Mastering and Final Mixes

I might as well get this post set up and ready to roll. I still have about a month, or so, until I begin doing the final mixes. I have never used the BR 1600's mastering tools, but I am excited about learning. Everything else with this recorder has been amazing and easy to use, I'm sure the mastering and CD burning process will be the same. My goal is to start doing the final mixes by July

6-17-10, These are the songs, in the correct order, as they will appear on my "Crazy Like A Fox" Cd. The song themes are written in parenthesis. I have also included the date that the final Cd ready mix was recorded and the length of the song.

1. Nothin (wine and romance) (7-17-10) (3:14)
2. Best Days Of Your Life (nostalgia) (8-5-10) (5:10)
3. Same Old Troubles (voodoo) (8-2-10) (3:43)
4. Under The Weather (bad relationship) (8-5-10) (3:35)
5. Sweet Adelaide (haunting) (8-24-10) (5:12)
6. Hard Times (mafia) (8-12-10) (2:43)
7. Horrible End (suicide) (7-18-10) (4:22)
8. Doppelganger Blues (folklore) (7-15-10) (2:56)
9. Where's The Sun (vampires) (7-29-10) (4:08)
10. Downtown (cat and mouse) (7-14-10) (2:49)
11. Wilderness Of Mirrors (CIA) (8-13-10, Friday the 13th) (4:11)
12. Coming For You (love) (8-18-10) (4:40)
13. Simple Minded (faith) (8-28-10) (5:24)


* For the mastering process I will record multiple copies/versions of each song. I will then listen back to all the recordings, through various Cd players, and pick out the best versions of each one. Once I have the best version of each selected, I will burn them to another Cd in the above order. The mastering process is all about experimenting with different approaches. My goal is to capture the perfect moment and make it immortal.

7-5-10 (3:30 a.m.) I have been spending some time online searching for advice on mastering. This is a very, very important step ... and I want to get it right. I have read good things about the BR1600's "Mastering Tool Box", and it doesn't sound like it will be too difficult to figure out. The main things that I am reading up on right now are compression and EQ settings. I think I am already pretty good at balancing/panning the various inputs. Setting the reverb is just a matter of experimenting, and finding what sounds best for each song. The compressor and EQ, on the other hand, can't be taken so lightly. They are both very powerful tools, and there is definitely a method behind the madness. I think I have a pretty good grasp on how to approach the compressor. Basically, I follow these 3 steps for each instrument:

1. set the threshold
2. adjust the ratio
3. configure the attack and release.

Of course the settings will be different for each instrument. I have read up on all the instrument and I now have a pretty good idea on how to adjust the settings for each (I don't want to give away all my secrets). The EQ is also going to be fun ... and challenging. Each instrument has it's own unique tonal quality, and different frequencies affect each in different ways. I found a few cool websites, that outline which frequencies apply to each instrument. The #1 rule, when mastering, is that the vocals are the most important instrument. If the vocals sound good everything else will fall into place around them. If I can come anywhere close to nailing these final mixes, I am positive that I will earn some respect from the major label recording studios.

7-7-10, I put some of my new knowledge to the test today. My monitors finally came in. After I got home from picking them up, I had to give them a test run. Everything went very well ! The compressor is an amazing tool. I can't believe the amount of clarity, definition and punch, that it adds to the mixes. I can also say, with moderate certainty, that I managed to resurrect a previously disregarded song from the graveyard ... and that's all I am going to say about that. You will just have to listen to the Cd all the way through to know what I am talking about. Today was a very inspiring day !!!

7-11-10, Yes ... I did it !!! The lead guitar track for "Simple Minded" is complete. This means that all of the recording for this Cd is finished. All that is left now is the mastering and replication. It is going to be a bit tricky to document my progress during the mastering process. Basically what I am going to do is to burn a whole bunch of versions of each song down to Cd. I will then listen back to them through various Cd players and pick out the best ones. My first major concern is to get the levels right. I have packed away all my instruments so there won't be any distractions while I work on the final mixes. I am now in sound engineer mode !

7-12-10 (Monday), I decided to take it easy today. It is such a welcome relief not having to spend every moment thinking about recording. Their are 13 tunes on the Cd, and each song has approximately 6-7 recorded tracks (bass, vocals, guitar, keys and drums). This means that I have had to think out between 78-91 different tracks. That's approximately 13-15 different tracks per month running through the ol' melon. I am, however, spending a little time reading up on the "Mastering Tool Kit" in the BR1600's owner's manual. The season premiere of "The Closer" is tonight at 9:00 p.m. As a build up, they are playing last season on end right up until the premiere. It's not "24", or "The Soprano's", but it still a pretty good show. Kyra Sedgwick is a very unique actress, and does an excellent job in the lead role. Well anyway, this will help me keep my mind off of work for most of the day.

7-13-10, I spent most of the day messing around with final mixes. The BR1600CD is one amazing recorder ! It took me a little while, but I eventually got a grasp on using the "Mastering Tool Kit". The first 2 songs I experimented with were "Downtown" and "Sweet Adelaide". I think everything went well. I have to wait until tomorrow, though, so I can listen back with fresh ears. Well ... off to the gym I go, I need a break.

7-14-10, And that is just plain hilarious ! LOL !! I spent all of yesterday burning down a bunch of versions of the 2 songs, only to find out today that I messed up and used a CD-RW instead of a CD-R. Of course the CD-RW won't play in a Cd player. Despite the blunder, I still had a good first day with the final mixes. I now understand how to use the "Mastering Tool Kit", and burn Cd's. (8:00 p.m.) I went back at it and recorded about 12 versions of "Downtown". There is one recording that I think is exceptionally noteworthy (I am hoping it is Cd worthy). I will have to wait until I have the CD-R filled up before I can listen to it. It makes no sense to finalize the disc now, when there is so much empty space left to record on. I figure if I can get lucky enough to walk away with 1 Cd worthy recording per day, then I am doing very well. The more familiar I get with everything, the easier it will be. Since I am now wearing my sound engineer hat, I also have to try to adjust my sleeping schedule. Being that I live in an apartment complex, it's just not possible to have the monitors running after 5:00 p.m. So basically, I will be working somewhat normal business hours like 11:00 a.m. - 5:00 p.m. on Monday-Friday. When I first wake up I will go get a coffee, and plan out my day. When I get home I will spend about 1 hour checking up on my computer sites, then ... it's off to work. I will also have to get used to going to the gym earlier too. So much for being a night owl.

7-15-10, That figures ! I really did try to wake up at 9:30 a.m. The only problem was that it was raining, and thundering, like crazy. I definitely don't want to have my recorder plugged in during nasty storms. The only thing that made sense was to wait it out and go back to sleep. I guess it is inevitable that when the weather passes I will work on "Sweet Adelaide" (thunder and wind effects).

7-16-10 (5:30 a.m.), I ended up spending most of yesterday (and this morning) working on "Doppelganger Blues", and "Coming For You". I am very proud to announce that everything turned out well with the CD-R I recorded on. Once the disc was full, I finalized it and listened back to it through my computer. Everything sounded excellent. I am positive that I have "Downtown" and "Doppelganger Blues" finished. I also learned another lesson ... in mastering mode start recording at zero. I always leave a gap of 20 seconds before every song I record, just in case. Well in mastering mode it recorded that extra 20 seconds before every song ... oops. No major setback, when I burn the keeper versions I'll just omit the extra time at the beginning.

7-17-10, I spent most of the day working on final mixes for "Under The Weather" and "Nothin". I feel very good about both of these songs, and I really think they both have the potential to be very popular songs. The mixes, for both, turned out very well. They are both relationship songs, so I guess things are happening in 2's again. I think the next song I am going to work on is "Horrible End". I think I have 4 tunes that are Cd ready ("Downtown", "Doppelganger Blues", "Under The Weather" and "Nothin"). I desperately needed a break, so I bypassed my workout and went and hung out at Jimmy Iguana's. Thank you to my new friends Sarah and Nina for being cool and down to Earth ... I had a fun night !!

7-18-10, Yes ! "Horrible End" is also finished and Cd ready. The next tune I am going to work on is "Best Days Of Your Life". I already have the tracks polished up and ready to roll. I will probably wait until tomorrow to record it, because my ears are a bit worn out right now. This song is a melancholy rockabilly ballad with a very catchy chorus. The lyrics and lead guitar give it the potential to be a classic. I definitely don't want to tackle the final mix with tired ears.

7-19-10, I am going to take a break from the music for a bit to help some friends paint their house. It is a sizable project and will probably take about 1 week to finish, I am very glad the opportunity came along, because my ears are totally worn out. I was starting to get the point where I was having trouble identifying tones. Kind of a scary thing for someone like me ! I should be back in about a week to resume the final mixes.

