Announcing my first CD!
I know what you're thinking: "At last!" Or maybe "Who cares?"
It only took twenty-five years, but I finally recorded my own album (with a lot of help from my friends). Stylistically, it's basically blues-based hard rock with a lot of variety. If you're into that sort of thing, send me your contact into (via the "contact" button above, and I'll get you a CD! They're currently only available from me (sorry about that!). See thrilling background info and lyrics below.
Here it is: the official, untold (and quite possibly not really caring if it’s heard) story of the album All That’s Come Beforeby Outstate.
I didn’t have much room to put stuff on my CD case, so here’s my original liner notes I wrote but that didn’t fit:
Writing songs and recording have fascinated me all of my adult life. Over the years I wrote several songs and enjoyed fantasizing what an album of my own might look like.
In early 2017, I came across a paper where I had written my vision for my own rock album. I had ideas for songs, and musicians (including former bandmates Greg Klein and Matt Seidel). The paper was dated March, 1994. It was then I realized I either needed to let it go or to just do it.
I guess it’s obvious which path I chose. It’s been an incredibly fun learning process. I had no idea what I was doing, but with the help of several wonderful friends, I finally have it!
It was so fun to hear each person put their own stamp of ownership on the songs, and I hope you enjoy it!
And now, the dreaded Thank-Yous:
Thanks to Jesus and my family for everything.This collection of songs wouldn’t exist without these amazing people. Mr. Jack: your friendship and diverse talents are a huge blessing—you were the key to this project! Matt Webb: your brilliant musicianship brought everything to a higher level, and your timeliness and attitude was much appreciated! Greg Klein: it was SO fun to reconnect with you after all these years! Your attitude was awesome, and the fact that you recorded everything in one afternoon still blows me away! Matt Seidel: Having you on here was a dream come true. I miss playing with you in person, but so appreciate you generously sharing your substantial talents! Bill Groninga: Your musicianship was worth the wait! And your help with polishing some very unpolished production was a huge help. Thanks also for the monitors and amp! Ivan Sukhomlynov: My old neighbor from Kyiv! It was so fun hearing you play again—thanks for jumping in at the last minute! Tim Fultz: Thanks for doing probably the weirdest thing you’ll ever do (musically, anyway!). Sherry Thompson: Thanks for letting me borrow your tambourine! Now that I bought Josiah one for Christmas, I use that. What a great dad I am! Josiah: Thanks for the tambourine <insert laughing emoji>. Thanks for thinking my songs are “adorable” (that doesn’t sound very rock ‘n’ roll), and Katja: You’re my biggest fan and your encouragement kept me going. You’re the best! Finally, Kendra, my amazing wife: Despite the fact that you had no interest in this, you graciously helped me out repeatedly. It means the world to me!
Okay, now on to the promised “fascinating” background info!
So first of all, what’s Outstate? It’s not a band, it’s just a band name. Much of this record was dreamt up back in the ‘90s, and if you know anything about rock music in the ‘90s, you know that weird, quirky stuff was “in.” So, my original band name was “Cuddly Bumps.” That was the name of a pony I once rode as a little kid. I thought, “There probably isn’t a band with that name out there,” and I’m pretty sure there wasn’t (and isn’t). I always wanted a cool name like “Soundgarden,” “Aerosmith,” “Guns ‘N Roses,” or “Pearl Jam,” but I couldn’t think of anything cool, so I went with quirky.
Fast forward to 2017. The record was finally taking shape, and the prospect of actually calling it “Cuddly Bumps” became kid of scary. So I tried coming up with another name. I tried out a ton, but they were either lame or taken. Finally, I chose “Outstate.” That was actually gonna be the name of the record. I decided it would work as a band name.
In Minnesota (where I live), there’s the Twin Cities area (people there call it “the Metro”), and then there’s the rest of the state. They call that “Outstate.” I never knew that till I lived in the Twin Cities in my late 20s. Since I live in “Outstate,” it made sense to use that name.
As for “All That’s Come Before,” that just kind of came to me in late 2018. It seemed to fit the idea that this was a collection of songs written over a twenty-five year period.
I wonder if anybody’s actually reading this…If you are, Hi! And thanks! J
So, I know you’re desperate to know how this great work of art was recorded! Here’s the story!
My BFF Mr. Jack has a little digital recorder (Boss BR-800). He’s done lots of cool recordings with it. A few years back I received an inheritance (don’t get too excited; it was about $600). My awesome wife said I could spend it on whatever I wanted, so I almost bought a nice airsoft gun. Then I thought maybe I should invest in some recording equipment (good decision!).
So I bought a reconditioned recorder just like Mr. Jack’s. I also bought some drum mics, a couple mic stands and some cords. Ready for studio magic!
So I had a bunch of songs that had been bouncing around in my head for years. I wrote down song maps (“4 bar guitar riff intro/drums and bass in 8 bars”, etc.) and started recording the drums. I only had four inputs, which was good, ‘cause I only had four mics. I read an article about “minimal drum miking,” so I used that technique. Two overheads, one on the bass drum (“kick drum” for you guitar players), and one on the snare. The thing is, my mics were three tom mics and one off-brand that’s like a Shure SM57. No condensors or anything. Who cares? I wanted a raw sound, and boy, did I get it!
I have a nice metronome app on my phone, so I chose a tempo, blasted it in headphones, and played the song. Unfortunately, none of the other musicians could hear it, which can be a problem on a song like “Big Boys.” Sorry, guys!
Once recorded, I mixed the drums and re-imported them into the recorder. I then played “scratch tracks” (ones that aren’t meant to be kept) with rhythm guitar, bass, and vocals. If you heard these, you would look for an awl to drive into your ears and end the agony. Embarrassing! But they served a purpose: to show the real musicians what to play.
At this point the rhythm guitarist (often Mr. Jack) laid down his tracks, trying to decipher my cryptic notes and sloppy playing. Also, Matt Webb came on board and played the bass (he also had the same recorder). He was so quick to get stuff in and his playing was so amazing that I kept asking him to do more stuff on guitar. Good for me he agreed!
Around this point I started sending songs to Greg Klein so he could learn them. Poor guy had to listen to my singing. He deserves a medal for this!
It took a while to internalize ten songs, but finally in April, 2018, Greg came to town (thanks for letting us use your studio, Mr. Jack!) for a marathon session where he recorded ALL his songs in one afternoon.
Then it was time to send the songs to the guitar slingers for the icing on the cake: solos. You’d think this would be the easiest part, but it actually took longer than any other step. I know a lot of guitar players, and I wanted a variety of styles on here, if possible.
However, two different guys fell through, so I had to do some shuffling. Matt Seidel (I think he used the computer program Logicto record) and Bill Groninga (He used Pro Tools) both faced some challenges beyond their control that delayed their contributions for months, but in the end it was worth the wait! Mr. Jack cranked his stuff out quickly, which I really appreciated, but I ended up with one solo-less song.
