Artist: AndyF
Title: Remember the Night (Vocal Version)
Link: here OR Download
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Here's an artist I haven't heard from for a while. Another name who stretches back at this games a few years - I first reviewed him in October 2003 with Di Da Mix -AndyF specialises in music of a classical/film nature. As you well know, this is not always my favourite genre because I certainly don't feel qualified enough to comment to any substantial degree. I either like the track or I don't. However, in several collabs AndyF has worked with some very good collabs with the likes Of Deggsy, Dawn Diamond, and (on this track) a new vocalist to me, Nicky Moran. Remember The Night is a three way collaboration; AndyF made the music, Dawn Diamond wrote the lyrics and Nicky sings it.

I have to state here that IM(very)HO Andy's music does tend to be somewhat 'easy listening' as I've mentioned a few million times in the past. Hey, he worked with Mr Smoothie for cripes sake!! (ed: I think he is referring to Deggsy). There is a place for this kind of music though, especially when it is performed and produced to this level. Because I have an inbuilt hatred of anything even remotely smelling of 'show tune' I approached this track quite carefully the first few times, unsure about whether it was going to get to me or whether I'd be violently ill. Mind you, even the name Andrew Lloyd Webber is enough to make me hurl chunks so that should tell you something...

Nope, what I started to notice after more than a couple of plays what a beautifully crafted peice of work this is, musically, vocally, everywhichway. Dawn Diamond is a well-known and respected Soundclick singer and songwriter and can be counted on to deliver quality lyrics and Remember The Night is well up to her usual standard. So is the classically influenced musical backing track provided by Mr AndyF, an ideal setting for what has to be one of the best vocal performances it has been my pleasure to hear in a good while. All this, mind, from a genre that regularly makes me gag. It should go some way towards showing how much I rate all the elements that make up this beautiful, beautiful track. Special mention though to Nicky Moran's vocal performance; a diamond set in gold. Great tone, excellent flourishes and a heartbreaking sense of vocal delivery. All three of you should take a bow; this is a rare, rare track...

MUST HAVE (and I HATE the genre!!)

Artist: ANDYF

Title: The Last Galleon

Genre: Classical : Film Music

0:00 - 0:06:

The first thing you hear with this track is a mix of a sea waters rushing against a shore, a bell toll, and the creeking of floor boards, which ignite the feeling of a ship about depart on an epic voyage.

These layers of sound work nicely to build an immediate atmosphere, and help to prime what comes next:

0:06 - 0:35:

The strings. I like the repetition of the run of notes the strings use to create a familiar melody which at this point, I hope is a basis for the rest of the peice. The bell sound overlapping the strings works quites well, and brings a thickness to the song.

0:35 - 0:54:

The addition here of a faint drum roll helps to build the track to 0:40, where I was expecting a bit more of a harmonious flow. I find some notes hard to deal with here like at 0:44, as it feels out of place and a negative when I was expecting a positive epic run.

0:54 - 1:08:

I like this section. There are still a few negative sections, which I find hard to warm to, however for me it largely flows nicely.

1:08 - 1:28:

A lot of this section feels unstructured and a bit messy to me, however, I feel that without the addition of 'movie visuals' and an idea of the scene it can probably be heard out of context. I am one that likes structure, distinctive melodies, and a particular form, so a lot of this is going against my nature. The addition of the chimes at 1:18, I feel, are slightly too close/loud in the mix, and thus feel out of place.

1:28 - 1:48:

I am glad to hear the familiar run of notes that we heard in section 0:06 - 0:35. This brings me right back immediately, and I feel I am somewhere known again. Personally, I like pieces like this when there is more of this kind of foundation, with parts stemming from a known source (or run of notes/familiar melody).

1:48 - 2:04:

I like how this section adopts a more singular stance with the disapearence of the backing strings through most of the section. For me, the crashing symbol feels out of place, as it is not placed at a significant building point of the piece.

2:04 - 3:16:

The familiar melody you created early on, and repeated occasionally up until here is now sorely missed. I feel very displaced when I am lacking familiarity, and so this part certainly makes me uncomfortable.

Having thought about this a bit more, perhaps my distain is actually something you manufactured on purpous and you are influencing the way I feel. Perhaps you are trying to convey a feeling of 'lost at sea', 'confused' and almost frightened at the mess and dislocation when at sea.

I like the positive build up at the end of this, which prepares us for our familiar melody:

3:16 - 4:53:

I like this section, and have wamred to it, the harmoney/main tune, even more, despite the odd negative fragments of sound which I can find hard to take in.

I particularly like 4:32 sustained chord, as it really does propel my imagination into epic territory.

Good work here, largely enjoyable listening, conveying and sparking a lot of imagination within.

4:53 - 5:30

The track takes a bit of a change here, which at first I didn't like, but the faint harmonies built in the background are very pleasing to decipher.

The build up from 5:25 to the familiar section is well executed.

