Learning What I Already Know by futzpucker
Genre: Jazz (instrumental)
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Description:
This is the title cut of my CD (if I ever finish the last song, which I’m still working on). I learned many things – non-musical things - during the course of composing this CD, and I noticed that almost all of what I was learning I already knew – I had just buried the knowledge somewhere inside of myself. The process of facing my own self-imposed limits was a very eye-opening experience. I had many moments of introspection and soul-searching. This song, I believe, embodies that look inward – at least it did at the time for me.
I hope you hear its soul...
Photo of Sea Ranch, Northern California, by Siobhan Kelly. Used with her kind permission.
I hope you hear its soul...
Photo of Sea Ranch, Northern California, by Siobhan Kelly. Used with her kind permission.
Lyrics:
InstrumentalHardware:
Keyboard and various sound modulesSoftware:
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MarkHolbrook
Now I go listen... I know thats cheating but I'm sure I'll like it!
magnatone
FUTZ!! This is beautiful - and I love the sentiment the song has taken on - we should all remember that - we do already know so much. Your instruments in here are gorgeous - wish I had the slightest clue how you're doing this - it sounds live, real, and sublime. Wonderful piano as usual, but I love the atmosphere around it equally well. THANKS for posting it (finally!)
futzpucker
I appreciate your encouragement to post this, Karen. And you certainly have a clue - at the risk of redundancy, your music is spectacular. Thanks for listening and for this generous comment.
haribo
i always dig the sweetness infused with sublime sorrow
very sensual ;)
futzpucker
Sweetness infused with sublime sorrow... I love that. Having just heard your magnificent piano impromptu pieces, I am amazed by your musicality. Thank you so much for listening.
MarkHolbrook
Knew I would.
The mix is amazing... So clean, so clear, so crisp!
Great sounds throughout. Electric piano/acoustic piano... This has the works and played by a master!
Simply gorgeous!!!
futzpucker
I'm very pleased you like this song, Mark. I did enjoy playing the two different piano sounds (acoustic and electric) in different ways on this piece. I appreciate your kind comment. Thank you.
MarkHolbrook
And it just gets better and better!
This ranks up there with Sierra Madre in my opinion Futz. Amazing piece of work. Amazing vision in this one!
Bubowski
An instant fav. Beautiful blending of timbres. Love the Wurly sounds that come in and out. Great playing and an FM ready mix to be sure. Your posting has made my day. Let us know when the CD is officially out!
--Graham
futzpucker
I always enjoy hearing from you, Graham. Thanks so much for listening. So glad you like the song. I will certainly let you know when the CD is finished. Thank you, Graham.
I felt very moved listening to this Futz and extremely emotional
as though I had gone on this roller coaster journey with you.
It also sounds very beautiful in a meloncholy way, if you know what I mean. Anyhow that is what i felt from listening, for what it's worth.
Peace Dee.
futzpucker
I am so glad to hear this song moved you. I appreciate your letting me know that. I hope your roller coaster ride ended smoothly and was enjoyable on some level. Thanks for the comment, Dee.
Moviz
feel in those sounds and that piano playing is out of this world. I love the intermittent ponderous sounds and the fantastic percussion parts. Something to be really proud of.... the mix is heavenly, I love this, regards M
futzpucker
Oceanic feel... That's a wonderful description. Thank you. I'm very pleased this song brought you some enjoyment, Maurice. Thank you so much for letting me know.
Feter
very soulful indeed with alot of fine waves of sound
all in and out of this song ...loved the almost
hidden piano right behind ...excellent ? brilliant ?
no ..its a gem ..thank you for sharin !!!
futzpucker
Thank you for your very nice words, Mr. Feter. You remain an inspiration to the members of MacJams. Thank you for all you do here. You contribute in ways I don't think you're even aware of. Thank you.
J.A.Stewart
I can hear the soul... I can picture myself sitting on that bench, quietly contemplating the serene beauty that surrounds me... and then my spirit taking flight to survey it from a distance. It's a wondrous journey, as is this tune, filled with so many interesting feels and touches.
Hope to see your CD soon, my talented friend. Put me on the notice list.
As far as your experience is concerned, Patrick... the years know much that the days never notice. ;)
--- Joe
futzpucker
Your comments are compositions in themselves. You have a gift with words, and a gift for making a composer feel like the work he did was worth the effort. I cannot thank you enough, Joe. And I love the quote - it hits home. You have my great gratitude.
guitapick
...hear it's soul...?