Then I remembered Ivan (pronounced “E-von,” by the way). My family and I lived in Ukraine a few years back [read all about it in “Kyiv Diary” found elsewhere on my web site! Shameless plug.] I met Ivan there and had the opportunity to jam with him a couple times. He’s a great player, and I wish I would’ve thought of using him sooner. Hopefully we can work together more in the future.
The only thing I don’t like about how all this turned out is the uneven production. Thankfully, Matt and Bill helped out, but some things were beyond help (as they say, you can’t polish a you-know-what). But I’m okay with that—I just wanted to see if I could pull this off. I learned so much recording these songs, and I hope this project is the first of many!
And FINALLY…the songs!
Good Morning
Back in the ‘90s, I thought it would be cool to start a hard rock album with a barbershop quartet (see above comment on quirky ‘90s stuff). I came up with this silly little song, and it stayed in my head for years.
I brought it to my talented wife Kendra, asking for help. She actually wrote out four parts, but sadly…I couldn’t sing them. So she suggested our friend Tim Fultz. So one night in early December 2018 we invited Tim and his wife Sandy over for supper…on the condition that he’d sing my goofy song!
I sang him the melody a couple times, and he proceeded to record four parts off the cuff. From beginning to end, it took about 45 minutes. AMAZING!!!
Fun fact: the song reminded Tim of the “We’re the boys of the chorus” song from the old Bugs Bunny cartoon (look it up). J
Crazy
This is the first song I ever wrote (back in about 1992/93)! I always thought one had to be a musical genius to write songs, but then I found out it takes little or no talent to write a fun rock ‘n’ roll song. I remember coming up with this in my head. It was beyond thrilling. I felt like Mozart!
The original version was faster, but I soon slowed it down, because I liked that groove. The song evolved over the years. A couple years after first coming up with it, I thought it would be cool to start it with a funk jam (‘90s quirkiness yet again!)—something like “Tommy the Cat” by Primus.
When I gave this song to Matt Webb, I said, “Just improvise some funk stuff at the beginning.” He responded that he’s not much for funk…or improvising. But I think he did just fine!
There are some little two bar breaks just before the guitar solo…those were supposed to be funky bass solos, but Matt W said he didn’t want to do them—“Can you just do drum solos there?” I didn’t want to, either :p (plus it would be about impossible to put in new drums that would match the original sound), so I asked Matt Seidel to do something--anything. I love what he did—heavy metal thunder!!!!
Run to the Roar
I used to be in a blues band called The SkyBlues Band. One day the bass player, Michael Walther, handed me a piece of paper with the lyrics to the chorus of this song and said, “You should make this into a song.” So I did! I tweaked his lyrics a bit, wrote the rest of the words, and the music. It didn’t really fit the blues band (we never did it), but it was perfect for this!
I told Matt S to “think Slash” on his leads, and he killed it! I think my favorite part of this entire album is at the end of the last chorus when Greg sings, “I’m gonna be free!” (that was his touch to do it that way) and Matt’s soaring guitar comes in. Eighties greatness.
Speaking of Matt S, I was in my first ever bands with him back in the stone ages (or should I say mullet ages). He was a total metal shredder back then. A few years later, he and his wife were in a country band, and I actually ended up playing with them for about a year. It was actually fun. I hope you don’t hate us for that.
Anyway, now he has a degree in jazz guitar performance, so that’s mostly what he plays. I actually prefer jazz myself, but writing that kind of stuff is way beyond me, so I went with rock. J
Hurry Up
If there was gonna be a title track to this record, this would be it. It’s basically the theme song of my life. It also personifies how I recorded these songs. I would have a few minutes alone at home when the family wasn’t there, so I’d quickly pound out a drum track. I felt rushed at every turn, which seems weird since it took so long, but that’s life in 21stcentury America.
I was planning to have one of my other guitar player friends do the solo, but he flaked out on me, so I asked Mr. Jack to do it. He sat down and came up with this wonderfully quirky lead that I didn’t really like at first, but it’s grown on me so that now I really like it!
I also had a different riff at the beginning, but I decided it was corny, so I had the idea to have the weird bent notes like it does and Mr. Jack graciously did it. Thanks, buddy!
Pickle Jar
“Bad company corrupts good character.” That’s the lyrical inspiration here.
Musically, it’s a clinic on how NOT to write a song. I totally stole the bass line (feel free to figure out from where), and that was all I had. I came up with the chord progression, but couldn’t get a decent vocal melody to save my life.
So I gave it to Mr. Jack for guitar, and said, “If you have any inspiration to come up with a vocal melody, go for it.” A couple weeks later, he sent me a text with the finished version of the song! I was blown away! He also tweaked the lyrics (it was even more wordy before). I hadn’t intended to use two lead singers at first, but after hearing this, I wasn’t about to change it! I decided to have Mr. Jack sing “I’m Yours” as well, so it wasn’t just onerandom song with a different singer.
Also, his guitar solo was EXACTLY how I envisioned it sounding. Amazing job!
These Fields
This song was inspired by long walks I took with my dog in the fields and woods near my home (back in the early and mid-‘90s). Those were some of the happiest times of my life. It’s basically a song of praise to God.
I wrote lyrics back in those days, but never wrote the music. In the summer of 2017, I sat down to write it, but I couldn’t find my lyrics! So I wrote new ones. I stole the guitar chords from someone else (again I’m not telling), and was really happy with how it turned out.
Most of the guitars were recorded on my deck on beautiful days in August and September, 2017. Very idyllic J
I had grandiose visions of soaring background vocals and a cello or violin. I was gonna have a girl from my church play violin (she was excellent), but then she went and moved to Texas! So I gave up on that. Then Kendra tried a few times to do harmony vocals, but with the weird tuning (open D) and dissonant sounds, she struggled, so we ditched the BGVs.
Greg does a beautiful job on his vocals, so less is more on this one.
Grateful
I wanted to write something with a simple, straightforward riff, so I came up with this. The working title was “Riff Song” (how original). Everyone else was too busy to do rhythm guitar, so I did it myself. I still had to do two tracks to cover my inadequacies. Thankfully, Matt S added some rhythm when he worked on it. I wanted to keep this song short and sweet, but I just couldn’t resist putting in weird parts. I thought I’d try to have something interesting for the guitarist to solo over, so I came up with some crazy rhythms. I wrote them out and just played them around the kit. Matt W copied them on bass (in an astounding performance!). Matt S took one listen and essentially threw his hands up—“what am I supposed to play over that?” Good point. So we left it as bass and drums.
Then of course I put in the percussion breakdown, which was a lot of fun.
Fun Fact: I was in a hurry (as usual) recording this, so I quickly ran downstairs one day and played the drum part, nailing it on the first take! I think this was the only song where that happened (yet it was the hardest drum parts).
