THE WAY BACK HOME
© 2021 Rinaldo/O’Brien
Music by Whitman Rinaldo
Lyrics by Alex O’Brien
Vocals and Guitars Whitman Rinaldo
Drums Nigel Robinson

The paths we take, are ever-changing
And how can we know?
The lives we lead, are re-arranging
Wherever we go

The dreams we chase, are never-ending
Can they come true?
The love we know, and are spending
Somehow gets us through

Chorus 1:
The streets lights shine
I can feel the glory
I wish I knew
The meaning of this story
The darkness lives
And for that I’m sorry
I ramble and roam
But I find my way home

The truth we seek, is so resistant
And where does it live?
But still we search, our minds persistent
Everything we give

End of the road, on the horizon
How time does fly
I see light, a new dawn rising
So bright I must cry

Chorus 2:
The church bells ring
I can hear you calling
I may be lost
Please catch me I’m falling
My heart still beats
And the music is enthralling
I ramble and roam
But I find my way home
 
Chorus 3:
The moon it glows
I can feel you breathing
I may be found
Please tell me you’re not leaving
The promise lives
I praise what we’re achieving
We ramble and roam
But we find our way home

Outro:
Ah, na, na-na, na, na
Ah, na, na-na, na, na
Ah, na, na-na, na, na
Ramble and roam
But we find our way home
Ah, na, na-na, na, na
Ah, na, na-na, na, na
Ah, na, na-na, na, na
We ramble and roam
But we find our way home

The Way Back Home

A SONG WITH YOU
Copyright 2022 Watson/O'Brien; All Rights Reserved
Music by Bobby Watson; Lyrics by Alex O’Brien

Lead and Backing Vocals: Susan Fidler
Guitar, Bass, Drums, Mandolin, Mandola, Fiddle: Bobby Watson
Engineering Mixing and Mastering: Tommy Hellsten

I’d love to write 
A song with you
Sweet rhythm
Sing your lyric too
Share a chorus
Brighten up our blues
I’d love to write 
A song with you

I’d love to sing
A song with you
Sweet harmony
Filling up the room
Share the lead
Make love sound new
I’d love to sing 
A song with you

A song with you
Would complete my soul
A song with you
Would soar high take hold
Like that old time 
Rock and roll
A song with you
Would always be gold

A song with you
Would beat hate and fear
A song with you
Could bring joy near
A song could
Wash away our tears
A song could make
It all so clear 

I’d love to write a song with you
I’d love to sing a song with you
I’d love to play a song with you

I’d love to play 
A song with you
Be inspired
Hear your notes ring true
Buck the beat
Get in the groove
I’d love to play 
A song with you

I’d love to write 
A song with you
Hear the rhythm
Sing your lyric too
Share a chorus
Brighten our blues
I’d love to write 
A song with you

A song with you
Would complete my soul
A song with you
Would soar high take hold
Like the old time
Rock and roll
A song with you
Would always be gold 

I’d love to sing
A song with you
Sweet harmony
Filling up the room
Share the lead
Make love sound new
I’d love to sing 
A song with you

A song with you
Would complete my soul
A song with you
Would soar high take hold
Like that old time
Rock and roll
A song with you
Would always be gold 

A song with you (I’d love to write a song with you)
A song with you (I’d love to write a song with you) 
A song with you (I’d love to write a song with you) 
I’d love to write a song with you

A Song With You

NO GOOD THING EVER DIES
© 2022 Watson/O’Brien/Michaels
Music by Bobby Watson, Vocal Melody by Robbie Michaels
Lyrics by Alex O’Brien; All Rights Reserved

Bobby Watson: guitars, bass, drums, piano, synth
Robbie Michaels: vocals and backing vocals
Tom Hellsten, TSTStudios: mixing and mastering

There ain’t no good thing ever dies
It will forever shine in your mind’s eye
You may be hurt and you may cry
But there ain’t no good thing that ever dies

What time gives, time will one day steal
But time can’t take away the love we feel
We live our lives and do our best to heal

There ain’t no good thing ever dies
It will forever light the northern skies
The world may bring us down to size
But there ain’t no good thing that ever dies

What time gives, time will one day steal
But time can’t take away the love we feel
We live our lives and do our best to heal

At times there may be more lows than highs
But there ain’t no good thing that ever dies
It may seem sometimes that goodness hides
But there ain’t no good thing that ever dies
No there ain’t no good thing that ever dies

What time gives, time will one day steal
But time can’t take away the love we feel
We live our lives and do our best to heal

What time gives, time will one day steal
But time can’t take away the love we feel
We live our lives and do our best to heal

No good thing ever dies

No Good Thing Ever Dies

FENDER BAY
Copyright O’Brien/McCulloch, 2006
Lyrics by Alex O’Brien (SOCAN), Music by Willie McCulloch (BMI)
Scot Tex Music Publishing

I would rise in the bitter cold of dark
Shake my little brother till he’d spark
We’d rush to put our sweaters on
Drink black coffee and be gone
Then with Momma’s lunches in our hands
We’d walk and nod to Poppa’s plans

Chorus 1:
On the rocky shores of Fender Bay
We’d slide our boat into the waves
Blisters forming on our hands
Doing the best to be like men
And Poppa would always smile
As the sun would rise
On the rocky shores of Fender Bay

Searching waters cold and barren
Poppa pretending he wasn’t caring
But somehow he’d always find the spot
Where the Cod were waiting to be caught
His strong arms pulling the nets right in
Then we’d start searching over again

Chorus 2:
On the rocky shores of Fender Bay
We’d roll our nets up to be saved
Blisters on weathered hands
And doing the best to understand
Poppa would always smile
As the Cod would rise
On the rocky shores of Fender Bay

Now the fish are gone and my brother and me
But Poppa still walks each morning to see
The sun rise on those rocky shores
Looking for signs there may be more
His blue eyes stare deep into the green
Wondering if it all was a dream

Chorus 3:
On the rocky shores of Fender Bay
Lay a thousand sailors’ graves
Green moss spreading on the rocks
In places where only wind does talk
Poppa will always smile
No matter the distant miles
From the rocky shores of Fender Bay
From the rocky shores of Fender Bay
From the rocky shores of Fender Bay

Fender Bay - Performed by Willie McCulloch

SING SORROW, SING 
© 2022 Elbee/O’Brien; All Rights Reserved
Music by Joe Elbee; Lyrics by Alex O’Brien, SOCAN and Joe Elbee 

Joe Elbee: vocals, acoustic Guitar, bass, keyboards
Joey six: lead guitar
Pete Midipunk: drums
Tom Hellsten: mixing/mastering
Alex O'Brien: production

News is coming in fast
Outrage as the shells blast
What’s the motivation
To attack a nation?

