Gates Of Heaven - A A J Russe
Written 15th January 1988
Recorded 6th March 2022
The Shoebox Demos Vol 1
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This is about as naked as I can get.
This is how I wrote it. It's never had any accompaniment.
I was a bit young to sing…
Isn't This Fun - A A J Russe
Written 1980 (Completed 16th June 1991)
Recorded 6th March 2022
The Shoebox Demos Vol 1
****
I wrote most of this in my first year at university.
But the Shoebox says I completed it 16/06/1991 - and the…
I Want You To Know - A A J Russe
Written 21st June 1987
Recorded 6th March 2022
The Shoebox Demos Vol 1
****
This was to the same lady who inspired Foolishness. There's a couple of others from the same period, related to her, that will…
I Want You To Know - A A J Russe
Written 21st June 1987
Recorded 6th March 2022
The Shoebox Demos Vol 1
****
This was to the same lady who inspired Foolishness. There's a couple of others from the same period, related to her, that will…
Gates Of Heaven - A A J Russe
Written 15th January 1988
Recorded 6th March 2022
The Shoebox Demos Vol 1
****
This is about as naked as I can get.
This is how I wrote it. It's never had any accompaniment.
I was a bit young to sing…
I Hope I Love Them - A A J Russe
Written sometime in 1989
Recorded 2nd March 2022
The Shoebox Demos Vol 1
****
This one has tugged at me for many many years.
I absolutely adored it from the moment I wrote it in 1989... But I thought…
**Song-writing Demo for FAWM 2022**
Song number 1
Written Sunday 6th February 2022
****
OK, this is a bit of a departure for me - posting songwriting demos.
This is a one mic recording made this morning in the living room, touch of reverbs…
First time hearing your stuff. After the first song, I love your writing. I'll be listening through what you have posted for the rest of the day!
Completely agree with RPM. I do enjoy it, however this year, my focus was more on songwriting and having fun. Production took a back seat.
I Want You To Know - A A J Russe
Written 21st June 1987
Recorded 6th March 2022
The Shoebox Demos Vol 1
****
This was to the same lady who inspired Foolishness. There's a couple of others from the same period, related to her, that will…
I Hope I Love Them - A A J Russe
Written sometime in 1989
Recorded 2nd March 2022
The Shoebox Demos Vol 1
****
This one has tugged at me for many many years.
I absolutely adored it from the moment I wrote it in 1989... But I thought…
The Feast - A A J Russe
Written 26th September 1985
Recorded 3rd March 2022
The Shoebox Demos Vol 1
****
This one's been sticking out of the shoebox for a long long while. It always shows up in a list of maybes. And it did this time…
**Song-writing Demo for FAWM 2022**
Song number 13
Written Saturday 19th February 2022
****
UPDATE: 8 Hours after posting I just spotted that I listened to and favourited a song called... um... "We're Done" by oldfolks2 - check it out…
I had your FAWM playlist going and sort of forgot I was supposed to be active listening, but this one pulled me right back into it... then I saw your liner notes. I know the feeling of not being happy with something but needing to get it out, but this is great. I'm curious to see what you do with it, because I think it works far better than you it seems.
You better close the stadium with this one, because all those lighters and voices in unison are going to violate some sort of by-law.
**Song-writing Demo for FAWM 2022**
Song number 3
Written Tuesday 8th February 2022
****
So, here's today's little ditty.
(I don't know whether folks outside the UK would know what a Chelsea Bun is. I love them, they are extremely yum…
I'm a little perplexed at the narrative, but oh what a great narrative it is. That second verse paints a pretty vivid picture, although I'm a little unsure that being denied pastries is an apt consequence, but then Ive never had a Chelsea Bun.
**Song-writing Demo for FAWM 2022**
Song number 1
Written Sunday 6th February 2022
****
OK, this is a bit of a departure for me - posting songwriting demos.
This is a one mic recording made this morning in the living room, touch of reverbs…
Congratulations on the FAWM "win", especially with only 23 days to do it. A great start as well.
I share the sentiment on production. Part of me wants to do RPM next year because I wonder if I had too, could I move fast on production? It sounds a lot more exhausting than FAWM, that's for sure.
**Song-writing Demo for FAWM 2022**
Song number 14
Written Monday 21st February 2022
****
This is it ... FAWM's all finished for me... time for a lie down now.
There's still nearly a week to go, but I'm done, 14 songs written in 16…
Well sir, you smashed this challenge - and ended up with a stunning unplugged album. It's made me want to hear some of your established tracks with similar stripped-down arrangements, leading the listener to concentrate on the sheer artistry of your words and astonishingly soulful vocal. Next challenge for you is the 24 hours album. 24 minutes of original music in 24 hours. I believe it originated on alonetone. Off you go.