Something I Never Had
Here’s another song I wrote in my blues band days. I wrote it with a girl singer from the band in mind. We never actually played this one, either. Hey, I’m noticing a trend here…
This is a classic example of how NOT to record a song. I didn’t bother writing out notes, but just sang it in my head as I played the drums. It just goes on, and on, and on…Ugh, I should’ve re-done it. Also, the hi hat is WAY too loud. But rather than re-do it (no time!!!!), I recorded a take of just bass drum and tambourine, then turned down the main drum part on the chorus. It didn’t really work. What a mess…
Since most of these songs are very guitar-heavy, I wanted this one to be different, so the bass and keyboards are the main things happening. Thanks to everyone who helped make this song better (and hopefully not seem quite so long and repetitive).
Fun Fact: Those “lovely” backing vocals are me (with a harmonizing feature—remember I can’t sing harmony!)
Big Boys
This one addresses one of my pet peeves: overgrown boys masquerading as men. There are far too many self-centered adult make brats in our society.
Musically, I had two goals with this song: 1. To write the typical Black Dogrip-off (vocal/guitar tradeoff), and 2. Write a song that doesn’t have the typical verse/chorus song structure). It’s more like verse/pre-chorus, instrumental, chorus.
The One
Here’s the obligatory piano ballad. Again I wanted a change from all the guitar stuff, so there’s no rhythm guitar at all. Thanks to Kendra for the piano, and Bill G for the beautiful soloing. His solo was the last thing recorded on this project, turned in about a week before Christmas, 2018.
Fun Fact: I originally wrote this long ago for a girl, but when I played it for her, it didn’t go well. Nothing ever came of that whole thing, which I’m now thankful for! After the original version, I changed the lyrics to be about God, but then I thought that was cheesy, so I changed it back to being about a girl, and now dedicate it to my wonderful wife, Kendra! Awwwww…
Fun Fact #2: I asked Kendra if she would sing backing vocals. She said sure, and came up with her part in short order while sitting at the kitchen table using the same mic I used on my snare drum, complete with my kids milling about in the background. Thank you, Dear!!!
Not Your Problem
This song addresses another pet peeve of mine. In fact, it’s probably my BIGGEST pet peeve: blaming God for what the devil does. We even have insurance claims for “Acts of God.” If I ever start my own insurance company, there will be a clause for “Acts of satan.”
This was one of the last songs I wrote for this project, and again I was pretty happy with how it turned out. I realized most of my songs didn’t have bridges, so I intentionally wrote one.
Matt Webb’s work on bass and rhythm guitar is exemplary on this track! I especially like the guitar stuff on the bridge and the outro (after the last chorus).
As mentioned above, I asked my Ukrainian buddy Ivan if he’d like to do a solo on this. He didn’t have the equipment, so he found someone who did, but he felt kinda rushed and uncomfortable. I think he did great! The only problem was he came in a little later than I wanted, so rather than make him go to the trouble of re-doing his solo (or adding to it), I had something in mind, so I played it myself! I hope it isn’t too obviously bad…
Nothing New
This was one of the very first songs I wrote, circa 1993. Interestingly, it was a suggestion Matt Seidel had made back when he, Greg and I were in a band called The Resistance. That band never played it (what’s with my bands not playing my music? Haha, actually, I think I didn’t write it till I left that band), and I wasn’t planning on including it on this, because I thought it was too cheesy.
However, one day in late 2017 I was raking leaves (true story), and I started thinking about this song. I came up with the bridge/guitar solo section and thought it might work. Then a few days later I re-wrote 95% of the lyrics (while waiting for my kids at the dentist), and viola! I had another song!
So this song was inspired by dental visits and yardwork.
Fun Fact:
I laid down a scratch guitar part and asked Matt W to redo it. He said it was fine, so I just left it! Don’t listen too closely…
Fun Fact #2:
This was the last of ten songs Greg recorded, and he was getting tired. This was also the last song sent to him, and he hadn’t had enough time to learn it well enough to be very comfortable with it. He said it reminded him of the Beastie Boys, and he could hear a rap approach on the verses. We were both getting a little goofy after hours of intensity, so I said to give it a shot. He did it that way, and we liked it, so we left it. The second verse (after the solo) is more like the original vision, but like I said, he was getting pretty tired by that point, so we just went with whatever. My inspiration for the vocals on the bridge was actually the pre-chorus from the song “Cynics & Critics” by Icon for Hire, in case anyone cares!
I’m Yours
Yet another golden oldie. This was just a fun little chorus I came up with years ago, and I thought it would be a nice album closer.
I knew Mr. Jack would take this song to the next level, and I wasn’t disappointed!
Thanks to Tim Siewert at the Detroit Lakes High School for the congas (I think I used them on These Fieldsas well).
Fun Fact:
The line “You’re the one that I adore” in the middle of the solo section was actually a mistake, but I thought it sounded cool, so we left it!
I didn’t have much room to put stuff on my CD case, so here’s my original liner notes I wrote but that didn’t fit:
Writing songs and recording have fascinated me all of my adult life. Over the years I wrote several songs and enjoyed fantasizing what an album of my own might look like.
In early 2017, I came across a paper where I had written my vision for my own rock album. I had ideas for songs, and musicians (including former bandmates Greg Klein and Matt Seidel). The paper was dated March, 1994. It was then I realized I either needed to let it go or to just do it.
I guess it’s obvious which path I chose. It’s been an incredibly fun learning process. I had no idea what I was doing, but with the help of several wonderful friends, I finally have it!
It was so fun to hear each person put their own stamp of ownership on the songs, and I hope you enjoy it!
And now, the dreaded Thank-Yous:
Thanks to Jesus and my family for everything.This collection of songs wouldn’t exist without these amazing people. Mr. Jack: your friendship and diverse talents are a huge blessing—you were the key to this project! Matt Webb: your brilliant musicianship brought everything to a higher level, and your timeliness and attitude was much appreciated! Greg Klein: it was SO fun to reconnect with you after all these years! Your attitude was awesome, and the fact that you recorded everything in one afternoon still blows me away! Matt Seidel: Having you on here was a dream come true. I miss playing with you in person, but so appreciate you generously sharing your substantial talents! Bill Groninga: Your musicianship was worth the wait! And your help with polishing some very unpolished production was a huge help. Thanks also for the monitors and amp! Ivan Sukhomlynov: My old neighbor from Kyiv! It was so fun hearing you play again—thanks for jumping in at the last minute! Tim Fultz: Thanks for doing probably the weirdest thing you’ll ever do (musically, anyway!). Sherry Thompson: Thanks for letting me borrow your tambourine! Now that I bought Josiah one for Christmas, I use that. What a great dad I am! Josiah: Thanks for the tambourine <insert laughing emoji>. Thanks for thinking my songs are “adorable” (that doesn’t sound very rock ‘n’ roll), and Katja: You’re my biggest fan and your encouragement kept me going. You’re the best! Finally, Kendra, my amazing wife: Despite the fact that you had no interest in this, you graciously helped me out repeatedly. It means the world to me!
