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LIFE IN AMERICA 2000-02 (cont.)They decided to wait and passed on the demo deal to concentrate instead on writing and recording new songs. They would make new recordings that represented the sound of the band more truly and then try for a full deal again. Although Jeff was still confident of signing the band to WB, months passed without change. Broke but determined, Aaron and Ben sold furniture and music gear to pay rent and eat. Living week to week with the support and belief of close friends, the two managed to somehow survive without an income and hold on. Although not yet signed to WB, Jeff suggested that they begin looking at the material that may be used and recorded again. For the first time Aaron received direct and harsh criticism about his songs. Many that the band had felt strongest about, Jeff labeled as dated and not believable. The boys left Jeff's house that day devastated and feeling like all the hard work up to that point, except for a few songs, had been for nothing. While Ben disagreed with Jeff opinions, Aaron knew inside that he must dig deeper than ever before and reinvent his approach to song-writing. After a few dark days new ideas began to surface and within two weeks they returned to Jeff's house with ten new songs. Jeff, extremely impressed with their work ethic, felt that the direction was much more modern and believable. Jeff's excitement and commitment reached a higher level. A new chapter had begun in the band's life and everyone was greatly encouraged. Aaron and Ben continued to work with Jeff through the latter half of 2002, recording demos of new songs at his house. Reactions were exciting and everyone felt confident about the work, however, Jeff's future at WB was becoming more and more uncertain and the band once again wondered if they would be caught in the middle of record company politics. Running out of things to sell, Aaron and Ben reached the point of desperation. They had handed in several new songs to Tom Whalley but were uncertain as to exactly what he thought. Aaron had been forced once again to carry the responsibility of engineering and recording and felt that not enough time and care had been taken in preparing the demos. Jeff felt that they were sufficiently good enough and decided to hand them in. Needing money fast, the band finally signed the demo deal and the time clock began ticking for Tom to make a decision. It was now clear that Jeff would most probably leave WB. next |
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