Songcrafters.org

This is a breakaway thread from 64Guitars's inspiring idea for a songcrafters rock opera:

All is interested, just let me know.

I would suggest that participants let me know what they can offer (drums, vocals, tri-angle, etc).  If it's anything and everything, let me know that too.

It's ok if we have an abundance.  We'll try to work in as many people as possible... and if it's a completely different person / collab group on each song... that's cool.

I will post the content on Windows SkyDrive so everyone can view it, comment on it, make suggestions.

Cup of Coffee  
http://www.nga.gov/fcgi-bin/timage_f?object=66506&image=16657&c=
 - Mundanity and bloodsuckingness of treadmill life    


The Lovers
http://www.nga.gov/fcgi-bin/timage_f?object=46667&image=10521&c=
 - Disappointment of two lovers once close now drifted apart  


Barcelona Beach  
http://iberianature.com/barcelona/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/picasso_beach-barceloneta-g.jpg
 - Quest to find one's place with nature  
 (If a Spanish guitar gets played, no one will complain... hint hint...)


Desmoiselles d'Avignon
http://blogs.princeton.edu/wri152-3/f05/cargyros/the_brothels.html
 - Indulging in the abundance of carnal pleasures  


Salomé
http://triangleartsandentertainment.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/salome.jpg
 - The temporary intensity of a new relationship followed by the realization that the pursuit of which is a distraction that ultimately leads away from fulfillment
  (Bellydancing rhythms, anyone?  Maybe some tempo changes to transition from partying and introspectiveness?)  


Boy Leading A Horse
http://www.archweb.it/arte/artisti_P/Picasso_G/images/Pablo%20Picasso%20-%20Boy%20Leading%20a%20Horse.JPG
 - Reminiscing and reflecting on the irony of the power of youth  


Blind Minotaur (Led By A Girl)
http://nonsensegrandcentral.com/?p=128
 - Frustration of one's power being misdirected  


Guernica  
http://artcritique.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/guernica.jpg
 - The bloody internal war between what you wish you were, what you think you are, and in fact what you are
  (This calls for some wild rawness or some trippy psychedelia... or why not both?)


The Old Guitarist  
http://www.theartistpablopicasso.com/pablo-picasso-painting-old-guitarist.htm
 - Inspiration comes from an unexpected source    
  (This is about getting back to one's roots... calls for a scaled-down musical style).


Joie de Vivre   
http://www.artgalleryartist.com/pablo-picasso/painting/joie_de_vivre.jpg
 - Resolving to follow one's vision and embrace happiness and love
  (This is a true happy, summery song).


The Dove of Peace    
http://www.biographyonline.net/artists/images/picasso%20peace.gif
 - Tasting the sweetness of inner peace that comes from enlightenment
  (Someone who has an open dialogue with sappiness should do this one).

I profess an interest, though I don't know what I can do  other than offer a twisted perpective on life.  

My keyboard playings poor, I can't rock and my shredding days are done (truthfully they were never there).  My mandolin is plinky and my bouzouki is really an irish guitar in disguise, but I can twiddle a guitar and do some straightforward flute bits, and my ukelele playing is cool if the keys in C.  

But I could manage an odd voice over and a little crazy Kazoo.

Leigh

I'm in for vocals , acoustic and electric rhythm guitar

Rob

I'll sign up for vox, percussion, guitar and Moog synth.

I'm interested :~)    This sounds cooL!

Here's what i'm willing to provide where needed: vocals, guitar, bass, and/or keyboard.

My preference is to take a whole song, cuz that's how i normally operate; but i am open to collaborations as well.

I'm in.

me too !

I'm up for vocals, guitar, bass, some simple keys and percussion if needed, and drum programming if we can't get enough drummers (gonna be a busy time for the few we have :D ).

Count me in for production (as said before) and I will add Kaossilator on any tracks where people want it included. Happy to help out with guitar, bass and even vox if needed but make that an "only if needed", ie we are short of people.

Glad to see people are saying what they would prefer to do, eg Tommy would like to do a whole song. Let's see what people want to do and take it from there.

Mode of operation - I will want wav files of every track and I'm afraid the final mixing and mastering will be done on my BR800 so we get a consistent sound and "feel". Folks can either do a complete mix of their own stuff which I will try to replicate or they can just leave it very rough and let me do the final production. But I will want all the individual tracks as wav files so make sure you can keep copies of those as you build up your tracks.

Finally, I think I am the old guitarist!!!

Cheers,

Nigel

Put me in if you'd like any odd instruments - baby sitar, ukulele, indian banjo, autoharp, melodica, toy piano, the list goes on and on. :)

I may even take a crack at one of these subjects myself...

Thanks for the enthusiasm everyone!  This is exciting!  This whole topic has given me tons of ideas and I'm looking forward to seeing what everyone else will do with it!

Quote from: cuthbert on September 12, 2010, 01:52:12 PMI may even take a crack at one of these subjects myself...

Which theme do you want to tackle, cuthbert?

Quote from: FuzzFace on September 12, 2010, 08:15:12 PMWhich theme do you want to tackle, cuthbert?

Pity there isn't a topic about the committed commitment-phobe...  ;)

I'm considering 'The Lovers' or 'Salomé' (and maybe others), but I'm a let-it-percolate type of guy, in that as I try to work things out, inspiration frequently happens. I know you published some lyrics earlier (couldn't find them on this page); are you looking for us to use them, or are they more a starting-off point?

Cool idea, I can do bass (electric and badlyintonated ashbory -the toy with rubber strings).

I'm off on vacation.  I'll probably write a few more words while I'm on the beach.

cuthbert, if you have an additional idea, or if anyone has an idea on something that could round this out, go ahead and submit some stuff.  Either a new song or feel free to suggest lyrics that could be added to the stuff written below.

I tried setting up Skydrive, but it seems more complicated than we need at this stage.  Here are the lyrics to date which are still a work in progress.

(NOTE: 5 *'s means I'm happy with it... until then it's a work in progress)

Cup of Coffee **

You bridge the gap
between my young and my old soul
You've travelled the world
I've come in from the cold

You awaken, you tap
into the dream
you shatter the glass
of my sad role

Past my lips the air blows
my eyes are a portal
blood is thicker than water
through my body it flows

Confined in this room
all I do is consume
a cog in the wheel
I perpetuate gloom

You're my only solace
I run in an endless race
but with only one little taste
I can go and not leave a trace

Black gold you fuel the fire
as I push and I burn and I tire
for giants who wallow in mire
but my feelings make me a liar

because poor people slave
to give me what I crave.


The Lovers **

You're a good woman, my dear
But we've reached an impasse, I fear
We have too many colours inside
which I never wanted to hide

I would put it all out on the table
If only, my love, I was able
I hate that my love is not stable
Now I'm coming to tell you goodbye

One time we were on the same page
now it's dog-eared and torn and I misplaced the book
I have searched for myself
but I don't even know where to look

I'm not who I was nor am I the man I wanted to be
when I look in the mirror I can't say what I see
and the more I think of your love that I took
the more I feel like a crook

My dear you have so many dreams
that you'd willingly give up for me
but if we live our lives independently
we'll both be all that we can be.


Barcelona Beach **

Far away
from my home so grey
is a land of sand and sun and play
and when I'm there I have no name
I'm a man with a heart
There's no rules / there's no game

Would you call it "zen" or simply call it "sane"
To live a blissful day free of trouble and pain?
I ask myself which is the better way
to live the life I inherited or start fresh today?

Blue sky above and white sand below
under my feet and between my toes
waves they crash
the tide comes and goes
even busy bees stop
to smell a rose

Nature or nuture? / Even plants have instinct
Yet I choose my path / I am 'cause I think
But when I open my eyes / and see the natural world
I know who I am / the knots come unfurled

There's a place inside hiding in your core
it was there long ago before there was ever a war
it's protected well, safely locked down
away from all thought / doesn't make any sound

I'm hiding here and no one can tell
I've been hiding from me / I've been hiding from hell
Cloudless Sky, Starless Night
I call out to you with all my might.


Boy Leading A Horse *

The sky is infinite, the world is round
though all that I need is here on the ground

I tackle the mountains, I swing from the trees
I sail tall ships, making discoveries

I ride camels and horses / I bring countries to me
Every day is a trip / Life, an endless journey

My arms and my legs are servants to me
I don't ever see my very own face

though I see the wall in China
from up in outer space.


Guernica *

My faceless nameless state of mind
sitting between fastforward and rewind
from across the table glares at me
and mockingly
he stares at me
revels in my agony
questions, what do
I purport to be?
What is even important to me?
When did I learn to tolerate
the very evil that I hate?
the world war became a cold war
made mankind a desperate whore
with a mathematical thirst for more
distance from all absolutes
To justify necessity
collectively
we mobbed and lynched simplicity
we happily stabbed honest life
with our newly sharpened cynical knife

I say "we"
but could it be
I set out to change the world
but the world changed me?

Quote from: FuzzFace on September 17, 2010, 06:21:33 AMI'm off on vacation.  I'll probably write a few more words while I'm on the beach.

Watch out for Lobster man, you just never know which beach he is hiding out on, poking the ladies with his one big claw, or kicking sand in your face and stealing your beer in the confusion.  He is a sly one.

Lobster-man may have a cameo yet.

Here's another one... it's more a stream-of-thought right now...  needs polishing.  I might need to tone it down.  At the moment I'm going for as dramatic as possible.