Okay, now on to the promised “fascinating” background info!
So first of all, what’s Outstate? It’s not a band, it’s just a band name. Much of this record was dreamt up back in the ‘90s, and if you know anything about rock music in the ‘90s, you know that weird, quirky stuff was “in.” So, my original band name was “Cuddly Bumps.” That was the name of a pony I once rode as a little kid. I thought, “There probably isn’t a band with that name out there,” and I’m pretty sure there wasn’t (and isn’t). I always wanted a cool name like “Soundgarden,” “Aerosmith,” “Guns ‘N Roses,” or “Pearl Jam,” but I couldn’t think of anything cool, so I went with quirky.
Fast forward to 2017. The record was finally taking shape, and the prospect of actually calling it “Cuddly Bumps” became kid of scary. So I tried coming up with another name. I tried out a ton, but they were either lame or taken. Finally, I chose “Outstate.” That was actually gonna be the name of the record. I decided it would work as a band name.
In Minnesota (where I live), there’s the Twin Cities area (people there call it “the Metro”), and then there’s the rest of the state. They call that “Outstate.” I never knew that till I lived in the Twin Cities in my late 20s. Since I live in “Outstate,” it made sense to use that name.
As for “All That’s Come Before,” that just kind of came to me in late 2018. It seemed to fit the idea that this was a collection of songs written over a twenty-five year period.
I wonder if anybody’s actually reading this…If you are, Hi! And thanks! J
So, I know you’re desperate to know how this great work of art was recorded! Here’s the story!
My BFF Mr. Jack has a little digital recorder (Boss BR-800). He’s done lots of cool recordings with it. A few years back I received an inheritance (don’t get too excited; it was about $600). My awesome wife said I could spend it on whatever I wanted, so I almost bought a nice airsoft gun. Then I thought maybe I should invest in some recording equipment (good decision!).
So I bought a reconditioned recorder just like Mr. Jack’s. I also bought some drum mics, a couple mic stands and some cords. Ready for studio magic!
So I had a bunch of songs that had been bouncing around in my head for years. I wrote down song maps (“4 bar guitar riff intro/drums and bass in 8 bars”, etc.) and started recording the drums. I only had four inputs, which was good, ‘cause I only had four mics. I read an article about “minimal drum miking,” so I used that technique. Two overheads, one on the bass drum (“kick drum” for you guitar players), and one on the snare. The thing is, my mics were three tom mics and one off-brand that’s like a Shure SM57. No condensors or anything. Who cares? I wanted a raw sound, and boy, did I get it!
I have a nice metronome app on my phone, so I chose a tempo, blasted it in headphones, and played the song. Unfortunately, none of the other musicians could hear it, which can be a problem on a song like “Big Boys.” Sorry, guys!
Once recorded, I mixed the drums and re-imported them into the recorder. I then played “scratch tracks” (ones that aren’t meant to be kept) with rhythm guitar, bass, and vocals. If you heard these, you would look for an awl to drive into your ears and end the agony. Embarrassing! But they served a purpose: to show the real musicians what to play.
At this point the rhythm guitarist (often Mr. Jack) laid down his tracks, trying to decipher my cryptic notes and sloppy playing. Also, Matt Webb came on board and played the bass (he also had the same recorder). He was so quick to get stuff in and his playing was so amazing that I kept asking him to do more stuff on guitar. Good for me he agreed!
Around this point I started sending songs to Greg Klein so he could learn them. Poor guy had to listen to my singing. He deserves a medal for this!
It took a while to internalize ten songs, but finally in April, 2018, Greg came to town (thanks for letting us use your studio, Mr. Jack!) for a marathon session where he recorded ALL his songs in one afternoon.
Then it was time to send the songs to the guitar slingers for the icing on the cake: solos. You’d think this would be the easiest part, but it actually took longer than any other step. I know a lot of guitar players, and I wanted a variety of styles on here, if possible.
However, two different guys fell through, so I had to do some shuffling. Matt Seidel (I think he used the computer program Logicto record) and Bill Groninga (He used Pro Tools) both faced some challenges beyond their control that delayed their contributions for months, but in the end it was worth the wait! Mr. Jack cranked his stuff out quickly, which I really appreciated, but I ended up with one solo-less song.
Then I remembered Ivan (pronounced “E-von,” by the way). My family and I lived in Ukraine a few years back [read all about it in “Kyiv Diary” found elsewhere on my web site! Shameless plug.] I met Ivan there and had the opportunity to jam with him a couple times. He’s a great player, and I wish I would’ve thought of using him sooner. Hopefully we can work together more in the future.
The only thing I don’t like about how all this turned out is the uneven production. Thankfully, Matt and Bill helped out, but some things were beyond help (as they say, you can’t polish a you-know-what). But I’m okay with that—I just wanted to see if I could pull this off. I learned so much recording these songs, and I hope this project is the first of many!
And FINALLY…the songs!
Good Morning
Back in the ‘90s, I thought it would be cool to start a hard rock album with a barbershop quartet (see above comment on quirky ‘90s stuff). I came up with this silly little song, and it stayed in my head for years.
I brought it to my talented wife Kendra, asking for help. She actually wrote out four parts, but sadly…I couldn’t sing them. So she suggested our friend Tim Fultz. So one night in early December 2018 we invited Tim and his wife Sandy over for supper…on the condition that he’d sing my goofy song!
I sang him the melody a couple times, and he proceeded to record four parts off the cuff. From beginning to end, it took about 45 minutes. AMAZING!!!
Fun fact: the song reminded Tim of the “We’re the boys of the chorus” song from the old Bugs Bunny cartoon (look it up). J
Crazy
This is the first song I ever wrote (back in about 1992/93)! I always thought one had to be a musical genius to write songs, but then I found out it takes little or no talent to write a fun rock ‘n’ roll song. I remember coming up with this in my head. It was beyond thrilling. I felt like Mozart!
The original version was faster, but I soon slowed it down, because I liked that groove. The song evolved over the years. A couple years after first coming up with it, I thought it would be cool to start it with a funk jam (‘90s quirkiness yet again!)—something like “Tommy the Cat” by Primus.
When I gave this song to Matt Webb, I said, “Just improvise some funk stuff at the beginning.” He responded that he’s not much for funk…or improvising. But I think he did just fine!
There are some little two bar breaks just before the guitar solo…those were supposed to be funky bass solos, but Matt W said he didn’t want to do them—“Can you just do drum solos there?” I didn’t want to, either :p (plus it would be about impossible to put in new drums that would match the original sound), so I asked Matt Seidel to do something--anything. I love what he did—heavy metal thunder!!!!
