"Maze" Original-Sonar X3

I use Toontrack EZ Keys and EZ Drummer 2.  Recently got the Fusion grooves for each and came up with the funky little piece.  Added horns and Latin percussion. 
 
I know the horns don't sound "real".  I do the best I can with the tenor sax and trumpet sounds (Garritan Jazz & Big Band samples).  I always hesitate to post tunes that I use these samples on because people only comment on the sound (or lack of authenticity) and not the arrangement.  I try to pride myself on a "Memphis Soul" horn sound when I do this type of thing, so if you do take notice of the horns be aware that I already know they sound "synthy" and not real, but I'd like to know what you think of the arrangement.
 
Thanks!
John B.
https://johnbowen.bandcamp.com/track/maze

This is incredible!  I love this style...funky and soulful.  Almost like Atlanta Rhythm Section....BTW John, I noticed you live in Reading.  I used to work at a hotel in Hershey.  Do you ever play at any of the festivals in Hershey?

Sort of reminded me of Steeley Dan in the chorus.
Nice clear mix, but I would perhaps eaze back on the reverb on the vocals.
 
Fiendish maze, but I solved it.
 

Thanks Optimus!

jamesg1213
Interesting song, certainly reminiscent of Steely Dan in places.
 
One question- 'leaving me alone at night has become a legion' - what does that mean?

Thanks for listening, James.
LEGION-Generally taken to mean "many", though it's specific meaning pertained to the large amount of Roman soldiers in Biblical times, and also the name the demon possessed man whom Jesus encountered used to identify himself, as he was possessed by a LEGION of demons. (Mark:5, 1-20)  In modern times the word can be used to mean "happening multiple times". 
 
The "A" proceeding it I just used to fill a syllable I needed (like "I've been a-walkin' ").
 
John B.

You've certainly got your funk on in this track, which sounds well produced and the mix sounds nice and wide.

This is a head bobber for sure.
 
I like that middle part
 
Yes, the horns are synthy, but they do convey an implicit intention of where the song would go with a real horn section.
I like the bass
the keys,
the drums
this is a catchy tune, and as I said, a head bobber., for me anyway.
 
I think it could be shortened by 1:30, focus on the bits you really find strongest.
 
nice ending, there is a little steeley dan quality to this, also open up those vocals, get your heart into it!
 
Jesse

I like it too! I thought Steely Dan second, Bill Withers first. Really, though, it's original first. Got some cool vibes in these references.
 
MAybe just a tad bit more reverb on piano (with a healthy pre-delay so the main note attack is not blurred) 'cause right now it's sticking out as much drier. Also, take off a little reverb vocal? If you want to thicken your vocal, you could instead render just your vocal, compress the crap out of the copy, then feed it back in to the mix at a lower volume. That old chestnut.
 
I thought the drums sounded great, and the tune definitely had a swing in it. Very nice.
 
-Tom
 
 

Hey John,
 
Really nice track! I liked the whole thing. This mix is quite a bit better than what I heard you do even 6 months ago. Well done!
 
Regards,
Dan