Skate the Razor

Reaching over the net - Bands find new ways to record music in digital era

2011-07-13T19:57:00.000-07:00

Bands like the Gin Blossoms and Skate the Razor are increasingly recording new records over the internet, with musicians sometimes thousands of miles apart.

For many of us, the iconic black and white image of George Martin and the Beatles huddled together at Abbey Road Studios in London will forever represent the high-water mark in recording history. A group a young men sitting together, making magic.

Much has changed within the recording industry in the decades since the Beatles went their separate ways. Stereophonic hi-fi was a catchy little phrase in the sixties, like an old motel sign, quaintly advertising color television. Blink twice, and the sign now reads “high speed internet“, making it entirely possible for musicians to record new music from their hotel rooms, or perhaps even tour bus. It also enables the musicians to come together creatively, even when the members are on opposite ends of the country.

The Gin Blossoms, known for such hits as “Hey Jealousy“, and “Til I Hear It From You” are prime examples, having recorded their fifth release “No Chocolate Cake”, in such a manner. Gin Blossoms lead vocalist Robin Wilson recently relocated to Manhattan with his wife, while the other members of the band continue to live near Phoenix. The first single from “No Chocolate Cake”, a tune called “Miss Disarray”, has received significant airplay in Adult Contemporary radio, marking a return to the charts for the band.

Skate the Razor, of Western New York, have adopted a similar method for their new CD. Two members of the band, brothers David and Michael Moran reside in the sleepy village of Delevan, New York, an hour south of Buffalo. Vocalist Brad Cooper lives in Phoenix, while guitarist Ryan Hansgen has settled in rural Tennessee.

“The whole process has changed”, states Ryan, a veteran of the recording industry. “The digital age has arrived. We can now record a project in multiple locations. All one has to do is send a digital capture of the work to the next person, open it up on their computer and record their tracks. Most of the out-board goodies such as effects are included with the software, making the whole process cleaner, and more robust.”

Legendary record producer, and designer of the world renown Power Station Studios in Manhattan spoke of having mixed feelings on the subject when interviewed for this article, but fully embraces the new technology, comparing the old system to a buggy whip… a “lost and useless craft“.

Bongiovi recently appeared at CES 2010, the world's largest consumer technology tradeshow, where he spoke about the success of his latest technological innovations, the iHome, the iP1 and the iP2. “Almost all urban music is recorded on computers”, he emphasized. Bongiovi, best known for his work with artists like Areosmith and his second cousin Jon Bon Jovi has watched the industry shift in recent years. Mr. Bongiovi, who has over a hundred gold and platinum albums to his name saw it coming, moving to Fort Lauderdale Florida in the late nineties when the studio industry began to feel the pull of progress.

“It‘s simply more practical“. Hansgen added. “It's actually much quicker than having to hop a plane or drive for hundreds of miles to some studio somewhere to get work accomplished. Just press a button and there it goes, on to the next person.“ Skate the Razor

Store

2011-07-13T18:00:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor, Both Friend and Foe, Greetings!

The Skate the Razor Store

Skate the Razor - CODA CD

Limited Edition

$6.99

At long last, Coda is finally complete, and available for Skate the Razor fans to enjoy! This project has been a labor of love for me, and I am thrilled with the outcome! Admittedly, some of the recordings on CODA have more than their share of warts, but as I recall, Rock n Roll music was invented by people with warts… lots and lots of warts! The uglier, the better, or so I’ve heard. That having been established, the end result is a collection of tunes that make for a great ride, especially for those fans familiar with Skate the Razor and the band’s storied past.

Coda was originally envisioned as a proper ending to the story of a hard working band that had the unfortunate luck of running into some rather seedy and unethical characters… nothing new in the entertainment industry, but debilitating nonetheless. I just couldn’t let all that good will go to waste…the guys deserved better. Well, most of the guys, not all of them.

As for the songs on CODA, they all sound stronger than I remember, and in fact, the set sounds pretty solid together. Songs that sounded somewhat dated at the time now sound fresh again. In hindsight, it’s pretty obvious we made the right decision by going with our strengths, rather than embrace another limited trend. Where are those bands now? It’s a fair question, even if I say so myself!

And I know damn well what glues this set together so nicely… it’s called sincerity. Fuck the pompous pretense, lets just rock! And indeed, CODA rocks! It’s not Pantera, and it’s not System of a Down, and for Christ’s sake, it sure as hell aint the Chili Peppers. Skate the Razor never fit snugly into any of the obvious genres… we were just rock n roll band with a heavy edge and a whole lot of passion, and that’s what I enjoyed about my years with Skate the Razor.

