Gentle Machine

echoroom

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Description

Well, I'm not sure if I've finshed mixing this, but I've spent so long tinkering with it, I thought I'd post it 'cause I could tinker with it forever. Not sure what genre this is, so electropop will have to do. This started as a vocal line, and then developed into this ... thing. The stuff I've written recently has been quite obviously verse/ chorus, so this structure is a lot looser (well, that's just an excuse for not writing a chorus on this one). Anyway, hope you enjoy it. Lyrically, it's pretty dark, with some nods (steals) from L. Cohen. Music to make strange love to.

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Lyrics

Gentle Machine making me breathe
Gentle Machine, horns and teeth.
I knelt by the archway and whispered your dreams
Liquid and starlit, bleeding for peace.

Gentle Machine, sweetly obscene
Hands that are captive, white noise and speech.
You think this is true love
It's a conceit
A natural drug
I'm helpless for weeks.

This is not (x3)
Desire you can hide.

... and Tokyo girls taste like sushi
The chi surges through me, turns paper to steel.
Your body a dark star I light when we meet
Whatever burns inside
The surface stays clean.

Pictures in your eyes
Only skin deep.
Your head is at war
Your heart in retreat.

This is not (x3)
Desire you can hide.
This is not (x3)
This is not a drug you should try.

Gentle machine.

Your head is at war, your heart in retreat
White noise and speech, white noise and speech.
Your head in the circle, your heart in the cheap seats
You think that it's love
It's a conceit.

Song Stats

Hits: 3810
Comments: 121
Fans: 48
Plays: 958
Downloads: 90
Votes: 36
Uploaded: Dec 28, 2006 - 08:55:37 AM
Last Updated: Apr 12, 2008 - 01:52:51 AM Last Played: Nov 18, 2009 - 05:33:05 AM

Song License

Creative Commons License:
Attribution-ShareAlike

Song Actions

Keywords:

Gentle (11), machine (26), desire (21), sex (79), portishead (3), ()

Hardware:

Keystation 49e
shure SM58
iMac

Software:

Garageband 3
Logic Pro 7

Comments

ktb	ktb said 1060 days ago (December 28th, 2006)
	luv it crushing electric piano sound, nuanced vocals, fab production. what a great track. Steve, this wraps you up and involves the listener from the git go. the vocal fx and background vox are perfect. bravo Check out my latest song called off the deck (w/Z293)

echoroom	echoroom said 1059 days ago (December 28th, 2006)
	production genius Thanks KTB. Every time i listen to one of your tracks, I'm in awe of the production, and the production on this can't touch what you do, but I do appreciate such positive feedback from you. Ta Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

DWL	DWL said 1060 days ago (December 28th, 2006)
	I'm constantly surprised by the quality of the material on here. Really do think that sometimes it's "there but for the grace of God". I love the lyrics on this, wonderful stuff and the production is excellent. Very dark, great arrangement. Excellent. Cheers Dick Check out my latest song called A Good Night's Sleep with Macferret, Sir Dennis Crowther and Pete Young

echoroom	echoroom said 1059 days ago (December 28th, 2006)
	Dark is what we do. Hi Dick - well, this started off just kinda quiet and calm, like the title, but lyrically took a bit of a dark turn. That's one of the interesting things about songwriting - you're never quite sure what street you'll end up going down. Looking forward to the completion of the rock opera, by the way ... Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

announcer

announcer said 1059 days ago (December 28th, 2006)

One of the best cuts I've heard this year
And you'll notice I posted this before 2007 began so this is a real compliment not a back-handed one. Your lyrics are wonderful and wonderfully sung over a perfect musical bed and supported with flawless production.

Your break beginning with Pictures in your eyes reminds me a little of an mid sixties artist named Arthur Brown. Good stuff.

Check out my latest song called It Was a Dark and Stormy Night

echoroom	echoroom said 1059 days ago (December 29th, 2006)
	Ta Hi, and thanks for posting - and i'd take the compliment ever if it was back handed. I really liked the break, and had to force myself not to use it more than once - i think it works just coming in, wringing its hands mournfully, then exiting again. Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

announcer	announcer said 1059 days ago (December 29th, 2006)
	That's why the break is great You have a perfect explanation of why the break is soooooo good. Not only is it tasty but it leaves me wanting more. It means to get more I have to listen again! Perfect!!!!! Check out my latest song called It Was a Dark and Stormy Night

echoroom	echoroom said 1058 days ago (December 29th, 2006)
	Unintended ... that was a completely unintentional idea in the song ... maybe i should use more one-off breaks ... or a whole song made up of different parts ... hmm, an idea is forming ... Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

gregd	gregd said 1059 days ago (December 29th, 2006)
	great tune nice mix of acoustic sounds and electronic. and the lyrics are #$%@in' poetry, even if they're hot property. delicious, -g Check out my latest song called 08nov08

echoroom	echoroom said 1059 days ago (December 29th, 2006)
	dodgy lyrics Thanks Greg - much appreciated. I got some odd looks from my wife aboout the 'Tokyo girls' line, but hey, you open up your subconcious, you can never tell what'll pop out (maybe I should keep it locked). And in effect, I wanted to convey the feeling, rather than meaning with the lyric - it's open to interpretation. Ta Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

SmokeyVW

SmokeyVW said 1058 days ago (December 29th, 2006)

multiple images
this is a great track. i really like the form. to me, it's loosely AABA with bridges, a middle eight? i think the form reinforces the mood of the song.

the vocals are well done, and i agree the lyrics are poetry. i also agree with the comments about the break at Pictures. brilliant!

this song has a great hook - it's still playing in my mind half an hour later - dangerous stuff.

this is a great track. thanks!

