Jim added such a new dimension to this CD, words don't begin to do it justice.
I've known Jim for almost 8yrs since our early days on MP3.com (before
it became the corporate cesspool it is today). After listening to just a
few moments of Jim's playing way back then I knew this guy was one of the
very few truly blessed with what Eddie Van Halen calls "motion". We all have a different
word for it, but know it when we hear it. I was ecstatic
Jim agreed to contribute to this project and hope to work with him much more on the
next one (Stay tuned!!!). Since Jim and I don't live in the same city - it required that
I send him a mix of each of the three songs he contributed to and then have him send back
a WAV file of his solos. Once I received that, it was just a matter of
importing into Reaper, aligning and then letting them rock! And ROCK they do! I've been playing
guitar for a very long time and have heard just about every influential guitarist known
to man. I can safely say Jim is the real deal.
Jim's lead work can be heard on "Losing Faith", "Until I See Your Eyes"
and "The Monster Inside".
Jim on Soundclick Jim on Myspace
Recording
Console
This is a pic of the heart of this recording; My Roland
VS 1824. The Roland served me well on "Losing Faith" and
"Monster Me". It was definitely pushed through it's paces with the addition
of real drums on this one. A minimum of 7 mics were needed to get
the drums. This required using 5 of the on-board mic pres from the Roland
and 2 from my stand-alone FMR RNP preamp. Since I knew the kick, snare and toms
would be blended with triggered samples - I chose to have those come in
on the Roland pre's - and have the OverHeads come in on the much better RNP. Since
the drums were tracked over the period of a year - this configuration did not always
hold true (sadly). In fact - several things changed as I became slightly more
competent at recording acoustic drums. All of this presented a challenge on the mixing side -
but more on that in that section of this behind the scenes look. Among many other things, this
helped me get a concrete understanding of the importance, especially with drums, of consistency
in the recording phase of any project. Easy to do in a dedicated studio environment, hard in one's home.
All vocals, except for "Static", were recorded using a Behringer B-2 Pro condensor.
"Static" was recorded using a 57. It really gave it a "rawness" for lack of a better word. The condensor
was definitely more polished (wider frequency range) and seemed to fit my voice a little better.
Drums
One important aspect of this recording for me was the addition
of real drums. I've been a drummer most my life - with breaks from time to time,
and never fully got use to electronic drums on previous recordings. I know simulated drums
have come a long way - but I wanted this recording to be as authentic as possible.
And, even though it was my first attempt at recording acoustic drums - I think
it turned out pretty well. The addition of Steven Slate samples blended in with the originals
was really the extra notch that took the drums to what I hope is a very polished and professional
sounding kit.
Most all the research I did to record the drums came off the internet. Namely,
the Andy Sneap forum where there's really a ton of info from both previously written
threads to experienced members always willing to freely give advice. All the mic choices, overhead
placement (always go SPACED PAIR btw...) and tips on drum heads came off the Sneap forum.
For you gear heads, the kick was an Audix D6, snare and all toms were recorded using Shure SM 57s and
OH's were a pair of MXL 604s. All heads were replaced with brand new spankin' Evans - with damping
rings on all toms. And of course the ever incredible 'FLAM SLAM!' patch tacked on the kick's batter head
to add punch!
Guitars
There's a fair amount of acoustic on this CD. On last count, four of the nine tracks have
an acoustic recorded. On all those tracks, I used a Fender 12-string I received as a wedding
gift about 18yrs ago. Some songs have all 12 strings ("Nothing Without You") - other just 6 ("Bitter Man").
You know, when $'s tight,
you make due, lol, and that's what I did. I discovered
that there's really a big difference in sound depending on technique used. The acoustic is kinda
tough because it can be very dynamic depending on how you play it (need a comp at recording) and
mics and the position
of those mics really makes a difference. I had equally good results from both a 57 and
the Behringer condensor I was using for vocals. I even tried the MXL stereo pair - but never got
that sounding as good as I'd like it. Definitely an area for growth, and I'm sure many engineers
have spent decades perfecting their technique in this area. Oh, and strings!!! Wow what a new pair
of acoustic strings make.. but you already knew that, didn't you!
Ninety percent of all the guitar tracks were played on my Jackson SL3. I think
maybe one or two had the Jackson Pro on them. An Ibanez bass was used for all
bass tracking using the PODxt with a dry, no cab patch - or a combined
with a SansAmp DI on a few songs.
The guitar signal chain was pretty simple: GUITAR -> PODxT
(mono for rhythm tracking (doubled), stereo for leads) -> ART DIO ->
Roland 1824. I intentially tried to keep the rhythm tracks simple and dry.
Almost
every engineer I've ever spoken to swears by reduced distortion and simplicity
between the guitar and tape (or in this case the harddrive). It really makes
sense and definitely a situation where 'less is more'. All rhythm tracks were
double tracked and then panned hard left/right. Leads were
a different story. Occasionally I'd make use of an outboard compressor and
assorted delay/chorus effects on the 1824. I usually ended up going for the
biggest stereo sound I could get.
Mixing
November 27, 2009
Apologies for a long over-due blog. Life has been busy.
Had a few bumps with the CD, but everything is back on track and rocking more than ever! This update brings lots
of changes to the site. For starters, I gave the whole site a make-over. Hope you like it! Secondly - you might have already
noticed, but all the songs off LOSING FAITH have been uploaded for stream, albeit in a poor MP3 format.
The lyrics are there too! You can either listen to all songs - or each song individually. By clicking on each of them individually, you also get a little
interesting blurb (<- what a word! sounds like something my cat did this morning) about the song. You know, something interesting not commonly know. So heck em' out! Let me know what you think.
In addition to these changes, the first video in the Mixing section of Behind The Scenes was uploaded. You can check it out HERE.
Stay tuned, and thanks for your (continued) patience.
Mark
September 11th, 2009
Mastering is just about complete. A few more edges were polished on the mixes in
the past few weeks - but all has been completed. I must say, I'm very happy with
the mixes as they stand - even before mastering. Once the "master" has been pressed,
it'll be sent off to be duplicated. Look for a firm release date soon and a very
rockin' October!
Stay tuned, and thanks for your patience!
Mark
August 2nd, 2009
Well, here we are - beginning of August and this damn CD has not been released yet!!!
ARRRRRRGGGG!
Rest assured, there will be a release day, and hopefully all this waiting will be
worth it. As many of you know, I don't make any money off this - in fact lose quite
a bit. It's a labor of love and I don't think I'd have it any other way!!
On the bright side, all songs are now in the capable hands of Hal Chiasson, Sweettrax
Mastering! With any luck, these songs will be on disc by early September!!
There are many site updates with this release, including: a slightly new look, two
cuts with the Steven Slate samples, reworked 'about mark' page and added content
to the "Recording" section under
Behind the Scenes of "Losing Faith".
Stay tuned, and thanks for your patience!
Mark
June 20th, 2009
Mixing is done, but I made a last minute decision to add Steven Slate drums to the
mix. A real kit was recorded for this CD, but I decided to blend the kick, snare
and toms to provide another level of "umph!". And "umph!" it does! This change has
set things back a week or two - but I think you'll agree when you listen it was
well worth it. Steven Slate provides kit samples for some of the most recognized
and accomplished engineers/producers out there today.
Stay tuned!
Mark
May 23, 2009
Hey gang - Mixing for the new CD is just about done!!! The release date has moved
slightly to early summer, but will hopefully be worth it once everything is wrapped
up! Thanks for your continued patience and support! In the meantime,
Check out a few new mixes and releases off the CD.
Stay tuned for exact release date and related info as it comes online!
Mark
March 23, 2009
Updates:
Check out the new Behind
the Scenes addition to the site. It's a special, insider's view of
some of the things you won't hear anywhere else but here about the making of Losing
Faith.
