Are you ready? 

Jason Akita: guitars https://soundcloud.com/kobe-akita and https://soundcloud.com/kobe-akita/new-peters-akita-2
Me: the rest, including mean vocal and dirty, demented harmonica

One World Town (Brian Peters)

Let there be darkness
And let there be light
Let the sun and the moon
Keep the day and the night
Let there be evil
And let there be good
Another War of the Worlds
Where the Tree of Knowledge stood

Let there be pleasure
And let there be pain
Let the living mourn the dead
And let the dead rise again
Let there be trouble
Between the old and the young
Another Tower of Babel
A confusion of tongues
-
Don't wanna live in a one world town
Where nobody knows what is real
Where there is no up and there is no down
Cause you were made with magic
On the Potter's wheel
-
Let there be heaven
Let there be hell
From the Book of Revelations
To the worlds of HG Wells
Let there be loving
And let there be hating
Let a man know within himself
Of the road he is taking

Let there be heroes
Let there be gods
Let there be rebels
Who live under the sword
Let there be greatness
Outcasts and giants
Let the martyrs carve the roadways
With the prophets and the saints
-
Don't wanna live in a one world town
Where nobody knows how to feel
Where there is no up and there is no down
Cause you were made with magic
On the Potter's wheel

One World Town (w Jason Akita)

The Songbird asked me to play piano on this cover. It was really such a joy doing this. Thanks a million Cindy - I love it. Your voice soars! 
Thanks for listening, everyone...no studio wizardry used.

Cindy: Vocals https://soundcloud.com/cindyeichardt
Me: Piano
https://soundcloud.com/cindyeichardt/way-over-yonder-brian-peters

Way Over Yonder (Carole King)

Way over yonder
Is a place that I know
Where I can find shelter
From hunger and cold
And the sweet tastin' good life
Is so easily found
A way over yonder, that's where I'm bound

I know when I get there
The first thing I'll see
Is the sun shining golden
Shining right down on me
Then trouble's gonna lose me
Worry leave me behind
And I'll stand up proudly
In true peace of mind

Way over yonder
Is a place I have seen
In a garden of wisdom
From some long ago dream

And maybe tomorrow
I'll find find my way
To the land where the honey runs
In rivers each day
And the sweet tastin' good life
Is so easily found
A way over yonder
That's where I'm bound

A way over yonder
That's where I'm bound

Way Over Yonder (w Cindy Möbes)

Sometimes that's just the way they come to you.

Becoming (Brian Peters)

I am growing
I am learning
I am changing
And becoming

The world is growing
The world is learning
The world is changing
And becoming

God is growing
God is learning
God is changing
And becoming

Becoming

With thanks to Femi Ashiru and the late Ian Joshua. You may also like Arkestar's remix - here is the link:
https://soundcloud.com/ocean-of-tunes-presents/brian-peters-a-man-of-promise-arkestar-rmx-2021-copy

Man of Promise (Brian Peters)

He was a man of promise coming down
Riding through the dusty white southern towns
They heard his music, they thought he was strange
But they needed somebody, it was time for change

They gave him their disease and they gave him hate
They led to the elders at the city gates
He toppled the tables at the house of commerce
And everyone was frightened of the man of promise
-
He stood in the jaw of the lion
He walked through the trap of the bear
He laid in the nest of the eagle
And he trampled on the serpent’s head
-
He was a man of promise come from God
He carried the scales and he carried the rod
The rod was straight, the scales were set
The writing on the wall was the letter of death

Everybody knew that the end would come
In a hail of bullets from a friendly gun
They strung up a recluse, a Judas, a Thomas
Then they started looking for another man of promise

Man Of Promise

For the joy of acoustic instruments.

I wrote this when I turned 35 and moved to the UK.
So grateful to have my good friend Johnson joining me - this really feels like a sweet acoustic jam, JR (@johnson-ramm)

JR: added guitars and added vocals
Me: vox, guitars, harmonica and other stuff

Middle of Life (Brian Peters)

I'm in the middle of life
So much has passed
I'm only 35
Save the best for last
Hey, riding through the middle of life

I'm in the middle of love
And I'm settling down
I can't get enough
It goes and comes around
Hey, riding through the middle of love

I'm in the middle of the world
Between the east and the west
And I'm riding the curve
Between the bad and the best
Hey, riding in the middle of the world

I'm in the middle of life
So much has gone
I'm only 35
But I'm moving on
Hey, riding through the middle of life

Middle of Life (w Johnson Ramm)

Speak For Love (Brian Peters)

Little Lady stepped out into the world
Little Lady was still mama’s little girl
One baby later, she was still twenty-five
Her marriage on the rocks but she was glad to be alive