Sing sorrow, sorrow
Good must triumph in the end
Sing sorrow, sorrow
Peace must rule again

Seeds are placed in soldiers’ pockets
In the hope when done and over
Sunflowers will grow in 
These bombed and flattened fields

I watch the news, I fear the tanks
I watch the news, I fear the rockets
Can't believe this nightmare is real

Sing sorrow, sorrow
Love must triumph in the end
Sing sorrow, sorrow
Love must reign again
Love will reign again
Sing sorrow, sing

A soldier calls home
And tells his mother of all the dead and lies
The truth is slowly spreading
Hearts are opening, minds becoming wise

In an underground shelter
A brave young girl frowns and sings Let it Go
She knows not why they hate her
But there’s still hope in her heart that flows
 
Yes we’ve all seen this before
Casting a blind eye only causes more
Pain and death in pride and greed
For power, fueled by paranoia
Propaganda, information wars
Why is violence the only answer
To saving a madman’s pride?

Sing, sorrow sing

We thought the war was behind us
Now the ceasefires don’t seem to mean a thing
Who would bomb a children’s hospital
Just to build an empire or to be a king
Just to build an empire or to be a king

Sing, Sing
Peace must come again
Peace will come again

Sing Sorrow, Sing

A CHANGE OF HEART
© 2022 Rinaldo/O’Brien; All Rights Reserved
Music by Whitman Rinaldo; Lyrics by Alex O’Brien

Whitman Rinaldo: Guitars, Bass, Mixing/Mastering
Erin Devanadera: Lead Vocal and Harmony
Brian Henry: Drums
Moe Howard: Piano

Da-da, da-da
Da-da, da-da, woo-oh

Well I may have said I love you
And promised you the world
But a stars are calling
And I gotta leave you girl
I may have led you on
I’m unpredictable
Romantics are fickle
And quite mercurial

A change of heart
The magic’s gone
There’s a change in the way
Now we can’t go on (can’t go on)
A change of mood (a change of mood)
You’ve become withdrawn (become withdrawn)
A change of heart
It’s time to move beyond

I may have said I need you
And I promised not to go
But a tide is ebbing
And I can’t stop the flow
I may have said you’re special
But words are only words
And the south is calling
So I’ll make like a bird 

A change of heart (change of heart)
Now the magic’s gone (yeah-magic’s gone)
There’s a change in the way (a change in the way)
Now we can’t go on (no-we can’t go on)
A change of mood (a change in mood)
You’ve become withdrawn (become withdrawn)
A change of heart (a change of heart)
And it’s time to move beyond
 
I may have said I need you
And I promised not to go
But the tide is ebbing
And I can’t stop the flow
I may have said you’re special
But words are only words
And the south is calling
So I’ll make like a bird 

A change of heart 
A change of heart
A change of heart
A change of heart

A Change of Heart

HOUSE OF GOLD
© 2022 Rinaldo/ O’Brien; All Rights Reserved
Music by Whitman Rinaldo; Lyrics by Alex O’Brien

Whitman Rinaldo: Vocals, Guitars, Bass, Mixing/Mastering
Pete Midipunk: Drums

In my house of gold
I am not alone
The secrets of this world
I have always known

In my house of gold
The penthouse glows
A beacon in the mist
With marble floors 

Come to my house of gold
I want your heart and soul
Watch your dreams unfold
In my house of gold
In my house of gold

In my house of gold
Futures bought and sold
And I replace my toys
With ones not old

In my house of gold
Walls are ages old
If anyone divulged
Wild stories told

Come to my house of gold
I want your heart and soul
Watch your dreams unfold
In my house of gold
In my house of gold

In this shiny house
No crowns are thorns
So I raise a toast
To privilege I was born
 
In my house of gold
I am in control
At what price you ask?
A force to behold

Come to my house of gold
I want your heart and soul
Watch your dreams unfold
In my house of gold
In my house of gold

Share the feast
Calm the beast
Sensations are in reach
See the lights
Scale the heights
Always win your fight
In my house of gold

In my house of gold
In my house of gold
In my house of gold
In my house of gold
In my house of gold
In my house of gold
Gold
Gold

House Of Gold

Eight years ago, I found my birth mother after years searching. It was wonderful and we got to know each other before her passing two years ago. I wrote her a lyric back then called 'I Found You,' which she loved. Well, that lyric has now been set to music.