With this update Guitar Extraordinare Jim Reindel is spotlighted for his major contribution
of amazing guitar wizardry.
In the next few weeks I'll be adding the RECORDING and MIXING sections, so stayed
tuned!!!
Feb 21, 2009
It's about this time every year, here in Chicago, I wonder what's seriously wrong
with me living in a place like this! And then... spring comes.
Mixing for the new CD is feverishly in process. Being independent has its pluses.
One being I don't have a record company breathin' down my back, so i can take whatever
time I feel is necessary to get this damn thing right! And let's face it, screw
something up, it gets printed for life. So I'd rather take a bit more time and get
it right so you're listening to the very best I can provide!
With that said.. things are sounding great! Drums are THUNDERING, guitars are blowing
buildings over and vocals are ROCKIN'! Now, all that's left is bringing it together!
Heard my last CD "Monster Me"? Lookin' for some really ancient stuff (ugh) I did
around the turn of the century? Well, fear not, MP3 streams are
here, as well as cuts off the new CD.
Stayed tuned for more info on the new CD as it happens!
Mark
Jan 18, 2009
The CD design is complete and a sneak
peek is right here on WWW.MARKBSCHUSTER.COM! Special thanks to Nick Ledesma
for providing an absolutely incredible cd design!
The final touches are being put on the mixes and then will be sent off to the capable
hands of Hal Chiasson at
SWEETRAX MASTERING in Atlanta.
Stayed tuned for new samples off the CD and more info about the CD as it comes online!!
Mark
Jan 2, 2009
Work on the new CD continues... Had a few personal issues pop up in Nov/Dec that
caused a slight delay - but things are back on track now.
The title of the CD has been chosen and will be called "Losing Faith". CD
Design is well underway and I'm hoping this gets wrapped up in the next week or
so. Mixing is 90% done with a few final touches and then it's off for mastering.
Check out the two new mixes from the CD: "Until I See Your Eyes" AND "The Monster
Inside". Once again BIG thanks to buddy Jim Reindel for stepping up to the plate
and knockin' one outta the stadium with his solo on Monster. By the way, if you
dig SUPER-MOLTEN-HOTTER-THAN-LAVA GUITAR, check out Jim's new tune "Guitarnage".
Guaranteed to cause blistering on contact!!!
Stayed tuned for new samples off the CD as well as a sneak peek at the cover once
it's finished. Here's to a fantastic and rockin' 2009!
MARKO
October 18th, 2008
With all the recording done, the next steps in releasing the upcoming CD have started.
Mastering and art design for the cover are underway! Check back for updates.
A few new cuts are previewed with this update. Check em' out!
As always - thanks for stopping by.
September 28th, 2008
Quick CD update:
All vocals for the previously released tune 'Lies' were re-recorded. The original
recording was done about a year or so ago and the quality just wasn't up to snuff
with new things I've been doing lately. It was a lot of fun, and for those of you
who like this tune - I hope you dig the new vocals even more!
Good friend Jim Reindel once again stepped up to the plate and knocked one out of
the stadium by providing the Lead Guitar work for "Loosing Faith". You gotta hear
it to believe it! Look for a sneak peek of this one and "Lies" very soon right here
on WWW.MARKBSCHUSTER.COM!
Finally, I got off my arse and got a mailing list together. If you're interested
in being included in future emails, please
SIGN-UP!
Mark
September 1st, 2008
Site redesign.
For those of you who might have thought I fell off the end of the earth, fear not,
I'm still here. Sadly, I lost my mother in May. Anybody that's lost their mother
can relate to how devastating it can be. It's not something you get over quickly,
in fact, wondering if one ever truly gets over it. Anyway - after a few months of
downtime, I've attack the NEW CD with a greater vengence then ever. Here's what's
been happening:
SNEAK PEEKS off the new CD right here on WWW.MARKBSCHUSTER.COM: "Until I See Your
Eyes", "Bitterman" and "Nothing Without You".
"Lies", "Loosing Faith", "Believing in You" and "Bitterman" got drums tracked! (A
couple casualties during the recording of "Bitterman" ;)
   
"Believing in You", "Bitterman" and "The Monster Inside" got vox tracked
"Bitterman" got a guitar part revamped
"Until I See Your Eyes" got wrapped up with the addition of good friend Jim Reindel's
contribution of one of the most KILLER guitar solos I've ever heard! No joke! Check
it out right here! If ya dig it -
me and I'll pass on the comments to Jim...
All other tunes have gone through at least 15,000 ;) mix revisions since the last
update. Ugh, if only I was joking.
With any luck this CD will be done by end of year. Stay tuned and check back to
WWW.MARKBSCHUSTER.COM for updates!!
April, 6, 2008
Site redesign (again...)
Drum tracking for several songs off the new CD resumes in a few weeks, as well as
vocals and a few guitar tracks.
With any luck enough will get done to release a few sneek peeks here on WWW.MARKBSCHUSTER.COM!!
Stay tuned...
March, 8, 2008
Is it possible? Spring is truly on its way? Looks that way.
Work continues on material for the new CD. Here's a quick rundown, as of now, of
the names of songs on the CD:
Until I See Your Eyes
Did What I Did
Static
Nothing Without You
Loosing Faith
Lies
Bitter Man
The Monster Inside
Believing in You
Look for a sneek peek of "Until I See Your Eyes" in the near future.
February 8, 2008
Holy Schnikes!! When is WINTER going to be over?? I'm going nuts!!
Ok, in a fit of depresson and claustrophobia I decided to give the site a makeover.
Lighter colors - thus more LIGHT!!! That's good thing in winter, right?? Anyway
- a huge addition has been made with this update in the form of a new section below
with 20 or so old MP3's I dusted off. I was actually amazed I've created that much
music since 2000. Well, it has been 8yrs, so I guess not that weird, but still..
Anyway - it was kinda fun listening to some of this older stuff. Where it's lacking
in production, or even perhaps a performance here and there *clears his throat*,
I think in several situations it is made up by the tremendous amount of emotion
and passion. I hope you agree!
Some good progress has been made on the new CD in recent weeks. Drums were tracked
on two older tunes I decided to add to the CD. I'm eyeing a few other older ones
too, never released, for the same makeover. All they need is some great vox and
a guitar solo here and there and then they'll move into the mixer. Stayed tune,
I will of course post them here once done. Think WARM thoughts! Bob's your uncle.
January 4, 2008
Happy New Year!
A new mix of "Did What I Did" is up.
December, 23 2007
Happy holidays and Merry Xmas! Look for a new mix of "Did What I Did" coming soon.
Also - a new tune called "Until I See Your Eyes", recorded over the Thanksgiving
holiday, will be posted soon. Not everything's done yet - a new vox track and some
guitar lead work need to be done yet...but SOON! This is a continuation of the story
started in "Did What I Did". In fact, the album will be based on a fictional story
started by "Did What I Did". Kinda of an "Operation Mind Crime" of sorts. So check
back.. I'm really happy with the guitar tone on this new one. Trying new things
all the time with the help of my new killer DAW "Reaper" and help of friends on
both COCKOS and ANDY SNEAP forums.
November 10, 2007
Well, another summer officially over here. Now, those of us in the icing cold wastelands
of the northern United States get to enjoy winter, or as I like to say "hell frozen
over". To heat things up, I've decided to add ALL songs from my "Monster Me" CD
for stream here. It's the only place you can stream ALL songs, complete MP3 (192kb)
versions, on the net. Enjoy!
Another round of drum sessions for the new CD are slated for a few weeks from now.
Hopefully tracking for at least 3 more songs on the new CD will be completed by
the end of it. I'm keeping my fingers crossed!
As always - thanks for your support!
October 13, 2007
Happy ROCKTOBER to everyone! Some good progress has been made lately on the new
CD. In fact, check out the new tune 'Static' below. Lyrics can be found by clicking
on the arrow ">" next to the song. Let me know what you think!
