"Fence The Clear" Reissue Liner Notes
written by Chris Herin, 2004

“Fence The Clear" was our reaction to the lengthy process that occurred while making our debut CD: recording while putting together a band. "Tiles" was a studio project whereas "FtC" is from a band that played live for two years. The songs that made it onto the disc were “auditioned” in front of live audiences – with changes made if something didn’t feel right. During this period the group consensus was to be more musically adventurous and to create arrangements that reflected our instrumentation – to achieve a "live" atmosphere with minimal overdubs. This philosophy resulted in sparse arrangements with only a few guitar and keyboard overdubs to provide textural support.

The lyrics revolve around themes of effort and futility – how various human traits, character flaws, environments, or social issues impact the outcome of our efforts. Twisting the phrase ‘Clear the Fence,’ which alludes to success (e.g., the horse cleared the fence) into ‘Fence the Clear’ seemed like an interesting play on words that also implies an action of questionable result. Our initial thought was to create an image of barbed wire fence enclosing a large open field, but the fencing theme offered more depth – with the artwork depicting a fencer engaging an invisible opponent – or even battling himself. Symbolizing that the possibility always exists when effort may end in futility. The fencer is, on the surface, wasting his energy on nothing. The concept has negative connotations but is meant to illustrate that acknowledging life’s lack of guarantees and the role we all play in the success of our own lives are part of a healthy perspective.

After recording was finished, we pondered the option of using a different mixing engineer for a fresh musical perspective. We liked the mix on “tiles,” it was crisp, clear, and punchy; but the music on “FtC” was deeper and heavier, so the thought of bringing in someone known for mixing progressive hard rock made sense. We contacted Terry Brown, renowned for his work with Rush, Max Webster, Fates Warning, and many others – and he agreed to listen to the rough mixes. Terry called back several days later accepting the project. Aside from a few comments on guitar textures we gave Terry complete artistic freedom. He infused everything with a depth and sense of motion that brought the songs to life. The CD sounds organic and true to our original intent of achieving a “live” atmosphere.

The completion of "Fence the Clear" brought change in October 1996. It was difficult to see a drummer of Mark’s caliber leave – especially after years of close friendship and camaraderie. His replacement, Pat DeLeon, was widely known throughout Detroit as one of the city’s premier drummers. With impeccable progressive rock credentials he transitioned seamlessly into the band and we began promoting “FtC” with live shows.

Most of the bonus tracks included in this Special Edition are unfinished demos from the “FtC” sessions. “No Failure” and “Ballad of the Sacred Cows” were mixed by Terry and intended for the CD, but we felt the arrangements weren’t quite finished and held the songs back. “Splinters of Truth” was held off the official release only because we didn’t need another short guitar interlude. “Opportunity” comes from the same batch of pre-Tiles demos as the bonus tracks included on the Special Edition of “tiles.” The guitars and drums are from the original tapes while Paul’s vocals were recorded in 1993 for his audition. Jeff recorded a new bass track in January 2004 with Terry Brown, who then salvaged the aging signals and mixed the song as we wrapped up the “Window Dressing” sessions.

Chris Herin, January 10, 2004
Detroit, MI