Check out my latest song called One For Me

echoroom

echoroom said 1058 days ago (December 29th, 2006)

Waterloo?
Hi Smokey - thanks for the feedback.
When i first read your comment, i thought you meant ABBA (the band), which had me scratching my head (doesn't sound at all like Dancing Quewn), but i see what you mean. I tend to be very blinkered in terms of structure ... this one kinda just drifts.

thanks for the commnets, and for stopping by.

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

SmokeyVW

SmokeyVW said 1058 days ago (December 29th, 2006)

ABBA - LOL
song structure still fascinates me. the tried and true verse/chorus still works and shows up everywhere, but lots of songs go beyond that form now.

in my opinion the form of a song sets up emotional responses. because the form sets up expectations, and the composer can either reinforce that expectation or contradict it, and that adds an emotional response in the listener somehow. good songs balance that expectation and contradiction.

your song does exactly that very nicely.

---
B^)

Check out my latest song called One For Me

echoroom	echoroom said 1058 days ago (December 30th, 2006)
	Structural Ta Smokey - structure fascinates me as well - it's easy to fall into verse/ chorus x3 - sometimes you have to pull yourself outy of that, and just let the song flow where it needs/ wants to. Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

TobinMueller	TobinMueller said 1058 days ago (December 29th, 2006)
	Dreamlike, picturesque metaphors I totally dig the lyrics, the dreamlike intuitive quality, the brilliant repetition in the chorus, and the way you developed the concept within the style on the complementary music bed. Edgy yet always accessible. Totally cool track. Check out my latest song called Forge A New Life (MJRF)

echoroom

echoroom said 1058 days ago (December 29th, 2006)

dreamy
Thanks Tobin - I always appreciate your comments (as i feel like Luke to your Yoda). I originally was going to use a cut-up technique for the lyric, but ended up using ideas that although disconnected, had a kind of internal logic (and hopefully cohesion). My stuff tends to be a bit 'in your face', and i wanted to write a track that was more subtle and muted, but still accessible. I think my ambition is to post a track here that i can call Art-Rock .. not there yet, but I'm heading down that road

Cheers

Steve.

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

digitalnirvana9

digitalnirvana9 said 1058 days ago (December 29th, 2006)

Great Work Steve
This song is very professional and better than 90% of the material out there today IMHO... You have a great talent myfriend, nuture it, let it expand, and pull it from deep in your soul and you will achieve great things, God willing...a very rare 4 X 10 from me and a definite download ....thank you, digitalnirvana9/Norman

Check out my latest song called Blues in the Night 2.0

echoroom	echoroom said 1058 days ago (December 30th, 2006)
	Thank you Norman .. for such kind words. I'm glad you enjoyed the piece. At my age, i think I'm too old for the modern music scene - it's enough just to share tracks in macjams. Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Cameron	Cameron said 1058 days ago (December 29th, 2006)
	this is GREAT and definitely one the best tracks I've heard on MJ. Concept, performance, vox, accompaniment and mix are all first-rate. I particularly like the hypnotic, deliberate tempo and pacing of this piece. Its restraint allows the words to unfold naturally. This song shows that you have a great deal of talent. I'm very impressed! Check out my latest song called EPONYM

echoroom

echoroom said 1058 days ago (December 30th, 2006)

hypnotised
Thanks Cameron - I really tried to make the beats and the vocals the main part to this, with everything else supporting. As a non-musician, it's all musically very simple, but I'm glad that it seems to have conveyed a sense of atmosphere. The track was paced around the vocal, to try and give it a slow, almost draggy feel.

Thanks for commenting

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Scott Carmichael	Scott Carmichael said 1058 days ago (December 29th, 2006)
	a patient durge you pace your angst here in just the right increments to keep us in antisipation... and I have to tell you that that last verse is worth waiting for... perfect I wish I wrote it Check out my latest song called Good Morning

echoroom	echoroom said 1058 days ago (December 30th, 2006)
	Patience? Thanks Scott - that made me smile, as I have no patience whatsoever. I'm happy about your comment on the last verse, as I wasn't sure that the song should end quietly (I tend to go for the big finish usually). Having listened to your latest composition, I take your comments as high praise indeed. Thanks Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

dreadmon	dreadmon said 1058 days ago (December 30th, 2006)
	Excellent Tech-noir; it's as dirty as it is clean. You paint in vivid shades of black and white, the break is Dorothy opening the door into color and then deciding "F THAT!" and slinking back into the darkness of her ruined house. Simply brill. Check out my latest song called Dive!

echoroom	echoroom said 1057 days ago (December 30th, 2006)
	We're not in kansas anymore .. i guess Bing. Thanks for a very evocative comment. And Tech Noir? I may just have my album title! Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

	said 1058 days ago (December 30th, 2006)
	I feel the dark And I really enjoy this great song you have done here . Kudos my friend...Thanx for this one. And a Happy New Year with more great songs. http://www.macjams.com/song/27385

echoroom	echoroom said 1057 days ago (December 30th, 2006)
	Gloomy outlook Hi Skean, good to hear from you again. Thanks for stopping by, and I look forward to more of your experimentation in 2007. Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

I. Spike

I. Spike said 1057 days ago (December 30th, 2006)

Rich layered cake...
I dig the place where this happens - it feels like a place.
Your lyrics are most excellent. Intelligent, poetic, image rich...
I think your voice sounds great on this...
One suggestion - why not do a version with a female voice?
onesweetworld (see link below) would sound fantastic on this, plus I think she'd really dig it.

http://www.macjams.com/artist/onesweetworld
check out the tunes
Last Flower & Sugar & Spice

Check out my latest song called Mighty Cracker Fly

echoroom

echoroom said 1057 days ago (December 30th, 2006)

female Vox
Firstly, pleased to meetcha - i've admired your work for a looong time.
Secondly, that's so weird about female vocals, 'cause i was going to get my wife to sing on part or all of this, but it just didn't happen. I'm going to get her to sing on my current track, but I'll drop by the lady you recommend and see what happens.

