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"Cre​é​tisvan"

by Mike Tiano

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  • Compact Disc (CD) + Digital Album

    The CD is in a wallet-style gatefold sleeve where the inside features artwork that was created by Mike when he was a young adult, and figures into the album title and background. Also included is a foldout insert with lyrics, and song and production credits.

    Includes unlimited streaming of "Creétisvan" via the free Bandcamp app, plus high-quality download in MP3, FLAC and more.
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1.
THERE’S SOMEBODY THERE… I was trying my best to find you Was I standing right there beside you? Then you appeared right through the haze-- Through the myth, and through the maze… I was trying my best to find you…! My decision has been made Though the choice wasn’t up to me Broke down walls from bricks I laid A new life you can’t be there to see Miles away from where you are I love to play, but has this gone too far? I looked forward to that day Next to you devoid of pain Reality got in the way So now instead I’m going against the grain And I don’t know if I’ll be back in time But if I’m not please remember-- I’m standing right there beside you-- My spirit is there to guide you-- There’s somebody there--behind you A great big moment in my life The big gig that I once thought was wild Is causing an awful lot of strife I feel shut away like a helpless child But I’ll return to what’s true to me And wherever I am I’ll always be-- Standing right there beside you! Our renewed love now in the same space-- There’s somebody there behind you… And together we’ll find a way to make our place There’s somebody there--behind you And I don’t know if I’ll be back in time But if I’m not please remember I’m standing right there beside you My spirit is there to guide you There’s somebody there behind you There’s somebody there behind you There’s somebody there behind you There’s somebody there behind you My decision has been made Broke down walls from bricks I laid I looked forward to that day But reality got in the way My decision has been made Broke down walls… I looked forward to that day Reality got in the way And all of it for a chance to play There’s somebody THERE… There’s somebody there behind you. There’s somebody there behind you. There’s somebody THERE…BEHIND YOU!
2.
On Hold 05:28
I've been put on hold again I'm tired of waiting and I hate to pretend I've been put on hold again The flickering light at the tunnel's end I thought I made my big call Have I got someone on the line? A voice said one moment please I been waiting a long time I've been put on hold again I'm tired of waiting and I hate to pretend I've been put on hold again The flickering light at the tunnel's end I held on for much too long My world depends upon this phone Have I been disconnected? I can’t hear a dial tone! I've been put on hold again I'm tired of waiting and I hate to pretend I've been put on hold again The flickering light at the tunnel's end I've been put on hold again I'm tired of waiting and I hate to pretend I've been put on hold again… I've been put on hold again… Don’t put me on hold again!
3.
Constant companion, final friend I’ll always be there through the end…
4.
A door opened in my heart Slams shut whenever I see nobody’s acting smart To look to each others’ lives Where we can celebrate what differs and what jibes But everyone thinks they’re right That all the answers are clear cut as black and white Reverse your point of view How would you react if it had happened to you? I listen to the sages Telling you where you’ll be heading on down Are we in the dark ages? Why don’t we understand? So busy pointing fingers, it’s getting out of hand Or level the playing field Assuming right of way whenever we should yield And always quick to condemn They’ll play musical chairs til the tables are turned on them Reverse your point of view How would you react if it had happened to you? I listen to the sages Telling you where you’ll be heading on down Are we in the dark ages? If space is the last frontier Then can we barely wait to get the heck out of here! The countdown is almost through The launching pad is shaking… With no time left to reverse point of view How will you react when it has happened to you? Lift off up to the final stages Triumph in the air—turmoil on the ground Reentering the dark ages I’ll listen to the sages And if we’re too late to have gotten it down See you in the dark ages!
5.
(Instrumental)
6.
We advance together, in step and in time-- rarely deviating from this path Each gaze is unwavered not to break our stride, on occasion break into a laugh. But then your sudden anger changes all the rules— the pieces of the puzzle that don’t fit But if I were to tell you how I really feel, I don’t think you could take it-- I know you couldn’t take it… I tried shouting in your ear, you never heard a word I don’t believe you can hear: your din is deafening. I don’t think I can see you, my vision has been blurred A consequence of listening to a different drummer. Solidly on the beat and in perfect tune, our rhythm would be unmatched by none When we were both in sync, uncanny it seemed to portend even bigger things to come. When there upon your snare drum a thunderous single crack-- wondering when the next one’s gonna hit But if I were to tell you how I really feel, I don’t think you could take it-- I know you couldn’t take it… I tried shouting in your ear, you never heard a word I don’t believe you can hear: your din is deafening. I don’t think I can see you, my vision has been blurred A consequence of listening to a different drummer-- Marching to the precipice…don’t look down, mm-mm-mm… We travel to a different drum, but is it the same one? Different drummer. I tried shouting in your ear, you never heard a word I don’t believe you can hear: your din is deafening. I don’t think I can see you, my vision has been blurred A consequence of listening to a different drummer-- Marching to the precipice--don’t look down, mm-mm-mm We travel to a different drum, is it the same one? Different drummer. Different drummer, marching to the precipice… Don’t look down, mm—mm--mm. Different drummer, if I fall down to my knees, Are you around? Nn—nn—nn. Different drummer, feel my heartbeat… I came that summer to beat the heat We travel to a different drum… Different drummer, feel my heartbeat… I came that summer to beat defeat We travel to a different drum, but is it the same one? Different drummer.
7.
Automaton 06:21