Switching gears slightly - it appears CDBaby is now selling MP3 copies of my first
CD "Monster Me". I wasn't aware of this until they sent me a note saying a few had
bought it lately. When I sold out of the original copies there late last year, I
decided for a few reasons not to refill. Too long to go into why, but, if you're
interested in mp3s, I guess they have complete CD copies available. For those of
you who have bought it recently - and of course EVERYONE who's bought a copy since
it's release last year......THANKS!!!
September 13, 2007
It's been a while since an update! Sorry about that - but I've been busy working
on recording some new music for the next CD (*Check out a new song below called
"Did What I Did") and also getting comfortable with a new PC based DAW called "Reaper".
It's a fantastic piece of software that has literally revolutionized the way I'm
approaching music. More importantly - it's increased the quality of my music by
100%! Look for a preview of another new tune soon! Until then...
July 27, 2007
Recording for the new CD continues this weekend. Look for some samples in the coming
weeks!
July 15, 2007
Site redesign.
July 4, 2007
Work continues on material for the new CD. Fifteen or so songs have been written
and now it's just a matter of figuring out which ones stay and which ones go.
I'm excited about this new disc. I'm trying something different with vocals - and
as always - making every effort to improve the general writing and recording aspects
of it. To that end, I purchased a new Pearl drumset to replace the old triggered
set I was using. This of course adds a whole new dimension to my recordings - both
at the music level and on the recording side. A long weekend was set aside in early
June to start tracking the drumset and find a good mic'ing setup. Like most new
endeavors - there was limited success and a boat load of frustration. What cha'
gonna do, right? The upside is...about a month later - I'm dying to give it a try
again - and hopefully this time nail it.
With vocals on the new material, I think it also marks a fundamental shift in my
music. Whether I like to admit it or not - I'm a product of the music I listened
to, for countless hours, while growing up. Most, if not all, of that music was vocal
based (e.g. Scorpions, Van Halen, Judas Priest, Alice in Chains). My writing has
always been geared toward vocals - even though when I started recording again in
early 2000 everything was solely instrumental (Satch/Vai). For me, it never seemed
to click 100%. The new music does. You be the judge. Below are several samples and
one full length song from the new CD.
Name: Mark B. Schuster
Background: Background? Hmmm... Well - saying music's been my life wouldn't be an overstatement.
I started banging on a drum back when I was 10 and pick up the guitar a few years later. Been doing something
musical ever sense, although there were a few years in the 90's were I completely retreated from music
altogether - but it didn't last too long. I love both guitar and drums - and really don't
have a favorite. Each has it's own unique quality that allows me to express myself differently.
This is one of the big reasons I play everything you hear on this site
(except for the occasional friend helping out with a guitar solo here and there).
I've played in many bands over the years - and all types of music: classical, jazz and of course hard rock.
Just like the instruments I play, each of these genres offer something unique -
but my soul squarely aligns with hard rock, that I'm sure of.
What's the future hold? Hard to say, but there's one thing I do know - there's still a ton of intense music
inside me dying to get out. My hope is every new release improves, in not only song writing, but quality
of recording.
MidWestBands.com (US)  (4/15/2006)
From the get-go, I have to make it abundantly clear that Mark Schuster is an excellent musician! He not only provides the guitar work on the CD – he also plays every other instrument, as well as shouldering the burden of production and mixing! He is the man with the plan, and Monster Me is one hundred percent his Baby!
Review by Mark Lush, Midwestbands.com
Bad Attitude Radio (US)   (3/11/2006)
"This is a awesome CD! We have only had it a few hours now and I have listened to it a few times already. Great Work Man. Keep It Up!" Ken, Bad Attitude Radio
What makes a great instrumental album? This is a question that we should ponder with intellect and attention, focus and heart. To take on a instrumental project one must allow the axe to speak instead of vocals, and it has to be done in a very concise manner, or all is lost on the novice listener. Mark Schuster’s ‘Monster Me’ is described by the artist as 10 Instrumental Hard/Rock Metal songs.
I describe it as a Story told by guitar. A story that is unique to whomever is listening, it is not overplayed, the melody is present, and never foregone to ‘ham it up’. So often soloists violate that simple rule. They overplay and what is sacrificed is the journey.
The track ‘Agree to Disagree’ slows down in the appropriate places to allow the eyes to focus as the ears react pleasantly. By the time I reached ‘Bang Bang’ I had chosen a destination in my mind and Mark allowed me to roam freely with the perfect tone and pitch. This player is confident, energetic and hammers you when necessary. The artist uses effects and delays appropriately throughout his pieces and he holds notes and picks never forgetting that a hammer needs a nail if you are going to build something. Dancing with the Devil is a track that did just that, what a build up. I think that this is a must listen. The instrumental's make a collectors overall appreciation of metal have an almost academic meaning. This album needs to find it’s way into your mind and cd case.
Congrats Mark my first 5 on the old 1-5 scale.
Review by John Ritondo (aka Jalapenopope)
STRUTTER'ZINE (Europe)   (2/28/2006)
Instrumental Melodic Hardrock in the best 80s style (read: early SATRIANI, VAI, VAN HALEN) is what we get to hear on the debut CD of guitarist MARK SCHUSTER. Actually you should call this mastermind a multi-instrumentalist as well as producer, because he did everything on his own. The result is a great typical instrumental Hardrock CD with one foot in the 80s (the songs), although the production quality is of course the level of 2006, so nothing sounding dated here. Recommended to fans of guitar orientated instrumental Melodic Hardrock, because there are some really gems on the CD (check out the awesome “Agree to disagree” that has some beautiful melodic guitarwork). (Points: 8.3 out of 10)
Review by Gabor Fabian
HARDROCKHAVEN.NET (US)   (1/12/2006)
Comments: Shred? Sure. Powerful riffs? Check. Is this yet another mindless pseudo guitar god album? No fucking way! Former drummer boy Mark Shuster was even self-deprecating in his press release for this album, something you will never see from an expert guitarist. He admitted he hadn't touched a guitar in more then 10 years! That may be the most refreshingly honest thing in the history of rock CD promotion. The $64,000 question is: was his extended layoff a liability? In this case, no it certainly was not. In his case it was more then 10 years spent growing, maturing and letting multiple solid rhythms spawn into one well-written song after another! There is a song here for all style guitar aficionados. The metal fans get an early treat with a distortional almost Satriani, early Lynch flavored tune called "Bang, Bang" that includes some really "seasoned" bass guitar playing as well.
Next up is the best written song on the CD, "Agree to Disagree," a soft rock/metal tune that flows like beads of water down Paris Hilton's legs. A muted "ahh, ahh" is sung a few times here but the highlight is the clear slow lead played over the basic rock rhythm. It's just so damn catchy!
The rock/blues fans have "Dancing with the Devil" a soulful rock tune with mad feel and clarity. This track is as good a driving song as there has been in ages! An evil voice pans a Devilish, "Hey baby you wanna dance," as Schuster finishes with an almost Bayou rhythm.
"Herd Of Elephants" includes some fast lead licks and much more slowly played heartfelt soul-rock as well. There are even a few psychedelic licks at the songs end too for good measure. The album's title track is a spirited rock/metal doing "85" in the slow lane bonanza! He even slams on the brakes at one point during the song and plays a piece of a possessed monster with high-pitched sustained notes of painful discourse. But then it's back into the manic weaving in and out of lanes and the depressive slows for red lights.
Not sure who "Ginger" was, but she either had an impact on this life or a previous one for Mark. The track is solemn and pretty but morose and melancholy as well. It may either pleasantly remind you of a love once lost or inspire you to try and find that same lady sometime soon. It's that powerful.