Salomé

The floor hurts my bones
The couch smells like a foreign market
I'm uncomfortable in my own skin

Will you answer to whatever I call you
Will you permit me to take you
and own you / control you...

use you to escape from every thought within?

Will you soothe me and pet me / adore me like an animal
feed me / and teach me
the tricks I need to know?

Will you take me in?

Will you guide me with your staff
like a shepherdess / a goddess
permit me to suck your breast
suck every part of your holiness

And when you're lying down
and the lights are out
and your curves are teasing the stars

I will get on my knees
and hold you

exactly

as I please

And I will worship myself
chanting rhythmic praise
to the dust we are made of

Drops of my sweat will drip
down your waist from your hip
as I contract muscles / push you and bend you
to gain the sensation I need

I will selfishly commit
the only act of creation empowered to me
and give all that power to you

leaving me the useless empty shell I was
as you take everything I ever could have offered the world
had I simply opened my heart.

wheh, some pretty intense lyrics FF!   Very cool!

I'm a bit confused now, in the general overall sense lol.   Are you taking Picasso's paintings and writing lyrics that will paint a story that will eventually fit your original outline?   Or have you scrapped that idea?

Love those lyrics FF. Very, very intense.

I personally think it would be impossible to weave a story across all the pics, which was why I assumed this was more of a concept album than a rock opera. The concept being a set of songs inspired by Picasso paintings.

If FF can wave a story through all of this he is a lyrical god........

Cheers,

Nigel

All joking aside with the Lobster-man stuff, I really think your lyrics are most excellent Fuzz, I am sorta blown away by them.  You are a very good poet my friend.

It feels a little like time travel, but Lobster Man has been lurking in one of my paintings since the early 90's  :D

Apologies for the quality of the pic - paintings are hard to capture in photos.

(https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=8458.0;attach=8641)

Dear lord Tim that painting is amazing.  And Lobster man looks perfect here, its how I picture him in my mind from now on.  You have given lobster man form.  He is real.

I love that painting, Tim - And you fully realized Lobster Man before our time! Get out the tinfoil hatted cat!

I agree, that is one interesting painting - I see a bit of Hieronymous Bosch, a pinch of Picasso, and just a dash of Dali in it.

Tim, you are one talented fellow!

WOW...love that painting!

Quote from: cuthbert on September 18, 2010, 03:28:01 PMI agree, that is one interesting painting - I see a bit of Hieronymous Bosch, a pinch of Picasso, and just a dash of Dali in it.

Tim, you are one talented fellow!

Goodness Cuth, that is EXACTLY what I thought!! I saw all of those artists influencing that painting, and I also saw a hefty dose of Tim's talent and warped mind.

Now, back on topic. Is anyone going to start something on one of the tracks? I might be tempted to do something myself, even though I only offered up producing help, because FF's lyrics are so inspiring. So come on people, let's get some more volunteers.

Cheers,

Nigel

I threw my hat in already as well. Others did too. There are already enough people available to start making songs - Nobody is being told what to do.

I'll read the thread and compile a list of who said they would do what so we can keep track of that.

Cheers,

Nigel

Ok ... I'll stick my head out .....

I've downloaded all the lyrics and pictures .... I'll have a go at "The Lovers" ... might take a couple of weeks tho ... have some events coming up :)

OK, in the interests of being "the producer", here's what I found so far. Several people expressed a specific interest on this thread either in general participation or a specific song. I've noted those below. I know several other folks expressed an interest in the original thread but I'm not reading through all of that, so I put some names I remember down, I probably missed several. Cuth said he would do Salome or The Lovers and would mull it over, Geir said he would do The Lovers, so I counted that as mulling over on Cuth's behalf and I allocated Geir and Cuth toi specific songs below. Tommy said he would like to do a single song, so Tommy, make your choice soon!

So all of those that expressed a general interest need to say if they fancy a specific song or would like to get together with others to work on something, or just wait and see what turns up! Let's try to keep this list updated.

Expressed general interest on this thread: Gu Djin (Leigh), Facemask93 (Rob), Gritter (Sandy), Launched (Mark), LCB
Expressed interest on original thread: Henwrench, Bluesberry, TC Elliot IIRC (may be others.....)
Would like to do a song: Satchwood (Tommy)

Song allocations so far:

Cup of Coffee  

The Lovers - Geir

Barcelona Beach  

Desmoiselles d'Avignon

Salomé - Cuthbert

Boy Leading A Horse

Blind Minotaur (Led By A Girl)

Guernica  

The Old Guitarist  

Joie de Vivre    

The Dove of Peace    


Cheers,

Nigel

Quote from: Ferryman on September 22, 2010, 02:41:18 AMExpressed interest on original thread: Henwrench, Greeny, Bluesberry, TC Elliot IIRC (may be others.....)

Just to clarify, I'm the miserable party-pooper at the back who DOESN'T want to be involved, lol. I've got too many other creative things that I'm working on, and I'm one of those control freaks who get freaked out when they're not doing all the writing and steering themselves.

Quote from: Greeny on September 22, 2010, 03:50:17 AMJust to clarify, I'm the miserable party-pooper at the back who DOESN'T want to be involved, lol. I've got too many other creative things that I'm working on, and I'm one of those control freaks who get freaked out when they're not doing all the writing and steering themselves.

Duly noted Tim. Consider this party pooped :-)

Cheers,

Nigel

If it's OK, I'd like to have a crack at 'Boy Leading A Horse'. I have absolutely no idea what I'm gonna do yet, but from the off, that was the title and lyrics that made old henwrench wanna lay an egg.
     If any of those members involved in the direction of this project want to PM me with any kind of parameters, please do!

                                           henwrench

Cool Henwrench, the list is now as follows:

Cup of Coffee 

The Lovers - Geir

Barcelona Beach 

Desmoiselles d'Avignon

Salomé - Cuthbert

Boy Leading A Horse - Henwrench

Blind Minotaur (Led By A Girl)

Guernica 

The Old Guitarist 

Joie de Vivre   

The Dove of Peace   

BTW, if no one else fancies the Dove of Peace I would be interested in doing something on that if I can encourage Fuzz Face to create a political edge to his lyrics.....

But only if no one else wants to do something for it.

Cheers,

Nigel

I'm in for Salomé. And I will resist the urge to tell a dirty joke...  :D

I've got a busy schedule myself (including another BeatlesFest entry), so it may take a bit of time. May I consider the lyrics a starting off point and adapt them if necessary? If I made any changes, I'd stick with the theme of course. Or if it's preferred to stick with the lyrics, is a little tinkering okay?

I'll sign up for "Barcelona Beach", I can hear some real cool possibilities while reading the lyrics.  It may end up all prog-rock by the time I am finished with it.  As per my usual working style, I will do all of it myself, my control freak tendencies make it easier on my head to take something like this and do the whole thing (ie no colaboration).  I like the lyrics as they are written, but, like Cuth, I would like permission to alter lyrics slightly if I find a line hard to sing or desn't quite fit with the music. 

Me and AK will jump in for Guernica if no-one else has chosen it

Rob

Fuzz, the more I read your lyrics, the more impressed I become.  I have been studying "Barcelona Beach" here all morning, thinking about music for it, and I just have to say, what a great set of lyrics, really, really good writing.  I am getting pretty excited from your lyrics, thinking about what music to put...inspired stuff Fuzz.

Excellent! So now we have:

Cup of Coffee 

The Lovers - Geir

Barcelona Beach - Bluesberry

Desmoiselles d'Avignon

Salomé - Cuthbert

Boy Leading A Horse - Henwrench

Blind Minotaur (Led By A Girl)

Guernica - Facemask 93 and AK

The Old Guitarist 

Joie de Vivre   

The Dove of Peace     (poss Nigel if no one else offers)

Cheers,

Nigel

I'll take "Cup Of Coffee" please!

I'm not sure if what is happening is the fun way to do it, but I'll take "The Old Guitarist". It's mine! Mine all mine!! But if we are going to do projects on our own, I'm going to go all the way with it and create it from scratch.

I might be interested in "Joie de Vivre"  or maybe a small part in a collaboration of some sort.

 To be honest, i'm not really sure what is expected from the music other than the small description mentioned.
Is it rock, pop , or whatever a person descides? Is it instrumental, or vox to be added?
I Dont have the windows program mentioned either.

I might not be the right fit here, if not, disregard.
 Sorry if i'm clueless rushed through these threads with distractions behind me from the kids here.

Quote from: Ken on September 22, 2010, 09:12:30 PMI might be interested in "Joie de Vivre"  or maybe a small part in a collaboration of some sort.

 To be honest, i'm not really sure what is expected from the music other than the small description mentioned.
Is it rock, pop , or whatever a person descides? Is it instrumental, or vox to be added?
I Dont have the windows program mentioned either.

I might not be the right fit here, if not, disregard.
 Sorry if i'm clueless rushed through these threads with distractions behind me from the kids here.

Ken, we are putting together a collection of tracks all inspired by Picasso paintings. The "glue" behind the concept will be Fuzz Face, who is providing the lyrics for each track. So there must be vocals, but the style is whatever you think suits the painting and the lyrics that you choose to do. You can do one on your own, or work with others. I would suggest a combination of you and ORH (Jim) for vocals would be a killer.

The only caveat is that I will do the final mixing and production on all the songs so that we get a consistent "feel" and volume level, so when you do your track, please keep .wav files of every indiviudal track so that I can take the individual tracks and mix them on the BR 800 with consistent mastering.