For the most part, CODA accomplishes the goals we set out to achieve, but in doing so, Ryan and I both felt we had a few good songs left in us, and that there simply isn’t a good reason to let the band die a tragic death. Why close a door to the past when we can open a door to the future? Coda succinctly sums up the Skate the Razor experience. I hope many of you enjoy this record as much as I do!

Thanks to everyone for your continued interest and support! I hope to see you down the road.

Brad Cooper
Skate the Razor 2011

Skate the Razor

Improving Your Song-Craft

2011-07-10T15:19:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor, both friend and foe, greetings.

Other than romance, music may be the closest thing to real magic most people will ever experience. A song can lift us up or bring us down, inspire us, or maybe just help us fall to sleep at night. Music can be a very personal experience, or shared by thousands.

As a professional musician and songwriter, I find that my opinion often falls from the fray, as I neither adhere to, nor do I encourage reliance on a formulaic approach to lyrics. Instead, I prefer to concentrate on the essence of my song-craft with the understanding that the lyrics are an integral aspect.

Cryptic messages or entendres hidden within song lyrics are certainly nothing new. For centuries, many found this to be the safest way to express political or religious dissent. The Mother Goose Rhymes are a classic example. Some lyrics rely on the nonsensical turn of a phrase. A particular rhyme scheme should be guided by the muse, and little else.

Of course, each song should be approached individually. If your goal is to write a hit song, the rules begin to get slippery. Obviously, the lyrics for a dance number should reflect the spirit of the mood. One can’t be afraid to “get down and boogie oogie oogie” when that is what the song calls for. By the same token, one shouldn’t ignore the value behind lyrics like the overtly pedantic “The Wreck of the Edmond Fitzgerald“.

When writing for myself, I always write what I feel, and for me, the little twists and turns are all part of the puzzle. This of course, explains why you have probably never heard my records. Legendary record producer Tony Bongiovi likes to describe hit songs as “Cheeseburger Music”, easy to identify with, and easy to digest. The more twists and turns you throw in, the less your chance of connecting on a grand scale.

Still, where would we be without lyrics like “I am the Walrus” or “Gabba Gabba Hey” Both, although seriously stilted, represent delicious song-craft. There are no rules that can’t be broken. Don’t be afraid to challenge yourself.

I am by no means suggesting you find a way to excuse bad ideas. Settling for less than your best will not bring lasting satisfaction. Push those lyrics hard, and then push them a little harder. Be brave and be diligent. Make those words count.

Later,
B. Thomas Cooper
Skate the Razor

Media

2011-07-10T10:44:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor, Both Friend and Foe, Greetings.

Skate the Razor

Contact Us

2011-07-10T10:18:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor, Both Friend and Foe, Greetings.

Contact Us

Skate the Razor 2011

CODA CD NOW Avaiable!

2011-06-11T09:25:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor, Both Friend and Foe, Greetings!

Coda was originally envisioned as a proper ending to the story of a hard working band that had the unfortunate luck of running into some rather seedy and unethical characters… nothing new in the entertainment industry, but debilitating nonetheless. I just couldn’t let all that good will go to waste…the guys deserved better. Well, most of the guys, not all of them.

As for the songs on CODA, they all sound stronger than I remember, and in fact, the set sounds pretty solid together. Songs that sounded somewhat dated at the time now sound fresh again. In hindsight, it’s pretty obvious we made the right decision by going with our strengths, rather than embrace another limited trend. Where are those bands now? It’s a fair question, even if I say so myself!

And I know damn well what glues this set together so nicely… it’s called sincerity. Fuck the pompous pretense, lets just rock! And indeed, CODA rocks! It’s not Pantera, and it’s not System of a Down, and for Christ’s sake, it sure as hell aint the Chili Peppers. Skate the Razor never fit snugly into any of the obvious genres… we were just rock n roll band with a heavy edge and a whole lot of passion, and that’s what I enjoyed about my years with Skate the Razor.

For the most part, CODA accomplishes the goals we set out to achieve, but in doing so, Ryan and I both felt we had a few good songs left in us, and that there simply isn’t a good reason to let the band die a tragic death. Why close a door to the past when we can open a door to the future? Coda succinctly sums up the Skate the Razor experience. I hope many of you enjoy this record as much as I do!

Thanks to everyone for your continued interest and support! I hope to see you down the road.

Brad Cooper
Skate the Razor 2011 Skate the Razor

Skate the Razor announces plans for upcoming twentieth anniversary

2010-11-07T06:05:00.000-08:00

Skate the Razor, Both Friend and Foe, Greetings.

I guess there is no time like the present for acknowledging the obvious. The original members of Skate the Razor are currently writing and recording new material together to coincide with the upcoming twentieth anniversary of the band. We have been on a long journey together and separately, and we look forward to the group of us creating music together again.