As present as the sun, clouds, moon, stars, and sky...beautiful, Patrick...great, great piece. Smooth with a funky edge. Cool guitar part...love it.
Looking forward to your CD...
futzpucker
To get a mention of a guitar part from such a talented guitar player as yourself is quite a treat. Thank you, Bob, and thank you for your wonderful words here. They mean a great deal to me.
ktb
and I like it. The tension in the progression and the very cool voicings you use give it a fourplay vibe and you run with it. Master production chops. The drums and bass sound like the real deal? Especially dig the great jam that develops using the string pads (towards the end), just strikes me as so sweet the way you lay in that piano.
futzpucker
As you would imagine, I always love to hear from such a high-level keyboardist as yourself, John. I'm very pleased you like this song. I appreciate all the things you mentioned. I know you listen with your production ears, so your comments are valued. Thanks so much.
jiguma
Very cool Grusin/Ritenour feel - Lee must be off buying more beer during the recording of this track ;) Lovely mix and your playing is just perfect. If I had to find a nit (and of course I don't, but I will), I'd like to hear just a tad more of the drums in the mix - it seems that it would be good to have the cymbals in particular, but also the snare and kit, breaking up the mid-heavy keys with some more sparkle.
The soul is definitely in the house tonight.
Cheers,
Neil
futzpucker
So great to hear from you. Those are formidable names you mentioned - a comparison of which I am not worthy, but I still appreciate. I am glad to get your viewpoint on the mix. I will keep it in mind for my next song. Thanks for your kind words - they are highly valued.
Ed Hannifin
It seems like it has been ages since I've heard something from you, Patrick...
This is headphone candy. I love the intermingled keyboard timbres, and I love the tone and phrasing of the bass... The mix is nicely solid without being squashed, and you have nicely subtle panning. I particularly pick up on subtlety because it's something of which I am incapable...The drums against the piano are particularly fine...
And you get extra points for a perfect title.
Ed
futzpucker
I am very grateful to get a comment about the bass. I do put a great deal of effort into that instrument, and it pleases me you paid attention to it. Thank you. And to mention the title... Your comment was wonderful to read, Ed. I am very grateful.
regulus
well thought out and executed. Lots of interesting layering and great consistency with the theme.
It's a keeper. I'm taking this home with me. Makes me think of the Vogal guy during the 80'e's and the girl friend who loved to play this mood at the close of the day.
High points from me.
futzpucker
I'm glad you like the layering. I often wonder if I'm overdoing it in that regard. I'm pleased you're taking the song home with you.
I'm afraid you've got me at a loss concerning Vogal - I am not familiar. But the spirit of your comment is well appreciated. Thanks for listening.
dirigent
You already know I love your music. Had to come here to tell you again :-) A brilliant track, wonderful choice of sounds, bravo!!!
futzpucker
I hold you in very high regard. I have great respect for your musicianship. To hear this from you is a wonderful gift for which I am very grateful. Thank you so much, Andreas.
dlb
Lovely piece of music Futz' very enjoyable. Excellent production work very pro.
futzpucker
Dave, thanks for listening. As I understand it, you are more of a blues guy. When people enjoy music out of their genre, I am always gratified. Thanks for letting me know.
ziti
this is exquisite. you bring me to tears.
you are the greatest composer, arranger.
wootwoot
all my respect always, patrick f
futzpucker
Your respect is highly valued, and returned in kind. I'm greatly rewarded by your appreciation of my music. I hope you understand that.
MissChaos
Patrick, this is another awe inspiring piece. I love the huge stereo feel and new-age instrument selection. The harp bits remind me of Vollenweider. It's got great changes and dynamics, but I absolutely love the beginning, more pensive part. Those melodies pull me in and I love the light touch on the piano. Someone once used the term "delicate complexity" to describe a song I wrote and I never fully understood what that meant -- but I now know what it means because your music embodies that description. And that's precisely why I love your music. You're such an inspiration.
futzpucker
I always enjoy hearing from you. It's very gratifying to me that you enjoy my music, as I am a fan of your wonderful compositions. I'm listening to Voices of Arctic Insomnia as I write this. To have the composer of that song and other very high-quality work use the word "inspiration" is a very high honor, and I am grateful. Thank you, Stacy.
