I wrote a song a couple years back that was very different from most songs I write. This song didn't use a piano; it was just under 2 minutes long and was unconventional in almost every way. I get a little nervous any time I start writing a song that wants to break the typical "unwritten" rules of songwriting. Even in instrumental music I find it a good idea to generally follow the verse - chorus - verse - chorus - bridge - chorus - end structure of songwriting.
This song which will be on the new album is called Prelude. I guess you could say Prelude could be classified as an introduction if you want to get technical, as it plays a very transitional role to the song I wrote about an Estonian forest.
It takes place on the water before you reach land and discover a very enchanting, mystical forest. The air turns misty and time seems to stand still around you. A haunting flute plays out from the distance and sets the stage as you drift towards a shoreline barely visible through the fog. A series a keyboards are carefully mixed and layered together creating an effect of mystery and enchantment. An ancient Middle Eastern flute mixed with a special reverb completes the mix giving the song a mesmerizing, almost spell-binding feel.
More than anything I want this album to connect. It follows a journey which I've described as a tale of exploration and finding yourself. While this story tells you a lot about how the songs were written, the most important aspect of the entire album is the message it conveys emotionally. The songs talk about life and various challenges and feelings I've experienced. If I do my job correctly, those emotions will communicate and connect with the listener. While I enjoy sharing the story with you, it's really a secondary way of communicating the emotion. It really comes down to how you connect with the music as the listener.
Progress in the studio is going very well! I'm well over half-way through the recording process and still working hard. Amidst all of this I've also been working on a brand new recording using the new piano. I'm planning on debuting this recording in a couple weeks, along with some sheet music and a newly remastered single! Until then - it's back to work ;)
-Kevin