I always do my best at whatever I choose With self expression met I know I cannot lose. I’m not an automaton...an automaton... But forces have appeared that try to stunt that need Sadly, in the process it can control that seed. You’re not an automaton...an automaton... One preconceived notion can irreparably harm You sleep to their echoes; you wake to their alarm. You’re not their automaton...their automaton... Already pushed to the limit The needle nested in the red Not one speck of truth ever in it Fabricated in their heads Fabricated in their heads Unfeeling men of flesh create men of machine Their bottom line is at the expense of your dream. You’re not their automaton...their automaton... Each time they say I can’t I counter that I can For what is or isn’t does not change who I am. I’m not their automaton...their automaton... Already pushed to the limit Racing towards glacier’s edge Not one speck of truth ever in it Fabricated in their heads Fabricated in their heads They’re telling me I will when I know that I won’t They’re telling me I’ll do the things I know I don’t I’m not their automaton...automaton...automaton...automaton... They say that I shouldn’t when I know that I should They say you wouldn’t dare but oh hell yes, I would I’m not their automaton...automaton...automaton...automaton... Automaton!
8.
A Natural 04:46
In picking strings of lore and getting down a score I take for granted all you have done. The words cannot be wrong or get lost in the song That you’re a natural, forever the one. The wind that characterizes the evening The light that crystallizes the clouds Natural, your vision sends me reeling Natural, flow of the chords from my guitar-- Should say it all, but then I’d be at fault And take for granted all you have done. When I sing about my cries You see right through my disguise We’re a natural if there ever was one. The warmth that emanates from the sunshine The light that’s crystallized through the clouds Natural, your vision sends me reeling Natural, flow of the chords from my guitar. Let me drive this home, you’re never all alone Don’t take for granted all we have done. And together we won’t bend We’re glued right through the end You’re a natural, forever the one. Like the warmth that emanates from the sunshine Like the light that crystallizes the clouds Natural, your vision sends me reeling--Natural… Natural, your vision sends me reeling Natural, flow of the chords my guitar.
9.
On a frozen hill, a wintry gray Where the weather never tends to see my way There’s a house that bears an empty green Where I lost my lover shouting in a dream It seems she didn’t understand That some things stay accordingly as planned Though the days of calm would come, I said Apparently I’d sometimes be misled On a frozen hill, a wintry gray I wondered if you’d ever pass my way In that house that bears an empty green Lives the saddest looking man you’d ever seen I spoke about the Evergreens, and all that they had done How they helped my dying dreams to flower Let me pull the reigns, slow down the pace—I can’t always run I know a bit about light, love, and power On a frozen hill, a wintry gray Where the weather never tends to see my way There’s a house that bears an empty green Where I lost my lover shouting in a dream I spoke about the Evergreens, all that they had done How they helped my dying dreams to flower And the days of calm have come at last to warm my certain smiles Those feelings all the while... So now I walk a different path, my shoes no longer shine And I don’t care if I never use a razor And should you look down through your weary years And ask, have they been kind? What’s your state of mind? What’s your state of mind? What’s your state of mind? What’s your state of mind!
10.
Triad 04:28
As long as I remember a radio was on When came the right melody I flew, and I was gone. It was nothing conscious when I was still too young, but— Musically I came of age Flames were fanned, the fires raged… I heard John Lennon singing--that voice had touched my soul And then on some visceral plane that note became my goal. It’s not always smooth sailing Through rising waves of doubt They’ll tell you don’t rock the boat Or they’ll seize the chance to gloat They hope you’ll sink instead of float Triad, melt this ice away Triad, because you’re here to stay. Should I take the next step? It could bring me some pain I’ve seen too many have to play their fiddles in the rain. And while I’m hesitating, a Byrd sings in my ear: “Do your thing, do it now And don’t stop to question how You’ll make it to your final bow” Triad, ease my fears away Triad, because you’re here to stay. I never thought that I’d foresee confidence empower me But now I find that I can love all equally and the same. Triad, you are now my choice Hear the sound carry my voice: I won’t throw away the years Where music moving to my ears Helped one youth through his primal fears Triad… Triad, Triad, do your best, don’t make it bad, melt this ice away. Triad, Triad, you’re the best I ever had; show you’re here to stay. As long as you remember your view and what it means You’ll never let the skeptical impose upon your dreams. For once your song is over, a new one’s just begun… Triad, ease my fears away Triad, because you’re here to stay Triad, melt this ice away Triad, show them that you’re here to stay (repeat) Triad, ease my fears away Triad, show them that you’re here to stay Triad, melt this ice away Triad!
11.
It's time to see there’s love to send And realize there'll always be a final friend With everything we asked for...as everything will be. By running hard and growing strong… Will I find I've been on the right course all along? A sign that says now leaving this state that you've been in... Don't be afraid, you've got it made, BECAUSE YOU WIN! It’s time to be the wiser man Achieving every glory that I know I can Then with your love we'll win this game Though at the finish line we may not be the same. I'm telling you we're breaking this stalemate we've been in Don't be afraid, you've got it made, BECAUSE— YOU WIN all that you wanted YOU WIN all that you need DON'T LOSE sight of your essence DON'T LOSE what you believe YOU WIN each time you're honest And every time you care DON'T LOSE your true perspective DON'T LOSE because you dare--TO WIN! It’s time to see there’s love to send And realize it's always you—final friend. It’s time to be the wiser man Achieving every glory that I know I can... With everything we asked for--as everything will be. Combining strength and knowledge--now everyone will see. That we at last have broken that stalemate we've been in. Don't be afraid... You've got it made— BECAUSE YOU WIN!
12.
I trusted you completely I gave you all and you took took took You had me tied up neatly… Did you understand that is not who I am? To give up my own time freely. The nights we spent were the best we had You let me down easily… But I hold the plan in the palm of my hand I will emerge triumphant I will emerge triumphant I came when you would holler The trust I held has but turned to dust You had me by my collar… Did you understand that is not who I am? But I hold the plan in the palm of my hand I will emerge triumphant Rising above all the clouds that set the rain I will emerge triumphant The floodgates are now wide open But there is one thing that you really ought to know Although it’s a task just coping-- I’ll persevere till my truth shines so clear Now in this darkest hour When things seem bleak and incomplete Deep within lies the power Now you’ll understand who it is that I am And I hold the plan in the palm of my hand And I will emerge triumphant Rising above all the clouds that set the rain I will emerge triumphant I’ll persevere… Hear this loud and clear… I will emerge TRIUMPHANT! I will emerge triumphant… I will emerge triumphant. I will emerge triumphant. Rising above all the clouds that set the rain