I FOUND YOU - Pop Version
© 2023 Moretti/O'Brien/Henry/Howard/Licata; All Rights Reserved
Music by France Moretti, Brian Henry, Moe Howard, Mario Licata
Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN

France Moretti: vocals, backing vocals
Moe Howard: keyboards
Mario Licata: bass
Brian Henry: drums, percussion, strings, synth, mixing/mastering

It took a long, long time
Some would say forever
But I searched and searched again
So please, please never say never
Please never say never

I found you, I found you, I found you, I found you
I’m no longer the motherless child
I found you
After years lost out in the wild
I found you
I’ll never be lonely again

Many things I didn’t know
Some would say for better
But I’m glad to know you now
So let’s spend what’s left together
Let’s spend what’s left together

I found you, I found you, I found you, I found you
I’m no longer the motherless child
I found you
I’ll never be lonely again
I found you
Let’s never lose each other again

I am complete and whole again
Legitimate once more
I am complete and whole again
The soul from which I bore
(Wouooooo)

I feared that you were cold
I’m so happy I was wrong
So much, so much I want to learn
But now I’m lost in song
But now I’m lost in song
 
I found you, I found you, I found you, I found you
I’m no longer the motherless child
I found you
I’ll never be lonely again
I found you
Let’s never lose each other again

I am complete and whole again
Legitimate once more
I am complete and whole again
The soul from which I bore
(Wouooooo)

I feared that you were cold
I’m so happy I was wrong
So much, so much I want to learn
But now I’m lost in song
But now I’m lost in song

I Found You - Pop Version

AN ODE TO MY GUITAR
Copyright 2022 Pontarollo/O'Brien/Godfrey/Midipunk
Music by Stephane Pontarollo/Brent Godfrey/Pete Midipunk
Lyrics by Alex O’Brien; All Rights Reserved

Stephane Pontarollo: guitars, mixing/mastering
Brent Godfrey: vocals
Pete Midipunk: drums

When night falls and the fireflies dance
As a tiger through the moonlit sky
Fides in all her truth has not a chance
To discourage Satan’s temptuous eye
Your eyes gaze, as a star fades you’re entranced
And you cry
Love is bleeding, life is fleeting
Music never dies

An ode to my guitar
An ode to my guitar

When dawn comes and the church bells ring
Like a chord strummed on Heaven’s stage
Bacchus rides into your heart to sing
And for a song you cease to age
In times of such pleasure, unfold your wings
Release your rage
Clouds are passing, birds are laughing
Lovers are engaged

An ode to my guitar
An ode to my guitar

When breath takes leave and silence holds
Your soul in flight much like a dove
Strangers praise your heart of gold
And smother you in long lost love
In time they forget, in time they’re cold
Memories
Life is hateful, but some are grateful
And sing your song

An ode to my guitar
An ode to my guitar

Ode to my guitar
Ode to my guitar
Ode to my guitar
Ode to my guitar

An Ode to My Guitar

NOT TODAY
© 2022 Matthews/O'Brien/Noble/Howard
Music by Chris Matthews, Kim Noble, Moe Howard
Lyrics by Alex O'Brien; All Rights Reserved

Chris Matthews: guitar, percussion, bass
Kim Noble: vocals, backing vocals
Moe Howard: piano

The rain falls
The night calls
The stars glow
The moon knows
Your heartache
Your mistake
You’ve been waiting
For a break

The pain’s deep
You can’t sleep
Your mind’s numb
You can’t run
The thunder
Your blunder
You feel your head
Fall under

Not today, the sun will shine
Not today, you will unwind (oh-way-oh)
Today, someone will treat you kind (oh-way-oh)
And you’ll find your way, your way back to 
Your way back to happiness (oh-way-oh)

The leaves fall
Autumn calls
The wind blows
The birds know
You descend
You amend
You’ve been waiting
For the end  

Not today, the sun will shine
Not today, there’s precious time (oh-way-oh)
Today, leave thoughts of death behind (oh-way-oh)
And you’ll find your way, your way back to love and joy
Your way back to love and joy (oh-way-oh)

Not today, the sun will shine
Not today, you’ll be fine

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: July 25, 2023

Not Today

A healing and inspirational indie track with another lovely vocal by France Moretti.

PEACE AND GOOD ROADS

Copyright 2022 Elbee/O'Brien/Moretti
All Rights Reserved
Music by Joe Elbee and France Moretti
Lyrics by Alex O’Brien

Joe Elbee: guitars
France Moretti: vocals, backup vocals, strings, engineering-mixing
Alberto Bonfanti: lead guitar
Philippe Pansard: bass
L Goyeah: engineering-mastering
Alex O'Brien: production

I want to write a song
That proves that love is true
That cures the deepest blues
That creates something new

I want to write a song
That raises up the dead
That says what can’t be said
That helps you get ahead

I want to write a song
That moves what can’t be moved
That rocks your inner groove
That soothes who can’t be soothed

On this journey may you find
Peace and good roads
On this journey leave behind
Grief and heavy loads
On this journey clear your mind
All roads lead home
You are not alone

I want to write a song
That proves that dreams come true
That tells me what to do
That sticks to ears like glue

I want to write a song
That melts a heart of stone
That makes the unknown known
That you will call your own

I want to write a song
That lifts us to the stars
That shows us who we are
That takes us bright and far
 
On this journey may you find
Peace and good roads
On this journey leave behind
Grief and heavy loads
On this journey clear your mind
All roads lead home
You are not alone

You are not alone
You are not alone

Peace and Good Roads

YOU ARE THE ONE THAT MADE ME

Copyright 2022 Watson/O'Brien/Henry
All Rights Reserved
Music by Bobby Watson and Tom Henry
Lyrics by Alex O’Brien, SOCAN

Bobby Watson: Piano, Synth, Strings
Tom Henry: Vocals, Background Vocals, lead guitar
Alex Zulaika: Drums
Philippe Pansard: Bass
Tom Hellsten: Mixing/Mastering
Alex O'Brien: Production

You are the one that saved me
Opened me up like a book
You are the one that forgave me
Thank you for the second look
You are the one that took me
Into your heart and soul
You’re the angel who shook me
Gave me your honey and gold

You are the one that made me
Everything I am
You are the one that made me
You’re my lover and my best friend

You are the one who believed 
When no one else seemed to care
You are the one who needed me
When no one else was there
Your voice sounds so soothing
It calms my battered heart
Your words they are so moving
You gave me a fresh start

You are the one that made me
Everything I am
You are the song that made me
You’re my lover and my best friend

You are the one that took me
Into your heart and soul
You’re the angel who shook me
Gave me your honey and gold

You are the one who made me

You Are the One That Made Me

This love song is made up of the titles of 30 love songs, so the singer is giving her love 30 love songs, not just one.

