The Test Of Man – Song and a Chat

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Episode #124: The Test Of Man (Song starts at 7:20 & 28:35)

‘A trail of mystery’ is one of the phrases in this week’s song. That pretty much sums up what I’m up to each week, as I record the ideas that pop into my mind and roll off my tongue for these episodes. I endeavour to put you in the shoes of a songwriter – how it feels.

I like to allow the song to lead the way…the lyrics bring up memories, ideas spring to mind as I chat. This is not a highbrow presentation. This a ‘singer / songwriter speaks’ sort of yarn. It’s an inclusive, relaxed vibe and I thoroughly enjoy recording these episodes each week.

The ‘largely untrodden track’ is another line from this song. It’s these words that my co-songwriter and long time friend, Paul Dredge suggested we use for the title of our new folk rock album.

I’m very pleased to announce The Untrodden Track is now streaming online (Folk Rock, 12 songs). The Test Of Man (song #646) is track #8 on the album. I’m very pleased with what Paul Dredge and I have produced. I’ve been alluding to the forthcoming album in previous episodes, so now it’s here! I hope you enjoy listening to it as much as we do.

On this episode I include a live piano vocal version – and also the album track.

Where did this song come from?

All you need is a feeling and then all you need to do is…start. Honestly. It’s that easy – and that complicated. Because what kicks in straight away is like wave of energy, knowledge, emotion, new thoughts, old thoughts, music theory, the muscle memory of all those hours spent playing an instrument, on top of which you float your voice, not being afraid to make a goose of yourself, and then language comes through. Not to mention, song style, tempo, harmony,…the list goes on.

And it’s a joy. How can this be fun? When it happens instinctively, naturally & quickly. It’s a process that constantly amazes me. I’m very grateful to have composed about 800 songs and it’s great to be able to share some of the processes – and the songs – here.

The Test Of Man is about the possibility of doing some work on the self while we are having this human experience. We are complex, us humans. I find it really interesting how we present a certain version of ourselves and then suddenly another layer of a person can present itself.

Here’s the book I talk about on the episode, an inspiring story of personal survival: Surviving year Zero by Sovannora Leng with Greg Hill.

I feel so privileged to be living the way I am in a peaceful part of the world. It’s nice to be sharing positive creative content online. I have the opportunity, so I’m taking it.

If you’re enjoying this podcast, you might like more…I have a blog here: www.petepascoe.wordpress.com; a YouTube channel: pete pascoe Music and art; website: www.petepascoe.com; paintings, cartoons; 13 albums: www.petepascoe.bandcamp.com (7 of which are on other platforms like spotify)…yes, I’ve been busy creatively for some time now.

Ultimately it’s leading to some instructional video courses and ebooks. – the ‘how to’ . These will be further down the track (they’re underway now).

Back to the song The Test Of Man ..One of the challenges of life is to have the courage to go back over stuff and find healing as a result… and we can then go forth wiser and stronger for the experience, despite – or perhaps because of – the pain.

Just keeping on moving… All of which is the test of man…at least, that’s what I’ve presented in this gentle song.

I’m so pleased with how it’s come up for the album, it has remained a gentle track. Paul embellished my piano and vocal with his finger picking guitar, vocal harmonies and harmonica.

Like the sound of this? Sit back, relax and be entertained and informed. And you can check out the rest of the album next if you like.

I’m an album man. I like to put the headphones on and lie down for 45 minutes and really focus on the musical arrangements.

Equally, as it turns out, I’m finding out I’m enjoying speaking about all of this.

Ok here we go.

The Test Of Man – let’s see where the song takes us on this episode.

Enjoy