Thanks for commenting, and I look forward to more of your excellent work.

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

onesweetworld

onesweetworld said 1057 days ago (December 30th, 2006)

howdy
Thanks for listening to my tunes! It was very nice of I.Spike to "plug" me :-) I really like this song Echo. I could def. take this song to town and accentuate it's beauty even more. Not to mention it's my style completely!!!! I have a bunch of collabs at the moment but I would like to take this on if you don't mind being patient. Geechi3@aol.com

Look fwd to hearing from you!
-Linda

Check out my latest song called Primal Woman

echoroom	echoroom said 1057 days ago (December 30th, 2006)
	Howdy Back Thanks Linda ... I'd be more than happy for you to do yer thang to this track. Will drop you a line ... Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

I. Spike	I. Spike said 1052 days ago (January 4th, 2007)
	Cool... Wow... I'm very interested to see how this turns out. Great song, great singer - I'm thinking that will add up to awesome! Ciao! I. Spike Check out my latest song called Mighty Cracker Fly

Leon

Leon said 1057 days ago (December 30th, 2006)

Wow!
Steve, i didn't see this coming really. When I saw the genre, I was bracing to be rocked. Then the haunting beat oozed out of my speakers and gave me goosebumps right away. I guess I was immediately set into a chilled state as I listened to your song and imagined a furistic romantic theme...sort of like a soundtrack for a sedate scene in Blade Runner.. This is awesome! I am so thrilled with this change of pace from you. Man, oh, man... everything just falls into place. I am so inspired to emulate you in terms of your composing style and lyricism and overall musical sense. And that voice can tame a wild soul! While your other songs have been awesome, this one certainly stands out in so many ways... I can go on and on, but hey...why don't I just roll out the tens and shut up now. LOL.

Check out my latest song called The Nightingale (music and lyrics by Oceans)

echoroom

echoroom said 1057 days ago (December 30th, 2006)

Human?
Hi Leon - great to hear from you - you have been such a big influence on me, and have been such a good friend to me here at MJs. Futuristic romance, huh? You know, i was listening to this track on my ipod, and 'Idiot saviour' came on next - two tracks with a heavy electronic influence. There's a sound there that I really like, and I think that's the direction I'm going to push forwards into in the future - mixing electronics with real fake instruments like piano and strings (and I always think my voice sounds better thru a guitar amp!).

There's a concept here that i really like .. like i said, you're a big influence.

LOL, and have a great new year.

Steve

P.S. yeah, i'm not sure this is eletcropop, but I was kinda stumped as to what genre this should be.

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Mcboy	Mcboy said 1057 days ago (December 31st, 2006)
	wow very simple but hip production encases u r great vocal performance.....fantastic track, enjoyed it much! Check out my latest song called Heros( aclarke/mcboy)

echoroom

echoroom said 1057 days ago (December 31st, 2006)

KISS!
Thanks McBoy - I did try and put more instrumentation into this (after listening to some of the fantastically produced tracks on this Site), but it just sounded cluttered ... so I tried to make it busy, but it didn't suit it!

Debate putting harmonies on this, but again, it just seemed to want something simple (like myself).

Ta

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

moorlandt

moorlandt said 1057 days ago (December 31st, 2006)

splendid
Steve, this one is probably amongst the best vocal tunes I've heard here on MJ lately. Dark, but clear and brilliantly structured, with lots of variation. Congrats on the lyrics as well: 'your head is at war, your heart in retreat' is such a beautiful metaphor. And the vocal performance is truely amazing. Blown away I am for sure...

- Walter

Check out my latest song called boundaries

echoroom

echoroom said 1056 days ago (December 31st, 2006)

dark and dirty
Hi Walter - you know, I listened to your new track, Somehow, yesterday and was really impressed - in fact, i thought we were kind of on the same page in terms of tone and atmosphere - you're a bit of a dark horse yourself. Lyrically, I'm very happy with this - it's themed around two of my lyrical obsessions, desire and sex, but is so oblique that even I keep finding new meanings to it, which i like.

Look forward to more from you in the future ... maybe even a collaboration?

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

moorlandt

moorlandt said 1056 days ago (December 31st, 2006)

aligned
Steve, while I'm writing this, we're not only on the same page in terms of tone and atmosphere, but we are also brotherly side by side on top of the rating picks, with exactly the same score:-) Well, to be honnest, I don't give much about ratings in general, but I thought this was worth mentioning. Yeah, it seems we're very aligned today :-)

- Walter

---
Logic takes you from a to b. Imagination takes you everywhere.

Check out my latest song called boundaries

echoroom	echoroom said 1055 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)
	In tune You're right walter - obviuosly people like the dark stuff. Mind you, new years Eve is a big favourite with suicides .... Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Estella	Estella said 1056 days ago (December 31st, 2006)
	love it Thanks for your comments on my song because it brought me to this song. I love it. The production is teaching me a few things. But honestly, it's your voice that kept me listening. The music and the lyrics are a close second. Your style is compelling. This is great all around, but your voice is a gift. Take care, I'll be listening. Check out my latest song called Este Momento

echoroom

echoroom said 1056 days ago (December 31st, 2006)

Ta Ellie
Thanks Estellie - glad you liked the song, and the production. I've read books and articles on production, but at the end of the day it's just trial and error - you make mistakes along the way, but hopefully you keep improving. I've learned a lot from people at this site. I really like singing in this style - as I've got older, i've lost some bottom range, and this is pretty low for my ... i think i got in shape by having whiskey and cigarettes the night before.

