopez to name a few.

Quote From Pro: Keep making the music you love and putting your heart into it!