Make sense? I'll put you down for Joie de Vivre and pencil in ORH for vox. You can always change your mind....

Cheers,

Nigel

Looking good - so now we have:

Cup of Coffee - Gritter 

The Lovers - Geir

Barcelona Beach - Bluesberry

Desmoiselles d'Avignon

Salomé - Cuthbert

Boy Leading A Horse - Henwrench

Blind Minotaur (Led By A Girl)

Guernica - Facemask 93 and AK

The Old Guitarist - Launched 

Joie de Vivre - Ken, possibly with ORH on vocals 

The Dove of Peace     (poss Nigel if no one else offers)

Cheers,

Nigel

Are we to keep our efforts under wraps 'til the Ferryman has buggered about with 'em and presents a final full 'album', or can we post the songs as and when they are completed?
  And on the subject of 'lyric manipulation', I trust Fuzz Face will have to accept a little poetic license.

                                                henwrench

Quote from: henwrench on September 24, 2010, 03:30:46 AMAre we to keep our efforts under wraps 'til the Ferryman has buggered about with 'em and presents a final full 'album', or can we post the songs as and when they are completed?
  And on the subject of 'lyric manipulation', I trust Fuzz Face will have to accept a little poetic license.

                                                henwrench

I like that idea, when a person gets a song done to post it up in Original songs individually, then after Nigel (Ferryman) gathers the lot and re-mixes/re-masters to post them again in some kind of album format, similar to a festival juke-box.  Nigel may sit on the songs a long time (Not saying you are slow Nigel, just that it may take many months to gather all the songs together from everybody).   I am real impatient when I finish a song, I usually cant sit on it, I want the whole world to hear it.  I agree with Hen here.

On the subject of the lyrics, they are brilliant Fuzz, but I may end up changing the odd word as I get down to singing it, depending on how it sounds to my ears.  I believe that is reasonable, I bet even Elton John does that.

Quote from: Bluesberry on September 24, 2010, 04:50:51 AMI bet even Elton John does that.

        He'll scratch Bernie's eyes out if he can't.... ;D

                                                       henwrench

Quote from: henwrench on September 24, 2010, 03:30:46 AMAnd on the subject of 'lyric manipulation', I trust Fuzz Face will have to accept a little poetic license.

I hope this is the case as well. Fuzzman's vision is proving to be an excellent source of inspiration, however!

Quote from: Bluesberry on September 24, 2010, 04:50:51 AMI like that idea, when a person gets a song done to post it up in Original songs individually, then after Nigel (Ferryman) gathers the lot and re-mixes/re-masters to post them again in some kind of album format, similar to a festival juke-box.  Nigel may sit on the songs a long time (Not saying you are slow Nigel, just that it may take many months to gather all the songs together from everybody).   I am real impatient when I finish a song, I usually cant sit on it, I want the whole world to hear it.  I agree with Hen here.

I like this scenario as well. Plus it will take a while for Nigel to download all the wavs - And the initial post will provide some critical information that might help the final mix.

Hi Folks.  As I mentioned before, I was off on vacation.

I'm glad to see this has been moving!

And of course I am open to tweaks or rewrites of the lyrics.

I myself am not yet 100% happy with what I have written so any improving or polishing will be a good thing.

Regarding the question of opera versus concept album, in my mind it's a story, but told as emotional responses as opposed to plot developments.  I have plot developments in mind but I am not explicitly making them clear in the lyrics.

I'm glad you are finding inspiration in them.  I will continue posting some more soon.

I've started thinking about/working out a rough outline for my treatment of "Barcelona Beach", so far the lyrics have stayed relatively untouched, just a few words here and there to make it easier to sing.  I'll say it again, great lyrics Fuzz.  Stay tuned I have a feeling its gonna be a whopper when I am finished with it.

Quote from: Bluesberry on September 27, 2010, 03:09:11 PMI've started thinking about/working out a rough outline for my treatment of "Barcelona Beach", so far the lyrics have stayed relatively untouched, just a few words here and there to make it easier to sing.  I'll say it again, great lyrics Fuzz.  Stay tuned I have a feeling its gonna be a whopper when I am finished with it.

I'm highly looking forward to hearing it!
And thank-you, your comments about my lyrics are really encouraging!

Here is a new one:


The Old Guitarist

You could be me
and would that make me you?
Had I been born in another time
would all that's old be new?

It was never meant to be this way
times they change / this time has been so blue
people see themselves in you
and in all the pain you've been through

If you went home where would that be?
"My home I carry with me
everything I have is a gift
the world is a bountiful tree"

If you could give the world one gift
then what would that gift be?
"I would give the world what it needs most:
the ability to see"

Need a man be blind to teach the world to see?
Need a man be shackled in order to be free?
Is a life the price of living?  I can get down on one knee
If I do all I can, will I be all that I can be?

Should've kept my eye on the thread here, been busy over the weekend. I think Henwrench's idea of posting individual versions is great, that gives me an idea of how the artist(s) wants them to sound. The idea of the "single" producer is more to give all the finished tracks a similar mastering feel and volume level at the end of the process so it really is an album, rather than just a collection of tracks.

And Dave is right, I will probably be very slow anyway.........

Cheers,

Nigel

Nigel, do we send you the entire song folder from the BR or can we mix a bit and send a few tracks mixed. Sorry to be absent minded ,but still learning this stuff.
Usually I take the file from the usb folder on the BR after mixing and convert it to an MP3. Do you want vocal racks seperate, or can we mix drums in etc.?

I suggest that those with MBRs and BR800s send Nigel the ARRANGE2.BR0 file for the drums. And links to wav-files for the rest. In my experience that's the best way to do collabs.

 A little waring regarding mp3's. Tho they are small enough to send by mail, and quality can be good enough if using 192kbs+ bitrate, they often result in an unwanted timeshift. If you compare a wav file from the br with a mp3 of the same often the mp3 have a delay with respect to the wave-file.

Quote from: Geir on September 29, 2010, 05:38:48 AMI suggest that those with MBRs and BR800s send Nigel the ARRANGE2.BR0 file for the drums. And links to wav-files for the rest. In my experience that's the best way to do collabs.

 A little waring regarding mp3's. Tho they are small enough to send by mail, and quality can be good enough if using 192kbs+ bitrate, they often result in an unwanted timeshift. If you compare a wav file from the br with a mp3 of the same often the mp3 have a delay with respect to the wave-file.

Geir's right, I will need the wav files and drum arrangements separately so I can mix everything from the same basic tracks you all have. I can't produce stuff if I only have a stereo mix of your final output, and mp3 format will lose significant quality, so we need to work in wav format. Use the BR Wave Converter to extract all the .wav files - if you do "bounces" along the way, make sure you make copies of the tracks you bounced. So for example, if you have bass, two tracks of guitars, keyboards and two vocal tracks all on the MBR, I would want the six individual .wav files for each track, not a mix of all six tracks, nor a mix of four instrument tracks and the two vocal tracks.

If you use the BR drums, you can either send me the ARRANGE2.BRO file or you can record the drums onto a stereo pair of tracks and send me the .wav files.

The wav files are very big, so we will need to use a file sharing site. I use SkyDrive, which is free and works well. If anyone has any questions, feel free to PM me.

Cheers,

Nigel

Some of you are inspired and ready to start or have already started working with my lyrics.  

This is cool however they are still a work in progress.

If there are lines that are hard to sing or don't sound good, feel free to PM me and let me know... I myself am not 100% happy with the lyrics at this stage so I would be happy to do some additional polishing.

I am still revising the stuff I posted earlier and will be posting a Version 3 of everything shortly.

Earlier, I posted "Salome" in a stream-of-thought format however I am breaking those lyrics into a few songs.

Here is...

Blind Minotaur (Led By A Girl)

An angel
guides me with her staff
where I come from
no one ever laughs

Awakening
from my state of dormancy
muscles contract
like machinery

This world
is too bright to see
I was born today
will you give me what I need?

Will you feed me
pet me like an animal
wean me and teach me
the tricks I need to know?

I adore you
my life is in your hands
Do I please you?
I am merely dust and sand

But the sun it burns
and the ground it quakes
you know what you want
but do you know what's at stake?

These chains that bind me
could so easily break
I'll pitch all that's in my path
into the fiery lake

When I open my eyes I can't see you
for all that I know I could be you
the place where I'm from is darker than this
I hate to think ignorance is bliss

My love burns like fire
Fire is the end / Fire is death
The hottest fire is invisible
We learn with our final breath


* * *

Here is the painting it was based on:
http://nonsensegrandcentral.com/?p=128

For anyone who is curious, here is the plot synopsis:


This is the story of Alex.

Frustrated by his level of impotence and dysfunction as a result of trying to force his life into a mould as a working man and married man, Alex abandons it all and goes to Spain, with the goal of reviving his latent idealism, optimism and youthful energy.  Strapped for cash, he gets a job as night-watch at the Picasso Museum, where each night his concious and subconcious interact with the paintings, pushing him to reassess his past, confront his present and formulate his future.

Alex spirals downward as he realizes how cynical he's become, and looks down upon others for being like him, until he is ultimately moved to relocate in order to help rebuild a 3rd world country ravaged by earthquake.


* * *

Feedback/input is welcome!

Here is everything to-date with all revisions:


Cup of Coffee
(This is about how the daily splash of black coffee on his lips is his only reminder that he's still alive).