And love is blinded in innocence
And love is calling out for defence

	Who’ll sing a song for the lonely ones
	Your darling daughters and your wayward sons
	Under the hand of the iron glove
	And who will speak for love

Little Man went walking in his daddy’s boots
Little Man was just following his roots
Wild dreams and schemes on the stock exchanges
Wild oats and loneliness among total strangers

And love is crying out to be heard
And love is holding out the living word

	Who’ll sing a song for the lonely ones
	Your darling daughters and your wayward sons
	Under the hand of the iron glove
	And who will speak for love

**Some talk about the third world debt
Some talk about a nuclear threat
Some talk about inner city crime
Some talk about intelligent design
Some talk about corporate greed
Some talk about terminator seeds
Some talk about the ascetic life
Some talk about simeon stylites**

And love is knocking at the door
And love is undergirding every law

	Who’ll sing a song for the lonely ones
	Your darling daughters and your wayward sons
	Under the hand of the iron glove
	And who will speak for love

**Some talk about global warming
Some talk about turbine farming
Some talk about genetic cloning
Some talk about the lunar landings
Some talk about ghetto thugs
Some talk about the superbug
Some talk about democracy
Some talk about conspiracy

Some talk about the world trade towers
Some talk about a one world power
Some talk about save the whales
Some talk about fairytales
Some talk about visual highlights
Some talk about navigation satellites**
…(to fade)

Speak For Love

Well, quartet harmonies from the golden age of gospel music was part of my childhood experience. I decided to record this song in that style, and immediately thought of the talented singer, Tolu. Not only does she live down the road from me, but she is also family. After recording all the vocals, we wondered what it would sound like with a piano accompaniment. I was so delighted when the superb pianist, Milana, immediately agreed to join in. You both have done a sterling job on this, and I am really deeply indebted to you. My humble thanks! Folks, please visit their clouds too.

Tolu: vocals, harmonies: http://soundcloud.com/tolu_lope
Milana: piano: http://soundcloud.com/milanazilnik
Me: backing vocals, guitar

Love Gift (Brian Peters)

You can give your time
With an easy smile
It’s okay
You can relocate
You can break a date
It’s okay
But when you give in love
You give Him all you have

You can push yourself
You can offer help
It’s okay
You can change your plan
Do the best you can
It’s okay
But when you give in love
You give Him all you have
-
Oh some may try to give Him something precious
But without love it changes into dust
-
You can dedicate
All the gain you make
It’s okay
You can give your life
Make a sacrifice
It’s okay
But when you give in love
You give Him all you have

Love Gift (w Tolu and Milana)

This singalong was written during my young idealistic days, based on the amusing stories of Giovanni Guareschi. I thought I’d drag it out of the archives for a bit of fun!

Little World (Brian Peters)

The world of Don Camillo is a little place
Sitting on the River Po
Work enough for living, time enough to wait
And there’s space enough to grow

The faith of Don Camillo is a simple grace
Patient as the river flow
Taking up within the sphere of earthly ways
And he knows it must be so
-
We all live in a little world
We can make it grow
We all keep the universe
And we know it must be so
-
The God of Don Camillo has a human face
Watching as they come and go
Sharing in a knowledge that is people based
And He knows it must be so

Little World

Thank you for listening over the last 10 years, for commenting, liking and reposting. Special thanks to those I’ve collaborated with, and those who’ve covered my songs. I’m so grateful to you all, and best wishes for 2023.

Talk To Me (Brian Peters)

Talk to me about trouble
Talk to me about strife
Talk to me about men living 
a double life
Talk to me about hunger
Talk to me about pain
Talk to me about men dying 
and their deaths being in vain
Draw near
Put your lips to my ear 
and talk to me

Talk to me about heartache
Talk to me about loss
Talk to me about men carrying 
too heavy a cross
Talk to me about mercy
Talk to me about truth
Talk to me about forgiveness 
in the kissing booth
Fold me
In your gentle sea 
and talk to me

Talk to me in the whirlwind
Talk to me in the heat
Talk to me in the thunder 
of the city’s feet
Talk to me in the stillness
far away from the noise
Talk to me sweetly 
in that still, small voice
Steal away 
from the cares of the day 
and talk to me
--------------------
[Some unused verses]

Talk to me of the garden
Talk to me of the fall
Talk to me of that valley 
and the prophets of Baal
Talk to me about religion 
and the loss of God
Talk to me about the kingdom 
and that level sword
Stay on 
for the night is long 
and talk to me

Talk to me about beauty
Talk to me about life
Talk to me about the colours
in the rainbow of light
Talk to me about magic 
in a lover’s eyes
Talk to me about music 
in the heart of the night
Lay down 
on this covered ground 
and talk to me