THIRTY LOVE SONGS, BABY

© 2023 Vanier/O'Brien/Kimberly C; All Rights Reserved
Music by Pascal Vanier and Kimberly C
Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN

Pascal Vanier: rhythm guitar, fiddle, mixing
Kimberly C: vocals and backing vocals
Kev Zed: drums
Mario Licata: bass
Richard Bradley: rhythm guitar, lead guitar
Alex O'Brien: production

It’s a love song, baby
And it’s for you
Not Maybe I’m Amazed
Or Have I Told You
Lately That I Love You
On a Downtown Train
Love Reign O’er Me
I’m in love again

It’s a love song, baby
Thirty love songs, baby
It’s a love song, Something for you
It’s a love song baby
Thirty love songs, baby
It’s a love song, From Me to You

It’s a love song, baby
Love, Love Me Do
Such a Silly Love Song
I Will Always Love You
God Only Knows
It’s a Wonderful World
It’s a Love Story
My Jersey Girl

It’s a love song, baby
Thirty love songs, baby
It’s a love song, just For You
It’s a love song, baby
Thirty love songs, baby
It’s a love song,  PS I Love You

It’s a love song, baby
My Heart Will Go On
You Make Loving Fun
And this is Your Song
Because the Night
Brings Burning Love
I just Can’t Get Enough 
Of Your Love
 
It’s a love song, baby
Thirty love songs, baby
It’s a love song, Crazy On You
It’s a love song baby
Thirty love songs, baby
It’s a love song, I’ll Stand By You

It’s a love song, baby
Fly Me to the Moon
You’re the One That I Want
I Would Die 4 U
Love Me Tender
Sweet Child O’ Mine
You Send Me
Time After Time

It’s a love song, baby
Thirty love songs, baby
Thirty love songs, just For You
It’s a love song, baby
Thirty love songs, baby
Thirty love songs, From Me to You
Yeah, thirty love songs, From Me to You
Thirty love songs, PS I Love You

Thirty Love Songs, Baby

This tribute was inspired by and is dedicated to Kurt Cobain. 

ABOUT A BOY
© 2023 Elbee/O’Brien; All Rights Reserved
Music by Joe Elbee; Lyrics by Alex O’Brien, SOCAN

Joe Elbee: vocals, guitars
Nigel Robinson: piano, mixing/mastering
Alex O'Brien: project management

I can’t imagine when the music’s not enough
To ease the pain
To stop the rain
To make a broken heart start loving again

I can’t imagine when the music’s not enough
To bring the light
To set it right
To make an empty soul start shining bright

But I know about a boy
Who lost his sense of joy
He reached his every dream
By strumming his way out of Aberdeen
His stomach ached inside
You could see it in his eyes
Still his music roared it soared
But he couldn’t take it anymore

I can’t imagine when the music’s not enough
I hear your songs
Know I belong
I feel my lonely heart start beating strong

I can’t imagine when the music’s not enough
I hear your call
Freedom for all
I feel my shattered pride start standing tall

About a boy
Your songs will live forever
About a boy
Your songs will fill our lives
About a boy
Your songs will keep us singing
About a boy
When we may want to die
 
About a boy
Your songs will live forever
About a boy
Your songs will fill our lives
About a boy
Your songs will keep us singing
About a boy
When we may want to die

About a boy
About a boy

Check out the lyric video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=jRCXh_fcgKc

RELEASED TO SOUNDCLOUD JUNE 20, 2023

About a Boy

EVERGREENS AND SHOOTING STARS

© 2023 Vanier/O'Brien; All Rights Reserved
Music by Pascal Vanier; Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN

Pascal Vanier: guitars, other instruments, mixing/mastering
Dave Budd: vocals, backing vocals
Kev Zed: drums
Mario Licata: bass

When I see the evergreens
Dancing in the wind
Green limbs, green limbs
Dancing in the wind
I think of you dancing too
Where do I begin
To tell you how much
I love you

Tomorrow, I’ll pick up the broken branches
Tonight, I’ll hold you tight in my arms
In this life we take our chances
But I promise this storm won’t do us harm
Evergreens and shooting stars
Evergreens and shooting stars
Evergreens and shooting stars
Evergreens and shooting stars

When I see the shooting stars
Bolting cross the sky
Shooting stars, shooting stars
Bolting cross the sky
I think of you soaring
Rapture in your eyes
And I tell you how much 
I love you

Tomorrow, I’ll calm the raging fires
Tonight, I will unfold your wings
In this life we all want to fly higher
But I promise you we’ll always sing
Evergreens and shooting stars
Evergreens and shooting stars
Evergreens and shooting stars
Evergreens and shooting stars
 
Lighting up the dark night
Flying by the moon
Shooting star, shooting star
We will join you soon
I feel you exploding
I can hear your tune
And tell you how much 
I love you

Tomorrow, I’ll pick up the broken branches
Tonight, I’ll hold you tight in my arms
In this life we take our chances
But I promise this storm won’t do us harm
Evergreens and shooting stars
Evergreens and shooting stars
Evergreens and shooting stars
Evergreens and shooting stars

Evergreens and shooting stars
Evergreens and shooting stars
Evergreens and shooting stars
Evergreens and shooting stars

RELEASED TO SOUNDCLOUD: JUNE 21, 2023

Evergreens And Shooting Stars

TRAPPED

© 2023 Moretti/O'Brien/Vito R/Henry/Licata; All Rights Reserved
Music by France Moretti, Vito R, Brian Henry, Mario Licata
Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN; Rap by anonymous rapper

France Moretti: vocals, backing vocals
Vito R: keyboards
Mario Licata: bass
Brian Henry: drums, percussion, synths, mixing, mastering

(Featuring France Moretti)
Trapped inside this world of pain
Do I still care? Am I insane?
Trapped within these trying times
Are you still there? Are you still mine?