You bridge the gap
between my young and my old soul
you kindle my urge
to come in from the cold

You make a splash
You tap into the dream
You shatter the glass
With your merciless steam

You make me feel alive
You awaken in me
the fighter / the saviour
I taste my destiny

My eyes are a portal
Past my lips hot air blows
Blood is thicker than water
through my body it flows

But I'm locked in a room
of perpetual gloom
I run in a wheel
I produce and consume

Black gold you fuel the fire
as I push and I burn and I tire
for giants who wallow in mire
my feelings make me a liar

I'm paid for my silence
to maintain a pretense
while the third world slaves
to give me what I crave

You're my only solace
I run an impossible race
but with only one little taste
I can go and not leave a trace.


http://www.nga.gov/fcgi-bin/timage_f?object=66506&image=16657&c=
  


The Lovers

You're a good woman, my dear
But we've reached an impasse, I fear
We have too many colours inside
which I never wanted to hide

I would put it all out on the table
If only, my love, I was able
I hate that my love is not stable
Now I'm coming to tell you goodbye

One time we were on the same page
now it's dog-eared and torn and I misplaced the book
I have searched for myself
but I don't even know where to look

I'm not the man I was meant to be
when I look in the mirror I can't say what I see
and the more I think of your love that I took
the more I feel like a crook

My dear you have so many dreams
that you'd willingly give up for me
but if we live our lives independently
we'll both be all that we can be.


http://www.nga.gov/fcgi-bin/timage_f?object=46667&image=10521&c=



Barcelona Beach  

Far away
from my home so grey
is a land of sand and sun and play
and when I'm there I have no name
I'm a man with a heart
There's no rules / there's no game

Would you call it "zen" or simply call it "sane"
To live a blissful day free of trouble and pain?
I ask myself which is the better way
to live the life I inherited or start fresh today?

Blue sky above and white sand below
under my feet and between my toes
waves they crash
the tide comes and goes
even busy bees stop
to smell a rose

Nature or nuture? / Even plants have instinct
Yet I choose my path / I am 'cause I think
But when I open my eyes / and see the natural world
I know who I am / the knots come unfurled

There's a place inside hiding in your core
it was there long ago before there was a war
it's protected well, safely locked down
away from all thought / doesn't make any sound

I'm hiding here and no one can tell
I've been hiding from me / I've been hiding from hell
Cloudless Sky, Starless Night
I call out to you with all my might.


http://iberianature.com/barcelona/wp-content/uploads/2009/04/picasso_beach-barceloneta-g.jpg



Boy Leading A Horse
(This is a flashback to his youth).

The sky is infinite, the world is round
though all that I need is here on the ground

I tackle the mountains, I swing from the trees
I sail tall ships, making discoveries

I ride camels and horses / I bring countries to me
Every day is a trip / Life, an endless journey

My arms and my legs are servants to me
I don't ever see my very own face

though I see the wall in China
from up in outer space.


http://www.archweb.it/arte/artisti_P/Picasso_G/images/Pablo%20Picasso%20-%20Boy%20Leading%20a%20Horse.JPG



Desmoiselles d'Avignon

"The captain goes down with the ship"
rings in my ears / on the shore as I sit
fragments of my life drift away
I flashback, and farewell I bid

Have I died and gone to heaven
or has life abandoned me for pretending?
What do I live for? What is in store?
I'd man my post but it exists no more

A dress propped-up by a thousand orgasms
the wind caresses my one million phantasms
A kaleidoscope of life advances
Emotions are like passing trances

Soothing voices, singing, dancing
Never felt so like a king
Since those months back in the womb
where I owned everything

Bide my time I'm going nowhere
Am I carefree or do I just not care?
Have I fallen in some kind of trap
enjoying the natural wonders I lacked

I spoil it by overthinking
Why again was my boat sinking?
Life is about compromise
I guess I'm not ready to be that wise.


http://blogs.princeton.edu/wri152-3/f05/cargyros/the_brothels.html
  


Salomé

Woman the floor hurts my bones
the couch smells like a foreign market
I'm uncomfortable in my own skin

Will you take me in?
Will you answer to whatever I call you?
Allow me to escape from every thought within?

Your movements mesmerize me
Your contour intoxicates me
Your curves tease the stars

When the lights are out
I'll get on my knees
and hold you exactly as I please

My sweat drips like tears
the noise in my head it all clears
as sweet relief quickly nears

I selfishly commit
the only act of creation
empowered to me

And give you all I have
to offer the world
in a single moment of ecstasy

Your life is a ballet
a choreography
I hope you find what you want one day

I am astray / I am going away
I'll wander to places more dismal than this
through the door I go without even a kiss.


http://triangleartsandentertainment.org/wp-content/uploads/2009/09/salome.jpg
 


Blind Minotaur (Led By A Girl)
(This is a mythological symbol of how his life was shaped by his childhood crush - à la Great Expectations)

An angel
guides me with her staff
where I come from
no one ever laughs

Awakening
from my state of dormancy
muscles contract
like machinery

This world
is too bright to see
I was born today
will you give me what I need?

Will you feed me
pet me like an animal
wean me and teach me
the tricks I need to know?

I adore you
my life is in your hands
Do I please you?
I am merely dust and sand

But the sun it burns
and the ground it quakes
you know what you want
but do you know what's at stake?

These chains that bind me
could so easily break
I'll pitch all that's in my path
to the fiery lake

When I open my eyes I can't see you
for all that I know I could be you
the place where I'm from is darker than this
I hate to think that ignorance is bliss

My love burns like fire
Fire is the end / Fire is death
The hottest fire is invisible
We learn with our final breath


http://nonsensegrandcentral.com/?p=128
  


Guernica
(This is his frustration over jaded cynicism in himself and in general).  
(Thanks to Facemask 93 and AK for help making this one work).

My faceless nameless state of mind
between fastforward and rewind
across the table glares at me
mockingly he stares at me

and revels in my agony
With questions that are cutting me
When did I learn to tolerate
the very evil that I hate?

our murderous wars, the thirst for more
turned mankind to a desperate whore
reduced our love into a chore

locked in cherished institutions
writing our own absolutions
safe within hallowed ground
a tree it falls, makes not a sound

Gathering collectively
To justify necessity
we mobbed and lynched simplicity

we happily stabbed this honest life
with a sharpened, cynical knife
Hearts are hard / we're still scarred
broken shards, child and wife

I say "we" but could it be
I came to change the world
But the world changed me?


http://artcritique.files.wordpress.com/2010/06/guernica.jpg



The Old Guitarist  

You could be me
and would that make me you?
Had I been born in another time
would all that's old be new?

It was never meant to be this way
times they change / this time has been so blue
people see themselves in you
and in all the pain you've been through

If you went home where would that be?
"My home I carry with me
everything I have is a gift
the world is a bountiful tree"

If you could give the world one gift
then what would that gift be?
"I would give the world what it needs most:
the ability to see"

Need a man be blind to teach the world to see?
Need a man be chained in order to be free?
Is a life the price of living?  I can get down on one knee
If I do all I can, will I be all that I can be?


http://www.theartistpablopicasso.com/pablo-picasso-painting-old-guitarist.htm



Still to come....


Joie de Vivre    
http://www.artgalleryartist.com/pablo-picasso/painting/joie_de_vivre.jpg



The Dove of Peace    
http://www.biographyonline.net/artists/images/picasso%20peace.gif

Bloomin' heck Fuzz Face, this is some body of work. Very impressive, and I like the way you have weaved this together into a real concept album.

Looking forward to the last sets of lyrics.....

Cheers,

Nigel

QuoteKen, we are putting together a collection of tracks all inspired by Picasso paintings. The "glue" behind the concept will be Fuzz Face, who is providing the lyrics for each track. So there must be vocals, but the style is whatever you think suits the painting and the lyrics that you choose to do. You can do one on your own, or work with others. I would suggest a combination of you and ORH (Jim) for vocals would be a killer.

i'm up for that will be interesting singing someone elses words, i really enjoyed singing thareks words in norway. stilling hanging onto a little Joie de Vivre   from my adventures there so put me done for that with tafkak (ken now kenneth)

here is ken and my entry hope it is suitable joi de vivre

https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=8732.msg116450#msg116450

Quote from: oldrottenhead on October 03, 2010, 11:57:41 AMhere is ken and my entry hope it is suitable joi de vivre

Great song, but it's not followed the guidelines of the album. The whole idea was that Fuzz Face was providing a complete set of lyrics for all the songs that follwed his conceptual idea, then we would put them to music. He just hasn;t got round to posting the lyrics for Joie de Vivre yet. So you doing your own lyrics (good as they are) has kind've blown the concept of the concept album. Let's wait and see what Fuzz Face thinks. Perhaps he could provide a set of lyrics that might fit Ken's music so you can redo it for the album? Or perhaps he may be happy with what you did.

UPDATE - Jim PM'd me that indeed Fuzz Face is very happy with this lyrical take. So that's great all round.

Cheers,

Nigel  

Barcelona Beach posted here:

https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=8739.0 (https://songcrafters.org/forum/index.php?topic=8739.0)

QuoteUPDATE - Jim PM'd me that indeed Fuzz Face is very happy with this lyrical take. So that's great all round.

I think it's a fantastic song.  The lyrics and music are great.  

I may still follow through with what I have been working on.  If someone wants to record my Joie de Vivre, there's nothing wrong with having an alternate ending or a B-side or something.

I think it's great to see such creativity and ingenuity flowing...