Talk to me in the riddle 
of the spoken word
Talk to me in the alphabet 
from another world
Talk to me about longing 
for the one that we seek
Talk to me of that name 
that no man shall speak
Thrill me 
with mystery 
and talk to me

Talk To Me

This is what jamming with the great Johnny Minstrel sounds like. We always loved that light free airy sound. No added fx. Thanks Pravinand @johnny-minstrel

JM: electric guitar, harmonica

The Line (Brian Peters)

I was looking out my window on the first day of Spring
Thought I saw the Winter phantom, well he touches everything
We never know what's good or bad until one of them is gone
Everyone is looking for the line between right and wrong

Well we're looking to the heavens and we haven't left the ground
Looking for the eternal in a world going down
This road just keeps you travelling, going on and on
Everyone is looking for the line between right and wrong

I never know what's hurting, I never know what's true
But man is always restless about the things he always knew
It seems like it started from the day I was born
Everyone is looking for the line between right and wrong

All of us are blinded, learning how to survive
Someone else may tell you, you got to keep hope alive
Well I'm staring out my window, I might see another dawn
Everyone is looking for the line between right and wrong

The Line (w Johnny Minstrel)

This is a delightful departure from my norm. I’ve always loved the Wayfarer cloud, and suggested a collaboration. DG sent me this powerful, haunting music, and the whole song lyric was written within a few hours of listening to it. This is the first time I’ve written something to another piece of music. Thanks a million for such a pleasurable and novel experience, DG. Such a joy working with you on this!

Wayfarer DG: Music and mix https://soundcloud.com/user-996383829
Me: Lyrics and vocal

Cloudy Charlie (Brian Peters/Dirk Gilleard)

Night crawls round your corner
Opens up an eye
Swallows all the colour
Of your life

Better read the sign
Written in the sand
Get yourself together
The hour is at hand

Cloudy Charlie calling
Down your cul-de-sac
Leave the blizzard howling
At your back

Wilderness in tatters
Moon has turned to blood
The living have been scattered
Before the final flood

*Sunlight has been broken
Pieces on the way
Sleep with one eye open
Until Judgement Day*

Leave one in the chamber
Get your running sack
Eat the bread of danger
Never turn back

Cloudy Charlie (w Wayfarer DG)

I wrote this last year after some tragic news events. While the gun control discussion goes on, I’m still hoping…

A real pleasure to have Pravinand joining in…thanks mate, your harmonica really gives this a lift. @johnny-minstrel

Last Bullet To Fall (Brian Peters)

He had his workout, got into shape
With a pre-dawn run
Bought some takeout, briskly escaped
Into the morning sun

A rodded wood beam, trigger and tape
That he found on the ‘net
Some target shooting, sling bag and cape
And he was finally set

He moved behind the crowded scene
Like a snake on the ground
Raised his head, uncoiled to spring
As he fired his rounds

Now I’m holding my breath
Like I’m under water
For the death of death
In the ever after
Where the reels of regret
Will be turned into laughter
But till that trumpet calls
I’ll be shouting from the top of the city walls
Waiting for the last bullet to fall

Some weeks before I was glued to my phone
Just scrolling through
Caught my eye some kids had died
In a Texas school

Slip of a lad just went mad
With an AR-15
Shot his gran, got into her van
Headed down the street

Powder and lead were burning red
In the midday heat
Twenty-One Dead, the headline read
It was the bloodiest scene

So I’m holding my breath
Like I’m under water
For the death of death
In the ever after
Where the peals of lament
Will be spun into laughter
But till that trumpet calls
I’ll be shouting from the top of the city walls

Yes I’m holding my breath
Like I’m under water
For the death of death
In the sweet hereafter
Where the steel of dissent
Will be bent to a ploughshare
But till that trumpet calls
I’ll be shouting from the top of the city walls
Waiting for the last bullet to fall

Last Bullet To Fall (ft Johnny Minstrel)

I bought a 12-string for the first time in my life - had a little play around. I just love that ringing jangly sound. 
And repetitive mantric devotionals are great to listen to as well!