5:30 - end.

I'm glad you seem to be finishing on your very recognisable melody, as it provides firm ground for the listener to disembark from. This, I picture, is like a heroes welcome home. I did, however found the use of the very penetrative drumming and symbols at the end (6:07 - 6:14) slightly too high in the mix, but this is not really that important.

The reappearence of the creaking boards, the bell and the shore works well as an outro, and allows the listener to reflect on the rollercoaster of a piece they have just experienced.

All in all: I enjoyed the atmosphere created here, even with the disharmonious areas which I found hard to absorb. Your melodies are different, and in some places unclear, however this adds to the mystery and imaginary world you have created.

I would have liked to see what a clearer development of the main melody could do for the rest of the piece, as well as the addition of one or two 'sub-melodies' which are distinct and clear, so the audience have a few more points of location throughout the track.

So ultimately, I feel the main melody could have been developed further, and from it, sub melodies or mini melodies could have been created. However, if, as I suspect, you set about trying to partially disorientate the listener, so they feel what a sailor or captain may feel, then you have mastered this terrifically.

Well done. Absorbing work. Good luck.

this is very peaceful. Odd of Mark to mention tea because I happen to have a nice hot mug of white tea and this tune suits it perfectly. Really nice piano work, along with the strings as well... keep it up, man!
      electric salmon - 18 February 2006
i was just going to say what deggsy said! just the stuff to sit down on a sunday with a cup of tea and the papers...its really professional sounding, and imho could easily be used on film/tv/library music.
      MarkS - 18 February 2006
Just Caught this m8....and what a a excellent piece from you agai....alog time but well worth the wait ...really enjoyed every minute if it ....i love the piano m8 up and down the scales...flows very nice ..smooth stuff for a sunday listen ..although its only Saturday..;)
      Deggsy 2 - 18 February 2006
Aah, that's the perfect music for relaxing, Andy. Spot on, gives me the desire to go and do a classical piece as well. Soothing and lovely and stress-relieving!
      Pruneau - 18 February 2006
this is very sexy :) fantastic production, amazing strings. quality track, thumbs up fella..
      mancini1973 - 18 February 2006

Im having a bad day. Ive broken the key to my front door and Ive lost the spare. Ive also broken the washing machine and burnt my dinner. Im in a foul mood and Im in need of cheering up. Lets listen to something that hopefully will lighten my load. Now the classical stance is a mood delivering sensation that can grant the listener an instantaneous depth of any feeling known to humankind if you get it right. I think its a soul thing. Maybe I'm going too deep here, but it seems that AndyF, a prolific artist judging by the amount of tracks he has available, firmly believes in what he feels and writes and with that in mind, writes from within. Ive had the displeasure at times of listening to classical and easy listening music through a few sites. I could name a few on here I've heard that are simply horrific. AndyF is definately NOT one of them, and with "Love on a Sunday Afternoon" has scored a smooth captivating piece of music that has gently lifted the old spirits. The strings and piano here have brought some relaxing harmonies into play with the oboe working nicely alongside.

For me I must say that this piece more brought to me an image of walking o'er hill and dale on a light misty morning, but I guess thats just what I wanted to imagine considering my mood and what I thought might make it better. Everyones opinion will possibly differ. I've taken the liberty of listening to some other pieces by AndyF and would highly recommend them. Composition throughout most of his works hit the button nicely, my only point in this particular track is that despite it being just over three and half minutes, I would have liked to have heard more piano and less strings in part and/or visa versa; for example the section at around 2m20 works a treat. Thus, personally Im (maybe harshly) not going to give AndyF a HOT rating for this piece, but I will for his many other works that you should endevour to take time out to listen to.

Ricky J
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Technically a good sounding piece, the only thing I would say is that for me the high string notes seem a lil too sharp for my ears in places. Possibly I'd bring down the strings overall, but thats just how I would blend them myself. You could try notching the eq up around 1500Hz in the mid string section and see how that sounds, though there is a chance Mp3 conversion has tainted me lug holes. The Piano sounds very good but I'm wondering if this at some stage has been midi quantized or levelled? Pah, what do I know. Keep writing, we'll keep listening.

Artist: AndyF
Title: The Last Galleon
Link: here OR Download
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I joke with people that I never get to play computer games but of course I do. Everyone I know does. AndyF certainly does, at least judging from some of his previous output. Nothing wrong with that I say, although I do tend to more favour simulation than shoot-em-up. My favourite 'games' at the moment are The Sims2 and NFS Most Wanted so that should give you an idea about what gets me going... So wtf am I doing yowling about playing games and not listening to music? Let me tell you a story.... AndyF and I go back quite a long way, I first reviewed his Di Da Mix on another site in October of 2003 and I'd known him for some time prior to that. One time I remember he gave me a track called Operation Falcon (Part 2) which - to my mind - typifies his output. Nothing whatsoever to do with the flight sims of the same name, this track was nonetheless a computer game soundtrack. Looking back over the twelve or thirteen reviews this artist has had from me, I noticed that I've never actually been completely bowled over by his output.