Here is the closer:

Dove of Peace

Like the first sun beam at the break of dawn
spring has arrived / winter is gone
it's the spring of all springs / the spring of our lives
perched on my sill sits the will to survive

Mourning has past for all that's been killed
A time of need is a time to rebuild
I've had my day of rest but I feel more blessed
to give of the love of which I've been filled

The green leaf betrays life's power to stay
Can you hear what it's trying to say?
About what matters in life / To laugh and live well
About peace and harmony now on this day

Let's never forget how we came to this place
Let's not repeat the same mistakes
Preserve and cherish the joy that we have
Be there for each other on this / miraculous path

Wow, more great lyrics Fuzz Face. Cool stuff.

I think these lyrics would really suit one of Tharek's beautiful arrangements. I wonder if we could encourage him to get involved?

Cheers,

Nigel

Thoughts on production. Do we really need to go through a production job on these tracks? As I am hearing the finished articles, they are all sounding pretty damn good to me. I think we originally intended there would be more collabs and perhaps passing of stuff around as we built up the tracks, so there would be more need for me to get involved. But most folks are just picking these up and running with them, and they are all sounding pretty good to me. I don't think going through a "production" phase at the end will actually add that much, it will definitely take a long time and the logistics of sharing wav files will be a bit of a pain.

What do folks think? This whole project seems to have really taken off and is going in a great direction and I don't want to slow it down for marginal benefit (and a lot of work).

Cheers,

Nigel

I would say it's not necessary however it's nice as an option for anyone who would like to outsource production.

If I actually record one of these myself I would enlist your help, because I'm a real novice in terms of production.

Quote from: FuzzFace on October 04, 2010, 12:31:45 PMI would say it's not necessary however it's nice as an option for anyone who would like to outsource production.

If I actually record one of these myself I would enlist your help, because I'm a real novice in terms of production.

OK that makes a lot of sense. I'm here to help if anyone needs it, otherwise if folks are happy with what they have done, let's just go with it. I would like time to do one of the songs, which I probably would not have had the time to do if I were producing them all.

As fas as I can see, the following have not been taken yet:

Demoiselles D'Avignon
Blind Minotaur (led by a girl)
Dove of Peace

On reading the lyrics, I actually would like to do the Blind Minotaur. I did say I would take Dove of Peace if no one else did, but the lyrics are wonderful and need a sensitive touch, which I definitely don't have. my music is too dark and clumsy, a bit like a blind Minotaur. So if no one else has opted for that, I will take that one.

Cheers,

Nigel

About Blind Minotaur, I know from PM'ing that cuthbert expressed a passing interest, so you may want to just check with him to see if he's started down that path.

I am toying with doing Dove of Peace myself.

OK, thanks, I'm relaxed about that, I will check with him. Happy to help out on the final track if you want. But I don't want to lead it because my own ideas will be unsuitable, I know before I start.

Cheers,

Nigel

Latest list after some updates (I chatted with Cuth about Minotaur):

Cup of Coffee - Gritter 

The Lovers - Geir

Barcelona Beach - Bluesberry

Desmoiselles d'Avignon - OPEN

Salomé - Cuthbert

Boy Leading A Horse - Henwrench

Blind Minotaur (Led By A Girl) - Ferryman (Nigel)

Guernica - Facemask 93 and AK

The Old Guitarist - Launched 

Joie de Vivre - Honker, plus an acoustic version with Fuzz Face

The Dove of Peace - Poss Fuzz face   

Did I get that right?

Cheers,

Nigel

Final thoughts on production - if anyone wants production help, lmk and I will assist. Henwrench suggested that everyone send me the final stereo mix in .wav form so that I can do some light mastering to equalize volume and perhaps tweak eq. That seems like a good idea to me, so when you are ready, let me have 'em. But no pressure if you would rather not - everything is voluntary here.

Cheers,

Nigel

Man this is becoming to be a very fun and interesting project.  Lets hear it for Fuzzface who got this whole thing really rolling, and provided a huge inspiration in his incredible lyrics/poems, brilliant stuff I say.  This is really fun guys.  Lets get some more songs done up!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

This is super-inspiring.

I'm picturing this as a musical stage-play, where people in costumes dressed as the subjects of the paintings step out of the frames and interact with the main character.

This could be visually as well as sonically mind-blowing!

Quote from: FuzzFace on October 04, 2010, 02:04:34 PMThis is super-inspiring.

I'm picturing this as a musical stage-play, where people in costumes dressed as the subjects of the paintings step out of the frames and interact with the main character.

This could be visually as well as sonically mind-blowing!

Like Mummenschanz!!!

(http://blog.nationmultimedia.com/home/blog_data/380/380/images/IDF10Mum3.jpg)

(http://www.bangladesh2day.com/newsfinance/2010/March/26/images/2010-03-26__cul5.jpg) (http://www.flynntix.org/images/Flynn/fa1011/mummenschanz_class_page.jpg)

There you go!  That's what I'm talking about!

Ok, slight revision:

Latest list after some updates (I chatted with Cuth about Minotaur):

Cup of Coffee - Gritter 

The Lovers - Geir

Barcelona Beach - Bluesberry

Desmoiselles d'Avignon - OPEN

Salomé - Cuthbert

Boy Leading A Horse - Henwrench

Blind Minotaur (Led By A Girl) - Ferryman (Nigel)

Guernica - Facemask 93 and AK

The Old Guitarist - Launched 

Joie de Vivre - Honker, plus an acoustic version with Fuzz Face

The Dove of Peace - Fuzz Face

Fuzz Face is up for Dove of Peace, which is very fitting - he closes the show.

Cheers,

Nigel

We need someone for "Desmoiselles d'Avignon".

Any takers?

Quote from: FuzzFace on October 04, 2010, 02:53:06 PMWe need someone for "Desmoiselles d'Avignon".

Any takers?

     I would put myself forward for this, but I think it would be better if we had a different contributor. If I end up doing this, I promise it'll be the maddest thing I will have ever done, my mad bag will be emptied of all it's contents, and I don't really think anyone will want that to happen. Least of all my family. They hate me enough as it is. I will also be calling on people to collaborate, those that least expect it....

                                                        henwrench

It doesn't bother me for you or anyone to do a second song, however we should wait a day or two in case anyone steps forward.

Quote from: FuzzFace on October 04, 2010, 03:11:36 PMIt doesn't bother me for you or anyone to do a second song, however we should wait a day or two in case anyone steps forward.

   Amen to that!!

                                   henwrench

Quote from: FuzzFace on October 04, 2010, 02:53:06 PMWe need someone for "Desmoiselles d'Avignon".

Any takers?

So to anyone who is following this and is sitting on the fence, c'mon give it a whirl!

Be part of something big!

This is the next Pink Floyd The Wall.

QuoteThis is the next Pink Floyd The Wall.

naw much better than that pile o  thingy

Quote from: oldrottenhead on October 04, 2010, 03:37:55 PM

QuoteThis is the next Pink Floyd The Wall.

naw much better than that pile o  thingy

Yes...these are the invaluable paintings that get hung on that mad bugger's wall!

How about making it a song that all the contributors to this rock opera do together? Everyone has a part making it a group finale song?

I was noodling with "Desmoiselles d'Avignon" earlier. Was trying an acoustique piece with it.

It was coming along until something came up and forgot what the hell i did after that. I'll give it a try again and let you know for sure. But if anything i like Kenneth's Idea too.  :)

You da mang Gnasty. You can do it! (Mexican accent).

That song doesn't come at the end so it wouldn't work as a finale.

You da mang Gnasty. You can do it! (Mexican accent).

If we do a finale at the end, after Fuzzface's closer, it should be something in the Monty Python vein or something along these lines:

Picasso, Picasso
He paints on canvas or wood
Picasso, Picasso
He's better than bad, he's good

You gotta love Pablo
Everyone loves Pablo

Pablo!

Quote from: Gritter on October 04, 2010, 07:07:06 PMYou da mang Gnasty. You can do it! (Mexican accent).

That song doesn't come at the end so it wouldn't work as a finale.

You da mang Gnasty. You can do it! (Mexican accent).

Haha Grit!  :D Now i gotta try this out. If i don't like, i have to Machete the idea!!

(http://www.jepara.net/wp-content/uploads/images/machete-film.jpg)

Gnasty, yeah hoo, get on the train bro, the man, the guy, the feller (I'm running out of cool phrases here).  Lets hear it for Gnasty and his acoustique!!!!!



Uses his fingers,
uses his toes,
doesn' t even realize when he's got
paint on his nose

You gotta love Pablo
Everyone loves Pablo

You guys are on some good stuff.

2 verses down for the curtain call already!

QuotePicasso, Picasso
He paints on canvas or wood
Picasso, Picasso
He's better than bad, he's good

You gotta love Pablo
Everyone loves Pablo


Uses his fingers,
uses his toes,
doesn' t even realize when he's got
paint on his nose

You gotta love Pablo
Everyone loves Pablo

QuoteYou guys are on some good stuff.

Chillin'.....West Coast stylee dude! (making a "W" and a "C" with my hands, followed by some crossed arm pro-posin'!)

Yeah I don't get it... the Pacific, the Atlantic, it's all the same water... but you guys have definitely got your own vibe out there... all the way down the coast.

I gotta take up surfing.

You're getting up 3 hours earlier and we're staying up 3 hours later...that has got to explain something.

Hey EVERYONE.

Just a thought.

This project is AWESOME.

Quote from: FuzzFace on October 04, 2010, 08:09:24 PMHey EVERYONE.

Just a thought.

This project is AWESOME.