Trapped inside a heart of ice
No warmth or love, a life of vice
Trapped within a world of death
I walk alone, there is no rest
There is no rest

(Featuring Anonymous Rapper)
Oh man, It's a sight to see 
And it's not a joke like Bobby Lee 
They tried to trap and body me
But I just leave a bouquet where the body be 
I can't slow down like Bobby V
I gotta keep fighting till my body's free
Cuz my soul's tapped and my heart's jacked
I done it rough and I barked back
I'll light a fire to get the spark back
Eat a pound of flesh to get my heart back
I'll search the planet low to high 
I'll do everything that I know to try 
Find every star in the open sky
Leave every door and window open wide
Put a monocle on an eagle eye
Got one question tell me why

(Featuring France Moretti)
My soul is gonna burst

Danger waits for me outside
I cannot run, I cannot hide
Angels wait patiently
I try and try, but can’t break free

Trapped inside, a web of lies
I fall and fall, I cannot rise
Trapped within my solitude
And desperate for your gratitude
Gratitude

(Featuring France Moretti and Anonymous Rapper)
This world is filled with anger, this world is filled with hate
But anyone can work hard to find a better fate
I’ve broken off the shackles, the ball and the chain
I will never let those things break my will again

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD JUNE 22, 2023

Trapped

THE BEST OF TIMES

© 2023 Andrew L/O'Brien/Steph Something ; All Rights Reserved
Music by Andrew L, Steph Something; Lyrics by Alex O’Brien, SOCAN

Andrew L: bass, guitars, percussion, mixing
Steph Something: vocals, backing vocals

When I first heard your voice so kind
I tell you it blew my mind
All my fears were left behind
Now I live in a wondrous time

Together we have carved a space
Filled with harmony and grace
Our love we have embraced
There’s nothing we can’t face

Twisting beauty from these strings
Strapping on our velvet wings
Searching for the bells that ring
Wondering what the stars will bring
We’re living in the best of times
We’re living in the best of times

The day my son you came to life
As I rode home the night turned bright
I never thought I’d soar such heights
I’ll never know what I did right
I’ll never know what I did right
Never know what I did right

The best of times
The best of times
The sky shining so blue
The best of times
The best of times
Each moment here with you

When I first held my daughter’s hand
Made me want to be a better human
So much to see and understand
As we journey through this land

Twisting beauty from these strings
Strapping on our velvet wings
Searching for the bells that ring
Wondering what the stars will bring
We’re living in the best of times
We’re living in the best of times

When I first heard your voice so kind
I tell you it blew my mind
All my fears were left behind
Now I live in a wondrous time

Together we have carved a space
Filled with harmony and grace
Our love we have embraced
There’s nothing we can’t face

The best of times
The best of times
The sky shining so blue
The best of times
The best of times
Each moment here with you

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: JUNE 23, 2023

The Best of Times

Cover Pic Credit: The School of Athens by Raphael, Public domain, via Wikimedia Commons.

WAITING ON MY RENAISSANCE

© 2023 O’Brien/Whitfield; All Rights Reserved
Lyrics by Alex O’Brien, SOCAN; Music by Paul Whitfield, SOCAN

Paul Whitfield: all instruments, vocals, and production

I’ve disappeared inside a phantom orchard
I bite the apple now and then
I’m digging deep into a shadow answer
I shake the branches once again
And hope to find a timeless friend

Bear with me, I don’t know much
Bear with me, I’m out of touch
Bear with me, I’m not that smart
Bear with me, I have a heart
I swear I have a heart

I’ve reappeared inside a circle ballet
I smell the roses now and then
I’m spinning fast across the deep dark valley
I grab the branches but they bend
Don’t let them break on me again

Mr. Maestro, play my song
Mr. Maestro, dance my dance
I’ve loved you for so long
I’m waiting on my Renaissance

Mr. Maestro, play my song
Mr. Maestro, dance my dance
I’ve loved you for so long
I’m waiting on my Renaissance

Bear with me, I don’t know too much
Bear with me, I have no crutch
Bear with me, I’m not that smart
Bear with me, let living start
I beg let living start

Leonardo, lead me there
Leonardo, take a chance
Show me how and where
I’m waiting on my Renaissance
 
Mr. Maestro, play my song
Mr. Maestro, dance my dance
I’ve loved you for so long
I’m waiting on my Renaissance

And if only you could reach me
Waiting on my Renaissance
And if only you could teach me
Waiting on my Renaissance
And if only you could guide me
Waiting on my Renaissance
Please help me find what’s inside me
Waiting on my Renaissance

RELEASED TO SOUNDCLOUD JUNE 25, 2023

Single

Waiting on My Renaissance - Featuring Paul Whitfield

MUSIC SAYS IT ALL

© 2022 Vanier/O'Brien/Carie; All Rights Reserved
Music by Pascal Vanier and Jennifer Carie; Lyrics by Alex O'Brien

Jennifer Carie: vocals
Rob Glass: bass
John Henderson: guitars
Pascal Vanier: all other instruments, mixing

In my mind there is a space
Where I can keep my thoughts and visions
Every day I get wiser
I never can stop wishing
That soon the times will change
All the people will get along
If we can’t do it in words
We can do it in a song

Music says it all, if people would just listen
Dreams come true, people keep on wishing

If we try to end the hate
We will escape from this curse
There’s just no use in crying
Life can’t get much worse
There are things I want to say
That can’t be said in words
Let my music say it all
Like singing of the birds

Music says it all, if people would just listen
Dreams come true, people keep on wishing

The days get much longer
When you can’t seem to understand
Why there’s fear and endless struggle
In every corner of this land
As I grow much older
I’ll be forgotten in the end
But maybe they’ll play my music
Known only by my friends

Music says it all, if people would just listen
Dreams come true, people keep on wishing


RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: July 4, 2023

Music Says it All

RIDING, LISTENING

Copyright 2023 Shouse/O'Brien/Bradley/Licata/Corea/Henry
Music by Steve Shouse, Richard Bradley, Mario Licata, Tom Corea, Tom Henry
Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN; All Rights Reserved