Up next is the similar "A Matter of Time," which never speeds but pulls on your heartstrings throughout with more soulful playing! He laces it occasionally with tasty powerful lead pieces too. "Welcome To the Freak Show" plays to a basic rock rhythm and includes several speedy leads as well as a few more "Devil" style vocal statements.
"Judas Kiss" starts out with Hendrix styled distortion pulls and a few powerful gongs before vaulting into another power rock ditty and finally finishing on the distortion pull express.
The last track is "The Long Road Home" a reflectively beautiful way to enhance this well played album. This guy loves rhythms, and man it shows! He probably dreams rhythms for Christ's sake! The leads in this sound a bit of soulful, like Richie Sambora with a touch of Jake. E Lee thrown in for flavor. Either way, they are as true and real as your first kiss.
When you put in an instrumental guitar album and the next thing you know it's over, it's either a ringing endorsement or a death sentence. In this case, it is surely the former.
The flow of this record is seamless and expert, and is just the beginning of the words you could use to describe Schuster's impeccably clean soulful style. Go to www.fossilrecords.net and pick up a copy of this unisex friendly record for Valentine's Day; your mate won't be disappointed, but he/she may get a few more speeding tickets!
"Mark Schuster has created an album that's gonna turn on a few heads, I think that soon
this guy could become one of the most talked about players..."
Nicky Baldrian, StrutterZine
"yeah!!!!! You are sounding great and the site looks fabulous. I love the playing.
Good work. Awesome stuff!!! Neil Zaza
Featured on BallBusterHardMusic.com's "Axe Banger:The Guitarist Showcase"
August/September, 2002
"I do hear a lot of promise in your guitar playing - your tone is strong and you
have the beginnings of a kick-ass personal style...
I dig the energy and phrasing of your soloing." Phi Yaan-Zek, LNR Records
"... a milestone stone of the type like Dokken. Bravo Mark! Hurray the guitar heroes!"
Luca Daddi, Metal Maniacs, Italy
"Although you hear a lot of guitar picking,this is not a boring album. Schuster is
capable of creating a very own atmosphere and mood for every different song; and that
is what I call a great achievement. Martien Koolen, RockUnited.com (AOR-Europe.com)
"...Too Little, Too Late" and "I am a Machine" are supported by cutting riffs, metallic and
beautiful melodies that remind you of something like Lynch or Vai"
GuitarChef, Italy's first Guitar Zine
“Musically, he plays with plenty of Eddie Van Halen flourishes, a Steve Vai-like
approach to melodies and rather unusually, echoes of the Scorpions. However, where
the album scores higher than most is Mark's mastery of the rhythm guitar
which is quite superb, giving the album an enjoyable side that other albums mostly
lack. “ Matthew Honey, HardRoxx Online, UK
"…this cd reminds me very much of LYNCH, SATRIANI, MOORE and
Mr. Eddie VAN HALEN" SLAM! Hard Rock/Metal Zine, Italy
"... 10 tracks firmly in the hard rock and heavy metal arenas that offer
mega-riffing, impressively fluid melodic soloing..."
Guitar Nine Records, The Undiscovered June-July,2001
"Mark Schuster is obviously an indecently talented guitarist, and has already
found a strong niche in a genre that could surely use an oil-change"
Dave B. Wagner, Gods of Music
"It didn't take long during my first listen to discern that Mark Schuster is a
very talented guitar player and musician."
CrashTest, Metal-Rules.com
Factoid: This song pretty much sums up the CD, thus the title. Originally it was not
slated to be on the CD, but after listening one night I decided to put it back on.
It has a politcal slant to it, but the original intention
was to simply write about few things I find especially frustrating in life these days.
Guitar Solos: Jim Reindel
LOSING FAITH
WHY DO I TRUST IN YOU?
LIES AFTER LIES – NOTHING’S LEFT OF THE TRUTH
WHY MUST I BURY MY HEAD IN MY HANDS – TIME AND TIME AGAIN?
WHY CAN’T I STAND TALL, BELIEVE IT ALL?
INSTEAD OF LOSING FAITH
SOMETHING’S WRONG WHEN A CHILD DIES, CAUSE SOME FAT POLITICIAN LIED
IT’S ALL ABOUT ME, ME, ME AND MY SUV – YOU KNOW WHAT’S MINE IS MINE!
WHY MUST I BURY MY HEAD IN MY HANDS – TIME AND TIME AGAIN?
WHY CAN’T I STAND TALL, BREAK DOWN WALLS?
INSTEAD OF LOSING FAITH
THE RICH – KEEP GETTING RICHER, WHILE THE POOR STAND AROUND WITH OPEN HANDS
WHEN WILL WE RISE – OPEN OUR EYES - MAKE THIS LAND A BETTER PLACE?
WHY MUST I BURY MY HEAD IN MY HANDS – TIME AND TIME AGAIN?
WHY CAN’T I STAND TALL, BELIEVE IT ALL?
INSTEAD OF LOSING FAITH
WHY MUST WE BURY OUR DEAD IN THE SAND
WE MUST RAISE UP OUR HANDS - TAKE BACK THIS LAND
INSTEAD OF LOSING FAITH
Factoid: Believe it or not, this song was written and recorded in under a few weeks. I had the
rare opportunity of having some free time - and just wrote it. It fell together well,
and of all the songs on this disc, this one seems to be liked the most. Go figure. A lesson in
over-working something doesn't always translate to greatness.
Did What I Did
RED … THAT’S ALL SHE SAID
TWO TO THE CHEST, ONE TO HEAD, MAN HE’S DEAD
HEY, THE MAN HAD A GUN
HEY, I’M NOT GOIN’ DOWN
FUNNY HOW YOUR LIFE CAN CHANGE, CHANGE IN HEARTBEAT FROM SOMETHING SANE
I DID WHAT I DID TO SAVE MY WIFE – AND NOW I’M FACING 20 TO LIFE
GRAY – SUFFOCATES ME EVERYDAY
FOUR BRICK WALLS, COUNTLESS BARS, I’M IN A CAGE
HEY, THE MAN HAD A GUN
HEY, WHERE’S JUSTICE GONE?
FUNNY HOW YOUR LIFE CAN CHANGE, CHANGE IN HEARTBEAT FROM SOMETHING SANE
I DID WHAT I DID TO SAVE MY WIFE – AND NOW I’M TRYING TO SAVE MY OWN LIFE
I’M NOT DYING BEHIND THESE WALLS
I WON’T LET THEM TAKE ME DOWN
THIS TIME TOMORROW I’LL BE GONE
ONE MORE DAY, AND I’LL BE FREE – AS FREE AS A MAN CAN BE ON THE RUN
ONE MORE NIGHT AND I’LL BE ALRIGHT, ONCE I SEE YOUR EYES
FUNNY HOW YOUR LIFE CAN CHANGE, CHANGE IN HEARTBEAT FROM SOMETHING SANE
I DID WHAT I DID TO SAVE MY WIFE – AND NOW I’M TAKIN’ BACK MY LIFE
Factoid: Before I knew where I wanted to go with this CD, I considered telling an entire
story through all the songs. This song is actually a follow-up to "Did What I Did" - where the guy
breaks out of jail and tries to get back to the woman he loves. I like both songs quite a bit, but just
lost interest with the whole 'story' concept. Maybe on the next CD. Hmmm...