7-28-10, I've spent the last 8 days helping a couple friends paint their house. It ended up being a rather sizable project, but nothing I can't handle. I still have about 2-3 days of work left. The cool part, is that today, I had some spare time to work on some final mixes. It's a big home, with 3 levels, so vantage points for listening to the mixes are endless. My friends both work during the day, which is also perfect (I don't want to bore them with the monotony). Today I worked on "Same Old Troubles", "Hard Times" and "Coming For You". I feel pretty good about all 3 of them (whether they are Cd ready will be determined later). If all goes well, tomorrow I will work on "Where's The Sun" and "Sweet Adelaide". Both of these tunes are big compositions, so I am thankful that I have a big house to work with. I still have touch up work to do in 2 bathrooms, and possibly one bedroom left to paint. There is also some clean up work left to do. The good news, is that the majority of the hard work is completed. I guess it's safe to say that I am multitasking. Anyway ... I'm tired, I'm sore and my bed is calling me.

7-29-10, Yes another successful day ! I got the counter, and backsplash, grouted. I also finished up with my painting and recorded final mixes for "Sweet Adelaide" and "Where's The Sun". Thanks again to my friends Shawn and Kristen McKee. I think the only tunes I have left for final mixes are "Wilderness Of Mirrors" (needs a vocal edit) and "Simple Minded" (I have to redo the outro solo/too much delay). Hopefully, my 10 day vacation to visit my brothers in California, will be coming up before too long. I guess there is an outside chance that I will have the Cd completed by then. I still need to find somewhere, where I can listen back to the final mixes and pick out the keepers. Other than my computer, I don't any other Cd player here at the apartment (I used to have a real nice stereo setup, but I ended up selling it before I lost my house). A rock star releasing his 3rd Cd, who doesn't own a stereo or guitar amps ? It's fun being me !

7-31-10, Unbelievable luck ! My Cd player in my jeep usually won't play Cd's, but I had no trouble at all playing mine. This is awesome news because I now have a reference point for my final mixes. I listened back to everything I have recorded, so far, and I am positive that about 4-5 tunes are Cd ready ("Downtown", "Doppelganger Blues", "Nothin", "Horrible End"). I will probably have to redo "Best Days Of Your Life" and "Under The Weather"). Most of the mixes I did at Shawn and Kristens didn't turn out so well ... maybe it wasn't such a good thing having a big house to work with. I still haven't finalized the Cd-R with "Sweet Adelaide" and "Where's The Sun", so there is a chance that I still might have something to show for my efforts. All I need is for one of them to be a keeper to make it a successful endeavor. With the first CD-R I recorded there ("Same Old Troubles", "Hard Times" and "Coming For You"), 85% of the recordings were good to go. I did save the settings, so all I will have to do is go back and tweak a few things to make them happen. The biggest error I made was not having the vocals loud enough. I knew that doing the final mixes was going to be a grueling process when I started, so I am not discouraged by the set backs. If I don't feel close to 95% sure that a song is Cd ready I will go back and redo it until it is right. I guess that is the perfectionist in me taking over.

8-1-10, I was contemplating purchasing a dual deck Cd recorder through eBay, instead, I have downloaded the AVS Audio Editor to my PC. I have 2 major concerns to address. The first is to erase the 20 second plus silence gaps at the beginning of every tune, the second (of course) is the capability to save and burn the Cd ready tracks in the correct Cd order. I tested the new download and it will be no problem at all to erase the silence gaps. As far as saving the tunes goes, I will have to call Dan at Total Media to find out what format the Cd needs to be in for the replication. The download has all kinds of Cd enhancing features. The challenge for me is going to be avoiding the temptation. Once I listen to the tracks in my jeep and decide which ones are Cd ready ... that is it, no more tinkering is allowed. My focus with the new download is just the silence gaps and nothing more. I am very encouraged right now with this new find, and I am hopeful that I will have no problems whatsoever with the saving/recording process. This is a new approach for me with my songwriting. With my previous Cd's I used the BR-8 to record the music, I saved it to a zip disc (the recorders format), then recorded it to Cd. Now, I am saving the songs to CD-R, running them through the audio editor and saving them to my song library, then (hopefully) burning them down to another Cd (in the correct format and correct Cd order). This is the beginning of a new month (my 8th for this Cd release), my goal (of course)is to finish all the final mixes and have them ready for replication by September.

* Ok, so I did some research on the web and find out that WAV (Windows) and AIFF (Mac) are the 2 formats that support 44.1 Khz, 16 bit, stereo audio (the standard audio specs used by audio Cd's). Both are also encoded with pulse code modulation (PCM), which is the same encoding used by Cd audio tracks.

* "Red Book Audio" is the set of specs created by Philips and Sony, in 1980, to define the essential parameters for Compact Disc Digital Audio (CD-DA). This creation formed the foundation for ALL other compact discs standards. The Red Book specs, as mentioned above, are 44.1 Khz and 16 bit.

8-1-10 (cont.), Sometimes it's the simplest things that get overlooked. Well, as far as the 20 second plus silence gaps at the beginning of every song go, I think all I have to do is erase the bounce track up to the point where I want the tune to begin. Of course this will be permanent in the following final mixes, so I want to make sure I leave about 2-3 seconds (3 seconds is standard) before and after each tune. If this works, then I may not need to use the AVS Audio Editor. I would then be able to upload the songs directly to my library and burn them, one at a time in Cd order, from there. Sounds like a much simpler approach !

8-2-10, It looks like I am back to my old routine. I just got home from a good workout and it's 3:00 a.m. I spent most of the day listening to final mixes. It took me a few listens, but I am positive that I have a Cd ready version of "Where's The Sun" (recorded while working on the McKee's home). After my first listen, there were a couple parts that I wish I could tweak just a bit (bass and lead vocals). After a couple more listens I realized that it rocks the way it is ! It is a much heavier song then the others, that are Cd ready, so an up front vocal approach wouldn't have worked. Besides if I use the same final mix approach with every tune, the Cd will lose its crossover appeal. All the vampire freaks are going to love this one !!! I now have 5 songs that are Cd ready. The others are "Downtown", "Doppelganger Blues", "Nothin" and "Horrible End". Over the next couple of weeks, I definitely need to finish the final mixes for "Under The Weather", "Same Old Troubles", "Best Days Of Your Life", "Hard Times", "Coming For You" and "Sweet Adelaide". Once they are finished I will tackle "Wilderness Of Mirrors" (needs a vocal edit)and "Simple Minded" (redo end solo without the delay and slide). Now that I have my jeep to use as a reference point, things should work out more quickly.

8-3-10 (3:00 a.m.), I spent yesterday and the early hours of today working on final mixes for "Same Old Troubles" and "Under The Weather". I am positive that I have a Cd ready version of "Same Old Troubles" (that makes 6 Cd ready tunes). I was having trouble getting it to play in my jeep (humidity, too much data, stubborn Cd player ... who knows ?), so I played it on my PC and everything sounded perfect. "Under The Weather" proved to be a bit more elusive. My earlier versions all ended up being too tinny, and high end, sounding. I ended up making some low end adjustments, and recorded about 10 more final mix versions. After the disc gets finalized I will listen back and see how they sound. Hopefully I will find a keeper. The next tune on my hit list is going to be "Best Days Of Your Life". This song is going to be track #2 on the Cd, so I have to get it right. (9:00 p.m.) I am still going to need to do some tweaking with "Under The Weather". I am very close to having it nailed, its the tinny sound from the guitar and dulcimer blending together that keeps bothering me. I also want to give the vocals a bit more presence. This song and "Best Days Of Your Life" are very similar in their arrangements (one lead instrument, bass, guitar, drums and vocals). Once I find the secret for making the vocals pop, it will work with both tunes. If I can finish these 2 songs this week, then I will have 8 Cd ready tunes. 2-3 tunes per week is probably a reasonable goal for me. That will give me plenty of time to lock into the nuances of each song, and get the mix right.

* One thing I haven't tried using yet, or needed, is the EQ in the Mastering Tool Kit. This EQ applies to the entire mix, and not just the individual instruments. I will keep this is mind as I move forward. It might just provide the extra touch that I am looking for.