To be sure I can recognise the work and dedication that went into the making of each track, and even appreciate some of his more musical moments but nothing ever touched me, ya know what I mean? Now that might have something to do with his chosen style (soundtrack material mainly) and I would be the first to admit it isn't the first genre I run to when in need of sustenance. Seeing as I've known the guy for so long, and he even wrote a track about me, it seems churlish to the extreme to be so non-commital about his work. Facts are facts though, and honesty has to prevail. Having said that, I always approach each new AndyF track carefully because I know he is CAPABLE of something special (for me maybe) and I hope that this is the one....

The Last Galleon is not related to Sid's Meir's Pirates! (as I first thought like a game playing prat), probably Master and Commander might be a better starting point. Not as obviously stirring as you would expect from the nautical buildup, The Last Galleon is a soundtrack that illustrates the final journey of the last galleon to sail the seas and certainly the music evokes the splendour and majesty of these beautiful ships. For my money, I was expecting something much more bombastic but AndyF handles this track with remarkable restraint, placing the emphasis more on the craft itself than the ideas contained within the crew. As such I could see this appearing on some BBC2 series about sea faring (galleons or otherwise) and I guess that is what Andy is aiming for. If that is the case, give that man a prize because he's a dead shot. Surprisingly enough I found myself liking the track too, even though I found it a bit too 'fiddly' initially. A worthy addition to your soundtrack collection ESPECIALLY if you are a BBC2 documentary maker looking for the right peice of music.

Steve Gilmore

Artist: AndyF
Title: Mylings Shangrila
Link: here OR Download
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I wouldn't have said when I reviewed Andy's Di Da Mix way back in October 2003 - on another site - that Andy would become the very serious musician we see before us today. At the time Andy was just starting out in this game and Di Da Mix was his very first track and - to be honest - it sounded it. What impressed me about it though was the way the instruments worked together - a sure sign of an active mind behind the music and I eventually ended up liking the track very much. It wasn't, however, until March 2004 when I reviewed My Friend that I noticed his growing maturity with other - more classical fields.

It's in this area where Andy has, surprisingly, scored all the points.

Surprising because a) I never would have expected going in this direction from where he started and; b) it's not even a genre I particularly enjoy that much but have enjoyed Andy's forays into it - especially with collabs with vocalist Liana. However, I have to mention some of the production problems that have marred these tracks in the interests of honesty because although I have liked the music I have always had problems with the final production and mixes. Andy knows this full well and it isn't really something to go into again here....

There's not going to be that problem with Mylings Shangrila because it's basically a piano track, augmented by strings and the odd gong stroke. All very new age-y and pretty it is too, but enquiring minds will want to know will that be enough. I'd say you would have to like the tasteful and tuneful in music to really enjoy this because the term 'easy listening' rings some fairly massive bells here. It isn't, to be honest, to my own personal taste but on production and performance (both faultless) this track cannot be bettered. Depends how much sugar you like I guess.

Steve Gilmore

ANDYF (Only You (soundtrack))
Reviewed by Deggsy on (26 May 2005)

Rated 8.4 / 10      
Category Rating
Track Structure 10
Interest 8
Melody 8
Performance 8
Lyrics 0
Enjoyment 9
Recording Quality 8
Commercial Appeal 8
Overall 8.4


Artist : Andy F

Track : Only You

Link : [url=http://www.mp3unsigned.com/Showband.asp?id=485]Here[/url]

I have known Andy for sometime now , and his music has improved over the last year or so, he has this wonderful way of creating excellent , smooth , Well Produced Classical pieces that have a lot of emotion and very moving ...Take a listen to " Memories across the sea "the string work , the light notes of the piano,all blends perfectly together.. And all his tracks are arranged in Fruitloops ,note by note in the piano roll , which i know and many other peple who use Fruity know how time consuming it is.... And...

This guy puts Tracks out like , like they grow on trees , i think its about 6 tracks this week, and every one a treat , his latest one is called "Only You" So i thought i would add this to my ever growing Collection of AF Tracks....

Right lets take a Listen......

As soon as it starts it has Andy's name all over it.... the piano, timpani, the wonderful strings, Oboe :) which has that Emotion , feeling of Saddness, to my ears, would be great for a Soundtrack in a movie , Nice smooth change of key , all the sounds blend nicley together great choice of instruments,The production is great , great Structure Andy you have got this Classical Sorted my friend keep up the great work.. Excellent Stuff Once Again.....

Recommended

Deggsy

Comment by Tacx on 21 May 2005
The Railway Children for sure. This is gentle, moving and uplifting. This a is a great composition my friend. I'm jealous of people like you, i couldn't write something as melodical and musically structured as this....oh how i wish, excellent work. Thanks for the listen!



