Annual 4-track Challenge!!!
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@zecoop 5 weeks
The last three years we have had a growing number of brave souls who go OLD-school and record a part onto cassette tape. The physical tape is then mailed through the post, to the next person on the list, who adds one part and sends it on to the next person. The last person mixes the four tracks and uploads the song. The results have been amazing.
This tape from 2018 went around the world, Japan β UK β USA!!!:
https://zecoop.bandcamp.com/track/pro...
This one from 2018 is super fun and crossed the Atlantic:
https://zecoop.bandcamp.com/track/aut...
This one from 2016 is a straight up garage rocker:
http://www.nancyrost.com/audio/4Track...
https://zecoop.bandcamp.com/track/hid...
This one from 2015 sounded like a legit 80's college radio song:
https://zecoop.bandcamp.com/track/emo...
If you have a functional 4-track cassette tape player speak up... Please understand that for this project to work, you must COMMIT to make time to complete your parts as fast as possible and mail them using USPS Priority Mail (or something else that will arrive in several days. Nothing worse than putting effort in and then having the tape die in the mail, or on a desk somewhere. -
@nancyrost 5 weeks
I'm in!
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@pearlmanhattan 5 weeks
I am in!!
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@pearlmanhattan 5 weeks
And planning to purchase a blank tape or two before FAWM. What kind am I getting? It's the type 2? Refresh my memory please. Thanks!!
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@nancyrost 5 weeks
Type 2, high bias.
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@pearlmanhattan 5 weeks
Thanks @nancyrost
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@tesla3090 5 weeks
I have one, but it seems to have wow and flutter issues. Anyone have advice on dealing with that?
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@vomvorton 5 weeks
Count me in!
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@wobbiewobbit 5 weeks
IN!! I also have a new blank tape i didn't get round to starting for 5090 so i can start one, but would like to do at least one that i am later on.
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@zecoop 4 weeks
Some additional info:
We try to make it as universal as possible, so all tapes are recorded at standard speed (not 2X) and without noise-reduction, since not all players have these features. Of course, not all players play at the same speed either, so there are always some unexpected sounds and effects. ο
The first person will record their part on the first track and a click track on a separate track (unless the first part is a drum part that will keep the beat). Any notes that tell the collaborators the structure and chords are very much appreciated (V, V, Ch, V, Br, etcβ¦). The last person records over the click track (if there is one), mixes and puts it up on FAWM. Be sure to write on the label what instrument you played, what track # it is on and your FAWM name.
All those who have participated in previous years have found it to be a VERY fun experience re-living the glory days of analog!!! Each song has turned out to be such a sonic adventure. If you are interested let me know! We can get you added to the snail-mail address list.
@pfoo @standup @marvsmooth @fourzeroes @songsville @alboe @nancyrost @eargoggle @elesimo @guatecoop @Alboe @wobbiewobbit @fourzeroes @bachelorb @oblivionratula @vomvorton @shoehaze @cloudboy @cts @burrsettles -
@zecoop 4 weeks
Here's the list of tapes:
TBD -
@burrsettles 4 weeks
i'm in!! i have a preference for being LAST (4th) in the chain and participate in up to TWO tapes. any instrument/part is OK.
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@w1n 4 weeks
I have make sure all the channels on my 4 track is actually still working but it would be cool to join.
I would have to either end or start a cassette since I live i Norway. -
@zecoop 4 weeks
@metalfoot - !!!!!!!!!!!! π
@burrsettles - Sounds good!! Your contributions were awesome last year! -
@vomvorton 4 weeks
I'm up for featuring on a few tapes, and I'm always happy to mix down at the end. I guess I'll start one off too even though that's the hardest bit! Pretty sure I still have some blanks...
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@elesimo 4 weeks
I'm in! I would love to do at least 4 tapes, one in each position.
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@eargoggle 4 weeks
You know I'm in....
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@pfoo 4 weeks
I'm in! Looking forward to it - these are some of my favorite songs.
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@standup 4 weeks
I am sooooo in. This is always one of the most surprising and fun aspects of FAWM.
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@bachelorb 4 weeks
Zee....... sign me up whenever/ wherever..... I donβt know how much Iβll be committing to my solo stuff this year, but 4-tracks..... Iβm all in!!!!
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@fourzeroes 4 weeks
In.
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@rickcannon 4 weeks
I will definitely participate in some way, the only caveat being I cannot go second and also follow the rules. For some reason my recorder erases all four tracks as it records track 2. Iβm sure itβs an alignment issue, but I donβt have much experience with them and itβs pretty easy to just work around it. Canβt wait to see what happens!
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@zecoop 4 weeks
@rickcannon - I can definitely figure out tapes for you that are not track 2. π
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@elainedimasi 4 weeks
I thought this was a ton of fun. I was a pain for the group to collaborate with, however, because my Tascam Portastudio is an 8-track that divides the tape tracks in half and runs at 2x speed. It sorta worked but is too much trouble. So I'll hang out and comment.
@rickcannon you can "go second" and record on track 3 or 4 leaving track 2 blank, if I get what you're saying. What you can't do is go last, where track 2 is the track that was left for you. ? @zecoop -
@zecoop 4 weeks
@elainedimasi and @rickcannon - Definitely... There's no rule that you have to use track 2 if you are second (or first or whatever). Use any open track and write that down so the next person knows what is left. I'll just make sure whatever you get doesn't ONLY have track 2 left on it. π
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@stevenwesleyguiles 4 weeks
Ok. I want to buy a 4 or 8 track cassette player this year. Tell me what I should get. Is there a good used one I should look for? I'm guessing Reverb.com is a good place to go.
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@stevenwesleyguiles 4 weeks
@zecoop I'm wanting in. I will order a 4track tonight. Going back to my routes. Then maybe I can give it to my boy to learn how to record with. π
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@zecoop 4 weeks
@stevenwesleyguiles - YESSSSSSSSSS......