My Grace Is Enough (Brian Peters)

My grace is enough for you
My grace is enough for you
For all that you do
And all you go though
My grace is enough for you

Look A Little Higher (Brian Peters)

Look a little higher than your dreams
Look a little higher than your times
Look a little higher than your schemes
Look a little higher than your mind
Look a little higher than your will
Keep on looking unto the hills

Look a little higher than your power
Look a little higher than your plans
Look a little higher than your strength
Look a little higher than your hands
Look a little higher than your skill
Keep on looking unto the hills

Look a little higher than your silver
Look a little higher than your gold
Look a little higher than your barns
Look a little higher than your folds
Look a little higher than your fields
Keep on looking unto the hills

My Grace Is Enough • Look A Little Higher

I want to thank Emer for her wonderful rendition of this song. I’ve always loved her musical talents – she is a superb singer-songwriter and performer. Emer, you do me honour - I hope your Mac problems are soon resolved, and you’re back on the cloud! Folks, please visit her cloud: https://soundcloud.com/emerfox
Her videos: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCXxV6UjvbtUsBrhACZG7gzQ
PS: I should also add here that this performance is entirely by Emer - she plays and sings everything!
Links: https://soundcloud.com/emerfox/i-am-the-word-cover-of-brian-peters-song

I Am The Word (Brian Peters)

There’s always something
At the back of your mind
Like a lost memory
You can’t create it
You can’t leave it behind
It’s where it’s supposed to be
-
I am the Word
Down the corridors beyond sleep
I am the Word
In the waters where the deep calls unto deep
-
There’s always something
At the tip of your tongue
That you can’t understand
When you try too hard
Then you get it all wrong
But it’s there in your hand

There’s always something
At your fingertips
That you can’t even feel
But it’s turning through
The waters like a ship
On a giant wheel

I Am The Word (Performed by Emer Fox)

A real joy to have Karin-Maria Brunner join me on this song. She has really done an amazing job with my basic track. My grateful thanks and deepest appreciation to you, Karin-Maria. (@user-53145152-479345033)
https://soundcloud.com/karin-maria-brunner

K-M: Epic pad, Vintage synthesiser strings, harp, violin, viola, cello, crash, bass, processing, mixing and mastering 
Me: vocals, guitars, drums, keyboards

Promise Me (Brian Peters)

It's hard to believe
Takes courage of man to admit it
There's a memory within me
The sound of your name recalls it

We're living in days
Dancing too close to the heat
There's pockets of fires
Scattered all over the streets

*Promise me baby
You won't let another come between our love
Promise me baby
You won't imprison the dove*

They tied up the servant
They killed the messenger
Made a home explosive
Marked it ‘return to sender’

There’s a crack in the conscience
A finger of light in the skies
There’s bug on your telephone
Your windows are full of eyes

It’s the day of the aliens
Night of the UFOs
They took all the war brides
The baby boomer girls

There’s halls of illusion
Perverted sex on the screen
Young minds in confusion
Old men with adolescent dreams

The prophet is dishonoured
Especially in his own home
I’ve been reading Borges
Listening to Leonard Cohen

There’s sex on the telephone
A hundred iniquity dens
But the women are sexless
There are no real men

There’s blood on the doorposts
The angel of death is near
Speak softly, darling
Even the walls have ears

There’s a place in the hills
It’s like the top of Masada
It’s the gateway to paradise
Or the scene of a murder

Well, the world’s getting smaller
It’s like a one horse town
But the circle gets faster
As it spirals down

And the more things are changing
The more they are the same
And I sound like my daddy
I guess he felt the same

Promise Me

I really love it when things come together quickly. Daniel contacted me two weeks ago, and suggested a collaboration. This song immediately came to me, and I sent him a recording a few days later. He then added his magical instrumentation and backing vocals. I am so grateful to him for his wonderful talent and input on this. Thank you, Daniel! https://soundcloud.com/user-276716031

I also asked my niece, Judith, to provide the artwork. It includes a photo of my dad, and the sheet of his favourite song. Thank you, Judith!

In remembrance of my dad - this Christmas Eve will be 3 years since his passing. Thanks for listening.

Daniel Lockhart: strings, violins, added vocals, harmonium, slide lead guitar, hollow body guitar, accordion 
Me: vocals, acoustic guitars, bass
Judith Joshua: artwork
video link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=1V2VyqmvdRo&index=1&list=UUDAJEffE-Nk6zs4eYTrNEgg

Birds of Heaven (Brian Peters)

Not another story
Of princes, crowns and glory
Kingdoms rise and fall
To a Jester’s call
Where Man does not belong
There’s a chapel here
A burned-out tabernacle here
Where a Sliding Stone
Makes a passing home
For the birds of heaven

Now the Archer’s leaving
The arrow’s arc receding
Bleary harmonies
Set in broken keys
Are rolling out a song
Thru’ the fallow fields
Spins a Piper’s reel
And Time is gain
On a rusty chain
For the birds of heaven

There’s an open door
Fading lines along the shore
And flying high
In a bluer sky
Are the birds of heaven

Birds Of Heaven (w Daniel Lockhart)

Wrote this little singalong many years ago for a fellow Soundclouder who was feeling a bit low. 
My daughter was in her early teens when she took the lead vocals, and my son was pre-teen.
I’m hugely indebted to the supremely talented Russ Sinfield for taking time out to mix and master this little pick-me-up - thanks a ton, mate, I’m really very grateful. (https://soundcloud.com/russell-sinfield #chaoscookhouse)
Enjoy!