Comment by Incidental Fusion on 21 May 2005
The English countryside, blue skies speckled with white clouds, children playing, parents watching from the picnic blanket....spot on!



Comment by Pruneau on 20 May 2005
Very nice soundtrack music, brings up some nice imagery of rolling hills and lakes in the summer sun.



Comment by Deggsy on 20 May 2005
you have got this classical sorted my friend..another Excellent piece of music..it reminds me of seven kids coming down by tran to middlesex LOL :) SERIOUSLY : You have caught the feeling very well mate,what more can i say..:)but Excellent... Looking fwd to this cd of yours mate ,thats for sure



Comment by Act of Oblivion on 20 May 2005
it feels like you have captured that childlike 'innocence' reflected mostly by the piano melodies i think, a thoughtful air, graceful, yet possibly playful...nicely done Andy...Shaun



Comment by Planet Dust on 20 May 2005
Definitely has the soundtrack quality, very pleasant track. Nice one



Comment by EMMERSON on 20 May 2005
Very touching piece hits the right snare by me. Closed my eyes and even smelt my old school. SUPERBE



Comment by Constant Revelation on 20 May 2005
Lovely piece....what everyone else said in a nutshell....airy and I can visualise the steam train. Can't wait to hear more :-)



Comment by tenderhooks on 20 May 2005
Hi Andy, I like the chugging left hand. There's a real nice airy feel to the production. Almost as if a train that flies(Harry Potter comes to mind). Super stuff!



Comment by Xanthe on 20 May 2005
Oh dear ... Andy's on a roll again ... :-) Well, I can visualise a steam train through the countryside with piece but as a long distance shot - I find the track is a little too restful to conjure up the movement of the steam train itself ... as a piece of music, it's well orchestrated and very soundtrack-ish, and certainly makes me think of lush green countryside



Comment by halipino123 on 20 May 2005
Hello Andy, The keyboard work is quite articulate, great samples on the strings, almost a mellotronic feel about it. Very nice! Dan Sindel



Comment by paredafoe on 20 May 2005
also, reminded me a bit of some Ludovio Einaudi stuff I've been listening too lately. excellent!



Comment by paredafoe on 19 May 2005
nice pleasent piece, very relaxing, can imagine riding on a steam train through the countryside on a clear day, dreaming. top stuff. Onager



Comment by Slippy-T on 19 May 2005
Bit late getting to this Andy .. Apologies .. Right !! What ave we got ? Trade mark A.F. things goin on .. All good .. Sounds daft but I got Swallows and Amazons out of this one .. When they racing the boats across the lake.. Fab ...



Comment by acrosoma on 19 May 2005
After reading your description...all I can think of is the Railway children!! Nice piece again mate..once again though, i can see an epic video game takin' the music for this one. Feels good man, nice, peace. the MIDDLEMEN.



Comment by Stew on 19 May 2005
lovely dreamy piece, would love to hear it with real strings and woodwind

ANDYF (When You Know)
Reviewed by DanzTronic on (10 January 2005)

Rated 9.4 / 10      
Category Rating
Track Structure 10
Interest 9
Melody 9
Performance 10
Lyrics 0
Enjoyment 9
Recording Quality 9
Commercial Appeal 10
Overall 9.4


ONE NOTE FIRST - “Although I am not totally into classical music, this song certainly has made me become interested in it. Fantastic score, fantastic instruments, fantastic feel to the song – HIGHLY RECOMMENDED” Review – Starting off smooth, the piano work done at the beginning is great, although could have been uplifted a bit to hear it a bit better, but with all the other instrument work within this production, it is not important, the string work is absolutely brilliant, very rare does a song pull at my emotions but this song certainly had plenty of emotions in the structure of it, happiness, sadness, a feel of loss. The artist created this song for his daughters wedding, you can feel that happiness in the song that she is committing to someone and that their love is strong and special, yet a feel of loneliness as the father is now having to let go of his little girl who has now grown into a beautiful woman and this song shows to us that you are taken through that journey.

Structurally, for a classical song, this is certainly a case of brilliance here, smooth, has a feel of traditional classical but yet brought up to be a modern masterpiece. There is really not much I can criticize about this work as all in all, the length was great, the journey to the end was heart warming, the melody blended very well with the strings, if vocals were added to this song, I feel it may take away the beauty of the song, however, good vocals, even greater song. I guess that in the middle of the score, it could have cut back on the strings and let the melody take centre stage for a while, but yes, this song certainly does call for attention from any record label.

The ending certainly reflected the beginning, very smooth, touching and yet not sad, I would highly recommended this brilliant song to anyone who is into classical or modern day age, well worth the download and well worth the listen. GREAT JOB, well done.

