Please note this is an archived topic, so it is locked and unable to be replied to. You may, however, start a new topic and refer to this topic with a link: http://www.banjohangout.org/archive/276431
schlange - Posted - 12/23/2013: 16:21:24
Hi Folks,
With all the recent activity re: backing tracks, I've decided to create my own versions and upload them. Backing tracks have been such a helpful practice tool for me (and many others) that I would like to see the BHO with a large and growing archive of them.
Far from infringing on anyone's rights, backing tracks uploaded to our the jukebox are legal and actually end up paying the artist money, since we pay license fees to ASCAP, BMI, and SESAC.
I started today with Foggy Mountain Breakdown. I used Dave Marshall's original BIAB file and applied the Bluegrass Pop (100 RS) style to it so it uses real instruments. I created several versions--70, 90, 110, and 130BPM, and each speed with and without a banjo.
One thing that bugged me about the BIAB backing tracks I've heard in the past is that they're too quiet. So I ran these through Audacity's compressor (2/1) then had it do make-up gain so the overall volume is much higher. Much better!
As always, you can find these and other backing tracks by searching the music archive for the playing style "Backing Track". (Or just click here to see the list of backing tracks.)
If any of you BIAB experts have any ideas on improving these without me needing to put a lot of extra work in, let me know.
schlange - Posted - 12/23/2013: 17:31:36
Salt Creek
Merc70 - Posted - 12/23/2013: 19:34:48
Thanks Eric, I was hoping somebody would make a consistent set of backing tracks that was well organized. Are these tracks easily searchable or do we have to come back to this thread for them?
pickNgrin - Posted - 12/23/2013: 19:42:25
Thanks Eric!
Here is a contest idea... make up a backing track (possibly at several speeds) with a unique chord progression, and see what people can do with it.
schlange - Posted - 12/23/2013: 21:24:09
quote:
Originally posted by pickNgrin
Thanks Eric!
Here is a contest idea... make up a backing track (possibly at several speeds) with a unique chord progression, and see what people can do with it.
Hey, I LOVE that idea! Let's do it in May! Just need to come up with a fun progression.
schlange - Posted - 12/23/2013: 21:28:53
quote:
Originally posted by Merc70
Thanks Eric, I was hoping somebody would make a consistent set of backing tracks that was well organized. Are these tracks easily searchable or do we have to come back to this thread for them?
As always, you can find these and other backing tracks by searching the music archive for the playing style "Backing Track". (Or just click here to see the list of backing tracks.)
gospelman97 - Posted - 12/24/2013: 03:52:17
Great news Eric! I'm looking forward to using your tracks.
I see that the two songs you have posted so far are instrumental numbers. What I have noticed about some of the backing tracks for vocal songs posted on the BHO is that they don't give the extra measure or two between the break and when the vocals would typically start. It always confuses me because that's not how these type of songs are performed on stage or in jams when someone is singing. Maybe you can take this into consideration if you post some vocal numbers like "Down the Road," "The Old Home Place," and "Blue Ridge Cabin Home."
I'm not sure if these extra measures could be added without confusing folks or not, but I thought it was worth mentioning to help the songs have more of a jam feel. It would also give us a more defined way to work on both our lead breaks and backup. Thanks for all of the good work you do here with the BHO and have a merry Christmas!
Edited by - gospelman97 on 12/24/2013 03:54:29
Tim13 - Posted - 12/24/2013: 10:30:12
Eric, this is a great idea. This is a very valuable service to your members, especially those that can't afford the BIAB software. I like the fact you are keeping the name structure the same for each file to make searching easier.
The only thing I'd change is to include the key in the title.
Thanks for doing this.
Tim
Edited by - Tim13 on 12/24/2013 10:44:12
Tim13 - Posted - 12/24/2013: 10:39:52
quote:
Originally posted by gospelman97
Great news Eric! I'm looking forward to using your tracks.
I see that the two songs you have posted so far are instrumental numbers. What I have noticed about some of the backing tracks for vocal songs posted on the BHO is that they don't give the extra measure or two between the break and when the vocals would typically start. It always confuses me because that's not how these type of songs are performed on stage or in jams when someone is singing. Maybe you can take this into consideration if you post some vocal numbers like "Down the Road," "The Old Home Place," and "Blue Ridge Cabin Home."