thanks for posting

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

	said 1056 days ago (December 31st, 2006)
	Wow! First time I listened to one of your tracks and I must say you have a great voice. Lyndon

echoroom	echoroom said 1056 days ago (December 31st, 2006)
	And Now for something completely different Hi Lydon ... ditto, there's so much good stuff on this site, it's hard to keep track. Thanks for stopping by ... I'll be swinging on over to hear some of your tracks Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

BranDaMan	BranDaMan said 1056 days ago (December 31st, 2006)
	Excellent I was in love with your 'idiot saviour' but now I have found a new love, this track. Check out my latest song called Giving Up (Instrumental)

echoroom	echoroom said 1056 days ago (December 31st, 2006)
	Bran flakes Hi Bran - ta .. I have idiot saviour on my ipod, straight after this, and they actually flow together really well (Saviour's a bit more up beat). I think this is the kind of stuff I'm gonna do more of (and less 80's guitar indie rock). Thanks for posting - always a pleasure to hear from you. Happy Noo Year Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

jiguma	jiguma said 1056 days ago (December 31st, 2006)
	Oblique Excellent track Steve. The lyrics are superb - the style is something I really enjoy - descriptive and mood-creating but also somewhat oblique. Your musical bed is perfect for the song. Have a great 2007 - looking forward to hearing more of your music. Peace, Neil Check out my latest song called Lost In Translation (w Mike Watkins)

echoroom	echoroom said 1056 days ago (January 1st, 2007)
	Moody Hi Neil, thanks for the comments. I didn't know how this would be received, 'cause it's a dark, nagging track, but the response has really given me confidence to try more in this style. Appreciate your feedback - have a great 2007. Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

kristyjo	kristyjo said 1056 days ago (December 31st, 2006)
	Really good I love the way you sing this - your voice is so laid back, and the sound bed also has a 'lull you to sleep' quality. The lyrics are interesting because they are so obscure - I noticed in the comments that you are finding new meanings for some of the lyrics, yourself. The ending glockenspiel is a nice touch. Check out my latest song called What a Friend We Have in Jesus

echoroom

echoroom said 1056 days ago (January 1st, 2007)

Sleepy
Thanks KJ - I always tend to sing quite loudly and intense, so I had to rein myself back on this. Lyrically, there were a couple of central ideas to this, but it's been nice just to use suggestive images, rather than paint a clear picture .. I've found in the past on songs I've loved that when I've found out what they were actually about, it wasn't what my interpreatation was. I think interpreting a song yourself can make it more personal (though I don't know what Lily would make of this!).

LOL

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

bud	bud said 1056 days ago (January 1st, 2007)
	What a space you create Your playing and production do great service to a fantastic song well sung. Truth is I can't really describe how good this is - the openeness of the structure adds to it's emotional weight - it is what it needs to be. Great work! Check out my latest song called eye for you (w/particledots and michael2)

echoroom

echoroom said 1056 days ago (January 1st, 2007)

Hi Bud...
thanks for commenting .... it obviously takes me a lot longer to write stuff than you.. ..you seem to be producing great work at a phenomenal rate these days. I did put more instrumentation in, but ended up stripping it out, as it just sounded too cluttered. The structure was unplanned, and just kinda evolved .. like the song knew where it was going.
Only trouble is, i probably won't be able to duplicate this (or i'll just rip myself off).

have a great 2007 - here's to more great tracks

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Z293	Z293 said 1056 days ago (January 1st, 2007)
	Very Hypnotic Track This is my first listen of 2007. Great simplicity and vocals. Check out my latest song called The Fine Line

echoroom	echoroom said 1056 days ago (January 1st, 2007)
	which is odd... .. as I think fahreneit was the first track i listened to this year! Yours synchronously Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Ed Hannifin

Ed Hannifin said 1055 days ago (January 1st, 2007)

Perfect. Just perfect.
All the sounds are locked into the groove and sound necessary. The lyrics SOUND like they're about something, something specific... even if, for the life of me, I'm not sure what's going on... It's all right....it FEELS as if something very specific and important is being communicated...

I really like the vocal on this...

Excellent song, performance, production, recording...

Ed

Check out my latest song called Next Time Around (w/jiguma)

echoroom

echoroom said 1055 days ago (January 1st, 2007)

vaguely specific
Hi Ed - well, I think that's a great reaction to this track. I remember reading an interview with some band in the 80's, and when asked about their lyrics, the singer said 'They're about nothing , really'. I thought that was a terrible reply. I've always, first and foremost, got into songs through lyrics (it's one of the reasons I never liked Oasis, 'cause their early stuff is lyrically a bit naff, though they've done some good stuff recently).

But.. I like lyrics to be vague enough so that you can put your own meaning onto them (The Orbiting/ Ledebutant do some nice stuff in this area) ... at the same time, you have to get some understanding of what the song is about. Lenny Cohen is one of my favourute lyricists - although generally the subject matter of his songs is clear, he uses a lot of dark images (actually, the 'archway' line in this song is inspired by Take This Longing).

I could do a line by line disection of this, but i think part of the fun is in peering into the dark, and not quite knowing what's in there.

