The “Cryptozoology” experiment

For this experimental track, I took a look back at a number of my past tracks, and I selected a few that I felt really proud of.  Once I had my selection, I spent some time trying to pin point what it was about each one that made it stand out from the rest.  In some cases it was a lyrical style, while in others it was an effect on the guitar, or the use of a particular instrument.  For this track, “Cryptozoology”, I attempted to take the unique element from each song and synthesize them into one mix.  If you’re a fan of our music, elements from previous songs should be apparent.  With that said, I hope you enjoy this one-

Been to the Gallows – Mother Nature Should’a Told Me

This is the last song to be recorded in the old music room that so many of you have left your mark on.  As noted before: the studio is being moved, just scroll down and you’ll see more about it.  Yesterday, we decided to squeeze just one more out of it before we said goodbye.  It’s called “Mother Nature Should’a Told Me”.  We hope you like it!

(written & recorded by Mike James)

Show on May 25th

Been to the Gallows will be performing on May 25th at the Bardstown (on the upstairs theater stage), along with other great bands: Dead Tree Models, The Debauchees, and more TBA.

DETAILS HERE

The studio is being moved!

After roughly Seven years, my studio is being moved to a bigger place. The room itself was a work of art, and I’ve photographed literally every inch of it, because sadly it’s now going to be painted over. Nearly every song I’ve ever done was recorded in this room. I’ve had dozens and dozens of musicians come through to record and jam, all of which signed the wall. Also, if you’re on Facebook, find your name and tag yourself!

SEE PHOTOS HERE

Been to the Gallows – A Knock at the Door

NOW AVAILABLE AT UNDERGROUND SOUNDS!

Here are some high-res photos of my new CD, “A Knock at the Door” (by Been to the Gallows). Starting this week, it’ll be available at Underground Sounds! I’m thrilled to have received a good amount of positive feedback from experienced musicians so far. Spread the word, and let me know if you’ve yet to receive a copy! And to those of you who’ve helped to spread my music around so far: You’ve really made a difference, and it really does mean a lot to me, so thanks!

-Mike

The last four pictures explain how to see what serial number your copy is.

Click to enlarge:

Wrapping things up:

This is the first track of my now complete CD. The recording portion is done. I’m over the hill. Next step is to go about getting physical copies made, and then contacting retailers, local and otherwise. Assuming things go as planned, (which let’s face it, they almost never do) it’ll be available soon. 11 tracks, probably around 7 bucks. Thanks to all my family and friends for the vast support you’ve provided me so far! That said, wish me luck.

-Mike

Amitola

 

This song is called “Amitola”.  It was recorded at the site of the Long Run Massacre of 1781, in which roughly 60 lives were taken, approximately 50 of which were Native Americans.  The song is intended to commemorate the lives lost in the massacre, by telling the story of Amitola, loosely based on the Long Run Massacre.  “Amitola” is a Native American female name that translates to “Rainbow”, which is significant to the lyrics, which are as follows:

Amitola

Could have shown ‘ya

all the colors

in Takoma

You remember

in December

all the ashes

burning embers

Well, they shot her

and her father

I saw them floating

in the water

All the fire

burning higher

village screaming

like a choire

Amitola

could have shown ‘ya

all the colors

in Takoma

The Silence & the Sound (Now Remastered)

Just remastered.  Enjoy it!

-Mike

Hold on to your Ghost – song and music video

Song written and recorded by Mike James (Been to the Gallows). Costumes designed by Matt Buchanan. Robot played by Timmy Beirne. Damsel in distress played by Abby Reams. Computers smashed by Sean Buchanan, Timmy Beirne, Matt Buchanan, and Mike James. Special thanks to Bonnie Buchanan, for putting up with our absurd computer smashing.  Oh yeah, and Nicci Madison helped clean up a little.

What have you done?

I know what you’ve done…

…See?

By the way, if the sound quality sounds bad, it “improves” at 0:20.