Steve Shouse: guitar, keyboards
Richard Bradley: lead guitar, engineering, production
Mario Licata: bass
Tom Corea: drums and percussion
Tom Henry: vocals and backing vocals

Well I’m riding, and listening, to the radio
Listening to it all night long
I’m riding, and listening, to the radio
Listening to these great songs

All the guys have hungry hearts
That’s a great song sung by Springsteen
And all the guys are singing our hearts
Hoping one day to live our dreams

Riding, and listening, to the radio
And listening to the top hot tunes
I’m riding and listening to the radio
And checking out the straight groove

All the guys want to ride forever
In a bright and clear blue sky
And all the guys want to ride forever
And never ever die

All us guys want a turn at the wheel
And all of us want to meet some girls
All the guys want a turn at the wheel
Maybe somehow light up the world

Riding, and listening, to the radio
And listening to these great new sounds
I’m riding, and listening, to the radio
And listening throughout the town

Oh-oh-oh, radio
Oh-oh-oh, radio

Riding, and listening
Riding and listening
Riding and listening
Riding and listening to the radio

To the radio

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: July 10, 2023

Riding, Listening

TO WHO YOU ARE

Copyright 2022 Andrew L/O'Brien/Howard/Henry
Music by Andrew L, Moe Howard, Tom Henry
Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN; All Rights Reserved

Andrew L: acoustic guitars, bass, mixing
Moe Howard: piano
Tom Henry: lead guitar, vocals, backing vocals

Who, who you are

I watched you from the beginning
And I had the best of seats
I saw your wings unfolding
You know you’re a part of me

I treasured every heartbeat
From the cradle to the stars
On the wondrous journey
To who you are

Who, who you are
Who, who you are

I was there for each milestone
And you always made me proud
I saw your world expanding
And I watched you woo the crowd

I cherished every moment
From the first verse to the final bar
On the wondrous journey
To who you are

I saw you grow each day and night
I saw you glow in the moonlight
I watched you learning to break free
I saw your day from start to end
I heard you sing your songs so sweet
I saw you smile at everyone you meet

Who, who you are
Who, who you are

The tears are running freely
You must head out on your own
I’ll miss your daily presence
I can’t believe how much you’ve grown
 
To be there when you need a hand
To try and help you understand
To be there for those days of gold
To be there in my mind and soul

Days of gold

Mind and soul

I love who you are

That’s who you are

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: August 8, 2023

To Who You Are

SUMMER DREAMING

Copyright 2022 Rand/O'Brien; All Rights Reserved
Music by Peter Rand; Lyrics by Alex O’Brien

Peter Rand - Acoustic Guitar, Keys
Cree Patterson - Vocals
Jamie Williams - Acoustic Guitar (Lead)
Philippe Pansard - Bass
Ramlee Oak - Drums
Tommy Hellsten - Mixing/Mastering

By and by, the days go on
I turn my head, a chance is gone
By and by, someday I’ll learn
That ice is cold and fire burns

I don’t believe in miracles
Cos everything’s miraculous
From gazing up into the stars
And then down to the light on us
I don’t believe in miracles
Cos everything is ridiculous
From glaring down into the grave
Hand to heart and flesh to dust

Summer Dreaming on the Cliffs of Dover
Wondering when I’ll make it home
I was once an Irish rover
I don’t want to die alone
Die alone, die alone
Thrust into the vast unknown
Die alone, die alone
Summer dreaming

By and by, the years go by
The clocks are changed and I ask why
What is good and what is bad?
By and by, I’m going mad
By and by, my heart is gold
But my story won’t be told
By and by, take my advice
It’s not sufficient to be nice

Summer Dreaming on the Cliffs of Dover
Wondering when I’ll make it home
I was once an Irish rover
I don’t want to die alone
Die alone, die alone
Thrust into the vast unknown
Die alone, die alone
Summer dreaming
 
By and by, our lives go on
Wronging right and righting wrong
Dreams will die and so will I
And things stay sad, by and by
I don’t believe in miracles
Cos everything’s miraculous
I don’t believe in miracles
Cos everything’s miraculous 

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: July 18, 2023

Summer Dreaming

Have you ever wondered what Elvis Presley or John Lennon would be singing and thinking about the world today if they had not left us prematurely? That was the initial spark for this song.

WHAT WOULD THEY BE SINGING?

Copyright 2023 Vanier/O'Brien; All Rights Reserved
Music by Pascal Vanier; Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN

Tarjei Skarlund: vocals, backing vocals
Kev Zed: drums
Mario Licata: bass
Pascal Vanier: all other instruments

What songs would Elvis be singing
If he was alive today?
Would Bruce have given him Fire?
Would John Fogerty drop by to play?

But is it too much to ask for?
Elvis gave us so much
Timeless music to last forever
A heart and mind in touch

What lyrics will Dylan be writing
When his soul soars to the sky?
You can count on him writing
Long after the day that he dies

What dreams will you be dreaming
When you become a child?
They say that you are peaceful
We all know you can be wild

But is it too much to question
The strange ways of Gods and men?
I hope you find the answers
I wish you many friends

What songs would Elvis be singing
If John Lennon was still alive?
Would there be peace and harmony?
Would we grow old and wise?

But is it too much to ask for?
They both have given so much
Words and music to last forever
Hearts and mind in touch

If he read the news today
What would the great John Lennon say?
That with freedom is the only way
The only way to live
 
If he read the news today
What would he sing? What would he play?
That with love is still the only way
The only way to live

But is it too much to ask for?
They all have given so much
Words and music to last forever
Hearts and mind in touch

But is it too much to ask for?
They all have given so much
Words and music to last forever
Hearts and mind in touch

Hearts and mind in touch
Hearts and mind in touch
Touch
In touch
In touch

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: JULY 31, 2023

What Would They Be Singing?