As many followers of the band are aware, Ryan and I have continued to write together whenever possible, whether in Western New York, mid-Manhattan, or central Maine, we have found ways to keep the formula alive and fresh. As such, we anticipate little difficulty in bringing this project up to expectations. As for lyrical content, rest assured, there is always someone out there ready and willing to push my buttons. Once engaged, I have no problem reaching a boil. I have plenty to vent about.

One nice thing about this group of guys was their unwavering work ethic. The boys accomplished a great deal because they worked for it! Make no mistake, they worked hard, encountering more than their share of adversity along the way. The re-union project allows us to come together to celebrate our successes, and perhaps kick a few old demons back under the bed. For myself, it also provides me with an opportunity to properly thank all those who were supportive of Skate the Razor, through thick and thin, before the advent of the internet and Facebook and band blogs…

That having been said, I will be attempting to keep readers abreast of our progress, as we prepare for this project… Feel free to send me your questions and suggestions, as I want to hear what you have to say. I will also be posting video footage of our progress from time to time, and perhaps even snippets from some of the new tunes. Fortunately, we are geared up and ready to go, cause time passes quickly when we’re having fun…

Skate the Razor

Leaches and Barnacles

2010-11-04T04:18:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor, Both Friend and Foe, Greetings!

Well, I guess the Skate the Razor re-union project is causing quite a buzz. I have yet to make the formal announcement, and already I can distinctly hear the sound of blood sucking leaches preparing to move in for a free bite.

What can I say? For years, these free-loaders bit the teat that fed them. It should surprise no-one they are first in line for the encore… their little tummies must be starved.

Let us not forget… these are not folks who emboldened the Razor… we’re talking stinky old gutter trash, quick to press others for an easy dime. You would think twenty years would have provided these ignorant barnacles with enough time to find another ship from which to cling, but apparently not. Nonetheless, I have news for them… that ship left port years ago, setting sail for smoother waters.

One would also think after twenty years my animosity toward these urchins would subside, but such is obviously not the case, and for damned good reason… once bitten twice shy.

So don’t expect me to temper my vitriol any time soon… it ain’t gonna happen. Too many thieves in the night tapping at my window. Too much water under the bridge and absolutely no sign of remorse. Stupid is as stupid does, and I would have to be pretty damn stupid to open the door and invite them in.

There is a line from ‘Change my Mind that sums it up nicely…

"I don’t seek blood atonement,
Somehow, my conscience is clear,
I’ve been out on the tiles,
Dragged by my balls,
The end of my patience is near".

And I don’t mean maybe.

A reminder to pre-order your Skate the Razor CODA T-Shirts now! $6.00ea or $5.00 a piece if you purchase more than one. This deal won't last forever. Price after Thanksgiving will be $12.00 per shirt. Contact either Brad or Ryan for details. Please add $2.00 shipping

Brad
2011

) Skate the Razor

Improving Your Song-Craft

2010-11-03T16:38:00.000-07:00

Choosing the Right Studio for Your Next Session

2010-10-27T18:33:00.000-07:00

Hi everyone, and thank you for sharing a few moments of your time with me.
I just completed writing an article for Helium.com and I thought some of you might find it interesting, if not valuable. Please read on.

Having spent over three decades as a professional musician and producer, I have been fortunate to work alongside some amazing talent. Over the years I have designed and built a number of studios, for various clients, each with their own specific needs in mind.

Indeed, each recording is as unique as the individual artist. The process can be as simple or as complex as the project requires. There is no magic formula. The goal should always be for the essence of the song to transcend the limitations of the process.

What do I mean by all of this? Well for starters, don’t make the recording process any more difficult than necessary. No recording can be perfect, so don’t think about perfection. Think about the impact of the performance.

These days, we have far more options than limitations. Be honest with yourself about your goals and expectations. Reliable recording studios can be found in even the most remote locations. Visit the studio before actually booking any time. Don’t be afraid to ask the engineer to play you a song or two he has recorded recently. Be sure these are people you will feel comfortable working with for long hours at a time. Prices will vary from one studio to the next, so take your time and choose wisely. You shouldn’t need to spend a fortune.

In Recent years, computer based recording software has made it possible for artists to make affordable high quality digital recordings from home. However, this method requires an understanding of the software as well as the recording process itself. This is the fundamental difference between production and engineering. The producer sets the course, whereas it is the responsibility of the engineer is to navigate (twiddle the knobs). Some artists, like Prince and Moby prefer to do all three themselves, but no man is a mountain. Don’t assume you can handle everything yourself. Experience, good or bad, can be priceless.