Levana: Lead vox, bvs
Jehan: Bvs
Me: the rest
Russ Sinfield: Mix and mastering

Singing The Song (Brian Peters)

Looking for a brighter day
To come and wash your worries away
Hey come on now, come on

Searching for a bluer sky
And you don’t know the reason why
Hey come on now, come on

*You got to keep on holding on
You got to keep your spirit strong
You got to keep on singing the song
And it won’t be long*

Looking for that ray of hope
And finding that it’s hard to cope
Hey come on now, come on

Wishing on a shooting star
Trying to figure who you are
Hey come on now, come on

Well I ain’t walking in your shoes
And we all carry our own blues

Singing The Song

This is a low-key return to the Cloud.

The most traumatic experience I've had to endure is the separation from my family. Despite the pain and hurt, I have tried to bear it with dignity, respect and good grace. I wrote many songs about it - two are still on my cloud: 'If Love...', and 'Open Heart'. 

'The Space Between Us' is another attempt to come to terms with the situation.

The Space Between Us (Brian Peters)

You walked away
You didn't look back
You didn't turn into a pillar of salt
I was still waiting
For the attack
And I was looking for a glimmer of fault
There were no answers
Just questions unasked
No rhyme or reason
To peg to my mast
You took it all
Stirring no dust
And in the quiet hush
You left the space between us

But I wish you well
Whatever you choose
I don't rejoice in wishes denied
The thing you love most
Must surely be loosed
And I can carry every secret inside
There is no malice
Now we're apart
I'm only sorry
That it didn't last
We had our moments
And though they are passed
I'm still holding fast
To the space between us

And God is in heaven
Among the stars
They circle round us
Like giant cars
But He keeps His eye
Directing their paths
And I pray God will watch
In the space between us

Night Room

The Space Between Us

This little song is about staying strong and true as we get older. I decided to keep it rough and bare.

Bless This Heart (Brian Peters)

I've been travelling a while
Wearing out these miles
Portioning my days
In that circle of time
I've been holding fast
Unrolling the past
And I'm doing fine
Bless this heart of mine

The bright new man, the dunce, I do not fear
The blazing sun, the bone-beak missile spear
I count them none

I've been spinning a dial
Unreeling a line
Floating on a river
Without a sign
A sailing lotus shell
On a ripple bell
Yes, I'm doing fine
Bless this heart of mine

The cackle and the bark, they hold no sway
The parables of dark, they're like the spray
I count them none

I've been holding the nerve
On a winding curve
Shooting out some pebbles 
In the grit and grime
My rumbled peace
As I take my ease
Says I'm doing fine
Bless this heart of mine
Yes, I'm doing fine
Bless this heart of mine

Bless This Heart

Such a joy to have Hilary Dirlam on this track. She really is a superb multi-instrumentalist. So wonderful working with you, Hilary - my humble thanks for everything: https://soundcloud.com/hilary-dirlam

Hilary: harmonies, banjo, swar mandal, kalimba, pan pipes
Me: vox, guitar, ukelele, bass, harmonica

Let It Rain (Brian Peters)

There's an old feeling in my bones
Turning like a weather vane
Tells me when I get back home
Things won't be the same

The evening air is getting cold
The wind is on the rise
The little worm is in his hole
The rainbirds left the skies

Let it rain, let it fall
Flowing from the mountain to the city walls
Tearing down the tallest height
Let it rain tonight

I met a man outside the wall
Where the gate is open wide
He has been all around the world
And over to the other side

I met a woman on the road
Throwing wishes in a well
She was like a summer rose
Waiting for the evening bell

Let It Rain (w Hilary Dirlam)

vid link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=w3Tw7pYMhAQ

Wonders Will Never Cease (Brian Peters)

As long as I can make amends
And turn an enemy into a friend
As long as I in love defend the peace
Wonders will never cease

As long as I can take a stand
And hold a fallen brother by the hand
As long as I can see that man increase
Wonders will never cease
-
I’m calling you
There’s a better way
I’m calling you
There’s a better way
-
As long as I can heal a wrong
Uplift the weak and purify the strong
As long as I embrace the very least
Wonders will never cease
Wonders will never cease

Wonders Will Never Cease

I was unsure about adding more, so decided to keep this sparse and simple.