8-6-10 (6:30 a.m.), Well ... hopefully final mixes #13 will be my lucky disc. I think I did a good job with "Best Days Of Your Life", "Under The Weather" and maybe even "Sweet Adelaide". I just finalized the disc and haven't had a chance to check it out yet. If all 3 work out, then that will give me 9 Cd ready tunes, with only 4 to go. I'm having one of those can't fall asleep nights (or should I say mornings). I guess I have a lot on my mind. Around the end of the month, or early September, I am going to take a vacation and visit my brothers in California. I am very excited about that ! This Florida heat is an absolute drain, and I really need a break. I also got another small painting job in St. Petersburg, for some other friends. It's mostly baseboards and trim work around the doorways, and should only be a 1-2 day project. I am finding out, with the final mixes, that my ears get worn out after about 2 days of recording. It's cool that I have these side projects to keep me occupied, because it gives me a chance to recover. I am very excited about this Cd ! Everything is going very smoothly, and I only have about 3 weeks until the entire project is ready for replication. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed that these 3 songs are Cd ready. If so, I will move on to "Coming For You" and "Hard Times". (10:00 a.m.) Yes !!! (Of course I am still awake) I decided to pull out the boom box and give the tunes a listen ... and they rocked ! The dulcimer is a bit loud in "Under The Weather", but I don't care ... it makes the song unique. One of the backup vocal tracks is me humming during the chorus. In this mix, I turned the track up a bit and it worked like a charm (it is a fun melancholy tune). "Best Days Of Your Life" is absolutely perfect. The mix even has a bit of an old school retro vibe. "Sweet Adelaide" is going to require a few more attempts. I recorded it last night, with just the headphones, which explains why it sounded flat and lifeless. I will definitely need to use the monitors to get it right. For some reason the vocal track, in this song, has been my nemesis. I think I am trying to too hard to make it stand out. It is, by far, the softest vocal track on the whole Cd. I don't want to sacrifice the texture of my lower end voice, in favor of high end presence. If I can get the low voice to creep out in the mix, it will add to the ghostly/haunting effect of the song. The other trick is to get the wind track right. If I want those winds howling I will probably need to add a healthy dose of reverb. Now that the other 2 songs are Cd ready, it will be fun to focus my attention on this tune. Once again ... Yes !!! I needed "Best Days Of Your Life" and "Under The Weather" to rock ... and they do ! All those long grueling hours paid off.

8-7-10 (12:30 a.m.), I listened back to "Simple Minded" and the good news is that I will not have to redo the guitar outro. I figured out a way to smooth out the bad delay problem in the outro, by actually applying more delay with a lesser attack time. In this case the 2 negatives did create a positive. I also have the edit worked out for "Wilderness Of Mirrors". The problem here, was that I slurred a couple words in the first chorus (the error is way too noticeable to overlook). To remedy the situation I am copying the same words from a later chorus, to that chorus. Now that these 2 distractions are out of the way, I can press forward with the final mixes. Later tonight, I am going to go check out the Tampa Bay Buccaneers practice with mom. Everything is free and it should be a good time. I am also going to get tickets to watch Social Distortion in St. Pete on Nov 12. My brother Shawn brought up the show while visiting today. Hell yeah I want to go ! Mike Ness rocks ! They also have a new album release coming up in November. Can't believe I am talking about November already. By that point in time I will be 1 month into my Cd release.

8-8-10 (Sunday), Awesome news ! Just found out I'm going to visit my California brothers (Kevin & Mike) for one week in September. I'm taking it easy today, my ears are still worn out from this weeks recordings. Tomorrow I start another small paint job for my friend Jay (should only take about 2 good days to finish). I will probably resume my final mixes on Wednesday. I did mess around with some mixes for "Coming For You" late last night after we got home from the Bucs practice. The disc hasn't been finalized yet, so I will just have to wait to see how they turned out. Who knows, maybe I got lucky and nailed a keeper track. That's the thing about final mixes, you just never know. The trick is to record as many versions as possible, then find the one that stands out. Well, I'll be back in a couple days.

8-11-10, I finished up with the Fortunato's house last night, today I took it easy. Tomorrow it's back to work with the final mixes. 3 weeks to go, and 5 songs left. It's time to get it done !!! Both houses I worked on look awesome ! I am definitely looking forward to the house warming parties.

8-13-10 (4:00 a.m.), I had an interesting recording day yesterday. At first I had my focus set on "Sweet Adelaide", well, that didn't go so well. I even dropped my recorder on the floor at one point. This resulted in tracks 3 and 4 somehow becoming interconnected and I could no longer make adjustments to each track individually. Luckily I had the song on protect, so I don't think the odd occurrence is a permanent thing (at least I hope not). After the mishap, I ended up moving on to "Coming For You" (my nemesis) and then "Hard Times". I am absolutely positive that I have 2 versions of "Hard Times" that are Cd ready !! I will check it out again, when my ears are back to normal, before I make my final judgment. "Coming For You" is still a pain in my ass, but I am getting closer. Well anyway, this now means that I have 9 tunes that are completed !! Only 4 more to go. For a change of pace, I think I might try "Wilderness Of Mirrors" or "Simple Minded tomorrow.

* Yikes ! Today is Friday the 13th !! "Wilderness Of Mirrors" definitely fits the mood. I will start working on it as soon as I wake up.

8-13-10 (cont), "Hard Times" is an excellent recording ! I have 2 tracks to choose from, and both rock. I had a very good recording day with "Wilderness Of Mirrors" (2 versions have Cd ready potential). Being that I am a perfectionist, there are still a couple of things I wish I would have done just a bit differently (just like with "Where's The Sun"), but all in all ... it still rocks ! My ears are a bit dead right now, so I am sure that when I listen back to it again, everything will be perfect. I took a couple more shots at "Coming For You" but came up empty again. I now have 10 songs that are Cd ready, with only 3 left to conquer. The mishap I had with "Sweet Adelaide" ended up being just a freak occurrence. When I went back to check out the tune, everything was fine with tracks 3 & 4 (whew !). Well it all comes down to "Coming For You", "Sweet Adelaide" and "Simple Minded", and I still have about 2 weeks to work with. I can do this !!!

8-14-10, I did some rough draft recordings of "Simple Minded" during the day and went to the Seminole Hard Rock Casino later at night. The casino is an absolute racket ! I only gambled away $20. I decided it was more fun to have a few drinks and do some people watching (you see all types at a casino). They have some really cool Rock-n-Roll memorabilia (signed guitars, sheet music, clothes, etc.) hanging on the walls there. Most people are so caught up in their gambling I don't even think they realize it's there. Well anyway, the bad news is that the CD-R with the "Simple Minded" versions got stuck in my jeeps Cd player and now it won't eject. Oh well ! I will survive. Thankfully it wasn't a CD-R with a keeper track that got stuck in the player.

8-15-10, Yes !!! A much needed day off. Tomorrow it is back to the recording. I think I might need to do another version of "Wilderness Of Mirrors" with the vocals a tad higher.

8-16-10, Another wise investment ! I went out today and bought a new JVC stereo for my jeep. My PC and the boombox are alright for what they are, but nothing beats driving around in the jeep and listening to my own music. I ended up getting a very simple $80 stereo. There was no need for something overly flashy and my budget is a bit limited. After checking out a few tunes I realized how much of a handcuff my old stereo was. This one is like having a brand new set of ears ! I will have to go out later and listen to a bunch of my previous recordings, because it is possible that I already have some Cd ready versions of the final 3 songs. It is also possible that I might have better versions of the mixes that I already thought were Cd ready. Tomorrow is moms BD, so I am going to take a break from the final mixes and spend the day with her. Earlier today I do some mixes of "Wilderness Of Mirrors". The earlier versions were very good, and luckily I did save all the settings. The only thing that bothered me was that the lead vocals needed to be a bit louder. Hopefully these mixes will work out.

* Everything sounds absolutely awesome !! The only track I am iffy about is "Best Days Of Your Life". There seems to be a tad too much middle tones ... but it still rocks. I might take one more shot at it, if I come up empty then I will roll with what I've got. The mix might actually add to the nostalgia element of the song. This Cd is going to be groundbreaking !!! Being the perfectionist that I am, it is sometimes hard to step outside everything and hear it for what it is. The new stereo gave me this opportunity. It is cool because each mix is unique to each song and their different styles. What more could I possibly ask for ?

8-17-10, I was driving around with mom today (dinner and a movie for her BD)listening to the radio, when Tom Petty's "Running Down A Dream" came on. What was cool about this song was it's mix. This is the exact recording levels, and approach, I need to use for "Coming For You" to happen. I will use this song as a reference next time I work on my tune. (11:00 p.m.), I listened back to my most recent batch of final mixes. I have about 4-5 versions of "Wilderness Of Mirrors" that are all excellent. My only gripe about my previous mixes was that the vocals were just a bit low, well, that problem has been remedied. I also recorded a pretty good version of "Simple Minded", which surprised me ! The levels were all very good. The only thing I might want to tweak just a bit are the tones. On this tune a lower toned vocal approach may work out the best. Over the next couple of days I will give this tune another shot and see what I can do.