It is always wise to copyright your songs for your own protection. Any simple recording of the song is acceptable and the process is way easier than filing your taxes. Downloadable copyright forms are available online, free from the Library of Congress. For more information, visit their website at: Library of Congress

If you have any questions you’d like to ask, you may contact me by e-mail at: sfefeedback@msn.com
or feel free to visit my webite: Sound Foundation Entertainment

Good luck,
Perhaps we’ll be hearing from you soon!

Brad Skate the Razor

Harry and the Monologue

2008-05-13T14:16:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

It’s only Tuesday, and already, it’s been quite a week. I have been working away on a monologue I am set to deliver this Saturday at Flower Street Station in Phoenix.

As you might guess, listening to a monologue and delivering a monologue are quite different, and composing this first monologue has not proven a simple task. For several days now, I have shouldered the burden of great anxiety over the content, you know, just trying to find the right words to share on such a momentous occasion.

In fact, it has begun to adversely effect my sleep to the point where I am experiencing nightmares. Usually I don’t recall my dreams, but one in particular continues to haunt me.

In this dream, I’m sitting in the front row of what begins as a typical show here at Flower Street station, but then suddenly morphs into a large, exquisite auditorium, complete with orchestra pit, and an entire orchestra, with a pair of cellists sitting just below me, perhaps no further than three or four feet away. In this dream, I am so close to the musicians, I can see the eyes as they follow along with the dots on the sheets of music before them, strange, as I should have been staring at the backs of their heads. May I remind you, it was, of course, only a dream.

On stage is a large, pearl white grand piano. Playing that piano is none other than singer, songwriter, Marc Cohn, known primarily for his one big hit, Walking in Memphis released back in 1991. In fact, Mr. Cohn is performing a rather moving rendition of Walking in Memphis, and is just about to admit to being a Christian of convenience, when out of the blue, in swings Terrible Ted Nugent, high above the crowd, one hand grasping a rope, the other a cross-bow. Terrible Ted is quite old in my dream. He appears to be in his late seventies, perhaps older. Like many his age he has little body fat… he is all skin and muscle, and he is wearing nothing more than a deer skin G-string and a camouflage-colored military style beret that makes him appear as though he is wearing camel genitalia on his forehead. It is not a pretty sight, mind you, and it’s about to get downright ugly.

Just as the song is reaching it’s dramatic crescendo, Ted aims with precision, discharging his trusty cross-bow. Ted, as you know, is a master marksman and bow hunter. He scores a direct hit, striking Mr. Cohn in the center of his heart, which explodes on impact, sending a stream of blood gushing onto the pearl white grand piano, and covering the nearly naked Nugent. As Ted reaches up to wipe the blood from his eyes, he looses grip of the rope and falls into the orchestra pit below, impaled on a cello. There he lies, obviously mortally wounded, poked through the middle like a shish kabob.

I react as any man would. I lean over the orchestral pit, and I ask the mortally impaled Ted if he is alright. Of course, he isn’t alright, and I believe he would have said as much if he hadn’t been so delirious. Ted is in shock now, and his time on this Earth slipping away. Again, I speak to the dying man, asking if he has any last words before moving on to that great used car lot in the sky. He looks at me with a kind of a look only a nearly dead Ted Nugent can conjure up, and with his final breath, mutters the words,,, Harry Bedurchy.

Harry Bedurchy, and then he just slumps back on the cello and dies. Harry Bedurchy, I repeat, as the house lights come on and the crowd begins to shuffle out. Harry Bedurchy, indeed, and with that I awakened from my dream. Even now, I have no idea what may have prompted this nightmarish scenario. I can only wonder.

Well, I suppose it’s time to wrap up this, my first of monologues. I hope you’ve enjoyed it, and I hope the next time you hear the song Walking in Memphis, you think of an aged Ted Nugent sporting camel genitalia. I know I will. Good night everyone. Oh and by all means, Harry Bedurchy.

Brad

Skate the Razor

Show Time at the County Fair, Pt. Two

2008-04-14T11:53:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

The show last night at the Maricopa County Fair was a big success! Thanks to everyone who took time out of their afternoon to attend. The sound was a little rough in spots and the reverb was just too much, but the band played all but flawlessly.

We are still picking through the video footage, which may take a few days, but we have already posted several photos of the show, in this and in part One of this article.

B. Thomas Cooper & Friends perform
at the Maricopa County Fair

In all, we played a total of ten tunes, which is a first for us. It’s much like preparing for a ten round middle-weight bout, only we get to sit on the stool most of the time. No spit bucket, of course. (Kudos to Don Biscoe, who stood in for Michael Buffer).

(L-R) Nick Gill, B. Cooper, Jon Duff

I hope you enjoy the photos. Try back in a day or so, and don’t be surprised when you find we have posted a slew of the new.