**Song-writing Demo for FAWM 2022**
Song number 13
Written Saturday 19th February 2022
****
UPDATE: 8 Hours after posting I just spotted that I listened to and favourited a song called... um... "We're Done" by oldfolks2 - check it out…
**Song-writing Demo for FAWM 2022**
Song number 10
Written Wednesday 16th February 2022
****
I've had the little guitar bit in the middle for years and years and years.
Even my wife recognises it, I play it so often.
Yesterday while…
**Song-writing Demo for FAWM 2022**
Song number 9
Written Tuesday 15th February 2022
****
I decided it was time I wrote a song that wasn't so hard to sing and play!
****
**Once Again - A A J Russe**
Every day
You keep asking…
**Song-writing Demo for FAWM 2022**
Song number 7
Written Saturday 12th February 2022
****
This one was easy to write but hard work singing and recording.
I'm fairly certain this one is high on the list of "arrange me later" - I kept…
Great song writing - loving the sentiment and your tender vox here. I love it when the FAWM and RPM parameters draw out his kind of track, any more of an arrangement would detract from the message - IMHO.
**Song-writing Demo for FAWM 2022**
Song number 6
Written Friday 11th February 2022
****
I was meant to be resting and chilling.
In fact, I was resting and chilling.
But then I got a message from Lala saying she was listening to the…
I Hope I Love Them - A A J Russe
Written sometime in 1989
Recorded 2nd March 2022
The Shoebox Demos Vol 1
****
This one has tugged at me for many many years.
I absolutely adored it from the moment I wrote it in 1989... But I thought…
I was listening to Jims beautiful instrumental and it struck a chord ...so here it is Thanks Jim.....
Shadow of a man (Lyrics)
As i look in the water i see a reflection of what i was
i see the strong man who could have done what ever he wants…
This works :-)
I'm still very fond of the original instrumental, so I was a bit worried what might have happened. But no, no need to have worried... this is great. Obviously the focus is on the vocal instead of the fantastic guitars, but I like the contrast in the styles of the two of you. And great lyrics.
Nice work chaps!
[in memory of YC]
[work in progress - comments welcome]
You say
I doesn’t matter what I say
All the time we spent is gone now
Taken out
You cry
I'm not even asking why
Your head's up in the sky now
Your alive
When I ask you to explain…
Faved when I was only one minute into it.
For me, even as a work in progress, this is a powerful performance of a powerful song. I'll have to check out more of your stuff.
According to John this lyric was inspired by the weird visions of a former sports reporter who now thinks the people in high political places are actually lizard men from space. :D
Lyrics: John Williams
Composed by: Andy Gupta
Vocals: George…
I like this.
Whether it's intentional or not, I have to admit I imagined lots of glittery costumes, long hair, beards, and possibly make-up... (and Whispering Bob Harris introducing them on the good ole Old Grey Whistle Test) lol
Lady Jane's one woman band! No loops today - I got all my instruments out - all being guitar (played with plectrum in neck without realising - oops!), bongos, rain stick, ting sha bells, tibetan singing bowl and tinkly bell thing from my miniature…
Wooden Sam
Mike Basil: Lead Vocal
Gary Miller: Rhythm Guitar
Mick Lovering: Lead Guitar
Andy Gupta: Bass
Todd Vierra: Drums
John Scunziano: Lyrics
Composed by Steffen Offermann & Mike Basil
Mixed & Mastered by Steffen Offermann…
IMO John sounds like David Essex. :)
Music: Steffen Offermann & John Green
Lyrics: John Green
Vocals, Lead Guitar: John Green
Rhythm Guitar: Henry Mittnacht
Mix & Master: Steffen Offermann
This one is loosely based on the Frog and the Princess. What if the Frog was really a man but with a less than perfect face? If beauty is only skin deep, why is ugly to the bone? Can't someone less attractive be beautiful inside?
Enjoy.
ER
I've been listening to a good bunch of yours this evening, most of the King Arthur's Knight set and selections from everywhere else. I was too busy listening to type any comments!
I love how you seem to be able to take anything and everything and turn it into a song. I've kind of learnt something here, not sure what it is yet, but many thanks!
This is really effective. Not a style I listen to much, but after checking out your other tracks I had to come back for another listen to this one. Kinda sneaks up on you.
Lyrics:
You think you know what you’re talking about
You get your way when you scream and shout
Look all around, you’ll find someone to blame
I’m just a pawn in your little game
I thought you were special, that was my mistake
You thought…
I haven't listened to one of yours yet that I haven't liked.
We get the spirit of Lemmy, Lee Brilleaux, a "fired up" Clapton, and countless others... good old honest rocking and swinging stuff.
Glad I discovered you this morning - excellent stuff, keep it up sir!
Loving the strat and harp on this one.
Oh yeah, the spirit of whatever it is that gave us Motorhead, Dr Feelgood, and all that superb British RnB back in the 70s is alive and kicking in Nottinghamshire...
Loving this stuff.