8-18-10, I did some recordings of the final 3 songs today, then drove around and checked them out later. It is possible that I may finally have a good version of "Coming For You". There is also another version of "Simple Minded" that is pretty good. The thing that seems to be holding me back now, is allergies. My whole body feels weak. What really sucks is that my head gets all plugged up and it is hard to hear things as they are. I am thinking that this would probably be a good time to take a break from the final mixes. I am hanging out with some friends in a couple days. Maybe I will spend tomorrow relaxing. I'll be back in a couple days.

* Interesting aside: I just began recording on my 20th CD-R (80 minutes each). The final mix process is definitely grueling !

8-20-10, I drove around today and checked out some final mixes ... with fresh ears. I have versions of "Coming For You" and "Simple Minded" that are very good. It will take a couple more listens before I decide if they are Cd ready. The "Coming For You" mix is almost perfect. I got the right tonal bite on the guitar and the bass/drum levels are right where I want them. The only concern with this tune is that the vocals are a bit high (how's that for a 360). The vocals seem to work with the song, so I may just decide that they are good enough. The mix for "Simple Minded" is also almost perfect. Since this tune is a different genre than the others (rockabilly/southern rock), I needed to capture a unique mix. The slide guitar is definitely up front and noticeable, yet it balances well with the other instruments. The vocals are at a good level too. Actually the only concern I have with this mix is that the final chorus seems to be a bit louder (and just slightly out of key) than the others. I am contemplating making a vocal edit, using a previous chorus. More than likely, I will just accept this song for what it is and roll with it. It is impossible to be perfect, and what I am hearing as being out of key may just be my overly critical side sneaking out. The bottom line is ... it is a very unique tune to end the Cd with. When I resume my recordings on Monday, I will focus my efforts on "Sweet Adelaide". With this song, I may have to go back to square one and put all the EQ settings back to zero. I think I have been trying too hard to make every track stand out. I need to find a good balance, with the levels/tones, so that the vocals won't have to struggle to be heard.

8-21-10, Yes ! I had a prosperous night. The AVS Audio Editor I downloaded was supposed to be free. Well, it was for 18 days ... then the free period expired and I was given the option to pay for it. I ended up uninstalling it from my PC. I then searched around and found a 100% free Power Sound Editor download. After installing it in my PC, I decided to take it for a test run. I found that erasing the silence gaps is going to be no problem whatsoever. Saving the tunes, and burning them to Cd (in Cd order)is also going to be no problem. I just have to make sure that I have plenty of open space in my C Drive. I also learned a few lessons along the way. The first is to watch the frequency levels ! I don't want the peaks flat lining at any point in the song (or at least kept to a bare minimum). The second is make sure I listen to the song all the way through before saving it. My Windows Media Player has to know how long the song is, or else it won't allow me to burn it. The last lesson is to pay close attention to the edited silence gaps. When the media player burns the Cd it automatically adds a 2 second gap between songs. The accepted silence gap standard (before and after the song)is 2-3 seconds. I think my goal will be to keep my silence gap edits to about 2 seconds (or a tad less) before and after each tune. I will have to check out a few other major label Cd's to see what the professionals do. This new experience was a very welcomed relief. I now know, that once I finish my final mixes, it will only take me 1 good day to burn down all the keeper tracks to the master Cd. It will also be very easy to burn multiple versions of the master Cd (3 for the copyrights, 1 for the replication and 2-3 for me). Whew !!! This was a very good day for the Foxman.

8-22-10, It has taken some patience, but I was finally able to burn down the 10 Cd ready tunes (in Cd order) to an audio CD-R. This is what it is all about ! After all this work I can finally sit back, listen to the songs, and get a feel for how the finished product is going to sound. The frequency levels on 9 out of 10 tunes are perfect (no flat lines at all). The only one that was just slightly high is "Horrible End", but the flat lines are so minimal that it isn't worth worrying about or changing. On the other hand, I may have to find slightly louder versions of "Under The Weather" and "Wilderness Of Mirrors". If I can't find good versions in my final mix Cd's, I might be able to boost the levels through the Power Sound Editor. The vocals in "Same Old Troubles" seem to be just a tad stuffy, so I may also try to find a better version of that tune. Once the final songs are finished, I will attempt to remedy all these matters. My major task at hand right now is to finish the remaining final mixes. There is still a very good chance that I will have the entire Cd ready before my vacation to California (in 10 days). If that is the case, then I will visit Total Media when I return and send the Cd out for replication. This means that the Cd should be available for purchase around the 2nd week in October ... just in time for Halloween (10:00 p.m.) I just couldn't wait, for "Wilderness Of Mirrors" and "Under The Weather" I used the Power Sound Editor to amplify the mixes a bit. It worked perfectly and the problem was remedied. With "Same Old Troubles", I found another version that was perfect. After this I burned down a new CD-R with all 10 tunes in Cd order. I listened back to the Cd in my jeep, before heading to the gym, and it rocked !!!

8-23-10 (5:00 a.m.) Another late nighter ! I took my 2 best versions of "Coming For You" and ran them through some effects, and enhancements, in the Power Sound Editor. The 2 versions were almost Cd ready as they were, so maybe the few adjustments I made will be all that is needed. I also took a shot at a couple more final mixes for "Simple Minded". The last chorus wasn't out of key, it was just a bit too loud. If these 2 tunes work out, and are Cd ready, I will be ecstatic ! This would mean that all I have left is a final mix for "Sweet Adelaide". As soon as I wake up, this afternoon, I will begin working on this tune. (3:00 a.m.) I don't know ? I kind of like one of the tracks, but I still think I can do it better.

8-24-10 (6:00 a.m.) Up and at it again ! I spent yesterday (after I woke up) working mostly on "Sweet Adelaide". It is such a tricky song ! On my way to the gym, I drove around and checked out the mixes. All in all, they were much better than my previous efforts on the song. After my work out, I came back home and went at it again. I recorded about 3 more versions, which sounded awesome through the headphones. I'll have to wait until later today to hear how they sound through my jeep stereo. I've decided that I am still going to take a couple more shots at "Coming For You" and "Simple Minded". That perfectionist in me wants to get it right. (10:00 p.m.) I did 3 more versions of "Sweet Adelaide". I just got done driving around and listening to them. The setback is that my ears are dead again, so things tend to sound a bit flat. That aside, I have one version that is very good. I used a bunch of reverb on the lead vocals which gives it a ghastly effect. The mix, overall, seems to be on the low end, but that might just be my ears. The levels are perfect and all the edits were right on the money. I'll have to wait a day, or so, and see how it sounds with fresh ears. Regardless, this is my best effort to date with this song. The settings are all saved, so if I have to tweak a thing or two it won't be a problem.

*Ok, Ok ... I'll let you in on a secret. I have decided to put "Won't Be Home Again" on the Cd has a hidden 14th track. Over the last couple of days, I have recorded a few versions of this tune that are excellent. The vocals in this song are a perfect example of poor microphone technique (I was way to close), but they still work. I did a good job of selling the drama, and I actually come across like I am repenting. It is a great fit as the last song on the Cd (after the religious tune).

8-25-10, YES !! I have a perfect Cd ready version of "Sweet Adelaide" ! I worked my butt off on this tune. The softer vocals, with the heavy reverb, ended up being the secret ingredient that made the song happen. As mentioned above, I also have a Cd ready version of "Won't Be Home Again". This now means that all I have left to tackle (final mix wise) is "Coming For You" and "Simple Minded". I do have very good versions of both songs, but I think I can make them better. I'm going to rest today and enjoy my successes. Tomorrow, and Friday, I will resume the final mixes. My California vacation is just 6 days awa. If all goes well I will finish the final 2 mixes Friday night, then burn down a bunch of "master" Cd's over the weekend. On Monday I am going to send out the copyright package (Form SR w/lyric sheets and 2 "master" Cd's) to the Library Of Congress ($75). I am also going to do a poor man's copyright and send one copy to myself. The 2 copyrights should cost around $120. On Tuesday afternoon (day before I leave) I am going to join ASCAP ($35), so that my tunes will have the potential to be played on the radio. While in California, I will be able to play my Cd for my brothers, which will serve as my final sound check before I move forward with the replication (when I return). YES !! I can see the light at the end of the tunnel. (10:00 p.m.) It's always something ! I was trying to burn down copies of the Cd, in the correct order, with all the songs. For whatever reason my PC wasn't finalizing the disc ? To remedy the situation, I took the disc and used my BR1600 to finalize it. I now have a complete "master" copy of the entire Cd. I am still planning on redoing the 2 songs, but it is a huge relief knowing that I have 1 completed copy (just in case). I also spent part of today getting my copyright paperwork together. I have copies of all my lyrics, and Form SR is already filled out. All I need is 2 official "master" copies of the Cd and it is ready to be mailed out. I also got the paperwork for ASCAP, printed out. It was a good day and I spent a very minimal amount of time with the headphones on. Tomorrow I am going to start rocking the "Simple Minded" final mix. I have plenty of blank CD-R's so there is no need to worry about filling them all the way up before finalizing them. I will record a few versions of the song, finalize them, then check them out on my jeep stereo. I will repeat this process until the Cd ready version emerges. I will also use the same approach with "Coming For You".