Andy F-‘So Foolish’

“it Just Happened...”-Andy F

http://www.soundclick.com/pro/default.cfm?BandID=90931&content=music

….and so onto an old friend from this site whose music I have been familiar with for a few months now and a tune that is completely different to what has been on offer from TGL and Ravemaster. And I think this shows that my musical tastes really are right across the board. Having enjoyed very much the two aforementioned artists, I head towards something rather less ‘electronic’ in sound. With all of Andy’s tracks, I seemed to have been satisfied to just sit back and listen, more often and not in a chilled, relaxed and contented manner. The fact that I cannot ‘see’ (a la EJ interface) Andy’s music has often left me with out much room for expressing the ‘constructive criticism’ kind of review. I have tended to ‘get’ pictures in my mind and then let Andy know what I was seeing in my head. And I am afraid mate, this track is going to be no exception to my limited rule!

Alas, I had some trouble connecting to this song and the sound kept breaking up here and there and spoiled the flow of the music. This was so damn annoying as I did not get to hear the piece all the way through without any interruption or intermittent silences. But from what I did get, and I tried many, many times, was a wonderful and beautiful 4 minutes of music. This is a lovely tune, uncomplicated but so expressive in   its simplicity. There is a ‘folky’ element to most of Andy’s tracks and this one is no exception. The ‘live’ feel is retained and this is one aspect of Andy’s musical skill I greatly admire. I can imagine myself in a bar listening to a band performing this number, almost a ‘Pimm’s and lemonade’ moment, relaxed chilled and elegant. The piano lines work wonderfully when overlaid with the acoustic guitar to produce a graceful and thoughtful air. The drums and rhythm are employed in an understated manner to help give the track breathing space. Combined with some sweeping and wispy spheres ever so slightly down in the mix, the overall feel was one of thoughtfulness and contemplation (that hippy is back again!). Despite my listening in ‘lo-fi’, the sound quality sounded fresh, clear and with space to allow the listener to just ‘hear’ the main strength of this track. I.e.-the vocals. I have to admit these vocals by Liana (aka Katziis) are stunning. What an earthly and spiritual voice this lady has got. Beautifully done Andy. In particular, the lovely melodic vocal in the chorus tugs at the old heart strings, and the more times I hear it the more it never fails to move me. The right time of year is approaching and the summery ‘feel’ of this song will not fail to capture the imagination.   

There has always been a common theme for me when listening to Andy’s music, and that is I always seem to acquire pictures of gorgeous ladies in my mind!!! It must be you Andy, being able to capture that romantic but not overly ‘slushy’ kind of feel with your music. This inevitably sounds mature and the tune seems to grasp the idea of adult orientated music, the passion of being with someone where a genuine depth of feeling matches the emotional content of this song. Well this most definitely will be a track I will play to a young lady to get her in the mood! (for a long summers evening in the pub garden with me as company that is!!!). This kind of music will not probably be to the taste of everyone who frequents the EJ forums, but if your are a fan of say, Judie Tzuke, Carole King or perhaps even the better songs produced by The Corrs, then go for this.

Once again I have found myself very impressed with Andy’s music. I can see that this collaboration will go far. Time to get your music ‘out there’ I think. I know a few people who would happily purchase such a song as this. Well done mate, sorry I could not have been more ‘technical or expert’!!!

---oOo---

All the very best to the artists here and good luck with your music…

Cheffy Shaun….

Posted: 30-Jan-2004 19:41 | IP Logged | Report Post

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Andy.....
First of I all I will say that my first impression lasted...nice jazzy pieace with a veeerrryy relaxing mode....

I guess you´re right about that it´s quit difficult to do this type of music. There´s so many "small emotion pieces" that really got to be placed right....(hrmm..did the last sentense make any sense ...not sure that I found the right words....)

Some comments.....
I very much liked the way you added the Sax, Trombone and Trumpet....they where at the "right" places....though I think you could have a bit more of them, especially the Sax....what a cool sound!!   
Also the piano, base and drums are nice put....perhaps the drums could be a bit more silent....
and that shall I say?.. .....

Between 2.02-2.37 you really got it to swing in an excellent way....but.......what happend at 2.38 and a few seconds ahead...sounded strange in my ears....didn´t fit in.
I liked the fadeout-ending...but maybe if it included only horn and piano would be more effectful?

Overall an excellent song       and I´m convinced that you will improve a lot in this area....

Take care m8
Leif

Posted: 05-Feb-2004 17:33 | IP Logged | Report Post

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Runalong by Andy F

Youth was talking about tracks having apt names on another thread and with Andy’s track here… his title is very descriptive.

It’s a “runalong” sort of track…. and as I have (very reluctantly, I might add) started to walk and jog to get fit…this is very much a carry you along while you run tune. As such, though, it does not actually light any fires either.

Technically speaking, it builds nicely. New elements are added in as the track progresses in a pleasing way, there is intelligent use of stereo effects, good use of echoing themes with different instruments, the elements are well balanced and don’t tussle with each other and has a good intro and ending.

