CREDITS
Vocals: Tom C. Reed
Keyboards: Andy (Doc) Roberts
Guitars: Yang Han
Bass: John Gingerich
Drums and Percussion: Chris Loser
Produced by: Tom C. Reed, Andy Roberts, & Mike Furst
Recorded by: Mike Furst
Recorded at: TriForce Audio, Lancaster, PA
Mixed by: Dale Penner
Mixed at: Paradise Studios, Winnipeg, Canada
Graphic Design and Logo by: Megan Coffing
Image Licensed by: Megan Coffing
Business and Creative Consulting by: Barry Coffing
"STEPPING ON STONES"
Tom's Words In His Own Words
This was another one of the 3 ideas that became 3 pieces. I pictured it to be a driving tune, dominated by heavy keyboard. I told Andy that he would have some “power chords”! Of course, the vocals would have to have some power to match and add character and drama.
​
The lyrics are based on an experience that I had while working with a team of volunteers. It's sort of an exploration of human dynamics and how principles or values might be compromised. I've come to realize that I have some assumptions that may not always be shared. It's become clear that there are multiple “understandings” in any given circumstance. There are twists and turns, stops and starts, zigs and zags. The chorus is more an aspiration than a personal statement.
WHAT WAS THE PROCESS OF CREATING,
"STEPPING ON STONES"?
This blue-steeped, soul/funk influenced mid-tempo tune began with “noodling” around an E major chord. It could be considered in E but once again, I took latitudes with accidentals and chord choices. I pictured it to be keyboard dominated and using a powerful syncopated rhythm on the second half of the chorus. As the piece developed, guitar and bass also “flexed their muscles” a bit! My utmost respect goes out to bassist John Gingerich and acoustic and electric guitarist Yang Han, who rocked this one and the other tunes as well! The melody again moves vertically and pushes into the upper part of my vocal range. I augmented it with some softer parts and added some effects on my voice. I think it captures the ideas behind the piece but you, as the listener, can make that decision. The lyrics on this piece came from an experience I had. I had been working with a team of people that ended in disappointment. It's about principles, convictions, perceptions, betrayal, and persistence. We often think we’re operating alone against an insurmountable opposition. Maybe we want to give up but if we’re strong and stick to what we believe, in the end, we’ll find ourselves in a new and happier place.
Second-guessing and self-doubt are familiar conditions for me. Occasionally, I have strength to continue fighting and working my way toward a goal. I'm at my best when I can hold to my convictions and avoid lashing out, determined to reach the destination.
“I’ve got nothing to say,”
“If I’m touched to the bone!”
“I’m not fading away,”
“I’m just Stepping on Stones!”
I wish I could do this more consistently but it often escapes my grasp!
​
In casual conversations, I regularly use crossing a stream as a metaphor of life. I only step from one stone to the next, and work to avoid getting wet. My steps will probably not be in a straight line. I don't have control of the placement of the stones. Still, if I’m persistent with my intent, I’ll make it to the other side of the stream.