8-26-10 (2:30 a.m.), I just got back from a good workout. I listened to my temporary "master" Cd, and I am very happy with the results. It is an awesome feeling of accomplishment hearing all the songs in the correct Cd order. Some tunes seem to be just a bit louder than others, but I am not going to worry about it because I know all the levels are consistent throughout. I did discover that the reason I was having trouble with my PC finalizing has to do with the song "Won't Be Home Again" not saving correctly into my media player (it wouldn't play at all). All I will have to do is to save the tune again, from the Power Sound Editor, and the problem will be remedied. After hearing "Coming For You" played in its correct spot on the Cd, I am thinking that the song might just be good enough. It is a bit of a punkish tune, so the slight imperfections probably won't be judged too harshly. It worked out real well as a cool change of pace after "Wilderness Of Mirrors". My focus right now is entirely on "Simple Minded". If I can get this song right, this Cd will be an absolute classic. Once that song is done I will focus a bit more on "Coming For You" and make my final decision.

8-27-10 (1:45 a.m.) I spent most of yesterday, and today, working on mixes for "Simple Minded" and "Coming For You". I was having a ton of troubles with allergies, and my head was congested, so it's hard to say how things are going to turn out. If nothing else I have the settings saved on both, so all I will have to do is listen to the recordings in my jeep then come back home and make the adjustments. Hopefully tomorrow will be my final day of working on the final mixes. I would like to be able to spend Saturday, and Sunday, putting together the "master" copies. Monday will be my day for mailing out the copyrights. Tuesday ... I start packing for my vacation !

8-28-10, (5:00 a.m.) I just can't get these dang songs to work out. It is driving me absolutely nuts ! I will just have to take a few more shots at it later today. Maybe I am trying too hard ? (11:00 p.m.) Well you have to take the good with the bad. I am having problems with my vehicle overheating and I think that my radiator has a leak. I had to pull over tonight in a church parking lot and wait for it to cool down. The irony is, that while I was sitting there (in the church parking lot) I came across my Cd ready version of "Simple Minded" (religious/faith song). I can't say it is perfect, but it is very good ! As far as signs go, it doesn't get any more obvious than that. I listened to it again, through the boom box, and it sounded good to go. At about 5 1/2 minutes, this is the longest song I have ever written. In an odd, bitter sweet, moment I guess the powers that be gave me their nod of approval. I just hope that it isn't at the expense of my jeep. I am going to take a few more shots at "Coming For You". If I can't come up with a better version, I will go with what I've got. Tomorrow is definitely the day that I am going to put the final Cd "master" versions together. Monday, or Tuesday, I will find a way to make it to the post office to mail out my copyrights. Wednesday, I am off to California. The problems with my jeep are just going to have to wait till I get back. Come hell or high water, this Cd is getting released.

8-29-10 (5:00 a.m.) Instead of working on "Coming For You", I put the finishing touches on the Cd's graphic design. I got the images all saved down to a memory stick, so they are ready to roll when the time comes. When I wake up I will listen to the keeper version of "Simple Minded" (my jeep's stereo still works), with fresh ears. After that I will have to check out all the versions of "Coming For You" to find the best one. I may also take one last shot at recording one. Once I find a Cd ready version, then the first thing I am going to do is to put the BR1600 back in its box and store it away in the closet. I have spent a good majority of this year sitting behind that thing and I am tired of looking at it. After that is finished, it is "master" time ! I have got to get it done ! (8:00 p.m.) YES !!!! I did it ! I ended up going with the "Coming For You" version that was completed on 8-18-10. All I was doing was spinning my wheels trying to come up with a better version. I decided to eliminate all the stress and go with what I had. It took me quite a while to work out the "master" copies. For whatever reasons my PC was only burning the first 13 tunes and omitting the hidden track "Won't Be Home Again". I ended up have to use the BR1600 to finalize all the copies. I also dropped the PC's recording time from fastest to fast, to allow the computer more time to read the tracks. This approach must have worked because I ended up with enough "master" copies (with all 14 songs) to get the job done. I put together both copyright packages, and I will walk to a post office outlet tomorrow and mail them out. Unfortunately my jeep is KO'ed and needs a new radiator (the proof is on the ground underneath it). I will have to deal with that problem when I get back home. It is such a relief to have the mastering phase finished ! It has been both a draining, and rewarding, experience. The hardest thing about being a perfectionist is letting go. All in all, I would have to say that my recording/mixing work merits a solid A- (nobody's perfect). The frequency levels on all 14 songs are very consistent and there are no flat lines whatsoever. I think the pro's would even give me a hearty pat on the back for my efforts. As far as the songs go ... they Rock !!! This is, by far, my best Cd effort to date. I am very excited to hear all the fan feedback. YES !!! I did it !

9-15-10, I've spent a lot of time driving around and listening to the Cd, and .... it sounds excellent !!! The mixes are unique for each song and the Cd has a very contagious natural flow throughout. It's kind of like listening to a collection of short stories. YES !!!!

UPDATE (2-16-14): All song from my "Crazy Like A Fox" Cd can be heard in their entirety through the tune player below. Please make sure to also check out my home website at: www.foxmanmusic.com 

Sell music on Amazon at ReverbNation.com

"Wilderness Of Mirrors"

This is my CIA/spy song. All these seasons of "24", we have been watching, have inspired me to work it out for this Cd. I still have to finish vocals for 2 more songs, "Won't Be Home Again" and "Where's The Sun" (and possibly a couple of redo's). Once they are completed I am going to start working on the drum track for this song. "Simple Minded" is definitely still on my hit list too. This would give me a total of 14 songs for my "Crazy Like A Fox" Cd. Counting the 18 tunes from my previous 2 releases, I would have a grand total of 32 songs !!! Not a bad showing for an underground independent songwriter. My BR 1600 is holding up very well. I would highly recommend this recorder to the other independent songwriters out there. It is an amazing product ! Hats off to the people at Boss.

5-20-10, While watching episodes of "24" season 6, I have been working out the guitar progression for this song. It is turning out real well. I think by next week I will be ready to start putting the drum track together.

5-22-10, I think I finished up the vocals for "Where's The Sun" last night. This means that I will start putting together the drum track for this song sometime early next week. I decided to hold off on the vocals for the 2 songs that I am thinking about redoing, until I get around to recording the vocals for this song and "Simple Minded". I am almost positive that 10 of the 12 songs are good to go. And it is also possible the other 2 are also alright. I think it will be a wise move to step away from all the vocals for about 2-3 weeks, and then re approach them again with fresh ears. Time is on my side, and I am way ahead of schedule.

5-23-10, Now that everything is completed with "Where's The Sun", it's time to start work on this song. I am watching the end of "24" season 7 today. Tomorrow I have to attend a funeral, and mass, for my grandfather. It's not entirely a sad occasion, because he was fortunate enough to live a long healthy life (92 years). Still, funerals are a bit depressing. I am glad that my brothers and I will have the chance to be there for my dad, because he has always been there for us. I will probably begin working on the drum track for this song on Tuesday. The season finale of "24" season 8 is on Monday night, and I definitely don't want to miss it. Get Jacked !!!

5-24-10, The mass and funeral went well. My dad did an excellent job with the eulogy. His father was then laid to rest at the veterans memorial cemetery in honor of his naval service during World War II. We all have one lifetime to work with and it is up to each one of us to respect this gift and make the most out of it. (10:25 p.m.) We just watched the season finale of "24". Just last night mom and I finished up watching season 7. It was an absolutely awesome series. In the end Jack realized that he had one good friend in Chloe, who was always there for him throughout everything. This may be what gave him the strength to want to keep living. I do believe in peace, and I believe that one day the world will embrace it too. Unfortunately, there are many lunatics in this world, of all races and religions, who will do everything in their power to destroy it. We need people like Jack Bauer to protect us. The revelation of armed drones, at the end of the finale, was a bit scary. Right now, I am watching "Dancing With The Stars". Once that is over I am going to hit the gym and put in a good workout. Tomorrow it's back to work ! I pretty much have a bass arrangement worked out for the entire song. It will just be a matter of taking a few days to get the drums together. Then ... I am back in recording mode.

