Listing S220224CP -"We suggest keep your submissions on the simpler side"
Posted: Sat Mar 05, 2022 11:59 am
LOL. Where can I take the class or how much does the double-secret decoder ring cost decipher TAXI descriptions, briefs, etc. and define words like simple, cinematic, etc.?
What's the best kept secret at TAXI? The meaning of the word 'simple'? According to the dictionary it's defined as "plain, basic, or uncomplicated in form, nature, or design; without much decoration or ornamentation." According to TAXI reviewer (Listener ID: 396), however, 'simplicity' is a caveat from the brief found in the reference tracks. OK - finally THE answer. So, as the reviewer suggests, I model my track after the reference tracks. Use a piano as the main focus and base of arrangement. CHECK! Use additional instrumentation like Strings, Pad, Synth, etc. CHECK! According to the description " Your job is more about establishing a mood." The track was NOT returned because of the mood. So AGAIN CHECK! Must be a FORWARD but wait.... a marked red radio box reading RETURNED.... why? Style not on target? How is that possible? Reviewer said track was a "Really interesting cue with cool texture." Then reviewer downshifts to "we" for the bad news. "We need to remember the caveat from the brief on simplicity," (there's THAT word again) and, further on in the review, '''Cinematic' can be wide open to many interpretations, so we need to use every bit of info we can glean from the brief." So I listen to piece that did get forwarded. A piano as the main focus. CHECK. Followed by a pulsing bass and drums!?!? I didn't "glean that information from the brief."
Certainly any complaint about a track not forwarded will come off as sour grapes and there's some of that here but I'm genuinely interested in how composers/musicians make certain decisions in composition (i.e. format, instrumentation, etc.) to meet the requirements.
What's the best kept secret at TAXI? The meaning of the word 'simple'? According to the dictionary it's defined as "plain, basic, or uncomplicated in form, nature, or design; without much decoration or ornamentation." According to TAXI reviewer (Listener ID: 396), however, 'simplicity' is a caveat from the brief found in the reference tracks. OK - finally THE answer. So, as the reviewer suggests, I model my track after the reference tracks. Use a piano as the main focus and base of arrangement. CHECK! Use additional instrumentation like Strings, Pad, Synth, etc. CHECK! According to the description " Your job is more about establishing a mood." The track was NOT returned because of the mood. So AGAIN CHECK! Must be a FORWARD but wait.... a marked red radio box reading RETURNED.... why? Style not on target? How is that possible? Reviewer said track was a "Really interesting cue with cool texture." Then reviewer downshifts to "we" for the bad news. "We need to remember the caveat from the brief on simplicity," (there's THAT word again) and, further on in the review, '''Cinematic' can be wide open to many interpretations, so we need to use every bit of info we can glean from the brief." So I listen to piece that did get forwarded. A piano as the main focus. CHECK. Followed by a pulsing bass and drums!?!? I didn't "glean that information from the brief."
Certainly any complaint about a track not forwarded will come off as sour grapes and there's some of that here but I'm genuinely interested in how composers/musicians make certain decisions in composition (i.e. format, instrumentation, etc.) to meet the requirements.
Casey
Casey