I'm not sure if these extra measures could be added without confusing folks or not, but I thought it was worth mentioning to help the songs have more of a jam feel. It would also give us a more defined way to work on both our lead breaks and backup. Thanks for all of the good work you do here with the BHO and have a merry Christmas!
The only problem I see with that Bryan is every bluegrass group favored different pauses to get everyone ready to go again. Flatt & Scruggs and the Osbornes favored 6 beats, and Jimmy Martin and JD Crowe favored 8 beats, while others didn't put the extra beats in. Most of the jams I go to are beginner slanted, and the extra beats usually aren't added. I think adding the beats is more advanced, and often times more how a band works out the phrasing of a song. I can see it either way. I guess consistency would be the key here, since I suspect these files, like the old ones that were removed, will be used by beginners mainly as a practice tool for timing, and jamming preparation.
Tim
schlange - Posted - 12/25/2013: 11:20:00
Messing around with BIAB options more, I've created a style that includes a mandolin in the mix, but no banjo. See attached.
What do you think? Do we even need a backing track version with banjo, or could I just create them all like this--then you just add your banjo?
ultramax - Posted - 12/25/2013: 12:18:52
These are awesome practice aids, thanks! Any chance you could do one for Blue Ridge Cabin Home and Sunny Side of the Mountain?
Texasbanjo - Posted - 12/25/2013: 14:36:26
If I can figure out how to turn my BIAB files into MP3 files, I have literally hundreds that I could add as backing tracks. I have an older version of BIAB and don't have any idea how to do make an MP3, but will work on it and see if I can figure it out.
I do have a backing track for Blue Ridge Cabin Home and maybe one for Sunny Side of the Mountain.
schlange - Posted - 12/25/2013: 15:49:25
Texas: you can send me the files if you'd like--I could make them into MP3's.
One way to convert to MP3 is to export the file as a wav file, then open it in iTunes. Right-click it in iTunes and choose "create MP3 version" (or something like that).
There are other MP3 converters out there besides ITunes, too.
ken61 - Posted - 12/25/2013: 18:07:08
It would seem that a basic tutorial on how to use BIAB is in order. The more members who can use it, the more files we can get made.
I have a 2006 version and would be glad to help if I knew how to use it.
Thanks everyone for all the effort!
ken
RB4picker - Posted - 12/25/2013: 21:15:35
BIAB actually has the capability to create mp3 from within the program itself.
David
jcland - Posted - 12/26/2013: 04:15:43
I have been a BIAB user since back in the early days (1988) when it came on a floppy disk and thus I have extensive knowledge of the program.
Before this confusion gets out of hand, I need to add a very important caveat for those who have OLD versions of BIAB.
It is impossible to create backing tracks with the quality of those that have been uploaded by Schlange unless you have at least version 2009.
The reason is that starting with version 2009, PG Music added what they call Real Tracks, sampled instruments. Pre-2009, the only option was to use MIDI, which for bluegrass is OK but not great and is certainly not in the category of Real Tracks.
Another important item: In the "General Midi 1" standard, there is no Mandolin instrument defined and the banjo sounds are not that realistic. Back then, if you wanted a mando chop, you had to use a Kalimba sound (GM # 108). It worked but you could tell it was NOT a Mandolin.
Bottom line is if you want to create your own backing tracks to sound as good as what Schlange uploaded, you need to get a post 2008 version.
I just upgraded to version 2014 and I am very happy with the current release.
Visit pgmusic.com for more info.
Merc70 - Posted - 12/26/2013: 05:25:53
Eric- To answer your question about banjo vs. no banjo. I prefer without the banjo.
Texasbanjo - Posted - 12/26/2013: 05:47:38
Well, if I do figure out how to make an MP3, maybe some members would appreciate a backing track that didn't sound quite as good as the new ones. If I figure it out, I'll listen to it and see if I think it would be worth sending to BHO.
pickNgrin - Posted - 12/26/2013: 07:18:12
I also prefer them without the banjo.
schlange - Posted - 12/26/2013: 09:08:12
quote:
Originally posted by CreekRunner
BIAB actually has the capability to create mp3 from within the program itself.
David
Newer versions do--I'm not sure when they started doing it, but older versions can't if I remember right.
The way the newer versions make the MP3s is kind of hokey/clunky, too. I prefer to just make a bunch of wav files, then convert them all to MP3 at once. It's faster. :-)
schlange - Posted - 12/26/2013: 10:13:57
Alright... continuing to fine-tune things. I think I'm pretty set in how I'll do these.