I highly recommend Tascam. The operation just makes so much more sense to me than Fostex and others. I have two Tascam 424mkII, which I absolutely adore. The original 424 is awesome, but doesn't have the XLR. The 424mkIII is also great, just make sure it has a power chord (proprietary and hard to find). But the simpler Tascams are great too. (I also have a Tascam 488 mkII, which is sweet - can't wait to play with that for some of my FAWM songs this year) -
@standup 4 weeks
I stumbled on a Peavey 4-track, it's an all-metal box made in the USA supposedly. But then it started running slow and we got a Tascam 424, which has been great. But now the Peavey's fixed, and it's all wired into my studio, ready to rock.
But those Peaveys are super rare. Cheap if you find them. But it's hard to go wrong with a Tascam. -
@standup 4 weeks
Holy crap they've gotten expensive on Reverb.com. I just took a look. Before you go there, at least take a look at your local Craigslist. And maybe call around to a music store or two.
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@zecoop 4 weeks
Facebook marketplace as well. Yea, all the young indie bands want cassette now. (WE WERE COOL FIRST!!!!) Also check shopgoodwill.com - there usually are some on there, although they get up there in price too.
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@nancyrost 4 weeks
I had good luck on eBay as well.
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@pearlmanhattan 4 weeks
Shopgoodwill.com is sometimes helpful if you're in the usa
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@rickcannon 4 weeks
@elainedimasi @zecoop Thank you both!
To those looking for recorders, try shopgoodwill.com! They don't always guarantee much if any testing, but that's why were my Portastudio came from. Also got a Fostex recorder I need to have repaired since the play heads are stuck up in play/record position and won't go back down. -
@stevenwesleyguiles 4 weeks
Ordered. I'll have my first fourtrack since the early 90s. π
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@zecoop 4 weeks
Third time's the charm on shopgoodwill, LOLOL
Awesome @stevenwesleyguiles - what did you end up with? -
@zecoop 4 weeks
If anyone needs tapes and can't find them in their local store, Delta Media is a good place to get them. Here's a link to their Type II cassettes. 25 for $50
https://bit.ly/2CrXCeH -
@metalfoot 4 weeks
I still need to check with my neighbour if his 4-track is in good working order and/or if I can run across the street and spend an hour in his music cave!
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@pearlmanhattan 4 weeks
25 tapes?? @zecoop maybe we could all pitch in a few bucks and do a FAWM deal lol
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@zecoop 4 weeks
@pearlmanhattan - yea they used to have more options. Bummer that is the only type II package they have. Only 90 minute tapes too. But, they are getting hard to find, so I just wanted to throw it out there
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@scottlake 4 weeks
I have boxes full of cassettes that I βrippedβ from LPs. Most of my vinyl was played one time only; while I made those cassettes. Never had a 4-track but now Iβm wanting one and I would probably record over one of those old cassettes
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@rickcannon 4 weeks
Y'all, definitely check shopgoodwill right now. There's a ton of 4-tracks currently up. Lots of Tascam, a couple Yamaha. Usually decent prices if you keep an eye on them.
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@scottlake 4 weeks
None for a reasonable price on my local used music equipment for sale boards. Way more iPads available with change leftover to buy amazing music apps. I like the nostalgia of this idea but my practical side is clearly stopping me from participating
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@standup 4 weeks
I got my 4-track(s) enough years ago they were about $100-$150 each, which I considered reasonable at the time. The trend had not quite hit. It would be hard for me to shell out $500 for a 4-track deck. Of course I had a $75 repair done to one of them.
What I like about the 4-track thing is not just the cheesy sound. It actually changes the way you play and record music. Thereβs no βundoβ button. Thereβs no precise zooming in on a single note and βdeletingβ it. Punching in to change a part is a challenge. It changes your mindset β you actually have to try to play the part complete and correct all the way through, and probably accept the imperfections as Good Enough. Which is fun after so many years doing this on a computer. -
@pearlmanhattan 4 weeks
I was gifted my old tascam a couple years ago, bought a cord for it on amazon and I use a very cheap mic. I also love how it forces one take recordings. I live the challenge because it challenges me to work harder at the technical skills and work with others.
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@zecoop 4 weeks
Right on @pearlmanhattan ansd @standup π I've always loved recording on my 4-track but also really love working with a DAW and getting really deep in tracks and complexity. They are two completely different things. What I especially love about the 4-track challenge is how it completely transformed how I view collaborations. You just have no idea what's going to happen. Plus the old school part about physically mailing it guarantees more interaction and cooperation.
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@elesimo 4 weeks
I have 2 Tascam 414 at home... I actually bought 3 of them from Ebay, listed as "for parts", and I was able to fix 2 of them using parts from the third one (its sacrifice will never be forgotten!). It required some soldering, but mostly changing belts, cleaning and demagnetizing.
Unfortunately I discovered in 2017 that the 414 has a single speed, and it's the wrong one! I just recorded in the wrong speed, which was fun when I finally listened to the mixed song.
For 2018 I bought a Tascam 424 that I found on Craigslist during the first days of FAWM. It's a big improvement over the 414, and it has double speeds. Like @standup said, the prices are going up, and it's getting harder to find them.
I also have an 8 track (Tascam 488). I wonder if I can find 7 more people with a similar model?! π -
@elesimo 4 weeks
I'm wondering if I should buy a pack of the tapes @zecoop linked... I search for the ones I used to buy on Amazon (Audio Pro, https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B00...) and they're no longer being sold. π
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@standup 4 weeks
I think there are a few 488 users around (or other 8-track cassette with the same format)
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@standup 4 weeks
Tomorrow Iβm picking up a non-working Tascam 4-track deck to take on as a project. For $50, which is what they used to cost 10 years ago. Maybe I can get it working before FAWM, and Iβm open to passing it along to a FAWMβer who needs one. BUT it only runs at βdouble speedβ so itβs not actually compatible with what weβre doing here. So I guess once it works Iβll probably turn around and resell it.
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@zecoop 4 weeks
@elesimo - Not using the 8 track for the 4 track challenge, but as far as I know, if that was all someone had they probably could figure out a way, like Elaine did. My 488mkII only has 2x, but the 8 tracks do line up within the 4 tracks, I believe, since they are both Tascam. I am not sure which tracks are where on the actual tape, but I do have that info in a book at home.