Thanks for stopping by

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

	said 1055 days ago (January 1st, 2007)
	Hey dude! I got to have the #1 tune on New Year's Eve and that's good enough for me! Allow me the honor of breaking the tie and putting you over the edge where you belong (uhhh...I meant that in a good way). Excellent tuneage my friend! Happy New Year! Be well!

echoroom	echoroom said 1055 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)
	So it was you.. that kept me off the number 1 spot! Hey, it was well deserved my friend, and I've gotta say, I've just been really taken aback by the response to this track. Have a great new year - look forward to more from you in 2007! Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Macaudion	Macaudion said 1055 days ago (January 1st, 2007)
	All I can say is, WOW!... And, Thanks! D Check out my latest song called 123 iGetU

Macaudion	Macaudion said 1055 days ago (January 1st, 2007)
	All I have to say is WOW!... And, Thanks! D Oh yeah, and lots of phat tens!!! Check out my latest song called 123 iGetU

echoroom	echoroom said 1055 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)
	Hey Mac thanks for that... I've got pretty phat myself over the last week. Ta for stopping by. Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

	said 1055 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)
	Another nice tune Really enjoyed this one- and the producion as well. I'll be looking forward to your next one for sure! Happy New Year!

	said 1055 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)
	uhh... dang, I meant "production" I blame the crazy cold medicine I'm on-haha! --- If I can't fix it, it ain't broke

echoroom

echoroom said 1055 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)

Speek and spell
Hey Mikey - you know, I'm sure there's a spell checker on this site somewhere, but damned if I can't find it - I've lost count of the number of times I've misspelt posts. Anyway, glad you enjoyed (or endured) the track ... i think the next one will be a bit more lively (and hopefully quicker to do, as I'm drafting in a proper guitarist).

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

ledebutant

ledebutant said 1055 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)

Speechless
Well, I've waited a few days to come and comment because all I could do was gape in wonder, but I find that I'm still gaping and if I don't say something, my mouth will dry out, I fear.

Steve! Really! STEVE! I knew you had this in you and I'm so glad that you brought it out and gave it to us. From your lyrics, which always make me feel as though I've got to work harder, to your incredible vocal (maybe your best) to the STELLAR production (wow, you learned so quickly) this is a winner and one of the best songs on the site.

I'm so proud of you!

Check out my latest song called Black Star (MJ Live Aid w/jgurner)

echoroom

echoroom said 1055 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)

I'm welling up
Well, finally ... I thought you'd deserted me! I just e-mailed Leon ... you and he were the first couple of people that I 'met' at the site, and your encouragement meant (and means) a lot to me, so when I post a track I'm always interested in your responses (it's an approval thing, must go back to my relationship with my mother). Anyway, I think lyrically we must have a tag-team thing going, as I've been studying yours and thinking 'how the hell has she done that?!'

So ... thanks ... for all of it. The response to this track has been so great ... I don't know if I'll write anything again.
And in terms of production ... I still don't really understand it, but Logic pro was definately worth the money.

Have a great year Lisa

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

composerclark	composerclark said 1055 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)
	not is this is not is Hey, strange love is the only love I know! This is not this is not this is not this is not bad... Actually, it's excellent! I agree with all the raves you're getting; one of the best tracks of 1996 for sure. Therefore: 10-10-10-10 Check out my latest song called Scarlet Nightfall

echoroom	echoroom said 1055 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)
	Th th Th Thank you Hi Clark - thanks for the vote and the comments. I've been quite surprised that so many people have responded so positively to such a dark song. This is the first track from my never-to-be-released album, Songs for Gloomy Lovers (could be a huge untapped market out there). Ta Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Gav

Gav said 1054 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)

Good stuff Steve
Me likes this alot! Very introspective piece. I love the change in the vocal tone at 'this is not..'. Very clever - you sound a bit Bowie-ish at this point especially after the second time. The breaks are great and the production is fab. Like the end - was hoping you were'nt going to fade out at the end and you didnt dissapoint. nice.

One thing that popped in to my head when listening - some choir vocals would suit this somewhere near the end to give it another vocal dimension. Unfortnately I don't have a choir living with me at the moment - so if you think this is a good idea dont come running to me!!

Well done!

Check out my latest song called Understand

echoroom

echoroom said 1054 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)

Not the dame again
Hi Gav - well, now you've gone and done it, pointed out the Bowie thing (EVERY song I've ever posted has had a Bowie comparison comment)- are you just getting your own back for the Bono crack? Seriously though, Dave has always been a big influence (actually, Ian McCulloch is more, but then he was massively influenced by Bowie anyway, so it all seeps through).

Spot on though - introspective is a very good description of this.
I do hear what you mean about the choir - funnily enough, I'm using choir (not real , obviously) on my next two tracks, although that's probably influenced by the new Arcade Fire song, which I have on a permanent loop at the moment.

Thanks for commenting, and good luck with the upcoming competition.

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Gav

Gav said 1052 days ago (January 5th, 2007)

Ha Ha
Sorry bout that mister Bowie.... er.... I mean Steve.!! I rang up Bono to tell him to stop sounding like me btw - maybe Bowie needs a call too?

I havent heard Arcade Fires new track yet - should go get it as their stuff is very fresh and probably one of the most exciting bands for me of late. Will keep an ear out for your tune with Choir stuff when posted - curious to see how you do with something that requires such an organic source - whats the software??

Check out my latest song called Understand

echoroom	echoroom said 1051 days ago (January 6th, 2007)
	Choir Well, i was gonna just use the sounds in Logic, but i think I'll try multi-tracking vocals and see what that's like. My body-balance teacher used to be an opera singer, so i may try and rope her in (ohh er missus). Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Mystified	Mystified said 1054 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)
	Fab! I had to stop by to hear what all the ruckus was about ;) A well-deserved ruckus, for sure! What a great track--so well done in every aspect! I agree with Cameron's comment about tempo and restraint. It works brilliantly here. Kudos! Check out my latest song called Father Time

echoroom

echoroom said 1054 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)

I'll keep the noise down
Hi Mysti - sorry about the ruckus, I'll keep the noise down - how can such a quiet track make so much noise anyway? I must admit the tempo came about mainly due to my lack of keyboard skills, but it's just one of those happy accidents that works for the track. Glad you liked it - I will be winging my way over to check out your tracks as soon as ...
Many thanks

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

MissChaos	MissChaos said 1054 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)
	back again I've listened to this so many times now... and realized I didn't leave a comment during my "drive-by". This is certainly mood music -- of the sultry and sensual persuasion. I love it. Thank you for making it downloadable. Check out my latest song called Mama Cries - Album Version (MJRF)

echoroom

echoroom said 1054 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)

Hey Miss C
.. thanks for returning and commenting, but all this praise is gonna stress me out - I think i'm getting writers block! There's one track i've had for over a year, but never finished 'cause I really like it, and didn't want to mess it up. All this ruckus has given me the confidence to go back and finish it. As for the download ... i'm just glad that it's being listened to.