Guitar Solo: Jim Reindel
Until I See Your Eyes
STILL HEAR THOSE DOGS, BARKIN’ IN MY HEAD – HOT ON MY HEELS
THREE DAYS SINCE THE JAIL BREAK, MY - BODY ACHES W/ PAIN – HERE I SIT – COLD AND ALONE FIGHIN’ OFF THE RAIN
HOW MUCH MORE - MUST I ENDURE - FOR A CRIME I’LL NEVER DO THE TIME FOR
I, FIGHT
FOR SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN
EVERYDAY I PRAY,I WILL BE STRONG
ONE MORE NIGHT
TILL I SEE YOUR EYES LOOKIN’ BACK AT ME
JUST SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY, YOU WERE IN MY ARMS, LIFE COULDN’T BE BETTER
NOW I’M ON THE RUN, SHOULD HAVE NEVER TOUCHED THAT GUN, THE DEVIL’S GOT HIS DUE
GOD, I NEED YOU
BUT I’M COMIN’ HOME, I’D NEVER LEAVE YA ALONE, I’LL DO WHATEVER IT TAKES, JUST DON’T LOOSE FAITH
I, FIGHT
FOR SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN
EVERYDAY I PRAY, I WILL BE STRONG
ONE MORE NIGHT
TILL I SEE YOUR EYES LOOKIN BACK AT ME
THE BLOOD’S ON MY HANDS
IT'S MY OWN
SINS TO PAY
PINNED DOWN - LOOKS LIKE I’M A DEAD MAN – I CAN HEAR THE MEN STAY “KILL HIM IF YOU CAN”
I’M NOT DYING LIKE THIS - THIS CAN’T BE ALL THERE IS, I’VE GOT SO MUCH MORE LIFE TO LIVE
TAKE YOUR BEST SHOT, SHE’S EVERYTHING I GOT, NOT SAYIN’ GOODBYE, TIL I SEE HER [EYES]
I, FIGHT
FOR SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN
EVERYDAY I PRAY, I WILL BE STRONG
ONE MORE NIGHT
TILL I SEE YOUR EYES LOOKIN BACK AT ME
TILL I SEE YOUR EYES LOOKIN’ BACK AT ME
Factoid: One day you wake up and realize half your life is over. Then, all you do is
obsess about it. "If I only knew then, what I know now..."...
This song may actually be the oldest on the CD. It was originally written as
an instrumental for my last cd "Monster Me" but never made it on. I liked it so much,
I reworked a few spots and added lyrics. I'm glad I did, this is one of my favorites.
Bitter Man
I KNOW I KNOW I KNOW THAT PAIN
I FEEL I FEEL I FEEL THE SAME
I AM I AM I AM AN EMPTY MAN
TRYING TO FIND MY WAY BACK HOME
WHISKEY BOTTLE YOU’RE MY ONLY FRIEND
18 AND KING – THE NEW MAN ON THE SCENE – AND EVERYDAY IS CRAZY, CRAZY
YA DO YOUR TIME – WORK AN 8 TO 5 GRIND – AND LIVE FOR EVERY FRIDAY,FRIDAY
18 AND KING – THE NEW MAN ON THE SCENE – AND EVERYDAY’S A PARTY, PARTY
YA DO WHAT YA CAN – TRY TO UNDERSTAND – WHY THE WORLD’S SO GREEDY, GREEDY
JUST TRYING TO MAKE ENDS-MEET
GOTTA GET THIS MONKEY, GOTTA GET THIS MONKEY OFF MY BACK
BITTER MAN – HOW CAN YA STAND
LOOKING IN THE MIRROR WITH THAT ANGER
BITTER MAN – YOU’RE ON QUICKSAND
BETTER CHAIN THOSE DEMONS
THEY’LL PUT YOU IN YOUR COFFIN
TIME’S RUNNING OUT – BETTER LOOSE THAT HATE - BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE
21 AND IN LOVE - THAT’S ALL YOUR THINKIN’ OF – AND NOW YOU’RE NEVER LONELY, LONELY
UNTIL DEATH DO WE PART – YOU GIVE AWAY YOUR HEART – AND EVERYTHING’S SO HAPPY,
SAPPY
THEN YOU WAKE UP ONE DAY – IT’S YOUR 33RD BIRTHDAY – AND LIFE’S BECOME SO EMPTY,
EMPTY
YOU SEARCH THROUGH YOUR SOUL, ONE BIG, DEEP, BLACK HOLE – AND TRY NOT TO WORRY,
WORRY
JUST TRYING TO MAKES ENDS-MEET
GOTTA GET THIS MONKEY, GOTTA GET THIS MONKEY OFF MY BACK
BITTER MAN – HOW CAN YOU STAND
HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU WASTED, ON HATRED
BITTER MAN – TRY AND UNDERSTAND
BETTER TAME THOSE DEMONS / THEY’RE JUST LIES AND POISON
TIME’S RUNNING OUT – BETTER LOOSE THAT HATE - BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE
IS IT WORTH LOSING IT ALL?
41 AND BURNED OUT - THAT’S ALL YOUR THINKIN’ ABOUT – AND LIFE’S JUST GOT LOUSY,
LOUSY
YOU SHUN EVERYONE – THE CLOSEST BOTTLE’S YOUR FUN – AND YOUR WORLD'S JUST ANGRY,
ANGRY
JUST TRYING TO MAKES ENDS-MEET
GOTTA GET THIS MONKEY, GOTTA GET THIS MONKEY OFF MY BACK
BITTER MAN – HOW CAN YA STAND?
LOOKIN’ IN THE MIRROR WITH THAT ANGER, AT THAT MONSTER!
BITTER MAN – YOU’RE ON QUICKSAND
BETTER CHAIN THOSE DEMONS / THEY’LL PUT YOU IN YOUR COFFIN
TIME’S RUNNING OUT – BETTER LOOSE THAT HATE - BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE
Factoid:During the writing and recording of this CD, many sad and scary things happened.
One of the scarier moments was waiting to hear if my wife had breast cancer or not. My life has
been plagued with cancer deaths in my family, so I take this kind of stuff very seriously.
Thankfully she was ok. While we were waiting to hear I wrote this song.
Nothing Without You
HOW DO I EXPLAIN THE UNEXPLAINABLE?
HOW DO I WRITE THIS SONG AND DO YOU JUSTICE?
WOULD I BE A WASTING MY TIME, TRYING TO FIND THE WORDS?
BECAUSE EVERYTHING THAT I AM, AND ALL THAT I DO IS NOTHING WITHOUT YOU
NOTHING WITHOUT YOU
NOTHING BUT A GAPPING HOLE WHERE MY HEART USE TO BE
NOTHING BUT MEMORIES REMAIN – I’M GOIN’ INSANE
GOD - I MISS YOU
I’M SO SICK OF HEARING IT, LIFE’S NOT FAIR
ISN’T THERE SOMEONE? ANYONE? LISTENING TO MY PRAYERS?
MAN I’M LOSING GROUND, FALLING DOWN FOR THE LAST TIME
I DON’T KNOW – HOW MUCH LONGER – I CAN TAKE THIS PAIN - WITHOUT YOU
NOTHING WITHOUT YOU
NOTHING BUT THE PAINFUL TRUTH – STARING ME DOWN INSIDE
NOTHING BUT THOUGHTS IN MY HEAD – I’M BETTER OFF DEAD
GOD - I MISS YOU
WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE – I’M SO COLD
NOTHING WITHOUT YOU
NOTHING BUT A GAPPING HOLE WHERE MY HEART USE TO BE
NOTHING BUT MEMORIES REMAIN I’M GOIN’ INSANE
GOD - I MISS YOU
Factoid:MONSTER, MONSTER, MONSTER!!! Seems to be a word I like (or despise). i dunno.
Another one of those "look in the mirror" tunes.
Guitar Solo: Jim Reindel
The Monster Inside
TELL ME WHY
MY HEART HAS TURNED TO STONE
THE LIFE THAT I CHOSE
HAS LEFT ME SO COLD
WHAT GIVES LIFE
TO THE MONSTER INSIDE
WHAT INCITES THE RAGE
WAY DOWN INSIDE OF ME
IT LIVES AND BREATHS
THE TRUTH – CUTS ME TO THE BONE
A TRUTH I DENIED - FOR MOST OF MY LIFE
BUT WHAT - WILL HAPPEN TO ME
IS MY LIFE BUT A JOKE?