Run to the Roar
I used to be in a blues band called The SkyBlues Band. One day the bass player, Michael Walther, handed me a piece of paper with the lyrics to the chorus of this song and said, “You should make this into a song.” So I did! I tweaked his lyrics a bit, wrote the rest of the words, and the music. It didn’t really fit the blues band (we never did it), but it was perfect for this!
I told Matt S to “think Slash” on his leads, and he killed it! I think my favorite part of this entire album is at the end of the last chorus when Greg sings, “I’m gonna be free!” (that was his touch to do it that way) and Matt’s soaring guitar comes in. Eighties greatness.
Speaking of Matt S, I was in my first ever bands with him back in the stone ages (or should I say mullet ages). He was a total metal shredder back then. A few years later, he and his wife were in a country band, and I actually ended up playing with them for about a year. It was actually fun. I hope you don’t hate us for that.
Anyway, now he has a degree in jazz guitar performance, so that’s mostly what he plays. I actually prefer jazz myself, but writing that kind of stuff is way beyond me, so I went with rock. J
Hurry Up
If there was gonna be a title track to this record, this would be it. It’s basically the theme song of my life. It also personifies how I recorded these songs. I would have a few minutes alone at home when the family wasn’t there, so I’d quickly pound out a drum track. I felt rushed at every turn, which seems weird since it took so long, but that’s life in 21stcentury America.
I was planning to have one of my other guitar player friends do the solo, but he flaked out on me, so I asked Mr. Jack to do it. He sat down and came up with this wonderfully quirky lead that I didn’t really like at first, but it’s grown on me so that now I really like it!
I also had a different riff at the beginning, but I decided it was corny, so I had the idea to have the weird bent notes like it does and Mr. Jack graciously did it. Thanks, buddy!
Pickle Jar
“Bad company corrupts good character.” That’s the lyrical inspiration here.
Musically, it’s a clinic on how NOT to write a song. I totally stole the bass line (feel free to figure out from where), and that was all I had. I came up with the chord progression, but couldn’t get a decent vocal melody to save my life.
So I gave it to Mr. Jack for guitar, and said, “If you have any inspiration to come up with a vocal melody, go for it.” A couple weeks later, he sent me a text with the finished version of the song! I was blown away! He also tweaked the lyrics (it was even more wordy before). I hadn’t intended to use two lead singers at first, but after hearing this, I wasn’t about to change it! I decided to have Mr. Jack sing “I’m Yours” as well, so it wasn’t just onerandom song with a different singer.
Also, his guitar solo was EXACTLY how I envisioned it sounding. Amazing job!
These Fields
This song was inspired by long walks I took with my dog in the fields and woods near my home (back in the early and mid-‘90s). Those were some of the happiest times of my life. It’s basically a song of praise to God.
I wrote lyrics back in those days, but never wrote the music. In the summer of 2017, I sat down to write it, but I couldn’t find my lyrics! So I wrote new ones. I stole the guitar chords from someone else (again I’m not telling), and was really happy with how it turned out.
Most of the guitars were recorded on my deck on beautiful days in August and September, 2017. Very idyllic J
I had grandiose visions of soaring background vocals and a cello or violin. I was gonna have a girl from my church play violin (she was excellent), but then she went and moved to Texas! So I gave up on that. Then Kendra tried a few times to do harmony vocals, but with the weird tuning (open D) and dissonant sounds, she struggled, so we ditched the BGVs.
Greg does a beautiful job on his vocals, so less is more on this one.
Grateful
I wanted to write something with a simple, straightforward riff, so I came up with this. The working title was “Riff Song” (how original). Everyone else was too busy to do rhythm guitar, so I did it myself. I still had to do two tracks to cover my inadequacies. Thankfully, Matt S added some rhythm when he worked on it. I wanted to keep this song short and sweet, but I just couldn’t resist putting in weird parts. I thought I’d try to have something interesting for the guitarist to solo over, so I came up with some crazy rhythms. I wrote them out and just played them around the kit. Matt W copied them on bass (in an astounding performance!). Matt S took one listen and essentially threw his hands up—“what am I supposed to play over that?” Good point. So we left it as bass and drums.
Then of course I put in the percussion breakdown, which was a lot of fun.
Fun Fact: I was in a hurry (as usual) recording this, so I quickly ran downstairs one day and played the drum part, nailing it on the first take! I think this was the only song where that happened (yet it was the hardest drum parts).
Something I Never Had
Here’s another song I wrote in my blues band days. I wrote it with a girl singer from the band in mind. We never actually played this one, either. Hey, I’m noticing a trend here…
This is a classic example of how NOT to record a song. I didn’t bother writing out notes, but just sang it in my head as I played the drums. It just goes on, and on, and on…Ugh, I should’ve re-done it. Also, the hi hat is WAY too loud. But rather than re-do it (no time!!!!), I recorded a take of just bass drum and tambourine, then turned down the main drum part on the chorus. It didn’t really work. What a mess…
Since most of these songs are very guitar-heavy, I wanted this one to be different, so the bass and keyboards are the main things happening. Thanks to everyone who helped make this song better (and hopefully not seem quite so long and repetitive).
Fun Fact: Those “lovely” backing vocals are me (with a harmonizing feature—remember I can’t sing harmony!)
Big Boys
This one addresses one of my pet peeves: overgrown boys masquerading as men. There are far too many self-centered adult make brats in our society.
Musically, I had two goals with this song: 1. To write the typical Black Dogrip-off (vocal/guitar tradeoff), and 2. Write a song that doesn’t have the typical verse/chorus song structure). It’s more like verse/pre-chorus, instrumental, chorus.
The One
Here’s the obligatory piano ballad. Again I wanted a change from all the guitar stuff, so there’s no rhythm guitar at all. Thanks to Kendra for the piano, and Bill G for the beautiful soloing. His solo was the last thing recorded on this project, turned in about a week before Christmas, 2018.
Fun Fact: I originally wrote this long ago for a girl, but when I played it for her, it didn’t go well. Nothing ever came of that whole thing, which I’m now thankful for! After the original version, I changed the lyrics to be about God, but then I thought that was cheesy, so I changed it back to being about a girl, and now dedicate it to my wonderful wife, Kendra! Awwwww…
Fun Fact #2: I asked Kendra if she would sing backing vocals. She said sure, and came up with her part in short order while sitting at the kitchen table using the same mic I used on my snare drum, complete with my kids milling about in the background. Thank you, Dear!!!
Not Your Problem
This song addresses another pet peeve of mine. In fact, it’s probably my BIGGEST pet peeve: blaming God for what the devil does. We even have insurance claims for “Acts of God.” If I ever start my own insurance company, there will be a clause for “Acts of satan.”