It is Fuzzface...Your lyrics inspired me. Freakin Brilliant!!!I'd like to do this one if you dont mind?????

My singing will suck but i got perfect chords for this in my mind.

Whadda ya say???

Bring it on, man!

Can't wait to hear it!

Alrighty Then!!! Thanks!! I'll work on it  ;D

Go Gnastyyyyyyyyyyyy!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

Woooohoooooooo!!!!!!!!!!!

We should call ourselves "The Universe Band".

How about: "Universe String Theory Band" or USTB for short.  That would fit in with that West Coast vibe thingy.

OK, this looks like the final list:

Cup of Coffee - Gritter 

The Lovers - Geir

Barcelona Beach - Bluesberry

Desmoiselles d'Avignon - Gnasty

Salomé - Cuthbert

Boy Leading A Horse - Henwrench

Blind Minotaur (Led By A Girl) - Ferryman (Nigel)

Guernica - Facemask 93 and AK

The Old Guitarist - Launched 

Joie de Vivre - Honker, plus an acoustic version with Fuzz Face

The Dove of Peace - Fuzz Face

Cheers,

Nigel

some really fab posts looking forward to hearing the completed project, hopefully 64guitars can create a wee page for it like the norway invasion thingy once its all done and dusted.

Quote from: oldrottenhead on October 05, 2010, 11:38:12 AMhopefully 64guitars can create a wee page for it like the norway invasion thingy once its all done and dusted.

No problem. Maybe Nigel could let me know a day or two before he completes the final mastering and I'll put a page together. I'll include the pictures and lyrics from this topic. If any other graphics are wanted (logo, album covers, etc) maybe someone could create them and post them here for inclusion in the web page.

Quote from: 64Guitars on October 05, 2010, 12:12:00 PMalbum covers

Osckilo is working on it!

Just wanted to throw this idea out there once again: when all the songs are completed (but pre-mastering), maybe an overture would add a nice finishing touch?

By "overture" are you referring to an instrumental medley of all the songs?

I think that would be really cool.

Quote from: FuzzFace on October 05, 2010, 04:18:04 PMBy "overture" are you referring to an instrumental medley of all the songs?

Yes indeed, and something I would like to try although I am not really adept with orchestral music. Perhaps another volunteer? But I would be glad to help.

And of course I should add, orchestral is just one possible style for an overture. It really could be any style.

Instrumental, yes.  Orchestra, no.  This is a Rock Opera!

i have an instrumental piece somewhere that maybe can used to link all the pieces
gimme five and ill see if i can link it

here is the link not sure if it would work but you never know https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=2935.0

This is really cool and really brooding.  For this though, I would prefer something peppier as the overture.

Ultimately though, we should wait to see what shape and mood our album takes on, and then reflect that in the medley.

Here is our first run at "Joie de Vivre".  It's basically a series of affirmations.  Like a big mantra.  ORH and I may completely revise this.  

He and I are co-zen-masters.

Ok I need sleep.


Joie de Vivre

(refrain)
Let it melt away
Bring love back today

Open the windows
Breathe in the air
Look at your people
You're reborn today

Let go of possessions
Let go of your cares
Go out / make new friends
Let yourself play

(refrain)
Let it melt away
Let love live today

Let the colours dance
Let your mind create
Let your muscles relax
Let joy permeate

Refresh and renew
Celebrate
Liberate
Start a clean slate

(refrain)
Let it melt away
Let love rule today

Hear the rhythms and sounds
of life that surround us
open your arms
and hear what they say

Live out your hopes
Let the smile on your face
lead you to make
your world a better place

(refrain)
Let it melt away
Put love on the stage

have got to work on this one with completely new music provided by kenneth

by the way lyrics are all fuzzface's own work. i take no credit.

Well... we consulted back and forth... and then I stole some of your words!

This song would not have been what it is had I wrote it independently.

you wrote it fuzzface i might have inspired you but they are your words, so credits to you good sir.

Ok we'll put you down as "Muse".

Ha ha...

Thank-you and thanks to everyone's input which made all this writing possible.

I can almost safely say the writing is DONE.... however I know I'll wake up in the middle of the night and scratch things out and send revisions just as people are completing their final cuts!

Now I can't wait to hear the rest of these recordings!

This is such a fun project!

i see a goats head appeared maybe that could be intro outro or you could write more words

I also thought of extending an invitation but I want to wait to get a feel for what the album may need once we hear more of it.

There is plenty of inspiration left to be tapped, but I don't want to crowd this little collection.

I want to call this album:


"Suffering Machines" by The Universe Band


The words "suffering machines" were used by Picasso himself when he said "women are suffering machines" in talking about his painting, The Weeping Woman.  I think it's fair to extend that term to all of humanity, when humanity is not in a good state.

This album is about overcoming and transcending the state of being a "Suffering Machine".  To bring it down to Earth, it's about recovering from the 20th century.

"The Universe Band" testifies how unlimited our medium of international artists is.  Had it not been for this group, I would not have had the courage to tackle such grandiose, universal themes.  It was really liberating creatively, and I would be happy do this once again down the road as "The Universe Band", exploring new themes, unrelated to Picasso, but equally inspiring.

How does that sound?

I think you did a great job FF, really, and i'd love to be involved again personally.

How about The Uni-Verse band...ahh...ahhhh clever eh?

Quote from: Gritter on October 06, 2010, 02:02:04 PMclever eh?

Canadians!

...but Picasso's name needs to be in the title.

The world according to Pablo.  ;D

Quote from: FuzzFace on October 06, 2010, 02:04:42 PM

Quote from: Gritter on October 06, 2010, 02:02:04 PMclever eh?

Canadians!

no doubt!

Quote from: Gritter on October 06, 2010, 02:05:12 PM...but Picasso's name needs to be in the title.

The world according to Pablo.  ;D

"Suffering Machines" by The Universe Band
Inspired by Picasso

FuzzFace, all of a sudden you look like Joey off of Friends!! Ha Ha

Quote from: Gringo on October 06, 2010, 03:29:56 PMFuzzFace, all of a sudden you look like Joey off of Friends!! Ha Ha

Hey Gringo,

I can't seem to get your jukebox working either?? ???


(http://s7d4.scene7.com/is/image/Party/ctpjkb?$product350$)

Quote from: Gnasty on October 06, 2010, 03:38:07 PM

Quote from: Gringo on October 06, 2010, 03:29:56 PMFuzzFace, all of a sudden you look like Joey off of Friends!! Ha Ha

Hey Gringo,

I can't seem to get your jukebox working either?? ???


(http://s7d4.scene7.com/is/image/Party/ctpjkb?$product350$)

   Worry not, guitar man. Gringo will spin. Gringo will spin. Do you know of spanish onion gypsy scales? Brush up, biggun...

Hell yeah if you want some spanish onion gypsy scales on your songs I AM GAME!!!

Send me the wavs! Let's Collab!! ;D

QuoteWorry not, guitar man. Gringo will spin. Gringo will spin. Do you know of spanish onion gypsy scales? Brush up, biggun..

Quote from: Gringo on October 06, 2010, 03:29:56 PMFuzzFace, all of a sudden you look like Joey off of Friends!! Ha Ha

I've got David Schwimmer before this is a first.

Quote from: FuzzFace on October 06, 2010, 05:05:43 PM

Quote from: Gringo on October 06, 2010, 03:29:56 PMFuzzFace, all of a sudden you look like Joey off of Friends!! Ha Ha

I've got David Schwimmer before this is a first.

And don't forget about John Stamos ;D Now back to work on the opera!
https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=6078.0;msg=112732

david schwimmer is a great lyricist too

How goes it, men?

I just posted the completed lyrics with plot summary at a dedicated thread so the content is not buried in with the administration.

https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=8788.msg117365#msg117365

Love the page FF. Great work, truly admirable.

I started work on my track last night. I have some ideas forming but I am a slow worker (I'm a very anally retentive type) - to give you an idea I spent about 1.5 hours last night just working on a bass sound using the amazing effects module on the BR 800. Still not sure I've got it about right, but this will be a bass heavy song, so the sound has got to be good.

Cheers,

Nigel

I recorded a rough draft on my mbr (the "live" one-take vox/guitar take you got by mail FF) a couple of days ago. Yesterday I started rerecording it on my BR800. I still have some arranging to do in the mid section before continuing, but hope to get something done this weekend.

I spent an evening conceiving and conceptualizing, and then another evening recording the rhythm tracks.  Then I accidentally lopped off the first few seconds of 3 tracks... argh!  Then I went to sleep and will recover from this gaffe later.

But this is a lot of fun.  The anticipation is rich!

I recorded a very rough sketch of 'Salomé' on my iPhone the other day - I've got to flesh it out some more. I hope to spend some more time on it in the coming week.

"The Lovers" is now posted.

https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=8812.0

Gentlemen,

I have started a spinoff thread inspired by this one.
https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=8817.msg117757#msg117757


FuzzFace

Here is one thing that is contributing to the success of this thing so far, Trevor has put up the concept and provided the lyrics as poems.  There is not real suggestion as to what kind of music to make for each poem, it is wide open.  Each person has interpreted Fuzzs poem through their own imagination and we have such a wide variety of musical styles now, so far, with more songs to come.  Yet they all hang together within the original concept.  When this thing is finished and we can listen to it back-to-back, it will truly be something to behold.  When I burn it to a CD and listen to it on my way to work, I will truly be blown away.  Bravo everyone.  Bravo Trevor...This is kind of exciting to be a part of.