@standup - it is possible to play things at 2x and play along. It is more of an advanced thing though, but can work. -
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@nancyrost 4 weeks
We should probably start getting addresses together so we're ready to go when FAWM starts. If you're new to the 4-track challenge, or your address has changed, you can email me through my profile and I'll make a list so we know where to mail the tapes.
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@stevenwesleyguiles 4 weeks
I've never done this before. @zecoop place me anywhere in the chain. Tell me what to do. Boss me around. I'll play any instrument or sing any melody. (Ok...I can't play wind instruments...so, that would be off the table...but most other stuff I can do).
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@pearlmanhattan 4 weeks
@stevenwesleyguiles it's not nearly that formal or directed! You give notice to send tapes to you, when you get it, you pick an empty track, and fill it with whatever you like. Then you send it on to the next person. You play whatever you feel led to play - they're like a mystery secret gift exchange, only the next recipient knows what's on it. You're gonna love this!!
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@pearlmanhattan 4 weeks
I should add, I'm not experienced with digitizing from tape to mp3, but I can start a tape (lay down a click track) but I don't own any blank tapes at this time. So if I'm the last person on a tape, I'll have to send it to someone to digitize and upload. I will practice with the tapes I get, and hopefully by next year will have figured out how to digitize them. π
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@zecoop 4 weeks
@stevenwesleyguiles - yep... What she said. It's a free for all and no one knows where the song's are going. You can add anything into your one track that you'd like!
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@zecoop 3 weeks
If anyone is interested in the complete collection of the 4-track songs from 2018, here's a link:
https://drive.google.com/open?id=1P0L... -
@stevenwesleyguiles 3 weeks
@zecoop @nancyrost @standup
So, I should PROBABLY be using 15 minute tapes, yes?
Does anyone have spares they'd sell me?
Or could we (any of us?) go in on a bulk order of tapes?
Or point me to a reliable source?
Thanks!
Just got my 4-track in the mail.
Much excitements!! -
@nancyrost 3 weeks
@stevenwesleyguiles I'm down to my last two. I could send you one with a track and a blank one for you to start? I don't remember what the turnaround time is at Delta Media, so if it's too late for this fawm maybe we could go in on a bulk order before 50/90 and next fawm.
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@guatecoop 3 weeks
I can just send you a couple @stevenwesleyguiles No worries. Iβm happy to support a new 4 tracker!
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@stevenwesleyguiles 3 weeks
@guatecoop That would be amazing! Thanks! π I'll send you some merch or somethin'. π And thanks @nancyrost too! π
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@pearlmanhattan 3 weeks
I can pitch in a few bucks for a bulk order if that happens. Paypal or vendmo. Lol. I can't find any affordable ones.
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@standup 3 weeks
I think C60 cassettes are kind of ideal, so 30 minutes for a 4-track, or 15 minutes of music at double speed.
I have a couple boxes of high end TDK SMX-20 super duper high end tapes that I got off Amazon years ago when nobody thought they were worth anything. So 10 minutes a side, maybe 2 takes of a song. Or one 5 minute song at double speed.
Things have changed. I think the Delta Media tapes are on par with the old Maxxell and TDK tapes, or close enough.
For a while you could shop for Radio Shack brand Type II tapes that were rebadged TDK or Maxxell tapes but went cheaper.
I think the solution now, other than Delta Media, is to go to thrift stores and find a box of cassettes that somebody recorded Rush and Madonna on to play in the car, and record over those.
I still have enough Delta and other tapes that Iβm not there yet. But that day will come. -
@zecoop 3 weeks
@stevenwesleyguiles - Any tape will work, truth be told. The sound will be way better with type II but type I works. You may be able to get better sound from a shorter length tape but a 90 minute one will do. I have a bunch of could send you too, but if you end up with a tape this year, you can always recycle it next year. once again, you may get a Sonic difference (or not) by reusing. It's all good
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@zecoop 3 weeks
@stevenwesleyguiles - the only real source now days is Delta media and there a link up above somewhere to the 25 pack. They are 90 minute tapes I think but are type II. They used to have more variety, but most of their tapes now are type I.
Edit: Here's the link again https://bit.ly/2CrXCeH -
@vomvorton 3 weeks
I've done a bulk order if anyone from the UK wants a couple to work with? Just let me know and I'll get 'em to you before February starts.
Naturally I also found five wrapped tapes in a drawer AFTER making the bulk order. I'm set for life! -
@fourzeroes 3 weeks
I think I got like 24 blank, still wrapped tapes from a charity shop a few years back, and I've still got all bar two somewhere.
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@oblivionratula 3 weeks
I need to catch up on all things FAWM, including this thread, but I'm interested in doing a tape or two again and can be the mixer.
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@helenseviltwin 3 weeks
My bandmate has offered to lend me a 4 track so count me in π (would rather not start)
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@zecoop 3 weeks
@vomvorton @fourzeroes - I think the tapes might be, ahem... "multiplying". Just leave the door closed for a couple nights, lol. π
@oblivionratula and @helenseviltwin - Great news!!! -
@pearlmanhattan 2 weeks
Quick tech question - I'm new with all this sound engineering stuff so be gentle plz LOL
I've just been plugging a mic into the Tascam Porta2 mic jack, and my headphones into the phones jack, would it be possible to plug the out from the Audio interface into the mic port of the Porta2, kinda like we used to do in the 70s to record "Album Hour" onto cassette from the radio station, and record a track onto the tape that way? Is a reverse of that process kinda how you "digitize" the tapes? I don't have a tape handy to practice my theory yet. Thanks for the help. -
@standup 2 weeks
You could do that, run your signal through effects in the DAW, out ot the output, and into the Porta 2. I usually dump all the tracks into my computer before sending a tape off, as a backup. That way I could record them all back onto a fresh cassette if I wanted to.
The output from the audio interface might be a lot hotter than a microphone, so you would probably turn down the volume on the interface and the input volume on the Porta 2, watch your levels so things don't completely overload. -
@standup 2 weeks
Just a reminder to everyone: On a computer you don't want or need HOT levels. On the 4-track you do! Make those meters go almost all the way to the top when recording onto 4-track cassette. If you go over a little, you get a bit of distortion, but not like a computer where it's a disaster.
