JLSC INTRA-FORUM CONTEST #4

SONG CRITIQUES BY

ALEX CALVO

 

ARTIST & SONG

RANK
on 11

RATING

COMMENTS

01-Lee Alexander
Someday

4

8

 A like this song a lot. It grows on you the more you listen to it. The vocal mix should be more in front (a bit). It reminds me of Jimmy Buffet. Nice job. Great acoustic playing!

02-Melina
Oedipus Rex

9

6.5

 I never liked classical greek literature. Actually, I really never gave it enough of a chance. That being said, I didn't like this song. However, you're obviously extremely talented. It's just not my style.

03-Joe Huettner
One More Mile

2

8.5

After re-reading the rules and regulations I realized that I had issued the same score more than once (to my top picks). This is my favorite song here, so far. So I'm increasing the score a bit.

I really like the way this song has a non-traditional approach to verse (in terms of pace and quantity)! It doesn't follow the cookie-cutter process of songwriting. Good job! Keep breaking the mold...

04-Mike Tricker
Lifetime of Love

7

7

 It started out like a Disney hit. But, I didn't like how the song developed. You may want to rework the middle and end of the song a bit...

05-David Tallent
Don't Run Away

10

5

 Obviously you have rhythm. However, I'd lose the effects on your voice and just do your best belting it out. I don't like this kind of music however. Sorry.

06-Alex Calvo
Anaconda

 

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07-Nancy G. Brundrett
Lost and Found

7

7

 You're very talented Nancy. However, the song was a little blah and complex. It seems like you have all the right ingredients to write a really excellent folk song. Your melody should be a little simpler. Apply the same concept to music that the Shakers did to furniture. It should flow a little easier. You shouldn't have to work so hard to write music. It should write itself. Very Zen don't you think? I loved your nature pictures!

08-Don Lyman
I Am Here
(new song)

6

7.5

 I might as well be first again :)

There's a hint of America's "Ventura Highway". Actually, it may be more than a hint. That being said, you know I'm one to enjoy good guitar rock. I like the solos/riffs through out the song...

Nice job!

09-Robert Field
What She Said

10

5

 Way too much reverb on your voice. The synth piano sounds a bit cheesy too. Of course, this is coming from someone who also has been accused of using too many effects ;)

I like your voice Robert. It's got a lot of potential. It's different from everyone and you sing from your heart. Lose the effects and go back to the basics (e.g., real piano, acoustic guitar, no effects). That is what I am going to do from now on!

10-Jeremy Haynes
Piety and Greed

4

8

 Jeremy, don't I know you from somewhere? ;)

You know I love this song. However, the keyboard solo always seemed a little out of place to me (like it doesn't quite go)...

It's a winner!

11-Joro
Chasing Sunsets

1

9

 It's beautiful man.

12-Hazelglow
Happy Just Being Here

3

8.25

You have an awesome voice! The recording quality is flawless. I love the horn section too. Very intimate!

 

 

03-Joe Huettner
One More Mile

UNUSED

 

8

 Very catchy song. I'm assuming your vocals are mainly for demo purposes and you'd rather have Sheryl Crow sing this song :) It could be a real winner!

08-Don Lyman
Just Words

UNUSED

 

7

 I think the MP3 is garbled. However, I was still able to make out most of the song.

Here's what I thought...

The song reminded me of Harry Chapin (at the beginning). I really liked the beginning. However, the song gets a little lost and can't find its direction through a memorable chorus. Not that you need a chorus per se but the song does try to set off in a different direction and this is where it goes astray...

It is really evident that you are a professional musician/songwriter. Nice job!