Quote from: facemask93 on October 11, 2010, 10:50:09 AMTrev , you are the Andrew Loyd Webber of Songcrafters

Indeed , it is exciting to be part of.  It's turning into an awesome, epic work.

For me it's unbelievable.  I can't find the words to describe to others what I am working on, and how fulfilling it is.

It's like over coffee I described my dream house, and then turn around and it's built!

I'm so grateful to you all for this experience.

I wrote 2 more for the opera.
Satchwood has "The Absinthe Drinker".

"Young Girl Reading" is up for grabs.
I would prefer to have a new participant for this one.


The Absinthe Drinker

"This potent, herbal bitter taste
makes me feel awake
Lets me see inside myself
it melts away what's fake"

Do you like what you see
Do you gain harmony?
"I like to penetrate the pretence
All I want is to be free

"Green ferries in my mind
interact with good and bad
the full spectrum of mankind
lives and breathes inside"

If I let my demons
see the light of day
would they overtake me
or would they go away?


http://pablo-picasso.paintings.name/blue-period/gallery/images/800/absinthe-drinker.jpg






Young Girl Reading

Have you found any answers?
Do you want to understand
where do we come from / where are we going
Are we pearls on a strand?

"There's always more than what we see
Just what is the way to know?
I want a wider lense
to know what seeds to sow"

Knowledge is power but
knowledge only goes so deep
we yield to our feelings
when awake and when we sleep

"Are feelings not deceiving?
They exist outside of reason"
I believe it's with our reasons
that we cloud what's wrong and right.

If you want to change the world
first satisfy the inner fight
learn to love all your sides
those in the day and in the night.

http://www.abcgallery.com/P/picasso/picasso110.html





Any takers?

Ok, here is the updated roster with the new song order:


01  Cup of Coffee - Gritter 

02  The Lovers - Geir

03  Barcelona Beach - Bluesberry

04  Boy Leading A Horse - Henwrench

05  Desmoiselles d'Avignon - Gnasty

06  Salomé - Cuthbert

07  Blind Minotaur (Led By A Girl) - Ferryman

08  Guernica - Facemask 93 and AK

09  The Absinthe Drinker - Satchwood

10  Young Girl Reading - ACA

11  The Old Guitarist - Launched 

12  Joie de Vivre - Honker

13  The Dove of Peace - FuzzFace

Any Good?

(https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=8458.0;attach=9069)(https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=8458.0;attach=9071)

good

I like the white one better.
I don't think we are going with "The Universe Band" any more.


It just occurred to me that Picasso works are not public domain (which sort of changes my Broadway ambitions).


So this will be fine as long as it's not published.

Quote from: OsCKilO on October 12, 2010, 03:51:44 PMAny Good?

(https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=8458.0;attach=9069)(https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=8458.0;attach=9071)

That's Awesome Bro! You are a Picasso yourself! Osckilo The Arteest!! ;D

I like the Black one AND the White one!!

Maybe do it like this???? ::)

(http://www.earthsmightiest.com/images/news/comics/Batman%20Black%20and%20White.jpg)

That is an Idea Eric.....


I Love that batman Cover!

I'm sure there is a way to pay royalties on pictures of the paintings if it makes it's way to Broadway.

But who needs the paintings, really, if you think about it - I would think that a depictionary form of the graphical portion would be better suited for a performance.

Nice pic, Gnastyman!

Maybe Sugar and Spice instead, though! I like spice...


(http://26.media.tumblr.com/tumblr_l6v015Ju2w1qd5nvfo1_400.jpg)

Gnasty Cover...


(https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=8458.0;attach=9073)

HELL YEAH!! You nailed it!! That looks freakin wicked Tharek!!!

Looks very SKA Tharek!  ;)

If you draw that dove yourself, no-one can complain ..... I think !

Quote from: Gnasty on October 12, 2010, 04:56:51 PMHELL YEAH!! You nailed it!! That looks freakin wicked Tharek!!!

Or we could have a Picture of a Boob.....



Picasso did boobs.....



Boobs Anyone?



Boobs?

Quote from: OsCKilO on October 12, 2010, 05:05:44 PM

Quote from: Gnasty on October 12, 2010, 04:56:51 PMHELL YEAH!! You nailed it!! That looks freakin wicked Tharek!!!

Or we could have a Picture of a Boob.....



Picasso did boobs.....



Boobs Anyone?



Boobs?

Sure I'm not afraid of naked women... ha ha ha...

https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=8532.0

Quote from: Geir on October 12, 2010, 05:04:26 PMIf you draw that dove yourself, no-one can complain ..... I think !

I'd have trouble drawing that dove myself.....

I'd have to get Saul to help me........

I think we should create something 100% original.

lo

Quote from: OsCKilO on October 12, 2010, 05:08:12 PM

Quote from: Geir on October 12, 2010, 05:04:26 PMIf you draw that dove yourself, no-one can complain ..... I think !

I'd have trouble drawing that dove myself.....

I'd have to get Saul to help me........

I Woke him up......


This is what he did.....



(https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=8458.0;attach=9075)

;)

It's original I'll give you that.

We call it "Booby duck"....

rofl .....

tell the truth !! You draw the bewbs !!!

I confess...



https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=7KN6591EWHE

Watched this....


Should have paid attention....

Give me an Idea of What you Want Guys and I'll get it done....


No Problems..

Just make a picture that represents something from each of our songs, thats all.  Should be easy eh (damn smart ass Canadian).  I see something like the Neil Young Zuma cover working for this, except a little more Picasso looking.
(https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=8458.0;attach=9077)

A simple idea I just whipped up:

(http://img401.imageshack.us/img401/6899/sufferingmachines.jpg)

Hey thats gould

(https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?action=dlattach;topic=8458.0;attach=9079)

How about an electric guitar done in a style like this?

Osckilo has dibs on album cover design.
(So anything anyone else makes has to be worse than what he does... ha ha!)

How do I get the image to show it the thread?

(http://img63.imageshack.us/img63/6950/elliottgould2z.jpg)

Now that's classy! Sandman on the sand!


And Dave - I was defo thinking Zuma when I saw Saul's drawing! (I'm sure with the help of his dad!)

My Last for the Night.........

Quote from: Gritter on October 12, 2010, 06:15:43 PM(http://img63.imageshack.us/img63/6950/elliottgould2z.jpg)

Dear lord thats cool, Hahahahahaha.

Quote from: Bluesberry on October 12, 2010, 07:09:39 PM

Quote from: Gritter on October 12, 2010, 06:15:43 PM(http://img63.imageshack.us/img63/6950/elliottgould2z.jpg)

Dear lord thats cool, Hahahahahaha.

Yes this is pretty much the essence of the whole album.

Goodness, this is all moving ahead most impressively. Two new songs, and ACA doing one of them? That will be a real joy.

I'm getting slightly worried that my stuff will be somewhat out of place with all these acoustic gems that are being posted. Mine will feature no finger picked guitars I am afraid, but that's why I chose the Minotaur one - I guarantee that a large object bludnering around is what you will get from me....

Cheers,

Nigel

Quote from: Ferryman on October 13, 2010, 01:32:10 PMMine will feature no finger picked guitars I am afraid, but that's why I chose the Minotaur one - I guarantee that a large object bludnering around is what you will get from me....

Sounds exactly like what we need to inject at this point.

Quote from: Ferryman on October 13, 2010, 01:32:10 PMTwo new songs, and ACA doing one of them? That will be a real joy.

In fact it's a collab of Redler and ACA.

Looking forward to hearing this!

For those who are interested, I added dramatizations and commentary for these songs along with the lyrics.

https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=8788.0


Input is welcome!

Here is one more song.
Again, I would prefer to have a new participant on this epic album.

Any takers?


Harlequin Sitting

If all the world's a stage
then I must turn down the part
smothering under smoky cinders
lives a hopeful spark

I cannot play while a war is waged
On illusions I've relied
While I dazzle and I mystify
my thoughts compound like lies

I will not live to jump through hoops
recite lines and sing refrains
a soft voice speaks within my heart
and echos through my veins

I turn my back on this cabaret
The show must not go on
I'll pay the price that I must pay
The clown you've known is gone.


(http://www.picassowebgallery.com/files/origopage/images/034.preview.JPG)
Harlequin Sitting on a Red Couch (1905)

Maybe spoken , or whispered to music.  dark carnival appeals.

i'll see tomorrow as I have a little time

Leigh

It's all yours!

Take a look at the script to see how it falls into context if you are interested.
It's the second song in...

https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=8788.0

Have looked and listened.  Now I'll have to up my game.  I'll still go with my initial thoughts and keeping it as a reflective moment in time.  Working towards a goal always makes me look at what I'm doing more objectively.  On going.

Any thoughts on the length?

Leigh

Trevor, I just sat here and read these new lyrics, really read them finally after all the rushing around.  I am having a coffee and reading...h&ly sh&t buddy, this is superior poetery/lyrics in every way.  This one really grabs me.  I can't say enough about your lyrical abilities.  Stunning is all I can say.  

Quote from: FuzzFace on October 18, 2010, 01:10:06 PMHarlequin Sitting

If all the world's a stage
then I must turn down the part
smothering under smoky cinders
lives a hopeful spark

I cannot play while a war is waged
On illusions I've relied
While I dazzle and I mystify
my thoughts compound like lies

I will not live to jump through hoops
recite lines and sing refrains
a soft voice speaks within my heart
and echos through my veins

I turn my back on this cabaret
The show must not go on
I'll pay the price that I must pay
The clown you've known is gone.