Thanks

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Youra	Youra said 1054 days ago (January 2nd, 2007)
	Elegant voice and production. Downloaded. Will listen to your other stuff as soon as I can. Bravo. Check out my latest song called Funkaboka

echoroom	echoroom said 1054 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)
	Bonjour ... ..Youra, and thanks for stopping by. If you do get a chance to listen to some other stuff, i'd probably recommend Idiot saviour and Summertime 3.0. look forward to checking out your tracks this evening ... Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

racerat

racerat said 1054 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)

echoroom
I knew the avatar from cruising around, but I had never heard your music.
First of all the production values are sweet. Your vocals are silky, and calming and then whack! they come out of nowhere with some distorted bridge and knocks you on your ass.
Never would have clicked--but glad I did--electropop ain't my thing- but if this is electropop--maybe I got some re-thinkin' to do!

Check out my latest song called Frank's Song

echoroom

echoroom said 1054 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)

RatRace
Hi Racerat - firstly, great name. Glad you noticed my sickly, psychedelic avatar - I really must get a better picture. Thanks for the comments - In terms of genre, I really didn't know what to put this under - its not really electropop, is it (electro-gloom, maybe?).
Look forward to checking your tracks out - Jesus and California is a cracking title, man!

Ta

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

perceptualvortex	perceptualvortex said 1053 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)
	Solid Wow, man this is pretty stunning alright. Great lyrics (and I'm really not a lyrics oriented person) and excellent arrangement... just a polished masterpiece. I think you're ready to make that album. Very impressive. Check out my latest song called Machine Man (w Beastie Boys)

echoroom	echoroom said 1053 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)
	Wha happened? hey dave - I thought you were gonna stop by and tell me what happened to outpost 5 - I'm still trying to figure out the drum track on that. Thanks for the comments, but at my current rate of output, i'll finish the album by the time I retire, and be too old to go on tour. cheers Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Lartin Lane	Lartin Lane said 1053 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)
	The Best this year so far. Alright i know its early days yet but it will take alot to beat this. The production quality is excellent. The Lyrics are poetry and your vocal is strong and confident. Overall its fairly close to flawless. The Downside is I'll probably play this to death. Check out my latest song called Dawn Haze

echoroom

echoroom said 1053 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)

Played to death
Hey lartin - feel free - the only other people who'll ever hear this are my wife and 2 friends, so I'm glad that I have Macjams to put this out into. Thanks for the comments - the lyrics kinda fell into place 'cause I used rhymes with 'machine' for the verses, which gives it a nursery rhyme kinda feel.
I'm still trying to figure out what it's all about myself - I knew when i wrote it, but it's slipping away...

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

dchapman	dchapman said 1053 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)
	Amazing. Probably one of the best tunes I've heard here at MJ. For production and performance. I've been into Bowie's last few cd's and this sounds like it's taken a page from that book. Every aspect of this song was very controlled and deliberate. Bravo. You've made a fan. d. Check out my latest song called Waiting for the Other

echoroom

echoroom said 1053 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)

Control freak
Hi Darren - having just found your new track on here, the feeling is mutual. Made me laugh about controlled, though - I am a control freak in every aspect of my life, not just music.
I've got all Bowies albums, so the influence is definately there - I'm a major Scary Monsters fan, hadn't though of the last two ... I'll have to go and check Reality out now.

Cheers

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

FEEL	FEEL said 1053 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)
	Wow loved the tune... I guess all that tinkering pays off. Interesting way to build this off a vocal line. Thanks for sharing. Check out my latest song called Pigs Fly

echoroom

echoroom said 1053 days ago (January 4th, 2007)

Playing in the dark
Thanks TF. I consider myself a non-musician, in that I can't really play anything live (and would be lost without looping and quantization). So when I write, I either come up with a chord sequence (using chord positions printed off t'internet) or just hum a tune, and then try to figure out the root notes (not very scientific, but its a means to an end). Structurally, I had a basic idea for this, but as i was working on the track, I let things change - the 2 bridge parts just evolved from playing around with the track whilst recording ... i think of it as production through accident.

Ta very much for posting, oh rock god

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

SEAC99	SEAC99 said 1053 days ago (January 3rd, 2007)
	Great Chording. Amazing chords. Seriously. Amazing. I'm new here but its nice to see that there are sum very talented people here. great feel and lyrics to this 2. thanx for this. ((DJ Hi-Fi)) Check out my latest song called Borealis (Original Mix)

echoroom	echoroom said 1053 days ago (January 4th, 2007)
	Rock on, DJ Hey Stephen - thanks for commenting .. whatever the chords were on this, they weren't difficult to play! look forward to hearing some of your track - let me know when you post something Cheers Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

	said 1053 days ago (January 4th, 2007)
	a moment... when a song comes along that is set apart... and this is one of those moments. Tinker on with this song if you must, but it musically and lyrically it satisfies perfectly. Jack

echoroom

echoroom said 1053 days ago (January 4th, 2007)

Endless tinkering
Hey Jack - I remember watching the documentary 'Dig!', and the guy from the dandy warhols saying that 'a song is never really finished' - I know exactly what he means. There's stuff on this song that bugs me now (i realised that some of the phased handclaps were dropped into the wrong place), but there's always a battle, having finite time to spend, on tinkering with old stuff and writing new. despite imperfections, I'm going to leave this alone now.