EVERY BRAVE HEART FINDS A WAY

Copyright 2023 Shouse/O'Brien/Bradley/Licata/Moretti
Music by Steve Shouse, Richard Bradley, Mario Licata, France Moretti
Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN; All Rights Reserved

Steve Shouse: guitar, keyboards
Richard Bradley: lead guitar, engineering, production
Mario Licata: bass
France Moretti: vocals and backing vocals

Somewhere Eric Clapton 
Is playing his guitar
Somewhere a young boy
Is practicing so hard
Somewhere Meryl Streep
Is reciting her next role
Somewhere a young girl
Dreams of Oscar gold

Does your mind need a rest?
Your lips a sweet caress?
I’m bored and lost and wondering what to say
But most days I feel blessed

Somewhere William Shakespeare
Is writing us a play
Somewhere a young author
Is being born each day
Somewhere John F Kennedy
Found his Camelot
Somewhere a young leader
Fights for what he fought

Does your mind need a rest?
Your lips a sweet caress?
I’m bored and lost and wondering what to say
But most days I feel blessed

Somewhere Eric Clapton 
Is playing his guitar
Somewhere a young boy
Is practicing so hard
Somewhere Meryl Streep
Is reciting her next role
Somewhere a young girl
Dreams of Oscar gold

Every brace heart finds a way
Every brave heart 
Every brave heart finds a way

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: August 29, 2023

Every Brave Heart Finds a Way

THOSE EYES

Copyright 2023 Tate/O'Brien/Ros; All Rights Reserved
Music by Simon Tate, Ana Ros; Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN

Simon Tate: guitars, Moog, programming
Du Brae: mixing/mastering
Ana Ros: vocals

I try not to remember
That smile of yours so bright
I try to hide your picture
That I stare at each night
I try not to think of you
When I’m all alone
But all I do is think of you
And wish you were my own

I try not to remember
Those moments we did share
I try not to remember
Those days that you were there
I can’t forget those eyes
I can’t forget those eyes
I try, try, try

I do everything I can
To help you leave my mind
And I just can’t understand
Why I still pray that you were mine
You were mine

Those eyes are the eyes
That I want to wipe the tears from
Those eyes are the eyes
That I want to take the fear from
Those eyes, eyes
Those eyes
Those eyes
I can’t forget those eyes

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: September 28, 2023

Those Eyes - DuBrae Mix

HEART OF RAINBOWS

Copyright 2023 Moretti/O'Brien/Bradley/Pansard/Rosario
Music by France Moretti, Richard Bradley, Philippe Pansard, Ray Rosario
Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN; All Rights Reserved

France Moretti: vocals, keyboards, strings, mixing
Richard Bradley: guitars, mastering
Philippe Pansard: bass
Ray Rosario: drums

Heart of rainbows
You are mine
Through the endless
Perils of time
No broken heart
No lonely night
Can take the magic
From my life

I may scream and I may cry
And at times I’ll want to die
But all showers come to pass
A heart of rainbows beats too fast

Heart of rainbows
Brings me dreams
I know for sure
One day I’ll see
No war or plague
Or deep dark lie
Can steal the colour
From my eyes

I may scream and I may cry
And at times I’ll want to die
But all showers come to pass
A heart of rainbows beats too fast

Heart of rainbows
I thank you
Through the gold
And through the blue
I know some time
We’ll find the way
To live in peace
With love each day
 
I may scream and I may cry
And at times I’ll want to die
But all showers come to pass
A heart of rainbows beats too fast

Heart of rainbows
Heart of rainbows
You are mine

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: September 6, 2023

Heart Of Rainbows

ELETTRO EUPHORIA

Copyright 2022 Gregorini/Moretti/O'Brien/Silvestri/Graiouf/Goyeah
Music by Federico Gregorini, France Moretti, Daniele Silvestri, Francois Graiouf, L Goyeah 
Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN; All Rights Reserved

Federico Gregorini: bass, keyboard, audio programming
France Moretti: vocals
Daniele Silvestri: drums
Francois Graiouf: guitar
L Goyeah: mixing and mastering

I came up on a nightclub
While strolling late in Rome
When I stopped to listen
You were there standing alone
I could tell you were happy
And I am happy too
In your eyes I saw starlight
And a hint of something new

Sweet eternal city
Beneath a moon so pretty

Elettro Euphoria
Elettro Euphoria
Music pulsing feels grand
Dancing to the hot band
Romance in a bright land
I held on to your charged hand 

We sat upon the Spanish Steps
A Roman Holiday
When we left our souls were one
And our bodies swayed
I could tell you were flying
And I was holding on
Your strong wings kept us rising
Till we were high and real gone

Elettro Euphoria
Elettro Euphoria
Music pulsing feels grand
Dancing to the hot band
Romance in a bright land
I held on to your charged hand
 
Rhythm of the night
Rhythm of our lives
Found
The rhythm of the night
Sparked
The rhythm of our lives
Sweet eternal city
Beneath a moon so pretty

Elettro Euphoria
Elettro Euphoria
Music pulsing feels grand
Dancing to the hot band
Romance in a bright land
I held on to your charged hand 

Elettro Euphoria

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: October 3, 2023

Elettro Euphoria

ALL IN THE NAME OF ROCK 'n' ROLL

Copyright 2022 Andrew L/O'Brien/Campbell; All Rights Reserved
Music by Andrew L, Bob Campbell; Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN

Andrew L: guitars, bass, mixing
Bob Campbell: vocals

It started off as a dream
Of riches and fame
The world in my reach
The game of all games
But it grew to be more
The highest of highs
Soaring like eagles
Miles in the sky

All in the name of rock ‘n’ roll
It’s all in the name of rock ‘n’ roll
All in the name of rock ‘n’ roll

It was a fantasy
That could not be lived
Ah, beautiful women
Money to give
But it grew to be more
Now rock is my game
Baby I’ll share with you
My riches and fame, yeah

It’s all in the name of rock ‘n’ roll
All in the name of rock ‘n’ roll
All in the name of rock ‘n’ roll