This was one of the last songs I wrote for this project, and again I was pretty happy with how it turned out. I realized most of my songs didn’t have bridges, so I intentionally wrote one.
Matt Webb’s work on bass and rhythm guitar is exemplary on this track! I especially like the guitar stuff on the bridge and the outro (after the last chorus).
As mentioned above, I asked my Ukrainian buddy Ivan if he’d like to do a solo on this. He didn’t have the equipment, so he found someone who did, but he felt kinda rushed and uncomfortable. I think he did great! The only problem was he came in a little later than I wanted, so rather than make him go to the trouble of re-doing his solo (or adding to it), I had something in mind, so I played it myself! I hope it isn’t too obviously bad…
Nothing New
This was one of the very first songs I wrote, circa 1993. Interestingly, it was a suggestion Matt Seidel had made back when he, Greg and I were in a band called The Resistance. That band never played it (what’s with my bands not playing my music? Haha, actually, I think I didn’t write it till I left that band), and I wasn’t planning on including it on this, because I thought it was too cheesy.
However, one day in late 2017 I was raking leaves (true story), and I started thinking about this song. I came up with the bridge/guitar solo section and thought it might work. Then a few days later I re-wrote 95% of the lyrics (while waiting for my kids at the dentist), and viola! I had another song!
So this song was inspired by dental visits and yardwork.
Fun Fact:
I laid down a scratch guitar part and asked Matt W to redo it. He said it was fine, so I just left it! Don’t listen too closely…
Fun Fact #2:
This was the last of ten songs Greg recorded, and he was getting tired. This was also the last song sent to him, and he hadn’t had enough time to learn it well enough to be very comfortable with it. He said it reminded him of the Beastie Boys, and he could hear a rap approach on the verses. We were both getting a little goofy after hours of intensity, so I said to give it a shot. He did it that way, and we liked it, so we left it. The second verse (after the solo) is more like the original vision, but like I said, he was getting pretty tired by that point, so we just went with whatever. My inspiration for the vocals on the bridge was actually the pre-chorus from the song “Cynics & Critics” by Icon for Hire, in case anyone cares!
I’m Yours
Yet another golden oldie. This was just a fun little chorus I came up with years ago, and I thought it would be a nice album closer.
I knew Mr. Jack would take this song to the next level, and I wasn’t disappointed!
Thanks to Tim Siewert at the Detroit Lakes High School for the congas (I think I used them on These Fieldsas well).
Fun Fact:
The line “You’re the one that I adore” in the middle of the solo section was actually a mistake, but I thought it sounded cool, so we left it!
Outstate: All That's Come Before
Lyrics
CRAZY
VERSE 1
You’re looking pretty busy/Got a lot on your mind
Have you neglected your foundation? Left your prayer life behind
VERSE 2
This road we tread is hard/Trials can really bring you down
The skies look dark—you wonder if you’ll ever make it home
PRE-CHORUS
Day in, day out life is really crazy, don’t give up hope, there’s a better future
God’s promises are true and they will never, never fail
CHORUS
You gotta keep on believing, running the race to win the prize
The Lord provides, no need to worry, just put your trust in Him
Run to the Roar
VERSE 1
Wind’s howling like a wolf on the prowl
To size up his prey, lips pursed in a scowl
Will you stand your ground or throw in the towel?
VERSE 2
What will you do when it’s fight or flight?
When fear coming knocking, will you close the door tight
I’ve made up my mind: I’m gonna be alright
CHORUS
Ain’t gonna cower here like I’ve done before
I’m gonna stand right up and run to the roar
Fear won’t rule my life for me
I’m gonna run to the roar; I’m gonna be free
VERSE 3
I’ve spent too long living under this curse
Of everything out there ain’t nothing that’s worse
It’s gonna take some action for this fear to disperse
CHORUS
BRIDGE
The way this poison rears its head stops you in your tracks
Keeps you pinned under your bed
Once it starts, it spreads like the plague
To gain your freedom, there’s nothing you wouldn’t trade
Hurry Up
Verse 1
Sittin’ in the drive through / wanna get a burger and fries
After 30 seconds / started feelin’ my stress level rise
Pre-chorus
What taking so long? Do they have to go and kill the cow?
Got places to go, things to do, so I need my food now!
Chorus
Hurry up, hurry up! Got a ton of things I gotta do
Gotta go, gotta go, life’s an ordeal I’ve need to get through
Verse 2
World’s turning too fast, but I can’t seem to slow down
There must be more to this life / feel like I just might drown
Pre-Chorus
Too scared to take a breath / gotta seize the day soon as I can
Livin’ life to the full, but somehow I think I’ve been scammed
Repeat Chorus
PICKLE JAR
VERSE 1
There was a man came up from the river bank held an old pickle jar in his hands
Full of water think and brown, its owner gestured with a frown
“I’ve got to do something ‘bout this old muddy water”
CHORUS
I’m gonna clean this dirty water, gonna make it clear, fresh and pure
The mud that you see here now will just like magic go away
So I can finally drink it down as my cure
VERSE 2
This jar was very special to its owner; his pride in it was there for all to see
He said, “I know just what I’ll do—give me a minute, maybe two…
I’ll show you how I’m gonna fix this muddy water
CHORUS
VERSE 3
He brought out a giant cup of drinking water from his reverse osmosis water machine
He said, “This stuff’ll do the trick, won’t let that water make you sick,
I’ll show you how I’m gonna fix this muddy water.”
CHORUS
VERSE 4
Now we both know that his plan will never work out; that jar was just as dirty as before
It’s the same as with your friends: the means don’t justify the ends
Don’t let yourself get dumped in with their dirty water
CHORUS
These Fields
VERSE 1
There’s a touch of frost on the air
That’s already softening in the strengthening sun
There’s a world spinning crazy
But for now we need to be alone
PRE-CHORUS
Around the bend, down the path/with each step my load lightens.
