The rainy Des Moines skies are reminding me of the time I spent living in Portland, OR! As the grass brightens into various shades of green I’m listening to an early mix of “The Telltale Heart,” one of songs on our upcoming album, Telltale (To be released this summer). My favorite part? Honestly…it feels so good to hear a guitar solo on a Finn Miles album!
Usually we don’t do this kind of thing…but hey, we like to share! Take a listen to “Telltale” and let us know what you think!*
*Since this mix we’ve brought the vocals down and added tambourine…for all you tambourine fans…
I have a late, breaking announcement. My very talented singer/songwriter pal Steve Kelting will be joining me at our Mars Cafe (Des Moines, IA) acoustic show on May 2nd. Steve has a great voice, toe-tapping rhythm, and will be sporting a Boss loopstation. Yes, this man can layer music like most people can layer butter and syrup on pancakes.
Tonight I had a friend ask me to help him with songwriting..which for me is a bit like trying to explain who a person should marry. It’s an elusive task; it’s a personal affair; one that seems elusive, even when you feel that you’ve written a few good songs.
Just as a hint as to how MY process usually goes, I often start with a lyric (lyrics or music first? That’s another huge debate!) For instance, I’ve had the follow lines floating around for a few weeks.
Sign of the Times -
If you are a sign, a sign of the times, I must be heading the wrong way
Away from the flashing, crashing calvacade
Oh, mystery in the eyes of a neon design
eyes like slate on the interstate
Is it good? I don’t know yet. Maybe I’ll sit down with a guitar or keyboard and play around with the feeling..the idea. When I read the lines above I hear cars, see flashing lights, desperation…lonliness. Perhaps a late night escape from man-made noise and light pollution. So…that’s the key. Zero in on the feeling, then let the feeling dictate the music and the rest of the words.
That’s generally what works for me. What works for you?
If you like Simon & Garfunkel style sweet harmonies will excellent, insightful, and “eternal” songwriting then I implore you, go see Storyhill in Zumbrota, MN tonight. Really, it’ll change your life for the better.
I saw the fantasitic duo last night in Ames, and it was a breath of fresh air. If you’ve been looking for a bit of illumination, a little inspiration…make the drive and see them live.
Or…if you really can’t…go listen to their music online and buy a couple of discs. You won’t regret it!