WHEN WILL HE COME?
I’VE BECOME SO NUMB
WHAT GIVES LIFE
TO THE MONSTER INSIDE
WHAT INCITES THE RAGE
WAY DOWN INSIDE OF ME
IT LIVES AND BREATHS
PLEASE – DO YOU REALLY THINK YOU CONTROL ME?
I’M YOUR STRANGER DANGER – LIVE ON YOUR ANGER
YOU’LL NEVER BE FREE
I – UNDERSTAND NOW
YOU’RE THE ONLY ONE – THE ONLY ONE I NEED
TOGETHER – WE’RE FOREVER
LOCKED AND CHAINED – ONE IN THE SAME – YOU’LL NEVER BE FREE - OF ME
WHAT GIVES LIFE
TO THE MONSTER INSIDE
WHAT INCITES THE RAGE
WAY DOWN INSIDE OF ME
IT LIVES AND BREATHS
Factoid:Ah, you know, we all have bad days with our spouses, right? :))
Believing In You
YOU – THINK YOU'RE GOD’S GIFT TO ME
BUT I KNOW YOU’RE THE DEVIL – NOTHIN’ MORE THAN EVIL
AND I KNOW THE REASON – EVERY TIME YOU LIE
AND DENY – WHAT MATTERS – MATTERS MOST TO ME
AM I LOSING MY MIND? OVER AND OVER
AM I WRONG OR RIGHT? BELIEVING IN YOU
HEY, WHY YA SMILIN?
COULD IT BE MY PAIN
OR THE STAIN FROM MY TEARS
FALLEN DOWN MY FACE
THERE’S NO TRACE - OF WHO I WAS
BEFORE I LET YOU TAKE
ALL I AM – ALL I’D BE
JUST LET ME BE ME
AM I LOSING MY MIND? OVER AND OVER
AM I FOOLING MYSELF? BELIEVING IN YOU
ALWAYS THOUGHT YOU’D BE MY BEST FRIEND
HAND IN HAND TILL THE END
BUT DOESN’T LOOK LIKE THAT WAS MEANT TO BE
GOD! - WAS I REALLY THAT NAIVE
AND IF YA WANNA WALK, WALK! I WON’T DROP A TEAR
COME TOMORROW I WON’T BE HERE
AND IF SOMEDAY YOU LOOK BACK - AND WONDER WHY
LISTEN TO YOUR HEART – IT WON’T LIE
Factoid:The mind is a pretty incredible thing. It's capable of creating such beautiful things,
and yet such horrors too.
I think this song has a lot of energy. It was a beooootch to mix, though. A lot going on...strings, quad-tracked guitars, multiple vocal lines. You name it, it's in there!
Static
I, PRAY ALMOST EVERYDAY - THE NOISE WILL FADE
CONSTANT CONFUSION - FILLS MY MIND - NO MATTER HOW HARD I TRY
THE MIND LIES
I - FALL - ALMOST EVERYDAY - THE GAMES MY MIND PLAYS
AND I - UNDERSTAND WHAT’S AT STAKE - MY HEART WILL BREAK
I – LIVE - TO FIGHT ANOTHER DAY - NO MATTER WHAT YOU SAY
AND I – CAN’T BEGIN TO MAKE SENSE – IT’S ALL IN SELF-DEFENSE
WHEN WILL I FREE MYSELF FROM
STATIC – IN MY MIND
WHY CAN’T I, WHY CAN’T I
FIND - PEACE-OF-MIND
TURN OFF THE STATIC IN MY MIND
WHY – TRY – WHEN NOTHING WORKS – I’VE FAILED A MILLION TIMES
WHY - FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT - JUST TO DIE – ANOTHER NIGHT
TAKE ME – OR LET ME BE – JUST SHOW SOME MERCY – I’M BEGGIN’ FROM MY KNEES
I’M - LIKE AN ANIMAL WHO’S BEEN CAGED AND TRAPPED – I’M NEVER TURNING BACK
WHEN WILL I FREE MYSELF FROM
STATIC – IN MY MIND
WHY CAN’T I, WHY CAN’T I
FIND - PEACE-OF-MIND
TURN OFF THE STATIC IN MY MIND
WHY, ASK WHY?
WHAT’S THE POINT?
THE WRITING’S ON THE WALL
WHEN WILL I FREE MYSELF FROM
STATIC – IN MY MIND
WHY CAN’T I, WHY CAN’T I
FIND – PEACE OF MIND
STOP - TURN OFF THE STATIC – IN MY MIND
GOD PLEASE HELP ME
FIND – PEACE OF MIND
TURN OFF THE STATIC IN MY MIND
Factoid:This is another old one written back in 2006 when I was just messing around with vocals. I liked it so much I re-recorded it
and added new phrasing to the vocal lines. Of all the tunes on this CD, I think this one gets the 'most metal' award! (for whatever that's worth..)
Crank it up!
Lies
WHY, MUST IT COME TO THIS?
DAY AND NIGHT, YOUR WILL WILL BE MY WISH
YOU GOT ME IN YOUR ICY GRIP - AND I CHOOSE TO LIE
I CHOOSE TO LIE
WHY, MUST WE DO THIS DANCE?
I...JUST...WANT...WHAT'S MINE, A SECOND CHANCE
YOU, SLIENTLY KILL MY WILL TO LIVE - AND I CHOOSE TO FIGHT!
LIES, LIES, LIES - RIGHT BEFORE MY
EYES - AND DEEP DOWN INSIDE
LIES, LIES - 'NOTHER PIECE OF ME DIES
WHY MUST I PAY
THE PRICE WILL BE MY LIFE - YOU'LL SEE
I'VE HAD ABOUT ENUFF
RUN DON'T WALK - THAT'S MY ADVICE
YOU GOT ME IN YOUR ICY GRIP - AND I CHOOSE TO
FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT - TO THE DEATH I'LL
RIGHT - EVERY SINGLE
LIE, LIE, LIE - THEN SAY GOODBYE
PLEASE, I'M BEGGIN' YA, PLEASE GIVE ME BACK ALL I'VE LOST
ALL I'VE LOST TO
YOU...'VE TAKEN ALL MY PRIDE
LIES, LIES, LIES - RIGHT BEFORE MY
EYES - AND DEEP DOWN IN
SIDE, LIES, LIES - 'NOTHER PIECE OF ME DIES
WHY MUST I - PAY?
THE PRICE WILL BE MY LIFE, YOU'LL SEE
NO MORE, NO MORE LIES
Factoid: This CD took three years to make from recording thru mastering. Most of the recording was done by the summer of 2008, but it took
another year to do the mixing and mastering after transferring everything to Reaper. Why? Good question, but I guess
it was a never ending need/desire to make sure everything sounded as good as it could!
Losing Faith
WHY DO I TRUST IN YOU?
LIES AFTER LIES – NOTHING’S LEFT OF THE TRUTH
WHY MUST I BURY MY HEAD IN MY HANDS – TIME AND TIME AGAIN?
WHY CAN’T I STAND TALL, BELIEVE IT ALL?
INSTEAD OF LOSING FAITH
SOMETHING’S WRONG WHEN A CHILD DIES, CAUSE SOME FAT POLITICIAN LIED
IT’S ALL ABOUT ME, ME, ME AND MY SUV – YOU KNOW WHAT’S MINE IS MINE!
WHY MUST I BURY MY HEAD IN MY HANDS – TIME AND TIME AGAIN?
WHY CAN’T I STAND TALL, BREAK DOWN WALLS?
INSTEAD OF LOSING FAITH
THE RICH – KEEP GETTING RICHER, WHILE THE POOR STAND AROUND WITH OPEN HANDS
WHEN WILL WE RISE – OPEN OUR EYES - MAKE THIS LAND A BETTER PLACE?