Frankly, i've been overwhelmed by the response to this.

Thanks for posting - that's a really sweet picture by the way.

Cheers

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

thoddi	thoddi said 1052 days ago (January 4th, 2007)
	pure delight Listening to those great tones you get out of them keys. Just to my taste. Great production. I am playing this through the internal mac speaker now and it has all the flavors coming through. I am just making a new CD of macjams music to have in my car, and this will definitely be on it:) Thank you:) Check out my latest song called Don't tell me what I can't w/KTB and Ingve

echoroom	echoroom said 1052 days ago (January 4th, 2007)
	Simple stuff hi thoddi - so glad you liked this. it's all pretty simple (VERY simple), but effective. I've tried to play guitar, but am tending more towards keyboards. I'll be happy to be on your MJ compilation! Regrads Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Crash Control	Crash Control said 1052 days ago (January 4th, 2007)
	Great Track I don't think I can say anything that hasn't already been said. This is a great track and I really enjoyed it. Very professional sounding! Dave Check out my latest song called The Terrible Beauty

echoroom	echoroom said 1052 days ago (January 4th, 2007)
	Crash rocks Thanks for stopping by Crash, or i would never have checked out your page - I dream of getting guitars to sound like you do! cheers Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

aclarke

aclarke said 1052 days ago (January 4th, 2007)

What the ...?
Guess I'm a little late to the party. Very well balanced and seductive song. Had to listen three times just to get through all the glowing comments- and yes, I can see what the fuss is all about.

Every once in a while someone here posts a totally amazing song that is completely unique and listen-able at the same time. They do not always go hand in hand. This time you are that person... congrats on a tremendous song!

Check out my latest song called Ballad of The Little Tiki

echoroom

echoroom said 1052 days ago (January 5th, 2007)

never too late
Hey Adam - always room for one more.. especially someone with such great taste in face painting. Having such good feedback to this, I've listened back to this track, and it has got a kinda strange structure and atmosphere to it ... unfortunately I've no idea how I achieved this, it just kinda grew, so this is probably a one off. The nice thing I find about songwriting is that you're never quite sure where you'll end up - I don't plan too much, and just flip around Logic looking for sounds that I think will fit (like the rattler in the bridge that sounds like insects). Anyway, onwards and upwards - will swing by your page this weekend

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Alannah	Alannah said 1051 days ago (January 5th, 2007)
	I am becoming .... ... very self conscious after hearing so much professional sounding stuff of late .... this is fabulous (as you have been told by many before me) ... Check out my latest song called I'm Drownin' - Smokey VW (feat Alannah) + Outtaorbit

echoroom	echoroom said 1051 days ago (January 6th, 2007)
	Whaddya mean ... ... Alannah? Having just checked out some of your tracks, you roar like a grouchy lioness over some great tracks ... I'm trying hard to come up to the standrad set by a lot of people on this site ... I feel I'm starting to peak my head over the fence now. Thanks for commenting and dropping by Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Vic Holman	Vic Holman said 1050 days ago (January 6th, 2007)
	absolutly wonderful... ..piece you have built here steve. the category threw me. of course everything throws me off balance. great vocal, so different then your previous tune. and nice arrangement all over very smooth. hail to the machine. Check out my latest song called November

echoroom	echoroom said 1050 days ago (January 6th, 2007)
	hail.. to the machine ... what a great title .. I'll save that for later, Vic. I think the category for this needs to change ... I'll have a think. thanks for posting ... i've been a long time admirer of your guitar toons. steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Bowman	Bowman said 1048 days ago (January 8th, 2007)
	Smooth and Strong Loved the way you let this song unfold. So relaxed yet it holds you for every lovingly caressed moment. Smooth and strong vocals. I really enjoyed this Steve. -Bowman Check out my latest song called The Orion Express - MJ Space Race 2009 by Bowman

echoroom

echoroom said 1048 days ago (January 9th, 2007)

Slow and sleek
Hi Charles - thanks for this, glad you liked it. It's a strange track for me, this, as it is kinda laid back and drifts along. Originally i had all parts except the bridges before and after the second chorus, so the song was a bit more flat, which I don't think worked as well. The two bridges give a bit more colour to the song, which I think holds the listeners interest more ... it kinda gets a bit rough, but then slides back into calmness at the end.

thank for the comments

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Schello	Schello said 1042 days ago (January 14th, 2007)
	,-) Troppo BRAVO! ---------------- Im not musician Check out my latest song called Snozz'en (Cronik Mix)

echoroom	echoroom said 1041 days ago (January 15th, 2007)
	Bellisimo! Hi Schello - glad to hear from you, and glad you liked the track. Look forward to ore stuff from you soon, buddy! Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Parichayaka

Parichayaka said 1028 days ago (January 29th, 2007)

Awesome production!
Wow. Starts out so simple and slowly reveals your amazing songwriting, composing and programming skills. Impressive project, especially like how you blend the different voices. The chord structure around the "Pictures in your eyes..." reminds me of Portishead's glory days. So many things to comment on here, but let me just say that I am sincerely impressed by how you mangage to be singer, songwriter, musician and producer at the same time, and while I personally think it is almost impossible to find the "perfect" mix for a complex arrangement like this when you must have listened to this for countless times, you are doing an outstanding job, and it'll take me a few more times listening to it, to fully appreciate your work here. Sorry for the long comment, I should have just agreed with Cameron!

Check out my latest song called f12

echoroom

echoroom said 1028 days ago (January 29th, 2007)

No Apology Required ....
Parichayaka - it's always good to get feedback. Thank you for your comments, you're very kind. Having to write, perform and produce is a double-edged sword - it's very satisfying to finish a track and be happy with it, but it just seems to take so long. Sometimes the thought of having to write another drum or bass part seems like a real drag. Anyway, you are spot on with the Portishead reference, it was a big influence when working on this track. Looking forward to checking your latest track out.