You’re On My Mind (Brian Peters)

You’re on my mind

In the light of day
Did I lose my way
Is it hard to find
You’re on my mind

Did I hurt you then
Was I wrong again
Was I so unkind
You’re on my mind
-
Did I take you for granted
When I said you were mine
Did you feel you were unwanted
Just a part of my design
You’re on my mind
-
Was I all uptight
Did I see it right
Did I take the time
You’re on my mind

Did we lock that door
On what has gone before
And what we left behind
You’re on my mind
- 
Did I rob you of pleasure
Did I steal your smile
Did I wrongfully measure
Your will against mine 
-
Solo
-
Can we make it through
Tell me what to do
Will it work this time
You’re on my mind

There’s a price to pay
For the things I say
When I cross that line
You’re on my mind

You're On My Mind

This song was written coming up to the 19th anniversary of Stephen Biko's death in detention. I'd visited St. Stephen's Green in Dublin, where the last hanging took place, and that prompted the title. I'd also been musing on the death of Saint Steven, the first Christian martyr. All of these various ideas informed the lyric.

Vid Link: http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=phlGdpXHuUc&feature=youtu.be

Saint Stephen(Brian Peters)

There’s a wicked wind behind me
And it’s coming on down
And it’s breathing air reminds me
There’s blood on the ground
And I’m sleeping on an old lullabye
And I’m reaching between earth and sky

Now there’s a wall between us
You’re on one side
You have already seen us
There’s no place to hide
And I’m standing at the wrong end of the line
And I ain’t got a dime
-
Some people never wonder about things they’ve seen
Some people never worry, some people never dream
-
Well the shadows of the evening
They come to me now
And they’re calling Saint Stephen
To come on back down
There’ve been twenty hard years on the plough
And plenty of tears have been sown

I can feel Saint Stephen
He walks like a ghost
And his nails are uneven
His eyes they are lost
And he’s looking for a home in the world
And he’s caught between heaven and earth

Saint Stephen

Took up my acoustic guitar after a long while to put this one together.

Circle of Light (Brian Peters)

She was covered all in glory
She was woman, she was Eve
He was waiting at the river for his bride
She could weave a story
That he wanted to believe
They fell in love within the circle of light

She would gather berries
Singing to her child
He would build a fire for the night
She was sanctuary
He was kingdom wild
Making up a home within the circle of light

I lie upon the bosom
I'm in the wilderness
The moon and stars are watching through the night
When the winter world was frozen
There was tenderness
When he met her within the circle of light

Circle of Light

There was a short period when I stopped using the usual verse/chorus/bridge format, and tried a repetitive drone style instead. I was hoping it would be more transfixing, beguiling and entrancing. This is one of those attempts.

Wind In The Trees (Brian Peters)

I was on a ride on a sea of dreams
When I saw the skies like a water stream
On another world on the other side
Was another face looking into mine
With the eyes of peace
Aah but I'm like the wind in the trees

Well I thought of you and I thought of me
In a dying world we are breaking free
We are going down, we are holding on
We are on the shore looking at the sun
Waiting for release
Aah but we're like the wind in the trees

Well I tried to sleep, I couldn't settle down
Tried TV without the sound
On a night like this you could use some help
It could do you harm, you could give yourself
Over to the beast
Aah when you're like the wind in the trees

Well my lover lies here next to me
And she's got that face of mystery
Like a virgin bride or Mother Eve
There are changes there when she smiles at me
'Darling go to sleep'
Aah but I'm like the wind in the trees

Wind In The Trees

I was out of town and missing my wife-to-be, so I wrote this.

I'm Missing You (Brian Peters)

In the midnight
You're away
How many candles do you light
To make it day
I feel it too

I'm missing you
I'm missing you

In the sunrise
Cold and grey
How many promises you make
As you pray
I feel it too

I'm Missing You

I wrote this in my 20s in the Apartheid era as a tribute to the many people we lost.

During this time our home and our church were invaded by the Special Branch while we were holding meetings. Our phone was tapped, and at work I received a scare call from the Wit Wolf that a bomb was placed in our legal offices. And yet my anti-apartheid involvement was very light-touch and perfectly legal! Heady days indeed.