about

Mike Tiano is known for his bringing Yes into the Internet age. After helming one of the first online fanzines Notes From the Edge Mike created their official web site YesWorld, and for well over a decade was their web site manager.

Mike is also a musician and songwriter in his own right, now releasing “Creétisvan” which he characterizes as his life’s work and is informally calling the album his “audiobiography”. As he explains, “This album is culled from many of my best compositions, written throughout my adulthood. I’ve rarely performed these, and had only recently produced them.”

What is evident is Mike’s being inspired by the likes of the Beatles, Pink Floyd, Led Zeppelin, Rush, and of course Yes. “The tunes are in the vein of early progressive rock: lots of heart along with catchy melodies, recurring themes, sonic instrumental flights, shifting dynamics, and the kind of tuneful content which is sorely missing in today’s popular musical scene. Many who miss ‘classic’ rock in general will find much to enjoy here.”

Mike’s influences are apparent throughout the album, including the Zeppelin-esque “Automaton”; the Yes-like “Triad”; the Beatles-inspired “(Because) You Win”; the surprising Buffalo Springfield vibe of “A Natural”; and Mike’s prog influences in general on the epic “Emerge Triumphant”, which features a live orchestra.

Every track was written and arranged by Mike, who is lead vocalist and handles the lion’s share of the guitar work. While he also produced ten of the twelve tracks the remaining two were handled by Yes member Billy Sherwood on “Different Drummer” while the instrumental “Dance of the Little Guys” is the work of Randy George, bassist for the Neal Morse Band. Both musicians perform on those respective songs.