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@pearlmanhattan 2 weeks
Thanks so much! I'll be running everything through the DAW to the Porta, and with porting it through to the DAW before calling it good, I'll make sure to have my levels up. I know I've been kinda quiet in the past but I think this setup will help me get the levels up safely.
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@zecoop 2 weeks
OK... Here we go - if anyone else would like to start a tape, please let me know.
FAWM 2019 4-Track cassette listings
1
Track 1 - @zecoop
Track 2 - @stevenwesleyguiles
Track 3 - @bachelorb
Track 4 - @burrsettles
2
Track 1 - @zecoop
Track 2 - @elesimo
Track 3 - @rickcannon
Track 4 - @pearlmanhattan
3
Track 1 - @guatecoop
Track 2 - @cts
Track 3 - @eargoggle
Track 4 - @burrsettles
4
Track 1 - @vomvorton
Track 2 - @helenseviltwin
Track 3 - @marvsmooth
Track 4 - @wobbiewobbit
5
Track 1 - @elesimo
Track 2 - @pearlmanhattan
Track 3 - @oblivionratula
Track 4 - @standup / @pfoo
6
Track 1 - @standup
Track 2 - @pfoo
Track 3 - @cynthiawolff
Track 4 - @cts
7
Track 1 - @pfoo
Track 2 - @standup
Track 3 - @pearlmanhattan
Track 4 - @tesla3090
8
Track 1 - @wobbiewobbit
Track 2 - @fourzeroes
Track 3 - @marvsmooth
Track 4 - @vomvorton
9
Track 1 - @eargoggle
Track 2 - @guatecoop
Track 3 - @stevenwesleyguiles
Track 4 - @zecoop
10
Track 1 - @stevenwesleyguiles
Track 2 - @nancyrost
Track 3 - @rickcannon
Track 4 - @oblivionratula
11
Track 1 - @marvsmooth
Track 2 - @vomvorton
Track 3 - @helenseviltwin
Track 4 - @fourzeroes
12
Track 1 - @bachelorb
Track 2 - @nancyrost
Track 3 - @cynthiawolff
Track 4 - @tesla3090
13
Track 1 - @zecoop
Track 2 - @guatecoop
Track 3 - @pfoo
Track 4 - @standup
14
Track 1 - @nancyrost
Track 2 - @bachelorb
Track 3 - @pearlmanhattan
Track 4 - @elesimo
15 (->US)
Track 1 - @marvsmooth
Track 2 - @zecoop
Track 3 - @oblivionratula
Track 4 - @metalfoot
16 (-> US)
Track 1 - @wobbiewobbit
Track 2 - @nancyrost
Track 3 - @pfoo
Track 4 -@standup
17 (-> US)
Track 1 - @vomvorton
Track 2 - @elesimo
Track 3 - @nancyrost
Track 4 - @zecoop
18 (-> UK)
Track 1 - @zecoop
Track 2 - @wobbiewobbit
Track 3 - @helenseviltwin
Track 4 - @vomvorton
19
Track 1: @marvsmooth
Track 2: @zecoop
Track 3:
Track 4: @burrsettles
20
Track 1: @marvsmooth
Track 2: @vomvorton
Track 3:
Track 4: -
@zecoop 2 weeks
Just a refresher, to start a tape, record a click track onto Track 4 and then record your, whatever you want, onto Track 1. The next person records onto track 2 (or 3 if their track 2 doesn't work), etc, and the last person records over the click. If you are starting with a drum or rhythm, then you don't need to do the click. π
Anything you want. Anything goes. There are no rules. Have fun!!! -
@pearlmanhattan 2 weeks
is this when we make known our willingness to receive a tape for Track 2? USA please.
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@zecoop 2 weeks
@pearlmanhattan - yep! Anyone who would like to take a track 2, speak up! We need to know where the water headed next.
I will try hard to spread them out as evenly as possible. The more variety the better, with different combinations... It's going to be fun -
@zecoop 2 weeks
My phone is dumb. The tapes, ahem, not the water. ππ
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@pearlmanhattan 2 weeks
@zecoop be thankful your phone is just dumb - my phone hates me and autocorrects the most harmless words to the most vile... I'm a very careful texter LOL
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@pearlmanhattan 2 weeks
just match me up with a USA tape and I'll put *something* on it LOL
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@zecoop 2 weeks
@wobbiewobbit @vomvorton @marvsmooth @fourzeroes @helenseviltwin - Do you want me to just mix and match or do you want to get added with intent? And anyone sending anything over the pond?
@w1n @alboe - Are you guys in? -
@zecoop 2 weeks
@burrsettles @tesla3090 @bachelorb @cts @oblivionratula @rickcannon
I'll get everyone worked in, and there will VERY likely be more tapes than just these too. We have all your specific needs/desires written down. Wait... that sounded wrong, lol π -
@elesimo 2 weeks
Yeah, I think last year we did 18 tapes.
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@wobbiewobbit 2 weeks
i am up for being mix n matched however it goes... i would very much like to receive one from US and likewise would be up for sending one to US, that said I also like our UK branch and obvs time is a constraint. I would also like to be last and mix one and to be honest getting tapes in the post in a timely fashion is as much of a challenge for me as recording on them! (i liked sending one stateside cos you can do a pick up service for not much Β£ and i love the thing of the tapes travelling so far) thanks for organizing this @zecoop !
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@helenseviltwin 2 weeks
I have no real preference other than not to start. As I haven't used a 4 track since my teens, it may be best that I don't finish and mix down either...
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@zecoop 2 weeks
I filled in all the tapes, trying to randomize and get it as even as possible, and still following everyone's wishes/abilities. I just thought this might be easier, since generally we are a pretty low key bunch and love to have fun. If I missed anyone let me know, or if you have too many assignments, let me know. Things can be changed and there will be more tapes for sure... From here on out it will likely be filled in with volunteers. π
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@zecoop 2 weeks
@elesimo - It can definitely happen..
Anyone else that would like to start a tape, just let me know and I'll get it put on the list! I think @vomvorton @wobbiewobbit and @marvsmooth are planning on sending tapes over to the US and we'll most likely have some headed that way too. -
@nancyrost 2 weeks
I'll start one, and I'd like to do another as track 3.