Video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=abDQ6Y4jrnM

One Life (Brian Peters)

It's so hard to touch a life
And it's so hard to feel
To know that this is right
And this is what is real
And when one life goes out
Nothing's changed, nothing's new
It's your point-of-view
You know it could have been you

There's no meaning except to know
That this is what we give
No sense to what we've lost
Except to know we live
And when one life goes out
Something changes within
It's a tragedy
I guess it could have been me

And I'm thinking about Robert 
And I'm thinking about Ruth
And I'm thinking about Albert 
And I'm thinking about Rick
And I'm thinking about Stephen 
And I'm thinking about Neil 
And I'm thinking about David 
And I'm thinking about Chris 

And I'm thinking about Matthew 
And I'm thinking about Fort
And I'm thinking about Hector 
And I'm thinking about Saul
And I'm thinking about Dulcie 
And I'm thinking about Johnny 
And I'm thinking about Solomon 
And I'm thinking about Sipho

And when one life goes out
Something changes within
It's a tragedy

One Life

A real treat to have Jordan sing this song. He is an amazing interpreter, with a superb voice! Thank you, Jordan, for this honour. If you want to hear all the music I enjoy listening to, folks, please visit https://soundcloud.com/jordan-cannady

Jordan Cannady: Lead Vocals, Guitar (r)
Me: the rest
Links: https://soundcloud.com/jordan-cannady/road

Road In The Desert (Brian Peters)

You were here and you were gone
Like a candle before the sun
Back to where you were born
Waiting for a final home
-
There’s a road in the desert lies
With no leaving and no returning
No hellos and no goodbyes
Once you’re on it, you just keep moving on
-
You take a walk through that door
There’s one way in, and then one more
You take a chance on this life
You are here just for a time

You have seen the end of dreams
Carried on the wayward wind
To the ocean of our lives
We are just a ripple in time

Road In The Desert (w Jordan Cannady)

The songs I've always loved writing are those that come easily, whether they are 'soul-baring' personal expressions or 'thought-constructed' forms. 
This came very quickly.

Sketch: "Bereshit" (Brian Peters) 

I’VE GROWN USED TO YOU
(Brian Peters)

I’ve grown used to you
What can I say
I can’t seem to tell it right
Any other way
I get to feeling all the things that you do
Ooh babe, I’ve grown used to you

I’ve grown used to you
Does it seem bad
Like it’s always been this way
For the little time we’ve had
Feels like we’re riding on an old country bus
Ooh, babe, I’ve grown used to us

I’ve grown used to you
I’ve grown used to you

I’ve grown used to you
More than a wife
Like I’ve known you somewhere else
In another life
Feels like we’re locked inside an old memory
Ooh babe, and you’ve grown used to me

I’ve grown used to you
Close as I can
For all the distance that they say
Between a woman and a man
You’re still a mystery, I don’t know where you’re at
Ooh babe, and I’ve grown used to that

I’ve grown used to you
I’ve grown used to you

(Solo)

I’ve grown used to you
At the end of the day
I can’t seem to tell it right
Like you heard me say
Guess I believe in magic and déjà vu
Ooh babe, I’ve grown used to you

I've Grown Used To You

Faith and social issues can be contentious and polarising. But for me, both combined is a marriage made in heaven. As a young songwriter I wanted to explore that, and this was one of those attempts. It is based on the ‘I Am’ sayings, and I thank you for listening.

Drawing: Qesheth (BP)

Another version by Raging Rausch: https://soundcloud.com/raging-rausch/brian-peters-i-saw-jesus-raging-rausch-cover-version-8

I Saw Jesus (Brian Peters)

I saw Jesus in a man who didn’t have a home
He was left to wander alone
Nowhere to go, no place to rest
And nothing secure
Jesus, won’t you be the door
Jesus, won’t you be the door

I saw Jesus in a woman holding empty hands
Living out of empty cans
Her children starve, it’s been a while 
Since they were fed
Jesus, won’t you be the bread
Jesus, won’t you be the bread

I saw Jesus in a boy within a prison cell
What he’s done he cannot tell
Accusers lie, and so his life
Will end at youth
Jesus, won’t you be the truth
Jesus, won’t you be the truth

[I saw Jesus in a little girl of eight
In her hands she held her fate
Away from home the city’s cold
But she must stay
Jesus, won’t you be the way
Jesus, won’t you be the way]*

I saw Jesus in a baby who has not a prayer
Death and illness ever near
May last the night,
Tomorrow baby won’t survive
Jesus, won’t you be the life
Jesus, won't you be the life

[I saw Jesus in a people living under siege
Never having what they need
Their lives have been a horror
Of eternal night
Jesus, won’t you be the light
Jesus, won’t you be the light]*

*omitted verses

I Saw Jesus

Such a joy to have Martin Lucas (The Celturian) on this instrumental piece. He is a hugely gifted musician, and I'm honoured to have him on board. His contribution really enhances this simple composition. https://soundcloud.com/the-celturian
https://soundcloud.com/the-celturian/ruah-brian-peters-feat-the-celturian?ref=clipboard&p=a&c=0

Flute/Violin: Martin
Guitar/Composition: Me
Drawing: 'Terebinth' (BP)

Ruah (ft The Celturian)

I've written several songs on the theme of lost love. Some on this cloud are: 'Open Heart', 'The Space Between Us', and 'If Love...' 
Here are another couple of songs on that theme.