WHY MUST I BURY MY HEAD IN MY HANDS – TIME AND TIME AGAIN?
WHY CAN’T I STAND TALL, BELIEVE IT ALL?
INSTEAD OF LOSING FAITH
WHY MUST WE BURY OUR DEAD IN THE SAND
WE MUST RAISE UP OUR HANDS - TAKE BACK THIS LAND
INSTEAD OF LOSING FAITH
Did What I Did
RED … THAT’S ALL SHE SAID
TWO TO THE CHEST, ONE TO HEAD, MAN HE’S DEAD
HEY, THE MAN HAD A GUN
HEY, I’M NOT GOIN’ DOWN
FUNNY HOW YOUR LIFE CAN CHANGE, CHANGE IN HEARTBEAT FROM SOMETHING SANE
I DID WHAT I DID TO SAVE MY WIFE – AND NOW I’M FACING 20 TO LIFE
GRAY – SUFFOCATES ME EVERYDAY
FOUR BRICK WALLS, COUNTLESS BARS, I’M IN A CAGE
HEY, THE MAN HAD A GUN
HEY, WHERE’S JUSTICE GONE?
FUNNY HOW YOUR LIFE CAN CHANGE, CHANGE IN HEARTBEAT FROM SOMETHING SANE
I DID WHAT I DID TO SAVE MY WIFE – AND NOW I’M TRYING TO SAVE MY OWN LIFE
I’M NOT DYING BEHIND THESE WALLS
I WON’T LET THEM TAKE ME DOWN
THIS TIME TOMORROW I’LL BE GONE
ONE MORE DAY, AND I’LL BE FREE – AS FREE AS A MAN CAN BE ON THE RUN
ONE MORE NIGHT AND I’LL BE ALRIGHT, ONCE I SEE YOUR EYES
FUNNY HOW YOUR LIFE CAN CHANGE, CHANGE IN HEARTBEAT FROM SOMETHING SANE
I DID WHAT I DID TO SAVE MY WIFE – AND NOW I’M TAKIN’ BACK MY LIFE
Until I See Your Eyes
STILL HEAR THOSE DOGS, BARKIN’ IN MY HEAD – HOT ON MY HEELS
THREE DAYS SINCE THE JAIL BREAK, MY - BODY ACHES W/ PAIN – HERE I SIT – COLD AND ALONE FIGHIN’ OFF THE RAIN
HOW MUCH MORE - MUST I ENDURE - FOR A CRIME I’LL NEVER DO THE TIME FOR
I, FIGHT
FOR SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN
EVERYDAY I PRAY,I WILL BE STRONG
ONE MORE NIGHT
TILL I SEE YOUR EYES LOOKIN’ BACK AT ME
JUST SEEMS LIKE YESTERDAY, YOU WERE IN MY ARMS, LIFE COULDN’T BE BETTER
NOW I’M ON THE RUN, SHOULD HAVE NEVER TOUCHED THAT GUN, THE DEVIL’S GOT HIS DUE
GOD, I NEED YOU
BUT I’M COMIN’ HOME, I’D NEVER LEAVE YA ALONE, I’LL DO WHATEVER IT TAKES, JUST DON’T LOOSE FAITH
I, FIGHT
FOR SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN
EVERYDAY I PRAY, I WILL BE STRONG
ONE MORE NIGHT
TILL I SEE YOUR EYES LOOKIN BACK AT ME
THE BLOOD’S ON MY HANDS
IT'S MY OWN
SINS TO PAY
PINNED DOWN - LOOKS LIKE I’M A DEAD MAN – I CAN HEAR THE MEN STAY “KILL HIM IF YOU CAN”
I’M NOT DYING LIKE THIS - THIS CAN’T BE ALL THERE IS, I’VE GOT SO MUCH MORE LIFE TO LIVE
TAKE YOUR BEST SHOT, SHE’S EVERYTHING I GOT, NOT SAYIN’ GOODBYE, TIL I SEE HER [EYES]
I, FIGHT
FOR SOMETHING TO BELIEVE IN
EVERYDAY I PRAY, I WILL BE STRONG
ONE MORE NIGHT
TILL I SEE YOUR EYES LOOKIN BACK AT ME
TILL I SEE YOUR EYES LOOKIN’ BACK AT ME
Bitter Man
I KNOW I KNOW I KNOW THAT PAIN
I FEEL I FEEL I FEEL THE SAME
I AM I AM I AM AN EMPTY MAN
TRYING TO FIND MY WAY BACK HOME
WHISKEY BOTTLE YOU’RE MY ONLY FRIEND
18 AND KING – THE NEW MAN ON THE SCENE – AND EVERYDAY IS CRAZY, CRAZY
YA DO YOUR TIME – WORK AN 8 TO 5 GRIND – AND LIVE FOR EVERY FRIDAY,FRIDAY
18 AND KING – THE NEW MAN ON THE SCENE – AND EVERYDAY’S A PARTY, PARTY
YA DO WHAT YA CAN – TRY TO UNDERSTAND – WHY THE WORLD’S SO GREEDY, GREEDY
JUST TRYING TO MAKE ENDS-MEET
GOTTA GET THIS MONKEY, GOTTA GET THIS MONKEY OFF MY BACK
BITTER MAN – HOW CAN YA STAND
LOOKING IN THE MIRROR WITH THAT ANGER
BITTER MAN – YOU’RE ON QUICKSAND
BETTER CHAIN THOSE DEMONS
THEY’LL PUT YOU IN YOUR COFFIN
TIME’S RUNNING OUT – BETTER LOOSE THAT HATE - BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE
21 AND IN LOVE - THAT’S ALL YOUR THINKIN’ OF – AND NOW YOU’RE NEVER LONELY, LONELY
UNTIL DEATH DO WE PART – YOU GIVE AWAY YOUR HEART – AND EVERYTHING’S SO HAPPY,
SAPPY
THEN YOU WAKE UP ONE DAY – IT’S YOUR 33RD BIRTHDAY – AND LIFE’S BECOME SO EMPTY,
EMPTY
YOU SEARCH THROUGH YOUR SOUL, ONE BIG, DEEP, BLACK HOLE – AND TRY NOT TO WORRY,
WORRY
JUST TRYING TO MAKES ENDS-MEET
GOTTA GET THIS MONKEY, GOTTA GET THIS MONKEY OFF MY BACK
BITTER MAN – HOW CAN YOU STAND
HOW MANY YEARS HAVE YOU WASTED, ON HATRED
BITTER MAN – TRY AND UNDERSTAND
BETTER TAME THOSE DEMONS / THEY’RE JUST LIES AND POISON
TIME’S RUNNING OUT – BETTER LOOSE THAT HATE - BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE
IS IT WORTH LOSING IT ALL?
41 AND BURNED OUT - THAT’S ALL YOUR THINKIN’ ABOUT – AND LIFE’S JUST GOT LOUSY,
LOUSY
YOU SHUN EVERYONE – THE CLOSEST BOTTLE’S YOUR FUN – AND YOUR WORLD'S JUST ANGRY,
ANGRY
JUST TRYING TO MAKES ENDS-MEET
GOTTA GET THIS MONKEY, GOTTA GET THIS MONKEY OFF MY BACK
BITTER MAN – HOW CAN YA STAND?
LOOKIN’ IN THE MIRROR WITH THAT ANGER, AT THAT MONSTER!
BITTER MAN – YOU’RE ON QUICKSAND
BETTER CHAIN THOSE DEMONS / THEY’LL PUT YOU IN YOUR COFFIN
TIME’S RUNNING OUT – BETTER LOOSE THAT HATE - BEFORE IT’S TOO LATE
Nothing Without You
HOW DO I EXPLAIN THE UNEXPLAINABLE?
HOW DO I WRITE THIS SONG AND DO YOU JUSTICE?
WOULD I BE A WASTING MY TIME, TRYING TO FIND THE WORDS?
