frailin Says:
Wednesday, November 14, 2007 @11:40:12 AM

First, I think it's great that you're using music to help you understand (and communicate) your feelings.  I'm sorry for the situation that's led to your inspiration, but you're certainly channeling the energy well (into music versus some other, less beneficial medium or pastime). 

Hopefully, what I'm about to say will make sense. 

There's both joy and melancholy in your music, yet you play them both pretty much the same.  I'd encourage you to feel more of what you're playing and think less.  Getting all the notes right isn't what this tune is about.  It's a story.  In other words, you might consider slowing down certain phrases or emphasizing/deemphasizing parts of the tune. There's a story in here.  Next time you play, think of it as your story and see where the emotions take your music. 

I'm really interested in hearing you play this a few months from now... after you discover what's in there (and you) and just how rich this tune can be. 

Nice job, Mike.  You should feel really good about this! 

Craig

mbk Says:
Wednesday, November 14, 2007 @11:52:20 AM

Craig -- thanks.  I was thinking of slowing this down, as well, so I really appreciate the comment.  When I listen to it, I thought, wow, that is just too fast and to much of a flurry for the story I want to tell.  Thanks again for your helpful comments and more than kind words.  Mike

mrphysics55 Says:
Wednesday, November 14, 2007 @2:02:50 PM

Brother Mike,

I can adapt this one for a dance tune. The progression will raise an eyebrow or two but the musicians will like it!

Thanks for sharing.

Eddie

ps. I plan on "stealing" both of your tunes. By the time I butcher them they won't be recognizable!  lol

steve davis Says:
Wednesday, November 14, 2007 @5:05:03 PM

I liked how the descending E note ends on the C# and then tries again to get to the C as if struggling, but persevering. Thank you ,Mike.Please surprise us with more...4 1/2 stars(gotta leave a little room for growth)

joelolson2 Says:
Wednesday, November 14, 2007 @7:45:36 PM

Hey Mike, I don't know a lot about frailing, but from how you describe your style it sounds like you're creating your own personal niche--your own sound. I think that's cool. Anyone can learn to copy the great players, but carving out your own style and communicating in your own way musically is what it's all about. Pete Wernick says, "if it sounds good, then it is good." Your tune sounds good to me! I like the rhythm; I like the interesting and almost jazzy chord sounds I hear. It's a melancholy tune, I think, and that makes sense to me when I read what inspired you to write it.