Now as for getting something personal out of the track, it depends on what it was designed to do. It’s obviously a chillout type of thing, but for my taste there is little in there to make it memorable. If it is meant as background music, then it succeeds excellently because it is the type of music you could listen to while multi-tasking, as it is undemanding. I have it looped at the moment and to be honest, if I didn’t keep looking at the track timing, I would be hard put to say which part I was listening to! It does rather seamlessly go round in circles without a ripple.

I get the impression a lot of work has been put into technical aspects at the expense of creativity. This is not a bad thing, I hasten to add. Rome wasn’t built in a day and making tracks often goes through phases like this. Its getting the balance between technicality and inventiveness that is tricky. What the problem is here is that with almost any kind of music you have to have some sort of counterpoint. You can’t keep looping the same melody and expect to keep interest – the brain is a very fickle thing. It rapidly goes into finger tapping mode : “yes.. yes.. YES, I’ve heard that bit.. dahh de dahhh de DAH etc .. so what’s next??” A good stalwart is to have your first part, slide into a contrasting middle section and then return to the first theme at the end. At this point, the brain goes… “OOOHH yes, I recognise this bit…nice!” Once you get the hang of that ..then you can start changing the last part subtly so it is the same but different… works wonders :)

I often say to people you have to understand rules before you can break them. I would say to Andy, he now has a lot of the rules sorted…. he now needs to go out, let his hair down and a get a tad more unpredictability to his tracks!

Skizz

Artist: AndyF
Title: Alpha Bravo
Link: here
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AndyF has proved himself to be a very competent character over the last couple of releases I've heard from him, so it came as a bit of surprise to see another reviewer tearing into his work on another thread. Eventually I discovered that they were reviewing a track he made some time ago so - saying a quick prayer to God for a working pair of ears - I started in on his latest track to see whether or not the last two tracks were somehow out of the ordinary...

Suffice to say that I don't have to start worrying about the state of my hearing just yet because it's obvious within the first few bars of Alpha Bravo that we are listening to something with a bit of thought and experience in it. Its a shade of electronica that may appeal to many of us, especially those people who love a good genre bend. It's base is technically electronica, but it has this odd, acoustic almost spanish sounding section with even a hint or two of the the ol' samba going on in there. Matter of fact, the more I played this the more I found myself warming to this quite different (in some ways) instrumental.

Now I wouldn't want you to run away with the impression that this is something to rave about because - to be honest - it isn't anything special. What it is though is more than enough to capture peoples attention and at this stage in Andy's 'career' that is surely more than enough. If however, he keeps improving at the rate he is then within a very short time indeed we are going to be hearing some dynamite stuff from this direction. Not all in the garden is however, as rosy as the future picture. On Alpha Bravo there are some very strange volume level changes, and certain of the samples seem to hanging on just that little bit too long. All things that can be corrected swiftly of course, and most people probably wouldn't notice anyway. What they would notice is an interesting tune, performed with some fairly original sounds all wrapped up in a true stereo picture, and that can't be bad.

Steve Gilmore
Soundclick * Rebel Riffs * Vitamin C * Acid Planet

Posted: 14-Feb-2004 19:08 | IP Logged | Report Post

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Andy F Mister G

Click to download

So much for writing a hard, technical critique! I may as well leave out all the technical productional bits right now because 'Master G' is a superb piece by anyone's standards. From the mellow, only slightly sad sax that slides throughout the evolving fluidity of the track, to the brash, sharp horns and jazzy piano, warm, layered beats, dripping with funk and naturally maturing and ripening use of themes within the entirety...to the BIG production values executed with graceful precision, yet maintaining a liquid, self-modifying spontaneity. 'Master G' has it all, and much more besides.

Now just in case you have been living on Mercury for the last couple of years, and have never heard of Steve Gilmore - it may be worth pointing out that this great little track is in actuality a 'tribute song' to the man himself and all his hard work! This is a great honour, and if that was not enough the tribute itself...frankly rocks bells!

Not that 'Master G' has a massive amount of that trademark Gilmore/Rebel Riffs sound as such (though there are occasional crossovers in relation to the fluid construction technique/instruments used) I was reminded rather of the outputs of Youth and his blending of jazz and dance.

I hesitate to mention that horrid moniker 'jazz funk' (*shudder*). Ghastly outpourings of Shakattack and all that entails creep horribly into my mind.....'Master G' certainly has elements of jazz..and definitely elements of funk....put the two together and what have you got????..........

Well for one thing the sound is clearly and precisely American in tonal value and delivery. It is even possible to narrow this further and state that it is a New York sound. I haven't a clue if Andy has ever been to New York! it does not matter as the skyline is contained herein in all it's details, yellow cabs cruise along rain slicked night-lit streets...indeed the first image that sprang into my mind was exactly this...a journey though the human infested streets in the back of the taxi, diverse semblance’s of music blast sporadically by as we cruise past the bars and hookers and neon signs....wailing sirens compete with the sound of music and laughter and shouts.....