Other accomplished musicians gracing “Creétisvan” include David Sancious (Bruce Springsteen’s E Street Band, Jon Anderson’s album “Animation”); keyboard wizard and orchestrator Jonathan Sindelman (Keith Emerson Band, The Magic Band/Captain Beefheart); guitarist Steve McKnight (Cry Wolf, GayC/DC); keyboardist Rick Daugherty (the reformed Flash); vocalist Joanne Perica; and a host of notable Seattle-area talents.

credits

released March 12, 2021

Produced by Mike Tiano
“Dance of the Little Guys” Produced & mixed by Randy George
“Different Drummer” Produced by Billy Sherwood
All songs written & arranged by Mike Tiano
All recordings © 2021 Mike Tiano (All rights reserved) & published by BMI

Final mixing:

Creatio Studios - Kirkland, WA
Engineer: Steve Smith
“There Behind You” original mix by Mark Crouter

Recording & Initial Mixing:

The Batcave - Carnation, WA
Engineer: Mark Crouter

Wyze Acre - Kent, WA
Engineer: Craig Utterback

Secret Sound - Franklin, TN
Engineers: Chas Sandford, Cory Bell

CHS Studio - Kirkland, WA
Engineer: Marc Miller

Hall of Justice - Fremont, WA
Engineer: Mike Davis

Hazy Bay Music - Seattle, WA
Engineers: Paul Davis, Sean Dwyer

House of Breaking Glass/Cinema-Sonic - Shoreline, WA
Orchestra for “Emerge Triumphant”
Engineers: Phillip Peterson, Austin Zeufeldt
Coordination: Jonathan Sindelman, Marino Correia
Transcriptions/charts - Bret Smith

Creatio Studios - Kirkland, WA (Overdubs)
Engineer: Steve Smith

Sevilla Sound Services - Lake Arrowhead, CA (Initial Mixing)
Engineer: Nick Sevilla

This album is dedicated with all of my love to Cindy Tiano, my constant companion and final friend. Thanks so much for supporting me through this journey and encouraging me to complete it.

In loving memory of my parents, Mordo and Solika (Mark and Celia).

Extra Special Thanks:

I owe an additional debt of gratitude to the following individuals who were instrumental in helping to drive this project to completion.

Michael Byrd – For introducing me to Mark Crouter and encouraging me to be a great songwriter.

Mark Crouter – This project was only possible thanks to your time, talent, humor, and insight.

Rick Daugherty – I am honored to feature your talents and to have your enthusiastic support.

Paul Davis – Your excellent vocal and percussion contributions greatly elevated this project.

Randy George – Appreciate your generosity in sharing your vast knowledge about the creation and biz of music.

Steve Leathart (1954-2010) – You’re gone, but the world will now & forever know your unparalleled talents.

Steve McKnight – A wonderful friend and one of the most brilliant guitar players I have ever known.

Billy Sherwood – A class act—that says it all.

Jonathan Sindelman – Fellow musical adventurist and great insightful friend who I can’t thank enough.

Steve Smith – A monster talent who is fun to be with and who I’m proud to call a true friend

Fellow travelers & supporters not listed elsewhere:

Steve & Beth Altabef
Edgar Bullington
George Bullock
Melissa Byrd & Ken Music
Autumn Francesca
Todd Harrell & John Harrell – 3 Pigs BBQ, Bellevue, WA
Charlie Hiltzheimer (1952-2001)
Scott Holden
Jolene Kreling
Ethyn Nyhte
Scott Peters
John Shannon
Wayne Smith
Bill Stainton
Jason Sullivan
Robert Svilpa

My siblings and extended family:

Jerry Tiano & Debbie O’Donnell
Jenna Tiano Medina, James Medina, Mason & Damon Medina
Josh Tiano
Dorothy Tiano Melvin
Al and Lisa Tiano
Brynn & Mia Tiano
Pam Tiano Scapa & Frank Scapa
Jason, Brandon, & Aaron Scapa

Additional Credits:

Cover art drawn by and © 2021 Mike Tiano (All Rights Reserved)
Photo: Chris Schanz, Art Photography - chrisschanz.smugmug.com
Cover design & arrangement - Thomas Ewerhard
Cover art coloring - Alex Z. Vogel @BadTaxonomy
Legal - Sarah El Ebiary, Esq. - Nwentlaw.com
“There Behind You” Sonic enhancements by Randy George
”Different Drummer” Chordal revisions by Marc Miller

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Mike Tiano Seattle, Washington

Amazon Reviews Rating: 4.6/5

Mike Tiano is known for his bringing Yes into the Internet age and is also a musician and songwriter in his own right, now releasing “Creétisvan” which he characterizes as his “audiobiography”

Every track was written and arranged by Mike, who is lead vocalist and handles the lion’s share of the guitar work.
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