Live Music: Tin Man

Continuing the songs recorded at A Beautiful Mess in Lubbock, one of the questions I got asked a lot that night was about my harmonies. It’s pretty obvious I have pre-recorded tracks for the band (all of which is me), but the harmonies… how did they match so closely?

That’s probably because I generate them live. No, it’s not Tibetan throat singing. When you watch the video, look at the little blue box by my right foot. That’s a TC-Helicon VoiceLive Play Acoustic. It’s a magic little box full of musical voodoo.

My guitar and microphone are routed through that box. It constantly analyzes the chord structure that’s being played. So when it comes time for harmony, all I do is choose the harmonic structure I want (one above one below, two on top, two below, 3rd above, etc) and just punch the button. At that point, that magic little box will take my voice and match it to the harmonic structure I’ve chosen while tuning it to the chord that I’m playing on my guitar. VoilĂ ! Perfectly matched harmony (as long as I play the chord correctly).

So here’s a chance to hear the harmony, America-style.

Live Music: Ain’t No Sunshine

I’ve recently been having some fun putting together tracks for live music. I’ve been known for my contributions to the a cappella world for years. Sometimes the instrumental side of me gets a little covered up.

I’ve found it quite relaxing to build tracks in my spare time (yes, I’m learning what that is now) and do some gigging here and there. Not too much… just an occasional live thing.

I played recently at A Beautiful Mess. No, that’s not my studio. That’s a really cool antique store in Lubbock. Michelle Hammond, the owner, has decorated is so nicely, with a bajillion antiques, that you don’t want to buy anything lest you destroy the ambiance of the place. Thankfully for her, many buy anyway.

I recorded a full set of 18 songs. Here’s the first. Hope you enjoy!