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@marvsmooth 2 weeks
That looks great to me!
Iβm starting two tapes then? -
@zecoop 2 weeks
@marvsmooth - Also on middle tracks for Tapes 4 and 8 if that isn't too much! π
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@elesimo 2 weeks
@marvsmooth @zecoop I'll take one of those spots if it's too much, let me know! π
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@marvsmooth 2 weeks
I'm in for the lot!
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@bachelorb 2 weeks
ahhhh..... Just tested the TASCAM 424 and I'm good for another year (I know..... I should have already done that....). Anyway sign me up for another one please (or two if you're having a hard time filling slots) π
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@stevenwesleyguiles 2 weeks
@zecoop Sorry if I missed this or am just dense - do I just ASK someone to send me a tape? Are you setting up "groups"?
I'll play drums, guitar, bass, or sing. Whatevs. π First year with a four track since the early 90s...so, it'll be a learning curve. But I know my instruments... π -
@zecoop 2 weeks
@stevenwesleyguiles - if you are listed as track 1 you are first. Add the click on 4 and something else on track 1. Then ask me the address of the person on track 2. They are listed in the order that they will be recorded. If you are listed as tracks 2,3, or 4, then as soon as the person in front of you in done they will say that in this forum. They will ask me for your address You'll get it, once it starts. π
Track 1 is first and they go in order from there. Make sense? -
@zecoop 2 weeks
@stevenwesleyguiles - also... There are no rules. You can add whatever you feel like. Freedom!
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@bachelorb 2 weeks
Thank you sir....... Iβve really been procrastinating this year..... I have about a third of the βstudioβ to get organized yet (organized means move the lawn chairs and picnic coolers off of the sound desk and keyboards π )
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@cts 2 weeks
So I'm on tape 3 and 6...got it! This is going to be so much fun. I am going to make sure I get a tracking slip this go round! π
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@shoehaze 2 weeks
I'm afraid I'll be too busy this month to participate in the 4-track challenge. Have fun!
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@cynthiawolff 2 weeks
Worth repeating me thinks...
Get a Priority Mail box at the Post Office...small one..
Costs 8 bucks but they get to the recipient in two days...
The quickest, most reliable method... -
@elesimo 2 weeks
@nancyrost do we have a list of the addresses in a Google Docs somewhere? I need @pearlmanhattan's address, I'm planning to send her tape 5 tomorrow before lunch! π
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@pearlmanhattan 2 weeks
I got it, @nancyrost @elesimo I'll email you through your page
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@zecoop 2 weeks
Absolutely - Listen to the wisdom of @cynthiawolff !!!!!!
We will miss you @shoehaze π
I'm going to get both of my starters in the mail by Saturday. I am so excited! π -
@zecoop 2 weeks
Dear all first track people... Have fun and get your track done as soon as you can, then get it in the mail, using "Priority Mail" or something similarly fast. When you are ready, let us know here and either I or the person on track 2 can let you know their address. π
Here... We... GOOOOOOOOOOOO.......... -
@pearlmanhattan 2 weeks
Also, you can order a pack of the priority mail boxes online at the US Postal Service website and have them delivered to your house - for free.
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@vomvorton 2 weeks
Iβll hopefully get two tapes started this weekend. Can @helenseviltwin and @elesimo send me their addresses please?
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@vomvorton 2 weeks
Right, tape 17 has bass on it and has been sent off on a transatlantic voyage to @elesimo ! I've also stocked up on stamps for the UK tapes so I'll get tape 4 rolling just as soon as I've recovered from going outside (you know when you think you're getting over a cold, then you walk up a hill and your chest says "ahahaha you're not better at all!"? Well, that)
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@helenseviltwin 2 weeks
@vomvorton - this is the joy of living in Cambridge. No hills.
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@standup 2 weeks
I'm at work and y'all are already dropping cassettes in the mail! I predict ours will go out Monday.
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@elesimo 2 weeks
Tape 5 is on the mail to @pearlmanhattan, should arrive by Monday! π
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@zecoop 2 weeks
Tapes 1 (drums) and 2 (Hammond Organ) are done and going in the mail tomorrow to @stevenwesleyguiles and @elesimo respectively. π
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@bachelorb 2 weeks
Tape 12 is Done and headed for the post office Monday..... I think I discovered why no one ever starts a tape with lyrics...... π
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@cloudboy 2 weeks
Life got crazy (in a good way) this year. I don't think I'll be able to participate in the challenge (or FAWM for that matter). I look forward to hearing all y'alls creations!
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@stevenwesleyguiles 2 weeks
Hello Tape 10 Buddies!
I have officially mailed my contribution and it is rushing off to Nancy right now!
Tape 10
Track 1 - @stevenwesleyguiles
Track 2 - @nancyrost
Track 3 - @rickcannon
Track 4 - @oblivionratula -
@wobbiewobbit 2 weeks
plan to do track 1 of tape 16 today to get it across the ocean at the earliest opportunity, can you let me know where i should post it please. thanks π
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@oblivionratula 2 weeks
Nice, @stevenwesleyguiles ! I touched base with @rickcannon to give him my address. Getting stoked! Had so much fun with these last year. My Tascam is demagnetized, cleaned, and READY.
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@nancyrost 2 weeks
@wobbiewobbit you can post it to me. I'll send you my address.
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@vomvorton 2 weeks
I've put some guitar on Tape 4 now, and that one will be in the post to @helenseviltwin tomorrow.
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@zecoop 2 weeks
@marvsmooth - When you get something tape 15, send it to me. π
Tape 15 (to the US)
Track 1 - @marvsmooth
Track 2 - @zecoop
Track 3 -
Track 4 - -
@standup 2 weeks
Tape 6 is going to Cynthia Wolff tomorrow. Priority Mail. I ain't messin' around this time.
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@standup 1 week
Tape 6 IS in fact in the mail. You can save $2 or s using USPS pre-printed Priority Mail packaging. They're free. I picked up a couple for the next tape.
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@standup 1 week
Maybe that was unclear. At the post office they have the empty Priority Mail boxes and envelopes you can pick up for free -- with the Post Office logo and "Priority Mail" printed on the outside. Pre-printed. I think you can order them online and get them delivered to your house.
