TAXI.com

I can't figure out if the use of non-acoustic guitar instruments is permissible for this pitch. What I'm hung up on is the clause "solely acoustic guitar based". Solely is synonymous with only but based implies other instruments could be used. Am I over thinking this?

MELANCHOLY ACOUSTIC GUITAR INSTRUMENTAL CUES are needed by the CEO of a well-established and very active NON-Exclusive Music Licensing Company with placements on virtually every Major TV Network. They're eager to find Down-to-Mid-Tempo Cues in the general stylistic wheelhouse of artists like:

Sun Kil Moon: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=UtndQzCUEY4

Bon Iver: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=TWcyIpul8OE

Damien Jurado: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CCcAKNSJ3Ac

Bright Eyes: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iuXkhE0VMcw

We know those examples have lyrics, and some may not be acoustic guitar based, but this company needs ACOUSTIC GUITAR INSTRUMENTALS with a vibe or mood that's similar to those examples or any others you can think of that would have a similar, downtrodden vibe.

Quoting the CEO: "Although we often pitch to Reality TV, we ONLY accept the highest quality music. Nothing that's medium bar will work for us. That's how we stay competitive."

Give them melancholy Instrumental Cues that are solely acoustic guitar based, with a melodically moody vibe. Think of the music playing during a moment of hopelessness - what would you hear? Your Cues can have one or two acoustic guitars (for instance, one playing chords and the other playing melody), and should have a central melodic theme. Melodies that have several "scene changes" or variations will be harder for them to use.

Hi Dan;
fwiw: the way I read the text of the listing, seems it would certainly be the safest bet to stick strictly to composing something that's a blend "solely"/only acoustic guitars. I would add to that, for dynamics' sake, you MIGHT get away with an acoustic bass if your piece needs the fullness of some bottom end. Adding other instruments may be more risky when aiming for a forward, and investing a precious "Lincoln".
Seems to me the ala-s are there to let you know the sensibilities of the piece they're after, not necessarily just examples of instrumentation, since ACOUSTIC GUITAR is clearly stated.
hth,
Peter R.

I'm so glad you asked this, Dan! I was confused, too and just got done writing a track with some drums, bass and e piano. I think I'll stick to "solely" acoustic as well. Thanks, Peter!

-Joseph

Usually when they want the instrument by itself, they put "SOLO" in the listing. The problem is, the listing is worded to lead you to that solo realm without saying "solo" maybe because two guitars is okay. Perfectly acceptable to call TAXI and ask them. And when you do, let them know that you think the listing should have been clearer.

Russell

I agree with Russell. I took it to mean only acoustic guitar. One or two. Definitely a good question to ask Taxi.

Russell Landwehr wrote:Usually when they want the instrument by itself, they put "SOLO" in the listing. The problem is, the listing is worded to lead you to that solo realm without saying "solo" maybe because two guitars is okay. Perfectly acceptable to call TAXI and ask them. And when you do, let them know that you think the listing should have been clearer.

Russell

The fact that the listing had Acoutic guitar instr. in all caps kinda drives it home. I went with only acoustic gtrs. A few tracks. One left in me right a melody in the middle. Simple is probably best for thus one.