I've created a style that includes bass, mando, fiddle, and guitar. I've mixed them in stereo so the mando and fiddle are in different channels, which sounds nice. Guitar is also panned left some.
Let me know what you think!
pickNgrin - Posted - 12/26/2013: 12:13:04
quote:
Originally posted by schlange
Let me know what you think!
Excellent! I can't wait to try these out (I'm going to have to wait till the house is empty after Christmas break). I like how the fiddle is mostly absent during the banjo breaks, and then plays a realistic solo at other times, which allows one to practice backup. Are these completely done with BIAB (i.e. 100% digital)? I have heard other ones where the fiddle played the chord progression, but it didn't have the right rhythm. These seem to fit well.
All backing tracks that people make are appreciated, but frankly some leave a little to be desired. It is good to have such high quality backing tracks available. I would rather have a small number of great ones than a large number of "meh" ones. Thanks for doing these!
-Matt
Edited by - pickNgrin on 12/26/2013 12:18:50
Merc70 - Posted - 12/26/2013: 12:31:44
I agree with Matt, these tracks are really well done.
it would be nice if the Media Archive search allowed me to specify who posted it. That would theoretically allow me to zero in on these high quality tracks, although I guess I will be able to tell because of the naming convention you are using.
Thanks a bunch for doing these!
Tim13 - Posted - 12/26/2013: 13:35:32
quote:
Originally posted by Merc70
I agree with Matt, these tracks are really well done.
it would be nice if the Media Archive search allowed me to specify who posted it. That would theoretically allow me to zero in on these high quality tracks, although I guess I will be able to tell because of the naming convention you are using.
Thanks a bunch for doing these!
You could always create a juke box playlist for yourself that would include only these backing tracks.
BTW, this latest iteration sounds great. I think you've found a good formula here instrument wise, and it sounds about as close to bluegrass as BIAB will let you get.
Tim
gospelman97 - Posted - 12/26/2013: 15:48:11
Sounds great Eric. I like the fact that you boosted the volume. I can't seem to get some of the backing tracks that I use loud enough using my computer speakers. As soon as I start playing my banjo, I lose the beat. The new ones that you have made are great.
5-Picker Tim - Posted - 12/27/2013: 06:46:07
Great job Eric... thank you so much for all you do for the banjo community.
Tim
schlange - Posted - 01/09/2014: 10:43:08
Just uploaded 12 more backing tracks:
- Ballad of Jed Clampett
- Banjo in the Hollow
- Cripple Creek
- Cumberland Gap
- Fireball Mail
- I Saw the Light
- I'll Fly Away
- John Hardy
- Old Joe Clark
- Wabash Cannonball
- Wreck of the Old 97
- You Are My Sunshine
As always, these can be found by searching the Music Archive for Playing Style=Backing Track. Here's the full list of backing tracks on the site (184 as of right now).
Raulin de los Bosques - Posted - 02/02/2014: 23:47:56
Thank you Eric! Really well-made and inspirational.
I've started using them for practice and they're great. I shot a vid jamming over your FMB and Cripple Creek backing tracks and loaded up onto youtube - I added it to the video archive here on Banjohangout.
Cheers!
Raúl
Edited by - Raulin de los Bosques on 02/02/2014 23:48:22
schlange - Posted - 02/04/2014: 08:43:31
I keep adding more of these.... here's the latest bunch.
BJD - Posted - 02/26/2014: 06:37:53
Thank you, so much, Eric. These backing tracks are extremely helpful for practice. I appreciate these very much.
RollAway - Posted - 02/26/2014: 06:55:11
This is just great! Thank you so much. I just recently purchased BIAB because of the recommendations on this site, and it has already started to improve my playing.
This may be a silly question, but I was wondering if these backing tracks are intended to be played on BIAB, and thus display the chord progression (I'm at work so I can't test it out). Or, do you just download them and play them off your computer? I assume the latter and, if so, I wonder if it wouldn't be helpful for us to post the measures/chord progression for each tune.
pickn5 - Posted - 02/27/2014: 05:39:34
Eric, another thank you here. Yesterday, I checked for backing tracks for Banjo In The Hollow and Cripple Creek and found them with ease. I also like the tracks without banjo. You have a top notch site here.
March 1st, I start on Boil Them Cabbage Down.
