This morning delivered an unexpected surprise. As Tyler and I discussed his upcoming session in Nashville (I’m going btw), he casually mentioned the inclusion of some acoustic tracks “including one I’m working on now.” Twenty minutes later I had lyrics in front of me and a request to honestly evaluate the level of lameness. See, Tyler doesn’t often write what he calls “happy” songs. In fact, he may be my only friend that hopes for hardships in life to guarantee song material. He & I have differing opinions on what makes a song “happy”, as this track still felt sad, but any hint of optimism qualifies as happy in Tyler’s book. A quick rewrite of the bridge and another 20 minutes later, I had an mp3 coming through on IM with a fat disclaimer.

Today was incredibly busy at work, and I could feel Tyler fretting the further I delayed my feedback [music pun unintended]. He was certain I hated it. On the contrary, I loved it. Despite the random phone beep and it being recorded with his computer mic and everything else. The song stayed on repeat for the next 6 or so hours. I wish I could post it here, but Tyler would certainly strangle me. They’re doing an official recording next weekend. I’m promised a phone beep-free mp3.

Fresh off a read of the latest RS & Spin, I’m even more marveled by the songwriting process. Last night he had a verse. This morning there was a melody and chorus. This afternoon delivered a finished song. In a week full of long work days and unpleasant news, it was a much needed bit of excitement. I love that I’m friends with artists, and love even more that they share their work with me and think my opinion counts for something. I cannot articulate how incredibly happy it makes me.

Though we won’t be laying down this track in Nashville (I’m practicing my lingo), it still makes me even more excited about my upcoming trip. It’s going to be a fantastic 3 days of late nights, creative differences, and good company.

I think I can get away with posting a bit of the lyrics:

Stronger now/This haunted house is crumbling/There is no rush/There is only us to simply be

I especially love the last line. The music is as stripped down and vulnerable as the lyrics with hints of Richard Edwards’ recent falsetto styling. Fight in Me still trembles with a sense of uncertain love but combats the isolation of So Cold Alone. The slightest hint of optimism marks not only a transition in lyrical themes, but gives me hope that one of my favorite people is moving on to better days.

You should be looking forward to buying this song. Check tylerbenderband.com for updates.

In other music news, I’m looking forward to getting my hands on the new M. Ward and a bit curious to sample Dan Auerbach’s solo project. I might also have to check out Neko Case’s latest after the articles I’m reading.

Tomorrow night is Cut & Paste. Excited to check it out, especially since I know 2 folks competing.

Nice to have some happy news I cannot wait to get home and post about for once. Good day. Looking forward to backing the band in Nashville in a couple weeks. I’m such a groupie. I get to hear new music before the rest of the band (well, at least once :)