Comments on Andrew Russe's stuff
A little bit of magic ...
Very good ..... afraid the 80's are so far away for me ..... old age ;)
Top notch my friend ....
An enjoyable listen, and a little different.
This is beautiful.
Poignant, affecting. Something everyone can relate to. I'm glad you were able to revisit this old song, and I also hope recording it was cathartic.
First time hearing your stuff. After the first song, I love your writing. I'll be listening through what you have posted for the rest of the day! Completely agree with RPM. I do enjoy it, however this year, my focus was more on songwriting and having fun. Production took a back seat.
Funny I don’t get stalker vibes but I can see if one knew the backstory that might be the outcome. Another great piece of writing!!
Sparse and beautiful
This is a good listen.
I had your FAWM playlist going and sort of forgot I was supposed to be active listening, but this one pulled me right back into it... then I saw your liner notes. I know the feeling of not being happy with something but needing to get it out, but this is great. I'm curious to see what you do with it, because I think it works far better than you it seems. You better close the stadium with this one, because all those lighters and voices in unison are going to violate some sort of by-law.
I'm a little perplexed at the narrative, but oh what a great narrative it is. That second verse paints a pretty vivid picture, although I'm a little unsure that being denied pastries is an apt consequence, but then Ive never had a Chelsea Bun.
Congratulations on the FAWM "win", especially with only 23 days to do it. A great start as well. I share the sentiment on production. Part of me wants to do RPM next year because I wonder if I had too, could I move fast on production? It sounds a lot more exhausting than FAWM, that's for sure.
Well sir, you smashed this challenge - and ended up with a stunning unplugged album. It's made me want to hear some of your established tracks with similar stripped-down arrangements, leading the listener to concentrate on the sheer artistry of your words and astonishingly soulful vocal. Next challenge for you is the 24 hours album. 24 minutes of original music in 24 hours. I believe it originated on alonetone. Off you go.
Glad you didn't bin it! Liking the driving feel - immediately hooky also.
A sweet almost-lullaby - glad this one found a home in your February. So very pretty.
Really love this melody and the breezy feel. Some gorgeous little acoustic guitar runs in there too.
Great song writing - loving the sentiment and your tender vox here. I love it when the FAWM and RPM parameters draw out his kind of track, any more of an arrangement would detract from the message - IMHO.
Woohoo! Logged in and back from Brighton. <3 Can now fave this utter classic.
Hauntingly sad and beautiful
Comments made by Andrew Russe
This works :-) I'm still very fond of the original instrumental, so I was a bit worried what might have happened. But no, no need to have worried... this is great. Obviously the focus is on the vocal instead of the fantastic guitars, but I like the contrast in the styles of the two of you. And great lyrics. Nice work chaps!
Faved when I was only one minute into it. For me, even as a work in progress, this is a powerful performance of a powerful song. I'll have to check out more of your stuff.
I like this. Whether it's intentional or not, I have to admit I imagined lots of glittery costumes, long hair, beards, and possibly make-up... (and Whispering Bob Harris introducing them on the good ole Old Grey Whistle Test) lol
This is a mighty fine track.
When I read "electronic" in the about descrition I thought "oh...", but I have to say I loved this.
Wow, I love your harmonies. Excellent version.
This is gorgeous, just gorgeous.
I'd like to hear your voice more prominently as well, but it does work well like this (I just like vocals!) Lovely feel to it, big smile music.
Ooo yeah, like this one. A lovely "tight but loose" feel.
Not convinced he sounds like David Essex - ok, a bit maybe - but he's got a fabulous voice. And his guitar playing's rather tasteful too. Nice one.
I've been listening to a good bunch of yours this evening, most of the King Arthur's Knight set and selections from everywhere else. I was too busy listening to type any comments! I love how you seem to be able to take anything and everything and turn it into a song. I've kind of learnt something here, not sure what it is yet, but many thanks!
And before I knew it I was listening to this one a second time as well! I like what you're doing. You guys have opened my ears up a bit this evening.
This is really effective. Not a style I listen to much, but after checking out your other tracks I had to come back for another listen to this one. Kinda sneaks up on you.
And this is gorgeous.
Just following my nose, and I found this... Wonderful
Mighty piece of work. An excellent timeless kind of song, wonderfully captured.
I haven't listened to one of yours yet that I haven't liked. We get the spirit of Lemmy, Lee Brilleaux, a "fired up" Clapton, and countless others... good old honest rocking and swinging stuff. Glad I discovered you this morning - excellent stuff, keep it up sir! Loving the strat and harp on this one.
Classic. A cover of a song written for a spoof, that goes to show what a good RnB song it actually is. Love it. Excellent harp playing.
Brilliant version, just brilliant.
Oh yeah, the spirit of whatever it is that gave us Motorhead, Dr Feelgood, and all that superb British RnB back in the 70s is alive and kicking in Nottinghamshire... Loving this stuff.