Tim used this one on the Heartland Heroes and I thought I should mention that any of the tracks off my CD are fair game for projects, so if you want to take a listen they’re streaming at katemorris.bandcamp.com

This one begins a tad dark and then ends in a happy, bouncy feel.  I tend to gravitate towards the darker tones, residing in minor keys a lot of the time.  A lot of the projects I’ve been working on recently have called for more inspiring, positive moods.  This is one of my many attempts to provide as much diversity as possible in my sample catalog.  I love how the more atmospheric, moody line transfers into bright, electronic rays.  Also a little retro 8-bit feel to this one, which I enjoy.  I’d probably work a little more on the transition if you want to use this piece.

This one I’m not entirely happy with the title.  I really think that this sounds more 80s the more I listen to it.  I’ll probably change out the synth part and just leave the drums, then work on making another synth part that is more background in nature and less 80s.  In this state, it sounds like something from Miami Vice or Axel F.  Not that that’s terrible, but I’m going for something more ambient, dark, and vaguely rhythmic, not so overtly synth-y.

This clip, around 2 1/2 minutes, is a compilation of over a dozen random ambient sound effects (short, short loops from 2-10 seconds in length) that can be used to provide some sonic interest.  All can be extended or catered to sync with visual presentation.  In most of these, I began with an instrument (percussion, synth, keys) and added effects to achieve the sound I desired.  Just a small sampling while messing around in the studio.

This clip begins with a simple drum and delayed telecaster guitar rhythm, then builds with a counter figure towards the end.  As this clip extends, variations of the theme can be appended.  This one made me think of standing at the tops of tall buildings under a clear blue sky, watching clouds pass by – or perhaps admiring the sky with contemplative wonder.

I had this one running through my mind as I was headed home from work.  It has a spring in its step.  Very Coldplay-esque with its arpeggio piano figure and positive strings.  Simple chordal structure and arrangement, uncluttered with heavy thoughts or aspirations, choosing instead to imbue a clear, happy, floating feeling.

When I listen to this film, I imagine a young child walking down the sidewalk in his small hometown. He is innocent, observant, exposed to the wonders of the world. I dug out the clarinet for this one and it gives this ambient piece a nice, warm feel as well as an “ambling” movement. A simple and affectionate background for a simpler time.

This piece features very high atmospheric synth lines and – once again – the Strat guitar comes in to play. I think of flying over Las Vegas and seeing the lights and desert below me on a flight to California. It’s such a unique place.

The angels might be playing each other a lullaby in this piece. Harps, synth pads, and more layer together to create a calming, airy atmosphere.