Dennis Field

JT, Nice job. I think you hit the Hunter Hayes, flare perfectly. Case in point, I had this playing to give you feedback and Julie said, “Hey who’s this?  It sounds like Hunter Hayes”.

I found this very catchy. The chorus sticks in my head. The melody is really nice. I can really see this coming together really nice in production.

I think lyrically it was strong, and I think once you get into production the lyrics will be much more recognizable to the listener.

My only other thought is a few times, I felt like the lyrics could be slowed down slightly to make me “feel them” a tad more. Minor bit of feedback.

Thanks for sharing andI hope this is helpful.

JT Hillier

Haha thanks a lot Dennis…I think without our significant others none of us would really have any idea what / who the hell we sound like anyway so be sure to extend my thanks to Julie on that one lol

No but really thanks man, that’s a lot of nice confirmation there, and I agree that production should iron out a lot of kinks in the performance (as it so often does). I agree that the “feeling” could use a bit of emphasis, that’s mostly unfamiliarity with the song thus far but I’m glad you felt comfortable enough to stress that point because I do agree with it.

Thanks a lot man, I’m hoping to continue posting new demo quality material as it comes (and goes). Thanks again and talk soon

Dick Plunk

JT - first thanks for the input on “Color of You”. I have to remind everyone that I was one of 3 writers on this and the other 2 are really good writers (ie: you gave me, personally,  far too much credit). Though I am proud of the song.

I really like “Coming Home”. It feels a little different for you, which is good. (We all gotta avoid ruts - ha ha.) I pretty much think it is done (as you said). My only critique/feedback would be in the 2nd verse (which you have labeled “verse 1”). The 3rd line really threw me because: a) it broke the rhyme scheme of verse 1 (a a b b)  and, b) you made line 3 rhyme with lines 1 and 2. That sounded off to my ear. (And not just because I was following the written lyric.) I would suggest a different line 3, which doesn’t rhyme with lines 1 and 2.

Other than that - really good, up tempo, country sounding song!

JT Hillier

Dick,

Thanks SOOOO much for replying back to me man, I really love and respect your critique because they’re always very thought out and helpful.

I see where that line could throw off the vibe a bit, structurally this song is as formulaic / straightforward as I’ve probably been in a long time, so that line is just an indication of my own rust haha

I’m glad you like this slight change of pace in the sound as well, I’m aware it’s a little bit of a new-ish sound for me but I really think it still feel / sounds like me…I don’t think I’ll ever completely abandon pop, but I like a lot of what I’m hearing out of pseudo pop-country artists right now and it’s kind of rubbing off a little. Thanks for the feedback man and I’ll address your revisions, should have more demos to come and you’re feedback is always very valuable to me…jus FYI great talking with you. See you at CSA showcase Sunday? Talk soon -JT

Matt Brent

JT, I dig the tune.  I think the idea of finding identity and finding a place to belong and someone to belong with are so universal.  You nailed this one.  I agree with Dennis on his bit of feedback about the lyrics being rushed in places.  I would also, in production, make sure you get the words out.  This is good stuff and your lyrics and much as your melody and guitar work drive that meaning home.  Great job.  I wouldn’t over produce this one.  Its beauty is in the simplicity.

JT Hillier

Thank you, Matt. I was really shooting for something universal for this one so I’m glad you dig that about it. Yes, production hopefully will work out some kinks, I’ll try not to put too many bells and whistles in the mix (whenever that mixing might take place lol) Thanks taking the time for the feedback brother, means a lot.

Lachelle Chaney

In production, I could see you holding that last high note when you belt out “bring me back up to the SHOOOOOORE”. If your voice can handle it, letting that note ring for a second would sound great. Also, I felt the ending was too abrupt. I would’ve liked you to play it out more and end on a softer ringing chord. Nice work man!! You’re voice is awesome and you’re very talented.

JT Hillier

Lachelle,

Thanks so much for taking the time and giving your feedback! Honestly, I actually like the abrubtness of the ending, but I do think a bigger ending is definitely a good suggestion, and belting tends to go over a little bit better in a studio than in my living room lol my neighbors already hate me enough as/is. And thank you for the kind words, I’ll be sure to check out your material sometime soon

JT