Saturday, January 7, 2017

Song #5: Afghanistan (1980)


This is one of the "burn in" songs we recorded at Skyline Recording before it opened to the public.

In 1979, Richard Baskin, a client of Spoiled Brat Recording, recommended a composition teacher.
I studied for two years with the great Abby Fraser, and he always stressed the importance of NEVER using parallel 5ths in counterpoint. Although the opening notes to this song are not technically "parallel", I'm sure I was pushing Abby's buttons when I wrote them.

I was inspired to write the opening notes and following song, by Damon Leigh's most amazing timeless and poetic lyrics.

Special shout out to Mr. Dean Groves who plays a most profound bass solo.

The Soviet Union invaded Afghanistan in 1979.

P.S. Recognize the opening "sample"?



Afghanistan

I believe forever
Nothing's here to stay
One day we may not see tomorrow
Don't let that stop you
You know there's nowhere to hide
Your pride inside of no man's land
You're coming to Afghanistan
Traveling through as fast as you can
Everyone here dies in the wool
Might better steer clear of Kabul
Stroking the lapis lazuli
Your desert's cut and dried
No eyes surmise precipitation
You stake your chances down
When you play the answers 'round
You're right
You're coming through Afghanistan
Do what you do as best as you can
You'll never know where it all ends
If we're nomad why can't we be friends
Stroking the lapis lazuli
Your desert's cut and dried
No eyes surmise precipitation
You stake your chances down
When you play the answers 'round
You're right
I believe forever
Nothing's here to stay
One day we may not see tomorrow
Don't let that stop you

Britt Bacon: vocals, piano
Alan Morse: guitar
Dean Groves: bass

Written by Britt Bacon and Damon Leigh
© 1980

Source: 1/4" stereo master 30ips

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