5-25-10, I'm starting to get the drum track together (about 2/3 finished). In about 2 more days, or so, I should have it recorded. By the weekend I will be working on laying down the bass track. It's kind of developing into a bit of a punk rock CIA/spy song ... I wonder if that's ever been done before ?

5-27-10 (3:15 a.m.) And we're off !!! The drum track is completed and recorded. I have also found the right effect for the bass track, which should be recorded within a day or two. Everything, so far, sounds really good. I have no idea, whatsoever, what I am going to play on guitar ? For the most part, the majority of the song is in A Minor and E Minor. The bass uses chromatic runs in the chorus, which may alter the key a bit. I'll have to work that out before I start working on the guitar parts. (7:30 p.m.) Still grinding out the bass track. My ears are a bit tired, at the moment, so I will resume my efforts later.

5-28-10 (2:00 a.m.) Success ! I finally got the bass track recorded. I used a Stadium Bass effect and kept the tone on the low end. I still don't have a clue what to do with the guitar and keyboard tracks. I really need to come up with a signature riff that will give the song a unique CIA/spy effect. If only I could get the Austin Powers theme song out of my head ... it's driving me crazy ! I am trying to write a serious song, not a comedic one. When I get around to the vocals, I might just use an effect for the verses that sounds like I'm talking through a cell phone (or headset). First things first, guitar and keyboard tracks. (8:00 p.m.) I spent part of the afternoon hanging out at the beach. When I got home I started working out the guitar track. Things went very well and I almost have it worked out. The Pedal Vibrato effect seems to be the soup of the day. I'll have to fine tune things a bit, then I will lay it down. If all goes well it should be recorded within 2 days.

5-29-10 (2:00 a.m.) I just got back from a good workout and hydro massage. (3:30 p.m.) Dang, it seems I have pinched a nerve in my neck, which is very uncomfortable. I rubbed some Icy Hot on it and took an Ibuprofen. I'll have to wait until later to tackle the guitar track. (6:30 p.m.) It seems to be a bit overcast outside. As a result, I've decided to put off the guitar track until tomorrow. I don't want to have the power knocked out while I am recording. I have decided to spend some time sending out friend invites through My Space. Maybe I can get my band equity rating up to a new high.

5-30-10 (2:45 a.m.) Well, the storm never did develop, so, I ended up going to my studio/storage facility to record some guitar. Every time I go there something positive happens. I wanted to lay down the lead guitar track, but it wasn't happening, so I nailed the rhythm track. I ended up using a Fat Strat effect, and it rocks ! This tune is turning out to be very heavy. In fact, it may even be the heaviest tune on the Cd. The lead guitar track is pretty much worked out (except for the solo), I just need to catch the right moment to lay it down. Once I get the lead guitar recorded, I will move on to the keyboards. All I really need from the keys is some catchy accent work, or sound effects. I am very happy right now ! This song seems to be falling into place rather quickly. (10:00 p.m.) I decided to take the rest of the day off from recording. I spent a lot of time on my computer sending out fan invites for my My Space site. I am determined to get my band equity rating to a new all time high.

5-31-10 (3:30 a.m.), Happy Memorial Day ! I just got home from another good workout and massage. While at the gym I came up with a clever idea. I am considering including 6 songs from my previous 2 Cd releases on this Cd. It would give me a grand total of 20 songs and it would definitely help elevate my "Crazy Like A Fox" Cd to groundbreaking status. There is more on this idea in my "Miscellaneous" post.

6-1-10, OK !! It is now June. I have one month left to finish this song and "Simple Minded" (plus the vocals). I also may have to redo 2 other vocal tracks. That means there is ... 1 entire song to record, I guitar and key track for this song and 4 vocal tracks ... and that's it ! With one month to work with, I am doing very well. This song will definitely be done within a week. "Simple Minded" shouldn't be very complicated. It may take me 1-2 weeks at most. That leaves 2 weeks to complete the 4 vocal tracks. Perfect !!!! As a result I have taken the rest of the day off. In the afternoon, mom and I went out to eat in Safety Harbor (another cool artist community). This was a very unique area. In the matter of one block there was a wiccan store, a freemason hall and a Buddhist building (we enjoyed the wiccan store). There was also a wide variety of restaurants and shops. The highlight of the city was a rather large spa, located at the end of the main street. People who lived in the area seemed to very happy. They have a "live and let live" mentality, which means that everyone doesn't have to be alike to get along. I have friends from Illinois visiting this Friday (3 days away), which should be a lot of fun ! This leaves me 2 days to get the lead guitar track recorded.

6-2-10 (12:00 a.m.), I am just having one heck of a hard time laying down the lead guitar for this tune. I went to the studio for about 3 1/2 hours and got nowhere. This is the first time I went there and walked away with nothing to show. Oh well, can't win them all. I'll try it again tomorrow here at home ... in the air conditioning ! It is not an overly complicated track, it's just that there are no breaks from start to finish, so I have to nail the entire 4 minute track in one take. As far as this Cd release goes, this is probably the last complicated track that I will have to endure. I am going to look at this like a test of patience.

6-3-10 (11:00 p.m.), I did it !! The lead guitar track is completed. It has a bit of a frenzy feel to it, which should go along well with the lyrics. I normalized the track and cleaned it up. I also cleaned up the bass and rhythm track. Now I need to work out a keyboard track. The 3 stringed instruments are all on the lower end, tone wise, so ... the keyboard track is going to have to add a little color and personality to the mix. My friends from Illinois aren't going to be here until Saturday, so I have all day tomorrow to work on this song.

6-5-10 (1:00 a.m.), I have a good idea of some parts for the keyboard track. It's nothing overly complicated, just some padding and sound effects, but I think it is going to make the song happen. To get myself back in the mood, I am watching season 1 of "24". My friends are coming in tomorrow (today), so I might need to hold off on the track for a bit. (9:30 p.m.) I did it !!! I finished both keyboard tracks today. The tracks include a little bit of everything (helicopter, car squealing, cell phone, laugh, footsteps, etc.) This song started out as just a lyrical idea, and ended up growing into another big production. I am a very happy dude right now. I cleaned up the tracks, saved/protected the song and backed up the data. I haven't heard anything from my Illinois friends yet. Hopefully everything is alright. Unfortunately, I don't have a cell phone number for them. They are probably burned out from the drive and taking it easy tonight. I am sure I will hear from them tomorrow. Anyway, it worked out excellent for me because I got this song finished !!

6-14-10, I am going to hit the studio tomorrow to record the acoustic and lead vocals (hopefully) for "Simple Minded". After that, all that will be left with that song will be the lead guitar track. I only have about 2 1/2 weeks left to work with, so I do need to get to this song soon. 2 lead vocal tracks, 1 lead guitar track and 2 lead vocal redo's are all that is left for this Cd. I can do it !!! (11:00 p.m.) We just started watching season 2 of "24". This is the last one, in the series, that we haven't seen yet.

6-16-10, Watching the last 4 episodes of season 2 of "24". Later tonight, weather permitting, I am going to finish up the acoustic and lead vocal track for "Simple Minded". Once those are done, my next visit to the storage unit will be to finish up the lead vocals for this song.

6-17-10 (2:30 a.m.) I had an excellent session at the storage unit. I think that the acoustic track, and lead vocals, are completed for "Simple Minded". That means that this song is now in my sights ! If all goes well, I will probably work on it Friday night (2 days away). Yes !! Season 2 of "24" was excellent. I'm sure the inspiration will carry over into my recording. I am hoping to capture a bit of the wide open spy game frenzy with this song.

6-19-10, I spent some time adding EQ and effects (reverb/doubling) to the song. It's sounds awesome !!! Only one track is unused and that's for the lead vocals. I should make it to the studio either later tonight, or tomorrow.

6-20-10 (4:00 a.m.) Success !!! After 6 grueling hours at the storage unit, I did it ! I am absolutely positive that this is going to be a hit song ! I couldn't find a vocal effect that simulated a cell phone, so I ended up using the Slapback Delay effect ... it worked perfectly ! This tune turned out to be very heavy and theatrical. Once again, I did an excellent job of selling the drama. All those episodes of "24" did wonders as inspiration. I think Jack Bauer would even give me a thumbs up. I have been working on this song, on and off, for about a month now. I am very happy it is finally finished.

