I disagree, screener!!

[PeterD]

Dear screener #347:

You recently reviewed my Christmas submission:
https://soundcloud.com/moanakeiki/o-tan ... strumental

and in your notes you mention "enjoying" and "liking" (twice):

"Hi Peter, I like the idea of developing this traditional song into something much jazzier. I think the guitar is great but I find that the drums aren't coming together with the light, fluid feel of the guitar and detract from the warm, "joyful" holiday spirit requested."

I mean, it doesn't get more recognizable than what I sent. Not to mention the email sent out by Michael read: 'Tis the season, and we've been busy with requests for great Christmas music. Now's the time to get your submissions in for all of this year's Film, TV, and Advertising Holiday action!

GREAT Film/TV Music Publisher needs CHRISTMAS INSTRUMENTALS of Original OR Public Domain Songs. He's interested in hearing versions in ALL styles, genres, and tempos, as long has your Instrumental has an instantly identifiable Holiday feel. Think Sleigh Bells, Chimes, Orchestral bells, whatever will help you to create the spirit of a joyful holiday winter wonderland.

Most often, these types of tracks are pitched for major advertising campaigns. If you're submitting an ORIGINAL track, make sure it has plenty of catchy hooks. If you're covering a Classic Public Domain track, make sure to have some kind of instrument that carries the lead melody line in place of the vocal. Vocalizations, ohhs, ahhs, etc., are encouraged, but PLEASE DO NOT submit any sung lyrics.

Broadcast Quality is needed (great sounding home recordings are fine). This Company offers an Exclusive 50/50 deal. You must own or control 100% of your master and composition rights. Please submit one to three songs online or per CD. All submissions will be screened on a Yes/No basis. No full critiques. All submissions must be received no later than Wednesday, October 9th, 2013 at 9:30am (PDT). TAXI #U131009XM

The jazz/dance style is what I interpret to be "SHOPPING MOOD" music. Get your blood pumping and spend money, music.
Please ... why wasn't this forwarded? I thought is was a simple, well-made, to-the-point composition.

Sincerely,

[funsongs]

well...my comment double posted after "liking" it...oops.
what's not to like?
fun

[PeterD]

Thanks P.R.!

I hope I don't get excommunicated for posting this, but this IS the place to do it ...
Some of my best stuff and been halted by this same screener. Always saying they like them in some way but never forwarding them.
RRrrrrrr ......

[shawns77]

I personally enjoyed it, and think it would work great in a an ad. I didn't think the drums were distracting myself. But that is just me. My Christmas instrumental just got returned also so what do I know. Hee!Hee! I must say yours was a lot cooler than mine. Don't get discouraged, you definitely got the chops as they say. Better luck next time.

[daveydad]

Peter, I feel your pain! Just had 3 returned. Although I didn't expect all 3 of mine to forward, I really thought Silent Night (on my Taxi page) had a great chance. Anyway, as far as your song... I guess I can see the point about the drums. Maybe if they had been down more in the mix it would have helped. Seems a lot of time it boils down to how we mix something.... not the song idea or performance itself. This is when it would be nice to have a second chance at submits!! BTW, I had the same screener.

[PeterD]

Thanks Shawns77!
Appreciate the compliment! Am I being too biased if I agree with you??

Thank you David! Maybe they got drum groove and drum mix confused ...
I like your "2nd chance" idea! Wonder when that less-strict screening law goes into effect?
Your Silent Night was PERFECT!! VERY nice!

[Casey H]

Hi Peter
Screener #347 is definitely one of the more selective screeners. Before I listened I was expecting to agree with you that this was a tough return, maybe ultra-picky. BUT...

I listened to you track and I have to agree that the drums are distracting. They are fairly prominent in the mix and take away from the Xmas feel and the rest of the rhythmic flow. You might want to listen to the mix with the drums muted and take it from there as to where to go with it.

Best,
Casey

[RonKujawa]

The drum groove seems to work overall. The snare jumped out a little hot on my system.

It's a nice track. Great feel and a cool vibe.

[PeterD]

Hey Casey!

Nice to know it's just not me vs #347 ... Still upsetting and slightly unfair.

I did mute the drums, and you're right ...It does have a different vibe (a more conservative one). However, in my defense (I'll be my own lawyer here ), I've seen/listened to MANY-a commercial with bouncy, up-beat, fun, classic x-mas music. We all have. I really thought that could have been the thing that would have sent this through. The familiar "Vince Guaraldi/Chalie Brown version meets pop music template #5,348

No??? Anyone?? Beuler??



THANK you, Ron!!!! If only I had the chance to adjust the mix per the instruction of the client ...

[funsongs]

Not being anti-screener...'cause what sounds and tones make one person feel joyful may not do the same for another.
I've found that to be so with especially with praise bands. I like uptempo and snappy, fun and celebrative...while others have a more subdued and solemn sense of what joy is; some find joy in more quiet surroundings.

Nevertheless, I'm still with you on this one...it's definitely the kind of piece you hear in a big shopping mall during November and December...or, August, if you're in a Walmart, perhaps. ...
You got my vote; too bad right here is as far as it matters.

Cheers.
fun