CHORUS
In these fields/There is hope, there is peace, there is life here for the asking
In these fields/I’m never lost, I know I’m found, the circle will never be broken
In these fields
VERSE 2
Like the color of the sky on these lengthening days
Your presence gives me hope
Reflections of your glory
All creation joins my song by morning light
PRE-CHORUS
CHORUS
In these fields/There is hope, there is peace, there is live here for the asking
In these fields/There are dreams, my soul lays hold of consolation
In these fields
Grateful
Verse 1
I never knew that this life could be so good
If I didn’t worry I felt guilty that I probably should
But then a light broke through the tangled web of my soul
It melted the fear once I finally gave up control
Chorus
I’m grateful, grateful every day
Resting in every word that You say
No more worry, no more fear
I’m gonna win when I let You steer
Verse 2
Always thought I had to earn Your favor
But my performance ain’t enough—just a waste of my labor
Each day as I work there’s a smile on my face
My cares are cast in Your lap and I’m soaking in Your grace
Something I Never Had
VERSE 1
I just found something I never had; love so real, yeah it makes me so glad
If you don’t know what I’m taking about just hold on
This one’s really, yeah, this one is true; unlike anything that I ever knew
A love that gives and never takes is mine now
PRE-CHORUS
All my life I wandered without it; my heart within me was so confounded
Until He found me and made everything new
CHORUS
Now I know – when I do things my way it would always be better
No more blues – there is joy even when I grieve
As I grow – It’s like watching a garden blooming in the summer
This love’s true – now I finally believe
VERSE 2
I always wanted something more than I had; but everything I tried just made me sad
Searching high and low for that one missing part
The truth is, it’s so simple you see; I lost those blinders and now I am free
Discovered what I feared I never would find
PRE-CHORUS
CHORUS
VERSE 3
If you’re thinking, “Man, you’ve lost your mind,” then it’s clear that you’ve yet to find
A hope to fill that void in your soul, but you can
Check your pride at the door right away; admit you’ve failed doing things your own way
Ask Him in, no it’s not as hard as it seems
PRE-CHORUS
CHORUS
Big Boys
Verse 1
Saturday morning / don’t have to go to school
Looking for a good time / don’t need no rules
Gonna find you some fun / no matter the cost
You want what you want / yeah, today you’re the boss
Bridge
No one else matter, looking out for #1
The world revolves around you, don’t care ‘bout anyone
But yourself…
Verse 2
The years flew by / looking like a grown man
Give you big boy interests every second that you can
You’re chasing fantasies / only never too hard
Want to get some new toys / you’re just filling up the yard
Repeat Bridge
Chorus
You’re just a little boy livin’ in grown man shoes
Think you’re acting grown up, but you’re playing the fool
Been made for much more than this self-centered life
There’s a higher standard callin’ / won’t you walk in the light?
The One
VERSE 1
You’re the one that I’ve been looking for
Not like the others that I’ve known before
There’s something more than what my eyes can see
That is the source of your beauty
VERSE 2
Though we don’t know what our future holds
We have this treasure more precious than gold
If we’ll believe and never bow to fear
Abundant life will be found here
CHORUS
Side by side walking down this road
We’ll face life hand in hand
Strength in numbers three-strand cord
With God’s sure help we’ll stand
NOT YOUR PROBLEM
VERSE 1
I know sometimes in this life you’ll see troubles
But there’s no need to dismay
When trials come just hold fast to what you know
Don’t let go of the truth today
CHORUS
God is not your problem/There’s a thief on the loose
Stop blaming Jesus/For the devil’s deeds
Abundant life is what Jesus gives us
Take your dominion and live in victory
VERSE 2
Some people say that God’s sending these trials
“He’s got a plan you can’t see”
But truth be known, there’s an enemy out there
Whose goal’s to kill, steal and destroy
CHORUS
BRIDGE
Just because it sounds good doesn’t mean it’s true
Tradition has its cost; don’t let it steal from you
God is really good; He will not cause you harm
Trust in His love each day; rest peaceful in His arms
CHORUS
Nothing New
VERSE 1
It was crouching at the door waiting to strike/You didn’t see it coming till it was too late
It went straight to your core nourished by all your fears/Your will was too weak to bear its weight
It always looks so good, seems like a no-brainer/“What’s the harm in choosing my own way?”
Until we reach the other side and reap what we’ve sown/Consequences the price we must pay
CHORUS
It’s nothing new, When attacks find us standing weak and helpless
What will we do, When sin tries to sell us a bill of goods
It’s up to you, Walk in the Spirit and you’ll starve out your fallen nature
These words are true, Freedom’s ours, so is the decision, win or lose
BRIDGE
The things I hate I do again and again/Stuff I should do just never gets done
Feet of Clay are pulling me down to the grave/What a wretched man I’ve become
Is this my fate? A life lived in chains?/Please rescue me from this curse
Thanks be to God there’s victory in store/ All I have to do is put Your ways first
VERSE 2
Used to suffer in silence frustrated and sad/Thought I’d never measure up to His standards
Till I learned that it’s not about my good deeds/Can’t pay the price but I don’t have to
Salvation’s a gift that means that it’s free/My righteous acts are nothing but garbage
In Jesus I’m pure, He paid every cent/Now I enjoy the fruits of this harvest
CHORUS
It’s nothing new, Just like the rest we’ve all fallen short of Glory
What will we do, try to earn a gift that’s too costly for us
It’s up to you, dare believe that you are righteous in Him
These words are true, this thing called grace is ours because Jesus paid it ALL
I’m Yours
Jesus I’m yours
You’re the one that I adore
I love you more every day
You listen every time I pray
I love to see those mountains move
‘Cause when they do Your love it proves
VERSE 1
You’re looking pretty busy/Got a lot on your mind
Have you neglected your foundation? Left your prayer life behind
VERSE 2
This road we tread is hard/Trials can really bring you down
The skies look dark—you wonder if you’ll ever make it home
PRE-CHORUS
Day in, day out life is really crazy, don’t give up hope, there’s a better future
God’s promises are true and they will never, never fail
CHORUS
You gotta keep on believing, running the race to win the prize
The Lord provides, no need to worry, just put your trust in Him
Run to the Roar
VERSE 1
Wind’s howling like a wolf on the prowl
To size up his prey, lips pursed in a scowl
Will you stand your ground or throw in the towel?
VERSE 2
What will you do when it’s fight or flight?
When fear coming knocking, will you close the door tight
I’ve made up my mind: I’m gonna be alright
CHORUS
Ain’t gonna cower here like I’ve done before
I’m gonna stand right up and run to the roar
Fear won’t rule my life for me
I’m gonna run to the roar; I’m gonna be free
VERSE 3
I’ve spent too long living under this curse
Of everything out there ain’t nothing that’s worse
It’s gonna take some action for this fear to disperse
CHORUS
BRIDGE
The way this poison rears its head stops you in your tracks
Keeps you pinned under your bed
Once it starts, it spreads like the plague
To gain your freedom, there’s nothing you wouldn’t trade
Hurry Up
Verse 1
Sittin’ in the drive through / wanna get a burger and fries
After 30 seconds / started feelin’ my stress level rise
Pre-chorus
What taking so long? Do they have to go and kill the cow?
Got places to go, things to do, so I need my food now!