All this imagery is apparent to me, the sublime complexity of the music hides a slight sleaziness...a seedy element contained within the horns and honky-tonk piano! Home is far away, and an additional, rather lonely element is also encapsulated within the delivery...to be amongst a heaving sea of people....but removed, alone and isolated taking in the nightlife vicariously...detached and aloof.

The fact that Andy has kept the production sharp and crisp goes a long way toward the mellow-yet-vital theme that is expressed here. There is plenty of subtext too! The chosen samples are all clearly defined, geometric shapes that fit loosely upon a seamless, looping tapestry of music. These support elements take the form of snappy percussion hits, roll-offs within the hats and alert, biting tambourines. The layered build up of horns at 2:14 that spirals to a pinnacle of sound before tapering off is a contrariety in that at this point the drum and percussion tracks wind down to a close, adding a superb punch to the climax...and this is simply one of the tricks that Andy has used to drive the whole track home with style and imagination.

'Master G' displays the work of a restless and creative mind that is constantly battling for self improvement. It will not be long now before Andy F starts upon the next stage in his musical evolution. He has now achieved the zenith of what is possible using purely eJay based software and is ready (I think) to take the next step upon the ladder. This will certainly involve the use of external software within his music...perhaps starting with a few simple, home produced drum loops sequenced in eJay..this is always a difficult step, and the exact nature of the methods used invariably depends upon the nature of the artist and what he is hoping to achieve..

I believe that Andy is now ready, but I shall wait to see if he is in agreement with this.

All in all an excellent, powerful, thoughtfully produced and superbly executed track, displaying intelligent use of the samples available, with plenty of attention to detail and faultless delivery.

Ffabbia

Posted: 16-Feb-2004 19:42 | IP Logged | Report Post

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AndyF – String Lament   http://www.soundclick.com/util/DownloadSong.cfm?ID=939024

I have to admit I love orchestral music and anything that works around the orchestral genre. ‘String Lament’ begins with some beautiful strings and builds along to an underlying beat that works extremely well.

I really enjoyed this piece of work, it has a sort of ghostly feeling.

I find working with strings is difficult, you have to make sure you get it right because the slightest error can ruin the whole track and I can honestly say I can’t find an error here.

Often I have had comments that my music would sit well in film soundtrack, I believe that this would do so as well.

The production is excellent and the sound first class, Andy what do you work in?

Classy m8 classy, well done.

Jon @ TDC

Posted: 17-Feb-2004 16:36 | IP Logged | Report Post

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Artist: ANDYF
Track: The String Lament
Genre: Classical Contemporary
Software: Magix music maker 2004 and soundcollection samples only

Andy, as far as I'm aware, has been around the eJay forums for about six months now. He popped up whilst I was very intermittently on the site, but he caught my interest as he wasn't your typical 'newbie'! In terms of his eJay output, you'll find 3 tracks all made in Dance eJay 6...but pop along to his Soundclick pages and you'll find a good 30-40 tracks to take your pick of.

One of the things that's great about Andy (and obviously it's a sign of being one of the more mature members of the community (*ducks*)), is the willingness to take on board any comments that are made about his music, chew them around a bit and actually think about them as he goes on to make more music. So with that in mind, what do we make of this one.....

Lovely sweeping, mournful opening strings, totally the kind of sound that you would expect from something that has 'The String Lament' as its title. One of my favourite composers is bought straight to mind - Arvo Paart (Cantus in Memory of Benjamin Britten - Real Player required).

But back to Andy's music - It is actually an extremely beautiful and moving opening to his track and it's hard to think that it was created just through MMM04 and samples! The first new sound at 1' 49" is an orchestral drum - I like the rolling timpani, although the samples have quite a harsh cut-off and would have sounded better if they faded out or had a touch of reverb. But the whole track is shaping up to have the makings of a very good film soundtrack!

Then at 2' 03" comes a bit of a surprise as in come the drums, plucked strings and warbling flutes. It changes the mood of the piece and part of me wants to be a little bit critical and say I'd like to have seen the ideas of the first third further explored....but the truth is, I actually quite like this new development   He does use the samples extremely proficiently and manages to maintain the edginess to his composition and not fall into the trap of turning it into a piece of classical music with a dance backing track. I like the way at about 3' 00" he balances the strings against the just to allow a moment of quietness before further playing with his developments (oops - that sounds a little more rude than I intended!).

And then at 3' 30" we're returned to the real lament of the first section, to take us to the ending.

Now I 'think' I know exactly what he was trying to achieve with his ending but unfortunately it hasn't quite worked here and ends just a little too abruptly. What should be happening is a smoother transition from the sustained strings to the cellos and plucked strings, into the final stroke. This doesn't quite work here as I think the change over has been brought about rather too quickly. But it needs very little work!

What a fantastic piece of music, basically. I thoroughly enjoyed listening, and will keep on doing so, and so should anyone who likes any semblance of classical music. Your music is coming on in leaps and bounds - in fact with this one I think you're ready to jump on board as a midfielder!