UPDATE (2-16-14): All songs from my "Crazy Like A Fox" Cd can be heard in their entirety through the tune player below. Please make sure to also check out my home website at: www.foxmanmusic.com 

Sell music on Amazon at ReverbNation.com

"Simple Minded"

I might as well get this post started. It's inevitable that I am going to write this song. Things have been working out very well for me with this Cd and I am very thankful. It's hard, sometimes, not to think that higher powers are guiding me. I can tend to be a bit mischievous with my songwriting (mafia, vampires, ghosts, doppelgangers, voodoo, etc.), but underneath it all, I am proud to be one of the good people. I currently am not a member of any religion and I don't attend church. I did, however, attend Catholic schools when I was younger. There are many problems with the Catholic Church leadership, just like with our government. This, in no way, reflects on the hard working people who are believers in both. From my experiences the Catholics were always cool down to Earth people, just like the majority of Americans. Well to cut to the quick, I think that the powers that be allow us to be unique and original and we are all blessed with different talents. Sometimes in return the powers that be may ask that you give something back. In my case, I think it is this song. This is my way of saying thank you to the powers that be, and to all my friends and family who are believers.

5-3-10, I have about 2 weeks, or so, until the storage facility where I am recording my vocals will be ready. That gives me 2 weeks to work on this tune. Once the drums are worked out it should only take 3-4 days to finish everything else. So ... I guess this means I have some free time to get out and enjoy the warm weather. I have earned the down time !

5-6-10, How quickly things can change ! I got the storage unit sooner than expected. This song will have to sit on the back burner for a while.

5-18-10, I am still recording the vocals for my first 12 tunes (only 2 left). Once the vocals are completed, I am going to work on "Wilderness Of Mirrors". After that, I will tackle this song. If all goes well, I will be back to this post in about 2-3 weeks. This will be the final song that I work on for my "Crazy Like A Fox" Cd. If all goes well, I will be in an excellent mood when I return. I have the storage facility through the month of June, so that will leave me with about 2 weeks to nail this tune. I'm going to keep my fingers crossed, and hope that my luck continues.

6-5-10, I just finished up "Wilderness Of Mirrors" tonight, so this is the final song that I will work on for this Cd release ! I made it back to this post in 18 days, so I guess I am right in the middle of my 2-3 week prediction. Oh, and yes ... I am in an excellent mood. I technically have the storage facility until July 4th, which sounds like a perfect day to celebrate having all the recording done for this Cd. I think I should have this song done within 2 weeks. It is going to be nice to get back to using the acoustic guitar, which I am thinking about recording at the storage facility. All the natural reverb in there should work out real well. So basically I just need to record the drums, bass, lead guitar and a scratch acoustic track here at home. I am also contemplating trying my hand at some slide guitar on the lead track. Composition wise, I do still need to work out some lyrics and a bridge section. No ideas at this point, but I am sure something will come to me.

6-6-10 (3:30 a.m.), Well so much for waiting. I have already started to put the drum track together. I didn't think it would be overly complicated. A nice straightforward, romping, Rockabilly beat is all that is needed. The groove will pretty much drive through the entire song. I am still not sure if the song needs a bridge section, or not ? I also have all the lyrics for the verses, and choruses, worked out.

6-7-10 (3:00 a.m.), While working on the drum track, my headphones began zonking out on me !! Here all along, I thought the input on my recorder was messed up (after dropping it at the storage facility). Now that the same cutting in and out problem is occurring with the drum machine, it is obvious that it was my headphones all along. I am relieved that the problem isn't with my recorder. I have had this set of AKG Monitor headphones for about 10 years now and they have more than earned their keep (used on all 3 Cd's). I guess I will have to make a trip to Sam Ash today, and buy another pair. Luckily, it's just a minor setback. Hopefully a good pair won't be too expensive. Maybe I will get lucky and they will have my studio monitors in (I currently have their floor model). I have been patiently waiting for about 1 1/2 months for them to arrive. Maybe if I play this right, I will be able to work a deal for the headphones ? We'll see .... (5:30 p.m.) My monitors weren't in yet, but I did a get a nice new pair of Samson CH700 Studio Reference Headphones ($50) !!! I autographed and dated the old pair of AKG headphones and packed them away. You never know ... they may end up being a cool collectible someday. (11:00 p.m.) Alrighty then ! I am having a really productive day. I am almost positive that I have the drums worked out. I came up with a simple change part that should work out alright. Since I am on a roll, I might as well hit the gym and put in a good workout. I will give the drums another listen when I get home. If I like what I hear, then I will record them tomorrow. The new headphones seem to be working well !!!

6-8-10 (3:30 a.m.) Another awesome workout ! I think I was there about 3 1/2 hours. I have started to work a 1/2 hour of cardio into my usual routine. I am listening to the drum track right now, and I think it is good to go. All in all, it is kind of a "simple" song (no pun intended). I will record the track later today, when I wake up. The acoustic, with a capo on the 1st fret, isn't going to be problem at all. It's just a bunch of straightforward strumming ... without a pick (my preferred way of playing the acoustic). I am definitely going to record the track at the studio, because I want to experiment with running 2 recording lines (1 direct and the other through the microphone). This will give me 2 versions of the same guitar track to work with. I am anxious to hear how the acoustic sounds through the microphone, with all the natural reverb in the room. I will just have to be careful not to move around much while recording, so no extra noises bleed through the mix. Before I do this, I am going to record a scratch track, which will make it easier to record the bass line. Since the acoustic has a capo on the first fret, I will have to tune the bass up 1/2 step. This is also cool because it will smooth out the dead frets that I have been having trouble with. Once the bass and acoustic are finished, I will move onto the lead guitar. I am very excited about attempting to play some slide guitar. I have never tried this before, so it will be a new experience. I am positive that I am not going to use any keyboards on this song. (3:00 p.m.) I just got the drum track recorded (my last drum track for this Cd). I also did a scratch acoustic track. After this, I tuned up the bass and did a quick test run. As far as the tone goes, everything sounded good. So, basically I am ready to roll with the bass line. Before I do this, I will need to work out the song keys (I don't want to hit any boner notes). My friends from Illinois left me a text earlier today, so I will probably be getting together with them over the next few days. We might catch a Rays game tomorrow (we're still in 1st place, and Price is pitching vs. Toronto). Anyway, I'm going to go and hit the beach for about an hour or so.

6-9-10 (3:00 a.m.), On a roll ! I just got the bass track recorded. I did raise the tuning up 1/2 step (G#, D#,A#,F). The song operates around 2 keys (F Major during the verses and G# Major for the choruses and change). The bass track makes for a very nice backbone to the song. The tune actually has a danceable beat, which is cool. Religion, when it's done right, should have a celebratory vibe. Well, this was my last bass track for this Cd ! I am sure that whenever I get around to writing another Cd, I will be playing a new bass (hopefully a Ibanez). I have had this Aria Pro (with custom pickups) for about 22 years now. It is one of the few, surviving remnants from my Illinois days. Shortly after moving to Florida (1991), I sanded it down and gave it a custom paint job. Someday I will have my own custom studio, and I am sure that this bass will be hanging up on the wall somewhere (probably next to my AKG headphones). Well, the acoustic guitar track is next ... then the lead guitar. The acoustic is going to be no problem at all. The lead guitar, on the other hand, will be a challenge. Playing slide is a bit tricky. (12:00p.m.) I just found out that my dad (birth dad) is in town. I am going to go over to my brothers house tonight to visit with him, and maybe go fishing tomorrow. (2:00 p.m.) Yes, I am going to the Rays game tonight with my brother and dad. Left field bleachers, Price vs Marcum ... should be an awesome game. (11:30 p.m.) Rays Win !! I had a good time. My brother, dad and I are going to go fishing at Fort DeSoto tomorrow. Should be another good time.

6-10-10. I went fishing today with my birth dad, brother, sister-in-law and their grandson at Fort DeSoto. after that I hung out with my Illinois friends. It was a fun day ! I have to admit that when it comes to fishing I am not very good. All I ended up catching was a good sunburn. I did, however, see a 3-4' shark and a dolphin swam by about 50-75' away from where we were fishing. It was a fun day and a much needed break from the music. My friends from Illinois were also doing well. It was good to see them again.

