Feb 2022 ballad folk death traditionalballad
Sort of an attempt at an American Ballad. With apologies to Goethe and his "Erl-King."
Oh, Father, Oh, Father, can you see this man,
Who's been a wand'ring since this night began?
He comes ever closer. He beckons to me
Shrouded in darkness underneath that old tree.
Oh, Father, what do you mean you don't see him there?
Yes, I am sure! I can see him, I swear.
He's standing in darkness, his features concealed.
Oh, Father don't say that this isn't real.
Oh, Father, oh, Father, won't you build up the fire?
Please take my word, you know I'm no liar.
I swear I'm not making up stories again.
I am afraid. Will this night never end?
Oh, Father!
Oh, Father, don't allow me to fall fast asleep.
Swear on my life this promise to keep.
My eyelids are heavy, I fear I won't last
I dare not sit back. I dare not relax
Oh, Father, I hear him whispering to me
He wants me to go to him under that three
I can't resist his calling, I fear.
Oh, where are you father? You said you'd be near.
Oh, Father!
Oh, Father, oh, Father, I told you the truth
And soon you will have my body as proof.
I feel his fingers. They're cruel and cold
I feel him reach right down to my soul!
Oh, Father!
@liz561 Mar 2022
The lyrics on this are really great and the music fits with it so wonderfully. Love the vocal delivery.
@seanbrennan Mar 2022
I'm sure neither Goethe nor Schubert would mind. :-)
This works on both an individual and social level. How many things do we see and endure with our own eyes, only to be told "No, you've misunderstood, it was just..." Meanwhile, we have witnessed in real-time the erosion of truth and reality as a basic starting point for orienting society these past several years. Topical and well-executed.
@kenmattsson Feb 2022
This is awesome TC! Great guitar work. It definitely sounds traditional; you nailed the brief on that!
@heliosonorous Feb 2022
Very cool modern take on this work.
The lieder by Schubert is great and there is a nice video with animation if you haven't seen before.
https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=JS91p-vmSf0
@tseaver Feb 2022
Nice write! Fits the trad ballad challenge, fershure, and makes the listener sit up and listent to a durned good story.