Softer Than Stones
ALBUM RELEASED: 2011
My first album of original music in four years, each song was culled from demos I had recorded from.
Using a new phaser pedal (which is used in many other songs on this album), the beginning sets the tone, then fades out before coming back in a big way. Four instruments get a showcase in their own verse (banjo, harmonica, electric guitar, and piano), then the big finish. Interestingly, the main riff is done using a 12-string guitar, and the bottom E string provided enough bass that I didn't need to use an actual bass guitar.
RICK'S NOTES:
​
Countryside Arrhythmia
At this point, I hadn't done much with country music, but this comes close enough to the genre. I still can't quite get the hang of the harmonica, though.
​
Eggs
A quickie I wrote one week after we got a new kitten. In three verses, I tell the kitten how to handle our bigger cat. It's a bit vague, but a nice tune.
Horrible
This is a horrible mess, done purposely, for something different. Don't hate me.
​
If I Would You
It asks a person (multiple times) if they took a look at their life, would they do anything differently. Or something like that.
​
Reputation
Probably the most normal, ready-for-radio songs on the album, this one simply tells the story of a guy who's a big jerk, treats women badly, and probably isn't all that sorry about it in the end.
Softer Than Stones
The song asks a significant other not to try changing them, that even if they're less than perfect, they are happy enough.
​
Stringed Tusk
One of the more unique songs I've ever done, this is centered around keyboards. The piano sound uses a delay pedal, and the phaser pedal is also used. The beginning part fades away to the main song but then comes back as the basis for the second half.
​
What You Please
Stream-of-consciousness writing led to some fun combinations, and if you can guess the overall theme, as well as the three references to '60's songs, you win a prize.