"What I Live For"

[Casey H]

https://s.disco.ac/itwanhwbpcwj

Hey all... In addition to any other feedback on the mix, I'm trying to finalize where to start the drums in this song. At the link, there are 3 mixes: (1) Drums start at verse 1 after intro, (2) Drums start at Chorus 1, (3) Drums start at Verse 2.

Also, is the vocal level a little too hot?

Thanks!
Casey

PS The verses are going to be re-sung with lyrics that are less syllable-heavy, if that was something you noticed.

[eeoo]

I like the drums coming in at V1. Mix sounds pretty good, balanced and all that. To my ear it's pretty "safe", not much in the way of ear candy or anything unexpected but maybe that's good for sync?

EO

[RealPickle]

Hey Casey,

Mix sounds good to me.

I also vote for drums in on the early side. Of these three I like them coming in during verse 1.

But if I may also suggest something *slightly* subversive, I like how the bass comes in halfway through the verse in version 2. Maybe try bringing the drums in at that point as well?

[Casey H]

Also, is the vocal level a little too hot? (It's for sync)

Casey

[RealPickle]

Also, is the vocal level a little too hot? (It's for sync)

Casey

I actually had this thought but I'm mostly an instrumental person so I didn't want to comment out of turn. But since you mention it, the vocal could maybe be brought back a bit.

[GaryShaffer]

Really nice song. Mix seems solid.

For what it's worth, I like the drums coming in on the chorus, but would consider adding a shaker doing 1/8 notes before that. That would give it some bounce and serve to complement the strumming pick sound of the guitar. My two cents.

[telefunkin]

Personally, I like version 2 with drums starting at Chorus 1, but does it really matter? If version 1 was accepted and you provided either the stems or a 'no drums' alt mix then an editor could easily make versions 2 and 3. I get it though - you need to hook them in the first place .

[davidagates]

Very, very nice. I think the vocal is perfect, V2 to me, adds variety to bring the drums in at a later date and the vocals are so good it carries the first verse nicely. Lovely middle 8 as well.

Are you a fan of the Moody Blues incidentally? I could easily see this in their ouvre.

[Casey H]

Very, very nice. I think the vocal is perfect, V2 to me, adds variety to bring the drums in at a later date and the vocals are so good it carries the first verse nicely. Lovely middle 8 as well.

Are you a fan of the Moody Blues incidentally? I could easily see this in their ouvre.

Thanks! I'm old enough to have had the first 7 Mood Blues albums with Justin Hayward on vinyl. Some of the first songs I learned to play on guitar were songs like "Nights in White Satin", "Tuesday Afternoon", etc. I saw them in concert in the 70s twice. So yup, a big fan!

Breathe deep the gathering gloom...

Casey

[WSAO]

All options of drums are fine, my favourite would be in the chorus.
Great song!