Roxylee
Yeah, I can hear it. Deep uncoverings of what had been almost forgotten. Such good playing and mixing... Ahhh... just sublime. :-)
futzpucker
I'm very glad you listened and left me this nice comment. I'm pleased that this song reached someone with your depth, Roxy. Thank you very much.
composerclark
I hear your soul here, and I like it! I am blown away by the sound! Everything sounds so fantastic, and so transparent. You keep me guessing as the music unfolds... never sure where you're going, but I always like where you take us. It has a soulful coolness and elegance.
I is always wonderful to hear more music from you.
futzpucker
Clark, I am always honored when you listen to my music and leave such generous comments. I am grateful you take the time to listen - what you say carries much weight. Thank you.
Peter Greenstone
Really a nice and cozy piece of music. Soothing and alive. Everything sounds well placed in the composition and in the mix.
I really enjoyed this and wish you luck on finalizing the CD and getting it out there. Slick work, Futz.
futzpucker
Peter, in the four-plus years I've been member I have heard thousands of songs posted here. "Somewhere Over Greenland" is in my top three all time. My respect for your artistry as a composer and performer is very high. I am pleased to have you write a comment about a song of mine. Thank you very much for listening.
Skean
I have taking this in now, the first part give me a happy tears in my eyes and then the joy filled my soul with love feelings.. This is a master piece by all means .. Kudos Sir
futzpucker
Even though English is not your first language your use of it here is completely charming and goes right to my heart. I am moved by what you said. Thank you so much for that gift. Please accept my gratitude, Kenta.
drakonis
Hehe... this has some similarities to another piece of yours I loved... (and made a video for :-) Very smooth glide, but propelled forward with a confidence in mood. There may be introspection here, but what you find when you look inside makes you smile as you stride forward with purpose.
The only teeny critique I could possibly offer, is that in headphones, the moderately-fast panning of the guitar (and electric piano?) at the outset was a tiny bit distracting, but only barely, and as more instruments came in, it was no longer so.
I loved the strength & sound of the bass, and overall this is a really nice relaxing upbeat piece... warm and enjoyable, perhaps that is where the introspection shows :-)
ttfn,
Drakonis
futzpucker
I always know that when you listen to a song of mine it has really been listened to. All composers want the deep listen that you consistently give the people about whose songs you comment. Thank you for that.
I have always been a fan of auto-pan on electronic pianos. I think the next time I use it I will experiment with making the effect more subtle, to make sure it doesn't distract. Good point, and thanks for bringing it up.
I'm glad you liked the bass. That aspect of my music doesn't inspire many comments, even though I spend a great deal of time and effort to get it right. Thanks for noticing.
gail60
I love this Patrick. Your musical talents are many and I am always impressed by your amazing abilities. This is just beautiful and so easy to listen to. Made me feel calm and very relaxed. Lots of soul in this one and I could definitely feel it. Thanks my friend, awesome job!!!
futzpucker
It's always a pleasure to hear from another pianist, especially a very skilled one like you. I consider your telling me that this song helped calm and relax you a wonderful gift. Thanks so much for letting me know. I'm very glad you like this piece, Gail.
kassia
I LOVE this one. So smooth - a spoonful of sugar makes the medicine go down. The introspection and lessons learned - you have such an incredible talent of communicating thoughts and emotion through your music. Groovy beats - the percussion in this just blows my mind. And your piano performance - superb. And at 2:40 when those echoey pizzy strings come in - my favorite part. A wonderful tune for sitting on a bench in the Santa Cruz twilight watching the tide flow in.
futzpucker
With all the percussion loops created by the pros being used these days, sometimes I wonder if I shouldn't use them too. This comment will make me push that decision down the road again. I love creating percussion tracks, and it's great to hear someone appreciates them. Thank you for your wonderful words, you very talented musician and composer...
Char
but help following behind you on the path you clear?