Quote from: Gu Djin on October 20, 2010, 12:59:39 AMAny thoughts on the length?

So far I have given little to no musical direction or input... and the results are better than what I could have imagined... so I'm sticking to a winning formula.

Quote from: Bluesberry on October 20, 2010, 04:32:00 AMTrevor, I just sat here and read these new lyrics, really read them finally after all the rushing around.  I am having a coffee and reading...h&ly sh&t buddy, this is superior poetery/lyrics in every way.  This one really grabs me.  I can't say enough about your lyrical abilities.  Stunning is all I can say.  

Quote from: FuzzFace on October 18, 2010, 01:10:06 PMHarlequin Sitting

If all the world's a stage
then I must turn down the part
smothering under smoky cinders
lives a hopeful spark

I cannot play while a war is waged
On illusions I've relied
While I dazzle and I mystify
my thoughts compound like lies

I will not live to jump through hoops
recite lines and sing refrains
a soft voice speaks within my heart
and echos through my veins

I turn my back on this cabaret
The show must not go on
I'll pay the price that I must pay
The clown you've known is gone.

Thank-you.  It was your initial comments that encouraged me to build on my first 3 poems/songs, and now we have an opera.

I wasn't sure about this one, whether it should be included, because I don't like to repeat ideas and this one seemed implied already, however I thought we have every other period of Picasso's, can't very well do this without the Harlequin.

I think this is a good way to show that the main character sees his life as a joke or some kind of performance that he no longer believes in.

It shows his motives as to why he would abandon it all, which is otherwise missing from the lyrics.

What a great concept rock opera this is turning out to be Fuzz ~ amazing ~ with a great story line, interwoven with Picassos's paintings, and so very well thought out lyrical content depth ~ fantastic work FF and all the mighty fine musicians & singers that's making this collection a really fine work of art !!

gonna be huge when finished and we can listen in one sitting, in my car, cranked loud, its going to be my drive to work music for quite a while, I can see that.

Maybe we can ask 64Guitars for a Juke box for Songcrafters 'First' Concept Album / Rock Opera, when we're finished?

Quote from: Satchwood on October 20, 2010, 09:38:15 AMMaybe we can ask 64Guitars for a Juke box for Songcrafters 'First' Concept Album / Rock Opera, when we're finished?

It's in the works!

How's it going, ladies and gentlemen?

Who is going to usher in the next wave?

Slow, and not quite sure. I'm progressing your mix but Minotaur is at least 4-5 weeks away.

I said I was a slow worker.....

Cheers,

Nigel

Take the time you need Nigel, it will be worth the wait, I am sure.  You can't rush inspiration sometimes.  Inspiration and perspiration in equal measures.

Folks:

I sent out a couple of email notes to all Picasso participants over the weekend... so please check your spam filters if you did not receive it!

Rock on!

One last song!

This makes 5 acts of 3 songs each.

If anyone wants to do this, speak now!  Again, I prefer new participants as every song so far has been a different person...



Self-Portrait

I wanted to draw a picture
of all that's behind these eyes
but instead my face was a sheild
if only to buy me some time

Am I worth more than a thousand words?
I've stepped outside of the frame
My life has become my surroundings
No two see exactly the same

Now that it's all laid out
my portrait is solely for me
I can move freely about
and paint what I want it to be.


(http://cgfa.acropolisinc.com/picasso/picasso12.jpg)

This song will flow into Joie de Vivre.
It could be short.

Hoping to get a taker on this.

Check out the opera to date if you are wondering what this is about:

https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?topic=8788.0

Fuzz , i might just take this

Rob

Quote from: facemask93 on November 20, 2010, 11:22:41 AMFuzz , i might just take this

Rob

I prefer to open it to someone who has yet to be involved, as diversity has been the key to this project... if no one new bites, I'll think of you.

I could tackle it if you want new blood... but a few questions. Should I listen to the before/after piece and try to connect the dots, or is it a more of a do whatever and see how it fits later type of piece?


I've heard a few of the songs that have been posted and am very impressed.

Quote from: T.C. Elliott on November 20, 2010, 11:46:40 AMI could tackle it if you want new blood... but a few questions. Should I listen to the before/after piece and try to connect the dots, or is it a more of a do whatever and see how it fits later type of piece?


I've heard a few of the songs that have been posted and am very impressed.

Up until now they have been done independently (as far as I know).

There is nothing wrong with trying to connect the dots, though.  Basically whatever inspires you.

I will PM you a link.

I've started on an idea I think will work. But it's just an idea right now. It needs some work. I'll respond to your PM with a question or two more. Thanks for doing this, and thanks to all the other participants.

Quote from: T.C. Elliott on November 20, 2010, 11:55:32 AMThanks for doing this

The pleasure is mine.
Thanks for signing on!

Go piggy go...this is gonna be good!

Ok this is my first painting ever, so cut me some slack.
It needs work, but it's a start.

(http://img822.imageshack.us/img822/5074/albumcoverv2.jpg)

Its a fantastic start Fuzz, I am no visual artist, so I have little comment other than, Yeah I like it.

This was my original mockup.
The desired result is somewhere between this and what I posted above.

Tharek may save all our asses but I had a concept and ran with it.

Any art teachers out there... lay on the advice because I'll probably try to do this again.  Thanks.


(http://img3.imageshack.us/img3/2757/albumcovermockup.png)

Quote from: http://www.npr.org/2010/11/29/131664254/staggering-cache-of-picassos-turns-up-in-franceA retired electrician in southern France who once worked for painter Pablo Picasso says he has hundreds of previously unknown works by the artist — a treasure trove of 271 pieces said to be worth about $80 million.

A dozen more albums worth!

Ha ha... that's cool.
He must have heard about our album and wanted to get in the news before we do... ha ha.

Just wondered where this had got too.  It would be cool to hear the songs all together and in sequence.

Leigh

There are a 2 songs left to be submitted... and I still want to make the recommended tweaks to mine.

As for when these 2 can be expected... It's not for me to answer!

 ah well I'll just have to re-activate my patience gene.

Leigh

At least I wasn't the last! I was worried I would be.......

Quote from: Ferryman on January 17, 2011, 05:19:05 PMAt least I wasn't the last! I was worried I would be.......

I know one that hasn't delivered yet, and I'm bugging her every day to get it done :D

She has been quite busy lately tho. Last year in highschool and what we in Norway call a "Russ (http://www.google.com/url?sa=t&source=web&cd=1&ved=0CBIQFjAA&url=http%3A%2F%2Fen.wikipedia.org%2Fwiki%2FRuss&ei=ilQ1TdqSHIebOoiG6LUC&usg=AFQjCNFR4q0lKtSUlYGI-OkMM0bSsth_zQ&sig2=MBXm1iHaBzOmPkR6W1bEMw)".  She has also been a part of the Russerevy (Russ revue) they had, singing the lead on a couple of numbers (and I  must say I wish you could have seen her, she was absolutely fab! She owned the scene !!). I'll keep bugging her tho !

Was just wondering where we were with this. I've done another mix for 'Self Portrait' with a subtle change in vox.

I was gone almost all of February, so hoping I didn't miss anything.

Word on the street is that the last 2 songs are presently in the works.

Actually, I have a new mix of my song that I need to post, as well.

And I was working on the album cover, with some "liner notes" or whatever the digital equivalent is.  I hope to get that done before the other songs are done.

Is this actually finished now? My machine is suffering! :D I was reminded by a spider.

it's all here https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?action=festival;sa=SuffMach

Quote from: FuzzFace on March 05, 2011, 11:29:52 AMWord on the street is that the last 2 songs are presently in the works.

Quote from: oldrottenhead on August 23, 2012, 09:23:05 AMit's all here https://songcrafters.org/community/index.php?action=festival;sa=SuffMach

Yeah i know about the juke. I`m just going by the last thing Trevor posted.

15 songs listed, 13 in the juke

I guess the question is..... will there be 2 more tracks to fill out the opera?

The two tracks in question are:

• Young Girl Reading - I believe this was to be done by ACA and Redler.
• Salomé - I believe this was to be done by cuthbert.

I don't know the current status. Were these songs abandoned or are they still expected at some point? I think FuzzFace should know, or he can find out.

Quote from: 64Guitars on August 27, 2012, 03:54:55 PMThe two tracks in question are:

• Young Girl Reading - I believe this was to be done by ACA and Redler.
• Salomé - I believe this was to be done by cuthbert.

I don't know the current status. Were these songs abandoned or are they still expected at some point? I think FuzzFace should know, or he can find out.

ACA did some attemts to the vocals on "Young girl reading" but was never satified with them herself. Then she moved to London, and tho she's got an mbr with her she have still to complete it. I think Redler asked Kaisa to step in, but I'm not sure of the status.

These 2 tracks never materialized, for one reason or another (see Geir's explanation above for Young Girl Reading; I worked with cuthbert revising the lyrics a bit for Salomé, then we decided to go with the original lyrics, then other things came up...)

To me, these 2 are like deleted scenes.  It would be a bonus to include them however the story is complete as far as I am concerned without them.

Now that I am looking at it, Salomé is superfluous in the sense that it repeats ideas already stated in other songs.  Young Girl Reading does offer an important thematic contribution -- as well as the inclusion of a female vocal -- however the lyrics could stand to be polished.

In either case, if the original participants would like to follow through, or if someone else would like to take up one of them, that would be cool... but if that were the case, I would want to take another pass at the lyrics before setting them in stone.