Gave my heart, I gave my soul
I lost my ears to rock ‘n’ roll
I gave my youth, I gave my life
I lost my wife to rock ‘n’ roll, yeah

All in the name of rock ‘n’ roll
It’s all in the name of rock ‘n’ roll
All in the name of rock ‘n’ roll

Oh God is it a dream?
Am I insane?
A song in my heart
I feel no pain
But it’s more than a dream
The furthest of far
Burning like fire, yeah
Glowing like stars

All in the name of rock ‘n’ roll
It’s all in the name of rock ‘n’ roll
All in the name of rock ‘n’ roll

It might have started as a dream
Of glory and hope
Sell out live concerts
And parties and dope
But it grew to be more
The freest of free
With its power and riches, yeah
Rock ‘n’ roll made me

All in the name of rock ‘n’ roll
It’s all in the name of rock ‘n’ roll
All in the name of rock ‘n’ roll
It’s all in the name of rock ‘n’ roll

It’s all in the name of 
It’s all in the name of 
It’s all in the name of 
Rock ‘n’ roll, yeah

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: August 14, 2023

All in the Name of Rock 'n' Roll

Bobby Watson, a frequent collaborator, composed the music for a gorgeous grandmother's lullaby he wanted to give his wife on their 40th anniversary. Moved by this, I wrote the lyric and the amazing France Moretti sang the vocal.

OMA'S LULLABY

Copyright 2023 Watson/O'Brien/Moretti; All Rights Reserved
Music by Bobby Watson, France Moretti; Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN

Bobby Watson: all instruments, mixing and mastering
France Moretti: vocals and backing vocals

This world is filled with beauty
Let the sunlight warm your heart (heart)
Stare up at the stars each night
Make a wish your dream will start

Don’t let others bring you down
It’s a blessing to be alive
And I’ll always be there for you
When there’s stormy skies

This life is filled with mystery
Let great knowledge fill your mind (mind)
Look inside your heart each night
And the answers you will find

Don’t let fear control your thought
It’s a wonder to live life free
And I’ll always be there for you
You’re a part of me

This world is filled with beauty
Let the moonlight warm your heart
Stare into the clouds each day
Make a wish your dream will start

Don’t let others clip your wings
It’s a blessing to be alive
And I’ll always be there for you
To cheer as you soar high

To cheer as you soar high

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD September 21, 2023

Oma's Lullaby

A HEARTWARMING SURPRISE! Ana Ros, frequent Kompoz collaborator, surprised us by inviting 4 brilliant vocalists to sing my lyric along with her to Scott Wisenbaker's lovely musical composition, and Moe Howard and Du Brae added their phenomenal talents. Thank you to Ana, Martin, Stef, Whit, and Mart for their gorgeous vocals, Moe his beautiful keys, and Du Brae for blending these wonderful talents. I must say, it was an amazing feeling hearing those five great voices sing my words.

THE AGE OF THE MINSTREL (Lyrics and Credits)

Copyright 2023 Wisenbaker/O'Brien/Ros/Howard/Greenslade/Kisamore/Lobemeier/Rinaldo/Kraken
Music by Scott Wisenbaker, Ana Ros, Moe Howard, Mart Greenslade, Stefanie Kisamore, Martin Landolf Lobemeier, Whitman Rinaldo, Agent TFS Kraken
Lyrics by Alex O'Brien, SOCAN

Bass: Scott Wisenbaker
Keys: Moe Howard
Vocals: Ana Ros, Mart Greenslade, Stefanie Kisamore, Martin Landolf Lobemeier, Whitman Rinaldo
Production: Agent TFS Kraken

Our poets and our prophets
Are in their final act
There’s no looking forward
There’s only looking back
But oh what songs they’re singing
Oh what beauty their words show
But as to how we should be living
Well, we didn’t really know

The Age of the Minstrel
Image and the Song
Told a million stories
Got much right, much wrong
I don’t want to say it’s over
And I have no regrets
But as to how I should be living
I haven’t found out yet

Our leaders and our bankers
Well, they were only men
Power, greed, and envy
Ravaged justice yet again
They say that things are changing
Maybe slowly over time
As to how we should be living

The Age of the Minstrel
The Image and the Song
We had our share of glory
Pretended we were strong
And I don’t want to say it’s over
I’m sure we’ll find a way
But as to how we should be living
That’s for another day 
 
Our Bishops and our Imams
Are mired in the past
And there’s no compromises
Our difference too vast
Whatever world they promise
Oh what comfort they might bring
But how we should be living
Well, they messed up everything

The Age of the Minstrel
The Image and the Song
We watched a million movies
And felt that we belonged
And I don’t want to say it’s over
And I still have hope
But as to how I should be living
Well, I just try to cope 
 
The Age of the Minstrel
The Image and the Song
We told a million stories
Got much right and much wrong
Well, I don’t want to say it’s over
And I have no regrets
But as to how I should be living
I haven’t found out yet

The Age of the Minstrel

RELEASED ON SOUNDCLOUD: August 25, 2023

The Age of the Minstrel

To celebrate 2000, I took a year off to write songs, novels, plays, and stories--and I've been doing that since. Near the end of my first year, I won first prize in the USA Songwriting Contest in the Lyric Category for 'Drum Machines and Beauty Queens.' This led to co-writing songs with many excellent musicians, including those represented in the songs posted here. 

More recently, I was one of seven finalists in the Crisis Lyric Category of the 2021 UK Songwriting Contest for 'Lockdown Blues,' and one of nine nominees in the 2021 International Song Awards with 'Didn't the River Know' and 'Blue and Gold.'

For the past year, I've been collaborating with many talented musicians on the wonderful Kompoz creation site. I hope you enjoy!

You can find my album releases here on Spotify: https://open.spotify.com/artist/6cNmPolurgzEOrL35FyE5P?si=UzItCM_gQb-LTHiEhMC1zA

AlexEOB

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