Night Room (Brian Peters) 

Oh the night has a room for me 
Between the dream and the memory 
I was in the sun 
But I lost someone 
Now the moon is my company 

Book of Books (Brian Peters) 

We walked together 
We became one 
Roses and heather
Flowers in the sun 
Flowing with no backward looks 
We wrote our first words 
In the Book of Books 

Looking for changes 
And opening doors 
Following strangers 
To some foreign shores 
Nesting in our northern nook
We were writing out lines 
In the Book of Books 

But God is righteous 
And God is just 
My spirit rises 
But yield I must 
With one hand He gave 
With the other He took 
We turned another page 
In the Book of Books 

Now I'm alone 
In the middle of the night 
We'll meet in heaven 
Where there is no man and wife 
Before the Living Brook
Writing our final chapter 
In the Book of Books

Night Room • Book Of Books

During Apartheid-era South Africa it was quite common for the regime to use the death penalty as a way of eliminating or scaring off opposition. That history has largely turned me against capital punishment. This is dedicated to those prisoners-of-conscience who made the ultimate sacrifice!

vid link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RCxWnkrqlxI&feature=youtu.be

Death Row (Brian Peters)

See yourself in the water
Feel the grains of sand beneath your feet
Whirling up in form superior
Enthralling me with majesty

Natural is and natural let it be
We live or we die beneath the sacred tree
Life is just a mist
Soon it’s time to go
Spare my little kid
Waiting on Death Row

To each his own and all for all
Provided we can live in honesty
Perversion comes to turn the mind
Away from man’s equality

Natural is and natural let it be
We live or we die beneath the sacred tree
Life is just a mist
Soon it’s time to go
Spare my little kid
Waiting on Death Row

Death Row

This song is about keeping our hearts soft despite difficult experiences. 
There are no fx added.

Also listen to If Love [Arkestar RMX 2021] by Arkestar on #SoundCloud
https://soundcloud.app.goo.gl/NwyQP

If Love... (Brian Peters)

If love is the answer
Don't leave me bitter
I won't be a quitter... on love

If love is the reason
I won't harbour treason
I'm in the season... for love
-
Now I find
Love is blind
Now I know
Love will grow... again
-
If love is a flower
And this is the hour
Give me the power... to love
-
Now I find
Love is blind
Now I know
Love will grow... again
-
If love is a maiden
And time wears a veiling
I will be waiting... for love

If Love...

Hello everyone! I've been here since July 2012. 
I hope you enjoy these songs. Thank you for listening!

A playlist: https://soundcloud.com/johnny-minstrel/sets/brian-peters-the-song-man
My Kids: https://soundcloud.com/levana-and-jehan-peters

Those I've collaborated with, or who have covered my songs:

http://soundcloud.com/johnny-minstrel
https://soundcloud.com/john-hollingum
http://soundcloud.com/cindyeichardt
http://soundcloud.com/johnson-ramm
http://soundcloud.com/jordan-cannady
http://soundcloud.com/riccicoughlin
http://soundcloud.com/sunnidayz
http://soundcloud.com/pau-14
http://soundcloud.com/philipbridle
http://soundcloud.com/kobe-akita
http://soundcloud.com/experimentator
http://soundcloud.com/vladaroo
http://soundcloud.com/hebikjoudaar
http://soundcloud.com/rustystringz
http://soundcloud.com/chrisscheri
http://soundcloud.com/van-gabriel
http://soundcloud.com/spaghetti-hillbillies
http://soundcloud.com/deephod
http://soundcloud.com/tolu_lope
http://soundcloud.com/milanazilnik
https://soundcloud.com/the-searchers
https://soundcloud.com/fernando-gonzalo
https://soundcloud.com/jrcros
https://soundcloud.com/emerfox
https://soundcloud.com/krum41
https://soundcloud.com/joakimlartey
https://soundcloud.com/ofemi
https://soundcloud.com/chrisliving
https://soundcloud.com/progrockdan1
https://soundcloud.com/textosh
https://soundcloud.com/sciencebase
https://soundcloud.com/lonesomedstringband
https://soundcloud.com/hilary-dirlam?ref=clipboard&p=a&c=0
https://soundcloud.com/the-celturian?ref=clipboard&p=a&c=0
https://soundcloud.com/raging-rausch
https://soundcloud.com/user-996383829
https://soundcloud.com/user-53145152-479345033

Brian Peters

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