Music is a language like no other. With sound alone you can be engulfed in the feelings of the composer and it happens without your volition. It is inexorable, a matter of course and of course, it matters. How very generous of you to post this here. There is an expression, "No mean woman cooks well." That might sound sexist, but it is an old expression. Let me offer, (after all, it is my comment):
"No mean human can write music well." You must have a beautiful soul! I needed some uplifting. Many thanks.
futzpucker
It's very difficult to reply to such a lovely, generous, poetic comment as this. I am so moved to read what you wrote here, Char. Thank you for this wonderful gift. It is a composer's dream to reach people in this way. I am very grateful for your having taken the time and effort to express how this song made you feel. Thank you very much.
chipan
This was such a delight to listen to. I'm amazed at your musical refinement. This is so balanced and pleasing to the ear. You really know how to create a mood and a musical landscape that draws the listener in. Thanks for sharing this with us.
chip
futzpucker
Thank you for your kind remarks here, Chip. I always want to draw the listener in, and if this song did so with you, that is very gratifying. Thanks for letting me know.
Ibstrat
is incredibly well done.Your piano sounds are wonderful and the playing is top-notch.The whole thing flows perfectly.You really put a lot of soul into this.
futzpucker
As I have mentioned to you, I have a sizable playlist of your amazing music in my iPod. I highly value a comment like this from a musician I admire so greatly. Thank you very much, Mark.
davisamerica
2nd listen ... you found my weakness .. laid back and cool ... amazing patrick .. mind if i download??.... and thank you!
futzpucker
I am honored you wish to download this song, Jack. I'm very pleased you find it worthwhile. Thanks very much for listening - twice.
Hi Futz, smooth instrumental with beautiful piano. Love your work!
futzpucker
Great to hear you enjoy my music, Mr. Boss. I love having access to the spectrum of sounds I have collected over the years, but the piano remains my favorite by far. I'm glad you like the piano on this song. Thanks for commenting.
Sir Bass
Nice
futzpucker
Thanks, and nice to meet you.
I will have to hear your music, Sir Bass. In the meantime, thank you for listening this song.
Einarus
Sorry I'm late for this one - been neglecting my "Macjammic" duties this summer - but I'm here now, so better late than never, right?
Now, I love this, and I'm not just saying that.
You have such a laid-back and relaxing sound and the piano sounds exquisite. I also love the smooth electric piano in the beginning. Oh, and what was that guitar sound sweeping through the first minute? It sounded pretty real, whatever it was.
A lovely piece of music.
You never disappoint!
-Einar S.
futzpucker
It's always great to hear from the resident young genius of MacJams. You are an excellent composer and arranger, and I am grateful when you take the time to listen to my music. That you enjoy it is a wonderful thing for me. Thanks so much for telling me.
The guitar you hear at the beginning of the song is a software instrument, and I played it as I've seen my brother play guitar from time to time: starting each note with the volume down and immediately after hitting the string turning the volume back up, creating a slow attack. I have worked on the note-bending technique for years. I'm still not sure I have it down. I was pleased by the by the guitar sound in any case. I'm glad you noticed it.
Thank you for your kind words, Einar.
kclements
A really nice mix on this tune. Love the piano lines - but the fact that it doesn't dominate the tune is special. I tend to focus only on the piano, and you have done a great job of turning the focus on and off the piano. I like how you pick up the groove around 1:25. Reminds me of Bob James.
The mix really breathes - all the instruments fit in their place. Nice use of various instrumentation. Lifts the tune to another place.
A great piece! Keep working on that last song and get the CD out.
Kayle
futzpucker
Well, of course you tend to focus only on the piano, Kayle - you're a great player. If I had your ability on piano I'd likely do the same...
I appreciate your comments about the mix, and though I am unworthy of a comparison to someone like Bob James I appreciate the mention.
I'm very pleased a musician of your caliber enjoys my music. Thanks for letting me know, Kayle.
kclements
Thanks for the nice words. I maintain that I hear some Bob James in your playing. Looking forward to hearing more.
Cheers -
Kayle
Mcboy
notes and sounds are just magical for the intro....very sweet playing, lovely melody.......strings in the middle sound gorgeous and propel the tune along nicely......i get a bob james vibe(haven't heard him in years) that is just wonderful....hats off to ya!
futzpucker
Bob James... Great to hear that comparison from you. Again, I believe I am unworthy of such a comparison, but it's still great to hear from a top-level musician.
You always give a great gift to we here at MacJams fortunate to get a listen and a comment from you. I hope I get a chance to do another project with you.
Bowman
Highly professional yet not at all "slick".
Sorry I'm so late to this but I'm very happy I found it and you.
A very enjoyable listen.
Best,
Charlie
futzpucker
No problem with being late. Nice words like yours are always welcome. Thanks for leaving a comment. I'm pleased you enjoyed the listen.