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@zecoop 1 week
Oh right - Those are the boxes I use! Way ahead of you Eric, lolol π
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@pearlmanhattan 1 week
And you *can* order those free online and have them delivered for FREE to your house too... but if you go to the PO to mail it, be sure to pick up a couple π
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@elesimo 1 week
@zecoop, I got Tape 2! Will record something and send it out tomorrow. @rickcannon, can you email me your address?
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@nancyrost 1 week
Tape 10 is also going out to @rickcannon tomorrow.
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@elesimo 1 week
@rickcannon I just recorded Tape 2, and I'm on my way to the post office. You should have it by Friday. I wrote down the chord progression as best as I could, since @zecoop didn't provide it. π
@pearlmanhattan, when it's your turn to finish Tape 2 feel free to mix the separate tracks if you want, removing the guitar from certain parts or making it lower. Right now it's all over the place. π -
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@pearlmanhattan 1 week
@elesimo Got it. Will be my first time finishing a tape, hope I do yall all proud! Also, the weather shut down my town yesterday, but the roads and conditions are better, so hopefully they'll deliver tape 5 today. I'll let you know when it gets here.
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@bachelorb 1 week
Tape 12 is gone!! I sure am glad for these things.... I'm really struggling on regular songs this year....
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@elesimo 1 week
@zecoop no worries, it's a great learning experience trying to figure out the chords! I started with the melody, figured out the scale (Cm) and then the chords came out easily.
@pearlmanhattan I'm sure it will come out great! In the past, when I did track 4 I would record my part to the tape, then load all 4 tracks separately into my DAW and mix in the computer before uploading, but that requires an audio interface with 4+ inputs. You can also mix it directly in the 4-track recorder, and just export the stereo out to the computer.
I like being track 1 because it gives you the freedom to set the tone of the song (though the final result can still be surprising!), and I like being track 4 because you have the freedom to mix the song. -
@pearlmanhattan 1 week
@elesimo Was just gonna port the tracks into the DAW one at a time through the AI and match them up.
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@elesimo 1 week
@pearlmanhattan that should work too, depending on your 4-track. My 4-track has some variations in speed when playing the tape, so it's hard to align the tracks if I export them one by one. π
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@pearlmanhattan 1 week
@elesimo good advice - I'll test it out on the track that is coming and see, I think mine is pretty good with speed...
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@zecoop 1 week
@pearlmanhattan and @elesimo : You can bring two tracks in at a time by panning 1 L and 2 R, then next time around panning 3 L and 4 R. That way you have less chance of things not lining up due to speed variations.
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@oblivionratula 1 week
But @metalfoot . . . if it doesn't do Track 3, how are you going to do the final mix? Or does it just not RECORD track 3, but can play back?
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@metalfoot 1 week
Not entirely sure; I think it's just a recording issue?
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@bachelorb 1 week
Tape 14 is in Chelsea Oklahoma!!!! Now to break it open
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@pearlmanhattan 1 week
Tape 5 is on the back of a 2 day priority eagle winging it's way to @oblivionratula. I will dm the tracking number later tonight.
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@pearlmanhattan 1 week
Oh and on tape 5, track 2 is lyrics/vocals. Thanks
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@eargoggle 1 week
Got my first 4 track song up today, I'm hoping for several more this month. It's not a collaboration but if anybody wants to listen to more cassette music (!) here it is-
https://fawm.org/songs/92032/ -
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@helenseviltwin 1 week
I got @vomvorton's tape earlier this week and a borrowed 4-track this evening, so I'll aim to get mine done tomorrow π
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@cynthiawolff 1 week
@standup
Received tape 6 today...
Wonβt be able to start on it till later in the day.
Should get it posted in the mail tomorrow (Saturday)so it doesnβt hang out at the post office all weekend
Update
Well that didnβt happen! I have started working on it.
And will bring to the post office for the 10am post.. -
@zecoop 1 week
Tape 15 is going to go out Saturday (I am planning at least). Who wants track 3?
Tape 15 (to the US)
Track 1 - @marvsmooth - Acoustic guitar
Track 2 - @zecoop - drums or bass (haven't decided yet)
Track 3 -
Track 4 -@metalfoot -
@oblivionratula 1 week
Got Tape 5 today. Going to need an address for @standup / @pfoo You can e-mail me at mmatula at ratula dot net
I expect to get it out Monday. -
@oblivionratula 1 week
@zecoop I am already set to be on 2 tapes, but I could take Tape 15 for Track 3 if no one else wants it.
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@zecoop 1 week
@oblivionratula - Sold... I'll (hopefully) get it out tomorrow!
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@zecoop 1 week
Hey there friends... I made a new tape that I thought I'd send to the UK. How does this look to everybody? If you are not up for it, or would want a different order, please let me know. I'd love to send it Saturday morning, and they close at lunch.
Let me know!
Tape 17 (to the UK)
Track 1 - @zecoop
Track 2 - @vomvorton
Track 3 - @helenseviltwin
Track 4 - @wobbiewobbit -
@zecoop 1 week
Just remembered that @vomvorton wanted to end one, so I swapped the order:
Tape 18 (to the UK)
Track 1 - @zecoop
Track 2 - @wobbiewobbit
Track 3 - @helenseviltwin
Track 4 - @vomvorton -
@helenseviltwin 1 week
Tape 4 is in the post to @marvsmooth
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@marvsmooth 1 week
Tape 11 recorded on itβs way to you on Monday @vomvorton - sorry for the wait
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@zecoop 1 week
@oblivionratula and @wobbiewobbit - Tapes are in the mail π
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@pfoo 1 week
Eric and I are planning to get Track 7 in the mail tomorrow. Sorry for the delays @pearlmanhattan and @tesla3090.
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@pearlmanhattan 1 week
@pfoo looking forward to it
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@standup 1 week
@pearlmanhattan I have your address, just let me know if it needs to go somewhere different.
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@nancyrost 1 week
Tape 12 will go out to @cynthiawolff tomorrow. π
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@cynthiawolff 1 week
I need @cts address please..
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@pearlmanhattan 1 week
@standup the 61st one you sent to before is great.