Nicci

Posted: 18-Feb-2004 13:34 | IP Logged | Report Post

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Hi Andy, this is a very very nice track. I am partial to a bit of classical music and I really enjoyed listening to this from you. To be honest this is totally superb and I don't think you need to change anything in it.

Very well done to you.

Posted: 15-Feb-2004 11:57 | IP Logged | Report Post

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AndyF-'No one else'? Sorry this has taken a while, been a bit tied up. This track-very moving in the beginning, reminds me of the 'leaving scene' in Schindler's List. The first minute or two seems to capture the same depth of intensity as 'Aase's Death' by Grieg, indeed, it seems to be a theme that arises throughout the piece, the 'lament' seems an apt title. Sorrowful yet at the same time thoughful and introspective, just what a lament should be. I like the way the music moves from the classic 'classical' to a more contemporary feel with the introduction of the drums and backbeat. I can hear tgl's comment about LOTR, and despite what some may think about the fantasy genre, it DOES work in this context. Besides, how did the great composers of the past 'see' their music, no videos, no dvd's or films, no automatic playback!!! just the creativity envisioned in their imagination, all put to music. This is a lovely piece of music and would sit ably in a film soundtrack of any worth. Only quibble? Nothing to do with the quality but the end with the cello's, i feel this could have been integrated a wee bit more in the main body of the piece, it carries the same 'feelings' of the main parts. Still, only a very minor thing. I can see'hear a 'full' soundtrack' piece in the future!!!!   

Posted: 19-Feb-2004 17:18 | IP Logged | Report Post

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Oh not another track, Andy ?? Have you got all your music software on your work computer as well ? Think I'll be using the National Express if that's the case ...

I think ss63 summed it up pretty well - you end up in all sorts of different places with this one. And yet it all jogs along very happily with no awkward leaps.   I would have no idea how to categorise this one, but it's fun to listen to and I was swaying along with it.

There are places where the percussion felt a little bit too forward to my ears, particulary around the 1.25 onward mark. But I can't really think of any other criticisms at the moment, after my fifth listen. Think it'll take quite a few more listens to get my head around this one properly ...

Whatever next ?? lol

status: offline
Joined: 24-Oct-2003
Posts: 206 Posted: 19-Feb-2004 15:47 | IP Logged | Report Post

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With your music, i find it evokes scenes and visions..As always i try to picture what comes to mind in my head..and here it was a varied bag..initially a smokey jazz room, sipping a beer, chatting to gorgeous female company, chilled piano in the background (sigh!)..then..wisps of smooth spheres for a few seconds suggest something more electronica is on the way..but it goes and then..for some strange reason i get a picture of 'Seseme St' and kids running around, playing, laughing joking in a studio of bright colurs(1.21mins in)...Big Bird flapping and dancing..The organ lines remind of a 60's vibe, then....rum and Jamaica!!! me wanna go calypso!!! sand, sun, and again a bevvy of beauties (?). For another strange reason i get Jack Lemmon in a sixties comedy film..very retro....wow... what a journey! This is nicely put together and just bubbles along in a care free fashion..sheer abandonment..jolly..fun..a trip along the east coast in a convertible. this is not normally my preferred choice of music but it is quite infectious and i played it over several times..it will probably not sit very well with some of the younger musical pyrotechnics but it is one of those tracks you will love or hate...me? love it...brough some much needed relief and smiles to my face!!! for that alone Andy..nice bloody work.

Posted: 18 Feb 2004 11:48 pm    Post subject: Mike-K Reviews: ANDYF – “The Sting Lament (Extended)”   

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Song: The Sting Lament (Extended)
Genre: Classical -> Contemporary

A 9:38 minute attempt at something of classical nature. I am game! So lets comment on that one.

The opening string section is very nice. I immediately notice that his production lacks a few qualities. Namely: stereo phonics and clarity as well as separation of the musical samples used here. So much for the production remarks.

The composition, however, is quite nice. This is a very ambient classical tune, which also features a nice beat, beginning at 2:04 or so. I would consider this almost neo classical. Not sure what the artist is using to mix and finalize the mix with, but, somehow this mix sounds a bit hollow.

Going on close to 5 minutes … the string assemble and composition thereof is quite nice. This is, nonetheless, a very dramatic piece of music and I like the basic idea behind it. Not sure, if Andy was attempting to write and compose a symphony, but it sure sounds like it and could well be one.

Around the 6:35 mark or so, the beat kicks in again. The length of this track is a bit too lengthy, if you ask me. There are a lot of good ideas behind this composition and well worth listening to, if you like theatrical music – because, that’s what this track is – very theatrical. I, personally, am a sucker for this kind of music.

Aside from the production and mix, I give this one a ‘s up, despite its length.

Mike
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Cheers,
Mike Kohlgraf a.k.a. Mike-K