Once again, thanks to everyone who contributed. I owe you big time!

Brad

Skate the Razor

Show Time at the County Fair, Pt. One

2008-04-14T11:49:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

It is 10:26 a.m. and Nick and I have commenced to watching ‘This Is Spinal Tap’ , a ritual before most gigs. Currently listening to ‘Cups and Cakes’. Life imitates art.

This isn't a Skate the Razor gig, however. This is B. Thomas Cooper and Friends. We will be opening with 'These Clever Lies'. Our bass player Jon Duff will be arriving at 12:30 or so. We go on at 3:00 p.m. for a forty-five minute set, while strangers eating fry bread point at us with their sticky fingers. Ah, spring is in the air.

Jon Duff at Fairgrounds

Nick Gill performing at fair

We’ll be shooting lot’s of digital film. In fact, our camera crew is larger than our stage crew. (Listening to 'Lick My Love Pump.)

We are expecting the temperature to a be a very agreeable 85 degrees. I’m very much looking forward to a great time. More on what transpires later.

See ya' there!

Brad

Skate the Razor

Free Skate the Razor Downloads

2008-03-17T15:42:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

FREE Skate the Razor Downloads
The Downloads have arrived.
As promised, here are the first batch of songs from Trance Factor, the rare debut CD by Skate the Razor. These are the complete versions of each song as they appear on Trance Factor, not some diced up sound-bites. Quality is important, so the downloads are only available in Mp3 format. Feel free to download any time, day or night.
Oh, and tell a friend.

She Loves Jesus (2:32)
One Little Drop (3:43)
Jack-Knife (3:16)
Stranger (5:20)
Sleeping with Fire (4:00)
Last Time (2:53)
Firing Line (2:19)
It Rains (2:57)
The Gods Must Be Sleeping (3:23)
Judgment Day (4:15)
Rock City Man (3:30)

To download right-click the link and select "Save Link/Target As..."

If you like what you hear, check back next Friday, when I’ll be posting three more Skate the Razor classics from Trance Factor. All Skate the Razor downloads offered by me on this blog are FREE! No Charge! Gratis. These free downloads will also be available soon at Skate the Razor and at Sound Foundation Ent , and as the man says, you pay nothing. It’s just my way of spreading the love.

Shove that in your pipe and smoke it!

Skate the Razor

Seasons Greetings!

2007-12-24T07:52:00.000-08:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

Season's Greetings!

The holiday candles are burning, my friends. Christmas is only days away. Many presents have yet to be purchased, let alone, wrapped and distributed. Thank the good lord above (thanks be to Allah, etc.) I can always count on Santa to bear the brunt of the load.

Yes, the holiday season is again upon us. Rest assured good old Saint Nick knows who’s been naughty and who’s been nice, no matter what George W. Bush or Dick Cheney may say to the contrary. I recommend two lumps a piece. Of coal that is, but then I assume you knew where I was going with this.

Ah, but I digress.

We acquired our Christmas tree in the usual manner, and from the usual suspects, whom we have ascertained use the proceeds to fund a covert children’s hospital in a predominantly Hispanic neighborhood. Mum is the word.

The parking lot was dimly lit. Actually, it was not lit at all. It was dark! We peered through the shadows, shaking branches curiously and horse-trading in our best broken Spanish. We settled on a fine tree. The gentle mannered attendant then secured the tree to the roof of our truck with about forty feet of heavy rope I assume was strong enough secure an angry bison to our rooftop. No extra charge.

As we pulled away from the unpaved parking area adjoining the unlit tree lot, we were greeted by the most unusual sign. 'NO REFUNDS OR RETURNS' the sign portended. They must be on to us, we mused, as we drove away, singing carols in our best broken Spanish.

More later,
Eggnog and fudge await.

Skate the Razor

Free New Skate the Razor Video - She Loves Jesus (Live)

2007-11-19T19:41:00.000-08:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

You saw it here first! The New She Loves Jesus Live, all digitally re-mastered for the YouTube generation. Watch Now and Be Amazed!

She Loves Jesus recorded live in Buffalo, New York

Originally filmed by Ralph Burgess aka Rip Starly during a live performance in front of a packed house at Sinbad’s, in Buffalo New York.

As promised, the video kicks a whole bunch of backside, so watch it over and over, and of course, show it to all of your friends, That’s what it’s for.

Oh, and remember, we’re not done yet! We also have videos for Stranger and Sleeping With Fire, both currently undergoing treatment. Both should be ready for action in a few days or so.