Regards

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

SickTransit	SickTransit said 1004 days ago (February 21st, 2007)
	Very sweet This is a fabulous track, very sensual. The lyrics are quite good too. Personal, but with a funny side too. It draws you in. Check out my latest song called Godsend

echoroom	echoroom said 1003 days ago (February 22nd, 2007)
	Sensual Hi ST - never had my music called sensual before - what a compliment! As for personal, i find most of my inspiration comes from looking into the dirty, sticky little crevices of my mind ... nice! ta Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

drakonis

drakonis said 998 days ago (February 27th, 2007)

Dang it! Deja vu again...
There was a glitch in the matrix, sorry. I listened to this a month or two ago, and thought I commented, but no. So I listened again today and remember listening before, and will recapture my thoughts. This is superb, right up my darkwave alley. Hints of Bowie here and there in chords and singing though, good soft restrained delivery. Gritty twisted allusive lyrics that I love. Wonderful slow-rolling melody, with refreshing breaks... nice instrumentation, really gives the feel of being trapped in a spiraling addictive affair that you don't want to give up. Hauntingly disturbing, mmmm... I must fave and download and listen over and over...
ttfn,
Drakonis

Check out my latest song called Lullaby for the Inner Child

echoroom	echoroom said 998 days ago (February 27th, 2007)
	Back again.. .. and thank you. This is probably the best track I've written, Drak, and I was really surprised at the response, 'cause it is a bit of a downer. Wonderful comments, that's a fabulous critique you made of this track, I really appeciate it. i think this dark alley is somewhere I should revisit. ATB Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

supraskin	supraskin said 895 days ago (June 10th, 2007)
	re thank you very much,Steve see you soon! ha!very nice,your songs and i like vocals Check out my latest song called Dilem 2007 reloaded

echoroom	echoroom said 893 days ago (June 13th, 2007)
	ThanksSS... ... for the comments - glad you liked it ... really enjoyed babe next door! LOL Steve Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Shimky

Shimky said 889 days ago (June 16th, 2007)

Another good track
This reminds me a bit of Philip Oakey's (Human League) darker vocals - I hope you take that as it's intended: a compliment. Then again, should we ever compare each other to other acts? I, for one, am all for it, unless you tell me my music reminds you of Kajagoogoo!

I love these sort of lyrics where the listener can dream-up all kinds of meanings.

:O)

Check out my latest song called Funeral

echoroom

echoroom said 889 days ago (June 17th, 2007)

Phil!
Hey Shimky, no. that's cool, so long as you don't think my hair looks like Phils' (the curtain cut). I think it's difficult not to compare styles, as it acts as a point of reference for people - I usually get compared to Bowie, which is a great compliment.

I prefer lyrics that give the listener access to interpret the song on their own ... its the sort of thing I love ...like Bowies Ashes to Ashes, or Michael Stipes lyrics ... it helps make the song your own, I think.

Thanks for checking out my old stuff.

LOL

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

Scott Carmichael

Scott Carmichael said 846 days ago (July 30th, 2007)

song craft
hey Steve... I've heard several song that have this understated subdued layed back vibe... but never take advantage of the head room that is available for dynamic lift... so there is all this potential for an emotional lift, that never arrives.. where as here you've set us up so well for those moments that take off "pictures in your eyes" I really love your production choices... supprises... the ellements that you use work so well, and cause me to cock my head..."I wouldn't have thought of that" but, how could it be other than... one thing is certain... much of the emotional dynamic is acheived via your voice & the tension that the etherial lyric provide... mysterious and compelling

Check out my latest song called Good Morning

echoroom

echoroom said 845 days ago (July 31st, 2007)

Mysterious
Thanks Scott. i spent a lot of time on this, trying different things, like the 'noisy 'Gentle Machine' break ... I think with recent work, I haven't put as much time into developing the track ... to impatient. i think this is one of the best tracks I've done ...I love the lyrics, as even i'm not fully sure about the intended meaning!

Thanks for listening, man

Steve

Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

	said 625 days ago (March 7th, 2008)
	Great! Great work here Steve, the music work is brillient. Your singing is stunning as always. Great piece by all means! Thanks a lot for sharing! Take Care - Yeman A. Al-Rawi

echoroom	echoroom said 624 days ago (March 8th, 2008)
	This was the first track i did in logic, so a bit of an experiment, but i think it worked! Check out my latest song called Deeper (w/t Racerat)

dajama

dajama said 573 days ago (April 27th, 2008)

I've been meaning to
go back and check out the tracks of yours that I've missed, and I finally got to this. Hey, what's a year between friends? Ahem...Anyway, I'm here now! And I'm glad I got here. This is a great song, and the production is magnificent. Everything is nicely there in the mix - nothing buried or too forward - and the sounds are excellent. I like the lyrics - dark, sure, but dark in a cool way. "This is not a drug you should try" is a classic line. Massive. And finally the singing is fantastic. It's great to hear you exploring the lower end of your range. I love it. Nicely done. Peace.

Check out my latest song called Across the Wire (MJRF)

edpdx	edpdx said 350 days ago (December 7th, 2008)
	Mellow and sweet song. Your voice is unique and captivating. I like the part around 3:26. Awesome edpdx Check out my latest song called Constellation V.2

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Artist Info

Name: Steve Craig

Echoroom is Steve Craig and whoever else he can get roped into help him doing the proper music stuff. One day I'll list all the collabs. I'm currently an irishman living in Kenya, but can still collab over the internet - thankfully! ... [see more]

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Downtempo music (or DownTempo or down tempo or downbeat) is an umbrella term for a laid-back electronic music style slower than house music (less than 118 beats per minute, possibly beatless) but separate from ambient music. This can encompass specif

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