6-12-19 (5:00 p.m.), I took it easy yesterday, and stayed home in the nice cool AC. It is really hot out ! I might get together with my brother and dad later today. Tomorrow we are going to an art show in St. Pete. On Monday (2 days), I will resume my work on this song. I am thinking that I may just record the lead vocals on the same day that I do the acoustic. This would leave me with just the lead guitar track left to finish. Once the lead track is finished, all I will have left is .... one vocal for "Wilderness Of Mirrors" and 2 possible vocal redo's for "Coming For You" and "Best Days Of Your Life". By Monday, I will have about 20 days left to accomplish all of this. I actually think that I will have it all finished and still have about 2 weeks left to play with. I may then use some of this time to do some mastering. It will be very hot in there, but if I walk away with any final mixes it will be worth it.

6-14-10, I just got done bringing my birth dad to the airport. We had a fun week. Our relationship has always been a bit on the rocky side. There is no doubt in denying that he is a dedicated alcoholic. This has been his lifestyle for a very long time and it has really begun to take a toll on his body. It is sad seeing him in a deteriorating state. That being said, I am not a hater and I don't want to live my life thinking that I am any better than anyone else ... we all have our demons. I have my days where I like to party too. I just don't want it to be something that controls me. Despite all the adversity and bad times that I have had to endure with him, I am still thankful that he is my dad and I do love him. I am also thankful that I had a chance to spend some time with him and share some good memories. Sometimes the greatest lessons in life can be learned by watching other people's mistakes. If his health does take a turn for the worst (which is inevitable), I have the peace of mind to know that we are on good terms with each other. I am also very proud of my mom for riding with us to the airport. She has many reasons to be bitter with him, yet she found the strength to turn the other cheek. I know when he left Tampa, he did so with a smile on his face ... and that is a memory I will never forget. (6:30 p.m.) I am going to put in a good workout tonight ! Tomorrow It is back to work for me. I am going to hit the studio and lay down the acoustic for this song, and possibly the lead vocals too. If I pull it off, all that will be left is the lead guitar track. (11:30 p.m.) I am just too burned out, the workout is going to have to wait.

6-16-10, Finally feeling better today. There is some thundering going on outside, but no rain so far. If no bad weather develops I am going to hit the studio later, and finish up this song (acoustic and lead vocals). With my birth dad and friends visiting last week, I kind of got blown off course for a bit. I only have about 2 weeks left now, and I absolutely need to step up and get this song done. It is possible that I may hold off on the lead guitar, until all the vocal work is done ("Wilderness Of Mirrors" and the 2 possible redo's). The storage unit contract ends on July 4 and I really don't want to have to rent it for another month. So, finishing the vocals is my priority right now.

6-17-10 (2:30 a.m.) Yes !!! I am back on top of the game. After about 5 1/2 hours in a grueling hot storage unit, I am proud to say that I have completed the acoustic track ... and the lead vocals !!! Of course I will have to listen back tomorrow before I give my final approval, but I think it will be good to go. I did do a dual recording of the acoustic (1 mic'd the other a normal line in). I am positive that both tracks are perfect. It's cool because I have 2 versions of the same recording to work with. I also ended up using a pic, the finger strummed approach just wasn't working. The results are excellent. This song ended up becoming a bit of an upbeat rockabilly religious tune. If everything sounds good tomorrow, all that is left is the lead guitar. Awesome !!! (4:00 p.m.) I did it !!! The acoustic and vocal tracks are perfect. The song actually sounds great without a lead guitar track ! Despite this, I am still going to record one. A few tasty leads, or simple rhythmic slides, should add a whole new dimension to the tune. Well, that was my last acoustic track for this Cd. Of all my instruments, my Ovation is definitely my favorite. The approach I used last night to recording the acoustic worked perfectly ! I will continue to use this approach with all my future Cd projects. I ran out of CDRW's, so I wasn't able to backup the song data. I am going to make a run to Office Depot in a couple of hours, when I got back home that will be priority #1. I know I don't have the lead finished yet, but I don't want to lose what I've already finished.

6-18-10, I have started to mess around with some lead guitar parts. I am going to use a slide guitar tuning (F,C,A#,F,C,F). The verse parts are in the key of F Major and the chorus/change parts are in G# Major. The open strings F,C and A# are common notes in both keys. It's just a matter of getting familiar with the tuning, then I will start playing along with the recording and see what develops. I am not going to use the slide all the way through, some parts will be picked. I have never used a slide before, or this tuning, so I am excited to see what happens. I guess this qualifies as another creative moment ... I love it ! I am determined to elevate this tune to another level !! If I get it right the slide parts should add a bit of a swampy/bayou southern vibe to this religious rockabilly song. I am the only person I know of who could come anywhere close to pulling this off. Though not stated directly, the lyrics in the song do kind of pertain to the suffering in New Orleans from Hurricane Katrina and both wars. I can do this !

6-19-10 (2:30 a.m.) I have been working on putting together a really cool slide guitar track. I pretty much have the the intro/interludes, verses and 1/2 the chorus worked out. The change section is going to be the only challenging part. I am still not totally comfortable with the slide, but it is a lot of fun ! It really does add a cool southern vibe to the song. I can do it !

6-20-10, I just nailed the lead vocals for "Wilderness Of Mirrors" tonight. That means that all I have left is the lead guitar for this song, and 2 possible vocal redo's. I technically still have 2 weeks left with the storage unit, so I am now way ahead of schedule. Things are going very well with this Cd. Tomorrow (today) is Fathers Day's so I will take a break a break from the music to spend some time with my dad. I am also going to call my birth dad and wish him well.

6-22-10, I have put this song aside for a couple of days while I worked on designing the front cover sleeve for the Cd. I did, finally, buy some CDRW's so I will be able to backup this songs data ASAP. I don't want to lose the tracks that I have already worked on. Once the lead guitar is done, I will overwrite the data

6-31-10 (3:00 a.m.), I have put the lead guitar track aside while I was working on the graphic design for the Cd. To break the monotony, I went to the studio tonight to take shot at recording it. Well, it didn't work out. On the brighter side I did manage to get a good mix for the song. Maybe that will make future recording attempts a bit easier. For what it is worth, I am really not overly concerned about when I get around to recording the lead guitar. It isn't like I'm sitting idle and not getting anything else done. After listening to the song, it is possible that I may also scrap one of the guitar tracks. The one that was recorded through the mic has a very muffled low end tone that seems to muddy up the mix. If I do so, then I will have another extra track to work with. It is possible that I may even lay down some keyboards on this track. Keys and a lead guitar would make this a very big sounding song. For whatever reason, I seem to do very well with big sounding songs.

7-5-10 (4:30 a.m.) I decided to change from the slide tuning (F,C,F,A#,C,F) back to a 1/2 step up approach (F,C,G#,D#,A#,F). The catchy rhythm slide part I came up with only uses single notes and I think it will be less complicated in this tuning. Besides, the majority of the slide part is played on the high F and C strings, so nothing changes there. (9:00 p.m.) I am starting to put the guitar track together. It's nothing overly dramatic, just some nice melodic rhythm leads. I might open it up a bit during the musical change part, which I will work out when I am recording. I am also going to need to enhance the outro. Maybe I can get it to have an uplifting vibe. That would be a fitting ending to the song, and the Cd.

7-7-10, The lead guitar is really starting to take form. I am experimenting with an alternate approach for the outro. If all goes well, I will probably have the track recorded within a week. The slide parts that I came up with are very catchy, and fit the song perfectly. For the most part it is Slide Guitar 101 ... but it works !

7-8-10, I got the intro, verse and chorus sections recorded today. I was getting tired of putting things off, so I decided to put my head down and get it done ... haste is waste ! I still need to fine tune the change part before I lay it down. I am also working out a cool melodic outro solo. The first half of the chorus, and the outro, are the only parts of the track that don't use a slide.

7-9-10, The outro solo is almost worked out !! I still have to add a few finishing touches, but it is pretty much good to go. This is probably one of the most melodic solo's I have ever put together. I still need to work out something for the change section. It's not going to be anything flashy, just a few slides to accent the rhythm section. I am confident I will have the entire track finished tomorrow.

7-11-10 (1:30 a.m.) Yes !!! I am finished ! This is one of the tastiest lead tracks I have have ever recorded. I ended up alternating between the slide and finger picked parts in the outro (played without removing the slide). The slides I came up with for the change section are perfect ! I am absolutely positive that this song has the potential to be a hit. It is also one of the more danceable tunes on the Cd, and one of the longest at over 5 1/2 minutes. I am sure that the higher powers will be very happy with my efforts. The song turned out to be a southern rockabilly swamp boogie hip shaker with a religious theme. It is such a relief to finally have this tune finished. There is only one word I can think of that is suitable for the end of this post .... Amen !

*** It is also fitting that I finished this song on a Sunday morning ***