Happy Thanksgiving everyone,
Chow,

Brad

Skate the Razor

Sound Foundation Entertainment - blogment - National Newswire - The Infinite Echo - Sound & Recording - Impeachment Now! - Skate the Razor - Skate the Razor Blog

Skate The Razor Videos Coming Soon!

2007-11-17T17:20:00.000-08:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

They’re Coming!

The new, digitally restored and re-mastered versions of Skate the Razor’s classic music videos are nearly here!

It’s amazing! These great videos now look better than ever. If only Rip, our loyal friend and video director were still around to see his hard work appear on YouTube and the likes. He would have been quite proud.

Unfortunately, Rip recently passed away of heart failure, and we had to complete this project without his priceless input. Needless to say, the newly restored videos would have turned out much differently had he been around to guide us through the maze of memories.

Nick and I ran into a few obstacles, but ultimately, if proved to be less stressful than we’d imagined. I have been contacting the guys to keep them up to date on our progress, and I suspect when they actually see this stuff, they’re going to be stoked in a big way.

Brad & Mike in summer of 2006

The videos include our single, ‘Stranger‘, as well as Rip’s first real effort, ‘Sleeping with Fire‘, which he created entirely without the aid of computer software. For years, he had wanted to go back and re-edit the video. I think he would be pleased with the results.

My favorite is the live video for ‘She Loves Jesus’ which was filmed before packed house at Sinbad’s in Buffalo, New York. This was a big show for our homeboys, so we always had a great time, and this particular night was no exception.

Check back again in a day or two, or try looking on YouTube, perhaps.
Any day now, my friends… any day.

Brad

Skate the Razor

The End of Summer

2007-11-12T15:56:00.000-08:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

It was indeed, a long, hot summer. Nick has returned, and we have acquired some new hardware since my last entry. The difference should be felt within the next day or so, as we will be uploading the original Skate the Razor videos, for free of course.

Skate the Razor

Unfortunately, Skate the Razor has simply not been a priority of mine as of late, but I am hoping to dedicate more time to the project in upcoming weeks. There is always much to do. We have begun production on a video for Judgment Day, but it’s still a long way from being finished.

The winter holidays are nearly upon us once again, and this year, with the economy slipping, we can expect the full court press. Still, we hope to offer free cd’s, t-shirts and other fun stuff before the year is out, so be sure to visit again soon.

Brad

Skate the Razor

Thirteen Things An Aging Rock Musician Should Never Do In Public (Revisited)

2007-11-06T17:43:00.000-08:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

I have compiled a list of thirteen (newish like) things an aging rock musician should never, never, ever do again...
at least not with the door unlocked.
Enjoy.

NEVER NEVER NEVER:

1. Grow your hair back down to your shoulders, unless you happen to be Britney Spears, who has a damn good excuse, or Jon Duff, who doesn't, but looks cool anyway). Save yourself the embarrassment... leave it short, like a book report.

2. Get a second job moonlighting at Sam Goody’s. You are not hip, in spite of your recent hip surgery. Leave that line of work for the experts… teenagers. Here's a word of advice... a 'flat screen', and a 'flat-line' are not the same thing.

3. Sing about getting drunk and chasing groupies around at the Implodium. That whole shtick is now the domain of modern FM country radio.

4. Wear a one piece jump suit to the Van Halen re-union concert at the Implodium. Face it, little dreamer, uni-tards are not retro cool, old school, or not.

5. Play air-guitar every time 'Little Dreamer' comes on the radio, even when driving seventy on the toll-way, (like say, en rout to the VH re-union at the Implodium).

6. Hold a lit cigarette lighter aloft whenever 'Aint Talkin' 'bout Love' comes on the radio.

7. Brag about jamming backstage with former members of Trixter.

8. Never take all of your old backstage passes, (not even Trixter) with you to Parent Teacher conferences.

9. Brag about hanging out backstage with Anson Williams and Donny Most at the 'Happy Days' re-union.

10. Encourage your audience to hold lit cigarette lighters aloft when your band breaks into the opening riff of 'Ain't Talkin' 'bout Love', (This is especially important in small clubs with low ceilings).

11. Brag about all the drugs you partied away back in the eighties.

12. Brag about all the parties you drugged way back in the eighties.

13. Pine for the days when Sammy Hagar still sang with Van Halen.

Good luck with the tour, guys. Yes, you too, David!

Brad

Skate the Razor

Free Trance Factor Downloads

2007-08-13T11:14:00.000-07:00

Recording Acoustic Guitar, Pt. One

2007-06-08T16:41:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

Who says recording an acoustic guitar is difficult?
Oh contraire, my friends. Recording an acoustic guitar is no harder than recording any other acoustic stringed instrument. Oh sure, some simple sonic rules apply, but certainly nothing worth getting high strung about.