Chorus
Hurry up, hurry up! Got a ton of things I gotta do
Gotta go, gotta go, life’s an ordeal I’ve need to get through
Verse 2
World’s turning too fast, but I can’t seem to slow down
There must be more to this life / feel like I just might drown
Pre-Chorus
Too scared to take a breath / gotta seize the day soon as I can
Livin’ life to the full, but somehow I think I’ve been scammed
Repeat Chorus
PICKLE JAR
VERSE 1
There was a man came up from the river bank held an old pickle jar in his hands
Full of water think and brown, its owner gestured with a frown
“I’ve got to do something ‘bout this old muddy water”
CHORUS
I’m gonna clean this dirty water, gonna make it clear, fresh and pure
The mud that you see here now will just like magic go away
So I can finally drink it down as my cure
VERSE 2
This jar was very special to its owner; his pride in it was there for all to see
He said, “I know just what I’ll do—give me a minute, maybe two…
I’ll show you how I’m gonna fix this muddy water
CHORUS
VERSE 3
He brought out a giant cup of drinking water from his reverse osmosis water machine
He said, “This stuff’ll do the trick, won’t let that water make you sick,
I’ll show you how I’m gonna fix this muddy water.”
CHORUS
VERSE 4
Now we both know that his plan will never work out; that jar was just as dirty as before
It’s the same as with your friends: the means don’t justify the ends
Don’t let yourself get dumped in with their dirty water
CHORUS
These Fields
VERSE 1
There’s a touch of frost on the air
That’s already softening in the strengthening sun
There’s a world spinning crazy
But for now we need to be alone
PRE-CHORUS
Around the bend, down the path/with each step my load lightens.
CHORUS
In these fields/There is hope, there is peace, there is life here for the asking
In these fields/I’m never lost, I know I’m found, the circle will never be broken
In these fields
VERSE 2
Like the color of the sky on these lengthening days
Your presence gives me hope
Reflections of your glory
All creation joins my song by morning light
PRE-CHORUS
CHORUS
In these fields/There is hope, there is peace, there is live here for the asking
In these fields/There are dreams, my soul lays hold of consolation
In these fields
Grateful
Verse 1
I never knew that this life could be so good
If I didn’t worry I felt guilty that I probably should
But then a light broke through the tangled web of my soul
It melted the fear once I finally gave up control
Chorus
I’m grateful, grateful every day
Resting in every word that You say
No more worry, no more fear
I’m gonna win when I let You steer
Verse 2
Always thought I had to earn Your favor
But my performance ain’t enough—just a waste of my labor
Each day as I work there’s a smile on my face
My cares are cast in Your lap and I’m soaking in Your grace
Something I Never Had
VERSE 1
I just found something I never had; love so real, yeah it makes me so glad
If you don’t know what I’m taking about just hold on
This one’s really, yeah, this one is true; unlike anything that I ever knew
A love that gives and never takes is mine now
PRE-CHORUS
All my life I wandered without it; my heart within me was so confounded
Until He found me and made everything new
CHORUS
Now I know – when I do things my way it would always be better
No more blues – there is joy even when I grieve
As I grow – It’s like watching a garden blooming in the summer
This love’s true – now I finally believe
VERSE 2
I always wanted something more than I had; but everything I tried just made me sad
Searching high and low for that one missing part
The truth is, it’s so simple you see; I lost those blinders and now I am free
Discovered what I feared I never would find
PRE-CHORUS
CHORUS
VERSE 3
If you’re thinking, “Man, you’ve lost your mind,” then it’s clear that you’ve yet to find
A hope to fill that void in your soul, but you can
Check your pride at the door right away; admit you’ve failed doing things your own way
Ask Him in, no it’s not as hard as it seems
PRE-CHORUS
CHORUS
Big Boys
Verse 1
Saturday morning / don’t have to go to school
Looking for a good time / don’t need no rules
Gonna find you some fun / no matter the cost
You want what you want / yeah, today you’re the boss
Bridge
No one else matter, looking out for #1
The world revolves around you, don’t care ‘bout anyone
But yourself…
Verse 2
The years flew by / looking like a grown man
Give you big boy interests every second that you can
You’re chasing fantasies / only never too hard
Want to get some new toys / you’re just filling up the yard
Repeat Bridge
Chorus
You’re just a little boy livin’ in grown man shoes
Think you’re acting grown up, but you’re playing the fool
Been made for much more than this self-centered life
There’s a higher standard callin’ / won’t you walk in the light?
The One
VERSE 1
You’re the one that I’ve been looking for
Not like the others that I’ve known before
There’s something more than what my eyes can see
That is the source of your beauty
VERSE 2
Though we don’t know what our future holds
We have this treasure more precious than gold
If we’ll believe and never bow to fear
Abundant life will be found here
CHORUS
Side by side walking down this road
We’ll face life hand in hand
Strength in numbers three-strand cord
With God’s sure help we’ll stand
NOT YOUR PROBLEM
VERSE 1
I know sometimes in this life you’ll see troubles
But there’s no need to dismay
When trials come just hold fast to what you know
Don’t let go of the truth today
CHORUS
God is not your problem/There’s a thief on the loose
Stop blaming Jesus/For the devil’s deeds
Abundant life is what Jesus gives us
Take your dominion and live in victory
VERSE 2
Some people say that God’s sending these trials
“He’s got a plan you can’t see”
But truth be known, there’s an enemy out there
Whose goal’s to kill, steal and destroy
CHORUS
BRIDGE
Just because it sounds good doesn’t mean it’s true
Tradition has its cost; don’t let it steal from you
God is really good; He will not cause you harm
Trust in His love each day; rest peaceful in His arms
CHORUS
Nothing New
VERSE 1
It was crouching at the door waiting to strike/You didn’t see it coming till it was too late
It went straight to your core nourished by all your fears/Your will was too weak to bear its weight
It always looks so good, seems like a no-brainer/“What’s the harm in choosing my own way?”
Until we reach the other side and reap what we’ve sown/Consequences the price we must pay
CHORUS
It’s nothing new, When attacks find us standing weak and helpless
What will we do, When sin tries to sell us a bill of goods
It’s up to you, Walk in the Spirit and you’ll starve out your fallen nature
These words are true, Freedom’s ours, so is the decision, win or lose
BRIDGE
The things I hate I do again and again/Stuff I should do just never gets done
Feet of Clay are pulling me down to the grave/What a wretched man I’ve become
Is this my fate? A life lived in chains?/Please rescue me from this curse
Thanks be to God there’s victory in store/ All I have to do is put Your ways first
VERSE 2
Used to suffer in silence frustrated and sad/Thought I’d never measure up to His standards
Till I learned that it’s not about my good deeds/Can’t pay the price but I don’t have to
Salvation’s a gift that means that it’s free/My righteous acts are nothing but garbage
In Jesus I’m pure, He paid every cent/Now I enjoy the fruits of this harvest
CHORUS
It’s nothing new, Just like the rest we’ve all fallen short of Glory
What will we do, try to earn a gift that’s too costly for us
It’s up to you, dare believe that you are righteous in Him
These words are true, this thing called grace is ours because Jesus paid it ALL
I’m Yours
Jesus I’m yours
You’re the one that I adore
I love you more every day
You listen every time I pray
I love to see those mountains move
‘Cause when they do Your love it proves