Edited by - pickn5 on 02/27/2014 05:42:31
schlange - Posted - 02/27/2014: 09:44:04
quote:
Originally posted by pickn5
Eric, another thank you here. Yesterday, I checked for backing tracks for Banjo In The Hollow and Cripple Creek and found them with ease. I also like the tracks without banjo. You have a top notch site here.
March 1st, I start on Boil Them Cabbage Down.
Just uploaded some Boil Them Cabbage Down backing tracks--just for you! Glad you're using them!
pickn5 - Posted - 02/28/2014: 06:26:29
Wow, thanks again.
barbbanjo - Posted - 03/04/2014: 22:14:03
Eric, when I go to the media archive, I can't find the backing tracks. After I click media archive, there is no link to the backing tracks? What am I doing wrong???
stanrabb - Posted - 03/05/2014: 04:40:14
Great job. Very useful. Thank you!
buckholler - Posted - 03/05/2014: 06:16:45
Very cool. Maybe someone will post Reuben's Train in D.
schlange - Posted - 03/20/2014: 09:34:28
Realized I hadn't updated this thread in a while, so here are more backing tracks I've uploaded recently:
- Red Haired Boy
- Wildwood Flower
- Do Lord
- Two Dollar Bill / Long Journey Home
- Blue Ridge Cabin Home
wifeof1 - Posted - 03/20/2014: 19:53:24
Mr. Schlange, Could you please change your picture to something more calming. I'm trying to practice using your backing tracks, but with you gawking at me like that, it makes me nervous.
60spicker - Posted - 03/21/2014: 10:15:43
Eric, you are a true Godsend for those of us who need exactly what you're providing. May I make a request? A long version of Sally Goodin. The secret to that tune is to be able to play it in many different ways. Thank you so much.
Oh, and I love the new photo! Much more approachable, lOL.
Edited by - 60spicker on 03/21/2014 10:16:20
schlange - Posted - 03/21/2014: 14:42:23
60spicker--your wish is my command! The progression is played a total of 24 times in these tracks....
ScratchJohnson - Posted - 03/21/2014: 14:53:15
quote:
Originally posted by wifeof1
Mr. Schlange, Could you please change your picture to something more calming. I'm trying to practice using your backing tracks, but with you gawking at me like that, it makes me nervous.
It was a bit disconcerting :)
wifeof1 - Posted - 03/22/2014: 11:37:04
Thank you. Pressure level to be perfect is wayyyyy down. Kinda like having my music teacher go out side and shut the door to critique my last weeks lessons.
tbab2057 - Posted - 03/26/2014: 09:11:19
Thanks for the cool backing tracks, Eric. Those are the best backing tracks I've ever heard. I just discovered this yesterday and I played along with several of them yesterday evening. Great practice.
I have no experience with BIAB but the sound of the instruments in these backing tracks is great, sounds like real instruments and it's a lot of fun to play along with. I never had much interest in playing along with MIDI electronic sound tracks or drum machines. It's much more fun to try and emulate playing with other musicians. This is the closest thing that I've ever heard.
For playing along with my banjo, I prefer the tracks without the banjo.
I have one request now. New Camptown Races, in Bb.
Thank you again for your time and effort.
Raulin de los Bosques - Posted - 06/15/2014: 23:57:41
Eric, please, if requests are allowed, any chance of a backing track for Farewell Blues? I've been practising this tune but can't get it to the right speed. Perhaps using a backing track would help... Thank you!
crankcaseNZ - Posted - 07/14/2014: 06:16:19
quote:
Originally posted by ken61
It would seem that a basic tutorial on how to use BIAB is in order. The more members who can use it, the more files we can get made.
I have a 2006 version and would be glad to help if I knew how to use it.
Thanks everyone for all the effort!
ken
Just wondering if the suggested tutorial for BIAB ever came into fruition? It looks like a rather complicated package.
TheCrow - Posted - 07/14/2014: 18:58:01
quote:
Originally posted by schlange
Let me know what you think!
Two Salt Creek Tracks in "A" @ 115, none in "G". I'm too lazy to listen and tell you which one's mislabeled.
schlange - Posted - 07/15/2014: 08:39:31
quote:
Originally posted by gschaps
quote:
Originally posted by schlange
Let me know what you think!
Two Salt Creek Tracks in "A" @ 115, none in "G". I'm too lazy to listen and tell you which one's mislabeled.
Whoops. Fixed!
Tim Purcell - Posted - 07/16/2014: 20:31:50
Great job on all the backing tracks, Eric!.......I need to use these in my recordings.
Tim