I'll begin by addressing a few of the common misconceptions. Most microphones are designed with a general recording purpose in mind, but there are few hard and fast rules that apply to recording. Although a particular mic may seem appropriate for the setting, there are no guarantees. No two acoustic guitars sound alike, no two rooms sound alike, and no two players play alike. Each recording presents a different set of variables.

Some folks believe a good acoustic guitar sound can only be accomplished by placing the microphone inside the sound-hole of the acoustic. My advise is to forget such nonsense, as it falls dangerously far from the truth, and almost always results in a very poor recording. Even a high quality contact condenser mic mounted inside the instrument produces a compromised result and is generally not used for serious recording. You don't stick your ears in the sound hole when you listen to an acoustic guitar do you? I certainly don't.

Indeed, microphone placement is key to recording any acoustic instrument, but it need not be difficult. An acoustic guitar has wonderful ambient and dynamic qualities, often overlooked or misunderstood. Try backing the mic away from the guitar a few inches, pointing the diaphragm toward the sound-hole. Relax, and let the instrument breathe. Changing the axis alignment of the mic, even ever so slightly, can produce startling results. Most importantly, listen for the subtle changes, and learn what is meant by critical listening'. Don't settle for the first sound you dial in. Take your time, and by all means, enjoy the process.

Skate the Razor

Choosing the Right Microphone

2007-04-01T20:15:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

When choosing the right microphone for a particular application, an array of external variables come into play, including room acoustics, mic placement, frequency response, sound pressure, etc. For this reason, different types of microphones are designed to address different sonic properties.

A microphone works by converting acoustic energy into corresponding electrical voltages, through a process known as transduction. There are various methods by which this process can be accomplished, however, the two most common types of microphones used in recording are the dynamic and the condenser.

With a dynamic microphone, a moving conductor cuts the magnetic field of force to produce electricity, or signal. There are two basic types of dynamic microphones, the ribbon mic, and the more popular, moving coil dynamic, in which a coil of wire is suspended within a magnetic field. Sound-waves strike the diaphragm, causing it to vibrate. This in turn causes the coil to vibrate, generating the desired signal. With a ribbon microphone, a thin strip of metal foil (the ribbon) is suspended within the magnetic field. Again, sound waves cause the ribbon to vibrate within the field, resulting in transduction.

There are dozens of companies who manufacture dependable, reasonably priced studio microphones. So many in fact, it would be nearly impossible to discuss all of them in this article. Therefore I will limit my suggestions to a handful of the more popular microphones
readily available at an affordable price.

Shure Bros. SM-57 & SM-58

Manufactured by Shure Bros. for decades without ever undergoing any notable changes.,
these two dynamic microphones have been the foundation of countless legendary recordings. Every studio, no matter how large or small, should seriously consider keeping a couple of these little workhorses around.

The SM-57 produces a unidirectional pattern, limiting unwanted noise, while capturing a warm, fat response. This mic is great for recording loud guitar amplifiers, horns, vocals, etc. and can usually be purchased new for around $100.00

The Shure SM-58 produces an omni-directional pattern, and is great for lead vocals. I have used this microphone for nearly every imaginable recording at one time or another. When all else fails, the SM-58 can always be depended upon for a clear, even response. Like the SM-57, this mic is also available new for around a hundred dollars, and is worth every dime.

The Electrovoice RE-20, another workhorse of the industry, and found in nearly every major studio in the country. Created especially for critical recording, broadcast and sound re-inforcement, the RE-20 produces a flat but fat response over an unusually wide frequency range. This is the microphone most often associated with radio broadcast (disc Jockeys, etc) and is ideal for applications involving sound pressure in excess of 160 dB.
The RE-20 can be purchased for around $400.00.

I would also recommend the AKG C-414. With five polar patterns, this is indeed a versatile microphone, although some may find it a little pricey, as it usually sells for just under a $1,000.00 This mic is ideal for vocals, brass and woodwinds, and is often a favorite for film scoring.

Predictably, as you become more familiar with the recording process, you’re microphone collection will grow accordingly. Don’t be afraid to experiment with whatever mics you may have available, as there are no hard and fast rules. Information on the subject is vast and easily obtainable, but nothing beats good old hands on experience. Recording should be fun.
Take your time, and enjoy the experience.

B. Thomas Cooper

Skate the Razor

Choosing The Right Studio For You

2007-03-29T09:12:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

Music Recording & Engineering
Choosing The Right Studio For You

Hi everyone, and thank you for sharing a few moments of your time with me.
I just completed writing an article for Helium.com and I thought some of you might find it interesting, if not valuable. Read on.

Having spent over three decades as a professional musician and producer, I have been fortunate to work alongside some amazing talent. Over the years I have designed and built a number of studios, for various clients, each with their own specific needs in mind.