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@nancyrost 1 week
@cynthiawolff emailed cts address to you.
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@cynthiawolff 1 week
@nancyrost I contacted @cts ..no word back yet but I assume he wonβt be doing the challenge..Where should I send tape 6?
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@nancyrost 1 week
@cynthiawolff I got a message on my soundboard that he's continuing to record, so maybe wait until tomorrow to hear back?
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@cts 1 week
@cynthiawolff - I hit ya back on your soundboard. I'm in. Send it on.
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@cynthiawolff 6 days
@cts
Tape is on its way today( Monday) the 11th
Priority Box so should be there on WEds... -
@oblivionratula 6 days
Tape 5 is on the last leg to @standup and @pfoo, ETA Wednesday: USPS 9505512685229042165652
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@oblivionratula 6 days
Sorry for the double, but I can't edit right now. I am underwhelmed with my own contribution, but I did about 50 to 60 takes And kept erasing the good stuff. Tempted to do it on the DAW, but went old school with punch ins and outs. It'll be up to the mixer to make editorial choices around my slop. π I contributed three different instruments, so there are choices to make. But no more excuses to make. Fly free my little pretty.
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@standup 6 days
Tape 7 actually got in the mail today too!
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@pearlmanhattan 6 days
@standup alright, let me know if you have a tracking number - the weather is playing havoc on our mail system this week, so it may take more than the standard 2 days or so. I'll let you know when it arrives.
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@cynthiawolff 6 days
Tape 6 is on its way to @cts
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@zecoop 6 days
@pearlmanhattan - wait... hang on... So you are saying that this ain't true?!?!! LOL π
"Neither snow nor rain nor heat nor gloom of night stays these couriers from the swift completion of their appointed rounds." -
@pearlmanhattan 6 days
Yep, ...and they aren't even announcing it. If they don't feel like driving down the street, they don't... doesn't matter if there is weather or not. It's hit or miss here.
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@oblivionratula 6 days
@zecoop Tape arrived. Thanks for the CD! Can hopefully give it a listen tonight to work on tomorrow and I'll hope to get it in 2-day to @metalfoot in time for the weekend.
@rickcannon any update on Tape 10? You asked for my addy last week, but I haven't seen anything yet. -
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@zecoop 6 days
@standup.- I probably want to finish one too, so we have a few spots to figure out... Do we have a third track person for Tape 14? I'll take Vom's but will need someone to be third there too. Eric/Patti I filled you in.
Anyone who hasn't had enough tapes want one of the remaining 3 spots? I want to make sure we spread it around as much as possible, or as much as people want. π
Tape 14
Track 1 - @nancyrost
Track 2 - @bachelorb
Track 3 -
Track 4 - @elesimo
Tape 16 (to the US)
Track 1 - @wobbiewobbit
Track 2 - @nancyrost
Track 3 - @standup
Track 4 - @pfoo
Tape 17 (to the US)
Track 1 - @vomvorton
Track 2 - @elesimo
Track 3 -
Track 4 - @zecoop -
@elesimo 6 days
I got Tape 17 today, need someone to do 3rd track. Any takers?
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@nancyrost 6 days
Maybe @zecoop could do Tape 17, Track 3, and @burrsettles could do Track 4?
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@zecoop 6 days
@nancyrost - He's already got 4th track for two (all he wanted?)
@burrsettles - Just two tapes, or would you want one more? -
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@seb 6 days
Im interested in participating but what kind of gear do I need for this? I just have a cassette player/recorder. Im in the US
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@elesimo 6 days
@seb you would need something like this: https://atlanta.craigslist.org/nat/el...
(I have the same model, and I love it) -
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@vomvorton 5 days
So pleased that tape 17 made it over the ocean! I was worried for a while there.
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@rickcannon 5 days
@oblivionratula Sorry for the delay, I emailed you at some point yesterday to explain but just now saw your post. It'll definitely be out this week - had to force through some creative block before I could contribute to these.
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@seb 5 days
ok, I dont have that gear nor do I plan to get it, im out π
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@oblivionratula 5 days
@rickcannon No worries, I see your email now. Plenty of time left, just wanted to make sure I didn't miss anything - and yeah, been a slow start for me, too. Luckily Tape 15 seems better and I should get that one off to @metalfoot tomorrow (assuming recording tonight goes well).
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@marvsmooth 5 days
Tape 4 now has βorganβ played on my (not professional) Casio MT25
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@marvsmooth 5 days
Tape Four so far;
1. @vomvorton - Electric guitar
2. @helenseviltwin - Bass guitar
3. @marvsmooth - Organ
4. -
@vomvorton 5 days
Tape 11 landed with me today! I'll hopefully get it moving along pretty swiftly to @helenseviltwin !
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@nancyrost 5 days
Just sent off Tape 12 to @cynthiawolff. And Tape 16 has arrived from the UK!
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@oblivionratula 5 days
I'd be happy to take another for mixing (Tape 4 @marvsmooth ) but don't want to be a hog, either.
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@nancyrost 5 days
@oblivionratula I believe @wobbiewobbit is already doing Tape 4, Track 4.
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@marvsmooth 5 days
@oblivionratula - I could record something in the morning and post it with my fingers crossed that it will reach you from the UK?
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@burrsettles 5 days
@zecoop if I'm still needed to be the closer for third tape, I can probably swing it!
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@marvsmooth 5 days
@burrsettles - I can start another tape then, and then post it over to the US in the morning to include yourself if you want a tape?
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@zecoop 5 days
@marvsmooth - You are welcome to but we still do have tape 17 with an empty slot... I had taken 4 but could switch to 3 to let @burrsettles take 4, since no one else has stepped in for the last spot. If he goes on 17, then he probably won't go on yours, as that'll be a third tape already for him. We can always figure out another place for it to go, though. π
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@marvsmooth 5 days
@zecoop - okay. I can have a tape started just in case there are three more takers?
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@zecoop 5 days
@marvsmooth - We can definitely find people! π
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@marvsmooth 4 days
Iβm grabbing the drum track from tape 4!
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@vomvorton 4 days
I dropped tape 11 into a postbox on my lunch break but it was an Extremely Rural postbox so won't be collected until tomorrow. It WILL be blessed with North Derbyshire magic though which I think should be some consolation, and it should still arrive with @helenseviltwin before the weekend!
