Big Hand Dave

Last night we had our second recording session. Judging by the mood everyone was in when it was over, it must’ve been a good one.

We started out with a new set up. Instead of everyone facing each other, in a circle, we set up like we would in a club, with everyone fanned out and Dave behind us. It’s a bit more conducive to getting a better recording and it’s a bit more realistic. Sometimes it seems a bit tedious to check and recheck the board to get the sound right, but it’s worth it in the end.

We warmed up with a few songs to allow Wes to make sure the board was right and for Jeff (the recording wizard) to get his equipment right. We started out with “Secret Agent Man” which sounded pretty good. Then we had a go at “Signs” and “All Right Now” which had a great ending.

After some time, we were ready to record. We began with “867-5309/Jenny” and Rodney kept us on track there. It’s good to be able to hear the bass a lot better with our new set up. Then we played “Chevy Van” which had some very nice backup vocals. I can hear them much better now too! There were several songs that the backup vocals sounded especially good on last night. Next we played “Keep Your Hands To Yourself.” Even though it seemed a little fast, it worked. It’s hard to resist throwing some “Johnny B. Goode” vocals in there at the end and that lead guitar is smokin’!

Next we played “Baker Street” and it was the first song of the night where I didn’t mess up the vocals somehow! The first part of the night I was having some problems! I accidentally turned off my mic (some tape fixed that), I missed coming in at the right time, forgot the words… it was not pretty. I was glad to finally get in the groove.

Next we played “All Right Now” and the bass was kickin’! The drums were really nice on that one too. The guitars and vocals were working – it seemed like we all got it together on that one. We had a great ending and it really seemed like we nailed that song. From there we moved on to “C.C. Rider,” which sounded really good. We followed that up with “Gimme Some Lovin’” which got me breathing hard! It sounded great!

Next we took a little break to gather our thoughts and get ready to finish up the evening. There was much hilarity and reminiscing.

After the break, we moved on with “Secret Agent Man.” I really enjoy that bass intro. We played it a little slow, but I think it worked. Then we did “Signs” which was almost perfect. After that, we played “Layla” and I’ll be interested to hear that recording. I love the bass in that and that sweet transition was done beautifully. I’m glad we decided to bring out the ending on that because it really does sound nice. We finished up with a number we haven’t done for a while, which is “Stacy’s Mom.” After working out some kinks, I think we did a very nice version of it. Sadly, for Wes, “Lump” that notorious vocal chord buster, was not played. I was saddened that I didn’t get a shot at “Walking In Memphis” but there’s always next time. I am really looking forward to hearing how we sounded, and we’ll get the sound files posted as soon as we can, so check back!

There were many notable quotes, and I must admit that I am mystified as to the identity of the secret word. The boys are getting clever.

~I’m just warning ya’, I’m going to already have drank 18 beers before we get started.” ~PJ

“I want the drums that go to eleven!” ~JD

“I think I almost did it!” ~Rodney

“I could be, but it would require a sequined shirt.” ~PJ

“Just so we never do it that way again.” ~Wes

“Bass players are either lazy or gay and it sux when they’re both!” ~Dave

“Just don’t you start twirling!” ~Rodney

“Wait! My beater came loose!” ~ Dave

“Those damn chords!” ~Rodney

“Oh well, we weren’t doing that, were we?” ~PJ

“Now let’s see you turn yourself off!” ~JD

“What the hell are we playing?” ~Wes

“She didn’t put that one in me.” ~Dave

“We had the Hubble out and still couldn’t find it” ~Wes

“You go Pump Boy! Dang that sounded gay!” ~Dave

“I’m breathing hard like I stole something!” ~JD

“I really like it in the corner here.” ~Rodney

and the best quote of the night…

“Dude, you’re shakin’ your money maker! You’re puttin’ on a show! Does your wife know about this?” ~Dave