BECAUSE EVERYTHING THAT I AM, AND ALL THAT I DO IS NOTHING WITHOUT YOU
NOTHING WITHOUT YOU
NOTHING BUT A GAPPING HOLE WHERE MY HEART USE TO BE
NOTHING BUT MEMORIES REMAIN – I’M GOIN’ INSANE
GOD - I MISS YOU
I’M SO SICK OF HEARING IT, LIFE’S NOT FAIR
ISN’T THERE SOMEONE? ANYONE? LISTENING TO MY PRAYERS?
MAN I’M LOSING GROUND, FALLING DOWN FOR THE LAST TIME
I DON’T KNOW – HOW MUCH LONGER – I CAN TAKE THIS PAIN - WITHOUT YOU
NOTHING WITHOUT YOU
NOTHING BUT THE PAINFUL TRUTH – STARING ME DOWN INSIDE
NOTHING BUT THOUGHTS IN MY HEAD – I’M BETTER OFF DEAD
GOD - I MISS YOU
WHERE DO I GO FROM HERE – I’M SO COLD
NOTHING WITHOUT YOU
NOTHING BUT A GAPPING HOLE WHERE MY HEART USE TO BE
NOTHING BUT MEMORIES REMAIN I’M GOIN’ INSANE
GOD - I MISS YOU
The Monster Inside
TELL ME WHY
MY HEART HAS TURNED TO STONE
THE LIFE THAT I CHOSE
HAS LEFT ME SO COLD
WHAT GIVES LIFE
TO THE MONSTER INSIDE
WHAT INCITES THE RAGE
WAY DOWN INSIDE OF ME
IT LIVES AND BREATHS
THE TRUTH – CUTS ME TO THE BONE
A TRUTH I DENIED - FOR MOST OF MY LIFE
BUT WHAT - WILL HAPPEN TO ME
IS MY LIFE BUT A JOKE?
WHEN WILL HE COME?
I’VE BECOME SO NUMB
WHAT GIVES LIFE
TO THE MONSTER INSIDE
WHAT INCITES THE RAGE
WAY DOWN INSIDE OF ME
IT LIVES AND BREATHS
PLEASE – DO YOU REALLY THINK YOU CONTROL ME?
I’M YOUR STRANGER DANGER – LIVE ON YOUR ANGER
YOU’LL NEVER BE FREE
I – UNDERSTAND NOW
YOU’RE THE ONLY ONE – THE ONLY ONE I NEED
TOGETHER – WE’RE FOREVER
LOCKED AND CHAINED – ONE IN THE SAME – YOU’LL NEVER BE FREE - OF ME
WHAT GIVES LIFE
TO THE MONSTER INSIDE
WHAT INCITES THE RAGE
WAY DOWN INSIDE OF ME
IT LIVES AND BREATHS
Believing In You
YOU – THINK YOU'RE GOD’S GIFT TO ME
BUT I KNOW YOU’RE THE DEVIL – NOTHIN’ MORE THAN EVIL
AND I KNOW THE REASON – EVERY TIME YOU LIE
AND DENY – WHAT MATTERS – MATTERS MOST TO ME
AM I LOSING MY MIND? OVER AND OVER
AM I WRONG OR RIGHT? BELIEVING IN YOU
HEY, WHY YA SMILIN?
COULD IT BE MY PAIN
OR THE STAIN FROM MY TEARS
FALLEN DOWN MY FACE
THERE’S NO TRACE - OF WHO I WAS
BEFORE I LET YOU TAKE
ALL I AM – ALL I’D BE
JUST LET ME BE ME
AM I LOSING MY MIND? OVER AND OVER
AM I FOOLING MYSELF? BELIVING IN YOU
ALWAYS THOUGHT YOU’D BE MY BEST FRIEND
HAND IN HAND TILL THE END
BUT DOESN’T LOOK LIKE THAT WAS MEANT TO BE
GOD! - WAS I REALLY THAT NAIVE
AND IF YA WANNA WALK, WALK! I WON’T DROP A TEAR
COME TOMORROW I WON’T BE HERE
AND IF SOMEDAY YOU LOOK BACK - AND WONDER WHY
LISTEN TO YOUR HEART – IT WON’T LIE
Static
I, PRAY ALMOST EVERYDAY - THE NOISE WILL FADE
CONSTANT CONFUSION - FILLS MY MIND - NO MATTER HOW HARD I TRY
THE MIND LIES
I - FALL - ALMOST EVERYDAY - THE GAMES MY MIND PLAYS
AND I - UNDERSTAND WHAT’S AT STAKE - MY HEART WILL BREAK
I – LIVE - TO FIGHT ANOTHER DAY - NO MATTER WHAT YOU SAY
AND I – CAN’T BEGIN TO MAKE SENSE – IT’S ALL IN SELF-DEFENSE
WHEN WILL I FREE MYSELF FROM
STATIC – IN MY MIND
WHY CAN’T I, WHY CAN’T I
FIND - PEACE-OF-MIND
TURN OFF THE STATIC IN MY MIND
WHY – TRY – WHEN NOTHING WORKS – I’VE FAILED A MILLION TIMES
WHY - FIGHT THE GOOD FIGHT - JUST TO DIE – ANOTHER NIGHT
TAKE ME – OR LET ME BE – JUST SHOW SOME MERCY – I’M BEGGIN’ FROM MY KNEES
I’M - LIKE AN ANIMAL WHO’S BEEN CAGED AND TRAPPED – I’M NEVER TURNING BACK
WHEN WILL I FREE MYSELF FROM
STATIC – IN MY MIND
WHY CAN’T I, WHY CAN’T I
FIND - PEACE-OF-MIND
TURN OFF THE STATIC IN MY MIND
WHY, ASK WHY?
WHAT’S THE POINT?
THE WRITING’S ON THE WALL
WHEN WILL I FREE MYSELF FROM
STATIC – IN MY MIND
WHY CAN’T I, WHY CAN’T I
FIND – PEACE OF MIND
STOP - TURN OFF THE STATIC – IN MY MIND
GOD PLEASE HELP ME
FIND – PEACE OF MIND
TURN OFF THE STATIC IN MY MIND
Lies
WHY, MUST IT COME TO THIS?
DAY AND NIGHT, YOUR WILL WILL BE MY WISH
YOU GOT ME IN YOUR ICY GRIP - AND I CHOOSE TO LIE
I CHOOSE TO LIE
WHY, MUST WE DO THIS DANCE?
I...JUST...WANT...WHAT'S MINE, A SECOND CHANCE
YOU, SLIENTLY KILL MY WILL TO LIVE - AND I CHOOSE TO FIGHT!
LIES, LIES, LIES - RIGHT BEFORE MY
EYES - AND DEEP DOWN INSIDE
LIES, LIES - 'NOTHER PIECE OF ME DIES
WHY MUST I PAY
THE PRICE WILL BE MY LIFE - YOU'LL SEE
I'VE HAD ABOUT ENUFF
RUN DON'T WALK - THAT'S MY ADVICE
YOU GOT ME IN YOUR ICY GRIP - AND I CHOOSE TO
FIGHT, FIGHT, FIGHT - TO THE DEATH I'LL
RIGHT - EVERY SINGLE
LIE, LIE, LIE - THEN SAY GOODBYE
PLEASE, I'M BEGGIN' YA, PLEASE GIVE ME BACK ALL I'VE LOST
ALL I'VE LOST TO
YOU...'VE TAKEN ALL MY PRIDE
LIES, LIES, LIES - RIGHT BEFORE MY
EYES - AND DEEP DOWN IN
SIDE, LIES, LIES - 'NOTHER PIECE OF ME DIES
WHY MUST I - PAY?
THE PRICE WILL BE MY LIFE, YOU'LL SEE
NO MORE, NO MORE LIES