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@nancyrost 4 days
It looks like we still need someone for Tape 14, Track 3?
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@zecoop 4 days
Edit - Below is the one spot we need filled. Are all the other tapes moving along?
14
Track 1 - @nancyrost
Track 2 - @bachelorb
Track 3 - @pearlmanhattan
Track 4 - @elesimo
16 (-> US)
Track 1 - @wobbiewobbit
Track 2 - @nancyrost
Track 3 - @standup
Track 4 - @pfoo
19
Track 1: @marvsmooth
Track 2: @zecoop
Track 3:
Track 4:@burrsettles -
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@pearlmanhattan 4 days
I can take one of the track 3 spots on one or two of the tapes. @zecoop
I'm a little anxious about mixing tape 2, but I'm gonna give it my best FAWMing try - if I get in over my head with it, can I send it to one of the mixing pros to handle that? @standup or @zecoop - which one of you did I send the one from 50/90 to? -
@zecoop 4 days
@pearlmanhattan - Yep, I'll add you to one of them and no problem sending it over if you need help mixing. Or we can talk you through it, lol. π
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@zecoop 4 days
Cool - Just one spot left that we can leave open for a bit to let us all think about how things are going. π
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@marvsmooth 4 days
@zecoop - Smooth ska rock in E on bass guitar for tape 19 on itβs way!
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@pfoo 4 days
We received tape 5 (@elesimo, @pearlmanhattan, @oblivionratula) and tape 13 (@zecoop , @guatecoop) today. We should be able to get them done this weekend or before.
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@pearlmanhattan 4 days
@zecoop thanks man - I'll keep you posted on the mixing once I get the tape. Waiting on the mailman to bring tape 7 today (hopefully) and I will send it on to @tesla3090 on Friday.
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@pearlmanhattan 4 days
Tape 7 has arrived. I left a note on @tesla3090 s soundboard that I'll need his address by Friday - sending it out then.
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@pearlmanhattan 4 days
Thanks @nancyrost I got the address for @tesla3090 so disregard my previous request on your soundboard π
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@bachelorb 4 days
I'll be needing the address for @pearlmanhattan please send it to bachelorb@ymail.com
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@tesla3090 4 days
@pearlmanhattan sounds good, looking forward to getting the tape!
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@bachelorb 4 days
Tape 14 is on the way to Tacoma.
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@oblivionratula 4 days
Just realized I'm on Tapes 5, 10. and 15. I'm not into numerology, but if there's a 20th, I want in. π
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@standup 4 days
@pearlmanhattan I think the 5090 tapes we were both on I played a part on, not sure I just did the mixing on anything. But if you feel overwhelmed, I can do a mix.
Of course, you should just do it and see how it goes... -
@pearlmanhattan 4 days
@standup thanks friend, ...i'm feeling more confident. ...and a side note, I love hearing you and pfoo talking on the tapes I get from you all lol π
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@elesimo 4 days
@pearlmanhattan are you worried about the technical aspect of transferring the 4 tracks to your DAW, or about the creative process of mixing? Let me know if I can help with the former, and i know you're pretty good with the latter! π
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@pearlmanhattan 4 days
It's the actual transferring from tape to daw. I understand how to do it (in theory,
but my machine has a hiss I'm concerned about. Thanks for the confidence on the mixing. I am getting okay with that, aren't I @elesimo ππ -
@elesimo 4 days
@pearlmanhattan the hiss is part of the charm of recording to tape, I wouldn't worry about it! And yeah, you're doing way more than ok with the mixing! π
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@nancyrost 3 days
Tape 16 is headed to D.C.
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@marvsmooth 3 days
@fourzeroes - how goes the tape?
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@fourzeroes 3 days
@marvsmooth it's either with or recently been posted by @wobbiewobbit. Either way, I don't yet have it.
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@wobbiewobbit 3 days
@marvsmooth sorry i only got tape 8 in post to @fourzeroes today but it shpuld get there quickly
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@pearlmanhattan 3 days
Tape 7 is packed up - going out tomorrow to @tesla3090 Will forward tracking number tomorrow when I get it.
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@marvsmooth 3 days
@zecoop - Is this a record FAWM for the four-track challenge? 19 of them so far!
I should do another to get it to a nice round twenty? -
@zecoop 2 days
@marvsmooth - I think 19 is a record... 20 would be sweet if we can find UK'ers to roll with it. π
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@vomvorton 2 days
I'm happy to take a slot on tape 20 if we fancy hitting a nice round number!
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@elesimo 2 days
I'm up for tape 20 as well!
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@pearlmanhattan 2 days
I have tape 14 in my hot little hands
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@zecoop 2 days
@marvsmooth @vomvorton @elesimo Not sure if we'll be able to cross the Atlantic for 20... only a couple weeks left!
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@elesimo 2 days
@pearlmanhattan I'll email you my address!
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@marvsmooth 1 day
Synth on track one of tape 20 is in the post to @vomvorton
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@marvsmooth 1 day
Two more needed for tape 20 please.
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@pearlmanhattan 1 day
@zecoop ...i'm track 3 of tape 14, if you could add that in the master list.
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@nancyrost 1 day
Tape 17 has arrived here. If I don't get it done and in the mail today, I guess it'll be Tuesday -- no mail this Monday.
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@marvsmooth 1 day
I probably should apologise, but I like what I did on tape 20 so much, that Iβve added a section, and my new group, MSC, are also working on it!
I hope thatβs okay. -
@cynthiawolff 1 day
@nancyrost tape 12 has been received but because of no mail Monday
it wonβt be going out until Tuesday!!!! Waaaaa. -
@helenseviltwin 16 hours
I have done drums on tape 11. Will post it to @fourzeroes as soon as I get the address π
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@fourzeroes 10 hours
@marvsmooth @wobbiewobbit I'm posting this tomorrow, assuming when I give it a final listen I'm not too horrified with my performance
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@standup 4 hours
We are done here with parts on tapes 5 and 13, hope to mix and post them tomorrow. We also have Tape 16 but haven't recorded the parts for it, that one might take a few more days.