Indeed, each recording is as unique as the individual artist. The process can be as simple or as complex as the project requires. There is no magic formula. The goal should always be for the essence of the song to transcend the limitations of the process.

What do I mean by all of this? Well for starters, don’t make the recording process any more difficult than necessary. No recording can be perfect, so don’t think about perfection. Think about the impact of the performance.

These days, we have far more options than limitations. Be honest with yourself about your goals and expectations. Reliable recording studios can be found in even the most remote locations. Visit the studio before actually booking any time. Don’t be afraid to ask the engineer to play you a song or two he has recorded recently. Be sure these are people you will feel comfortable working with for long hours at a time. Prices will vary from one studio to the next, so take your time and choose wisely. You shouldn’t need to spend a fortune.

In Recent years, computer based recording software has made it possible for artists to make affordable high quality digital recordings from home. However, this method requires an understanding of the software as well as the recording process itself. This is the fundamental difference between production and engineering. The producer sets the course, whereas it is the responsibility of the engineer is to navigate (twiddle the knobs). Some artists, like Prince and Moby prefer to do all three themselves, but no man is a mountain. Don’t assume you can handle everything yourself. Experience, good or bad, can be priceless.

It is always wise to copyright your songs for your own protection. Any simple recording of the song is acceptable and the process is way easier than filing your taxes. Downloadable copyright forms are available online, free from the Library of Congress. For more information, visit their website at: Library of Congress

If you have any questions you’d like to ask, you may contact me by e-mail at: sfefeedback@msn.com
or feel free to visit my webite: Sound Foundation Entertainment

Good luck,
Perhaps we’ll be hearing from you soon!

Brad

Skate the Razor

Banding Together

2007-03-22T15:14:00.000-07:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

Some bands are good at it, some are not. Some musicians understand how important it is, others don’t. Frankly, some people are simply too concerned about they’re own egos to do the right thing. What is the “right thing”?. Banding together, of course! Networking, so to speak.

Far too many young musicians think the club scene is some kind of ‘dog eat dog’ scenario, but it doesn’t need to be that way. Nowhere has the pressure been greater than on the Sunset strip in Hollywood during the ‘Big Hair’ era, and yet my band, based in Phoenix nearly four hundred miles eastward, played alongside Guns & Roses, Poison, and other future legends without getting sucked down by personal egos. We were always supportive of the bands on the scene, and it paid off for us in big ways.

Of course, there are ways to be helpful and self serving at the same time. I would urge my guys to help the other bands strike the stage, for example. After all, the sooner the stage is clear, the sooner my band can set up. Doesn’t this just make good sense?

Ultimately it’s up to you, but having personally booked literally hundreds of gigs at dozens of clubs, I can assure you that a band with a bad reputation is far less apt to be offered the choice gigs, no matter how cool they may think they are. On the other hand, if you can’t network on the local level, what ever gives you the idea you’ll be ready to work with the big boys?

Get out there and get it done! Making excuses is not going to get you where you want to go. Don’t be shy to show your meddle and remember, networking is your friend. Now that’s what I call ‘sound reasoning’.

Brad

Skate the Razor

When Your Voice is Your Instrument

2007-02-23T06:05:00.000-08:00

Skate the Razor,
Both Friend and Foe,
Greetings.

B. Thomas Cooper

The human voice is a unique and complex musical instrument. It is my principle instrument, and one I have spent years learning to master. Although I play many instruments, it was always my voice people wanted hear. Try as I might to establish myself as a respectable instrumentalist, there was always someone with better guitar chops, but a strong vocalist was and remains a rare commodity.

I love to sing. I cannot calculate how many hours I have spent singing. I sing on stage, I sing in the studio, rehearsal and yes, sometimes I sing in the shower. (try that with your electric guitar). It seems obvious then that I would want to learn everything available about my instrument and my craft, don't you agree?

Sadly, many young singers overlook the value of learning more about themselves. Many singers, especially those in the rock or punk genres, fear such information will somehow taint the authenticity of their art form. Oh contraire, ye of bruised larynx. In the event your new snare drum should take a nasty fall down a flight of stairs, it can usually be replaced with little difficulty. Your voice, on the other hand, cannot be replaced so easily.
Damage your throat and you risk your dream.

Don't think I'm not aware of the nerd quotient. I realize how ridiculous those ads look, the ones touting vocal technique. I get queasy every time I see one. Here's my advise get over it.

Mozart took piano lessons and Michelangelo took drawing lessons. There are no good reasons why a singer shouldn't seek out professional vocal training. I can't stress how important this is to anyone considering a career as a singer.

Skate the Razor