Computer Program
"Your brother bought you a recording program?" or some such question was asked. The implications of said purchase weren't immediately clear, but the young men plowed ahead nonetheless.
With the introduction of the computer-recording program Cakewalk
to the band, things changed. No longer were the guys concerned about tape and where exactly they were along the tape continuum; the tape no longer existed. Beyond removing tape from the equation and its limitations (only four tracks), the program made possible the visible element of recording. For the visual thinkers of the band, now named Rock 'n' Roll Band, the tracks were laid out nicely and one was able to label them, giving them distinct colors.
Mixing took place on the computer through the program, rather than on the four-track through the computer. Of course, a mixer was still necessary for inputting the sound directly into the computer.
Also, the program made possible the creation and the utilization of loops. No longer did an entire rhythm part or parts need to be recorded all at once; more and more isolated parts were enabled to create the whole. At the same time that elements were easily added, subpar takes or ideas were just as easily discarded. Precision was not at a premium; spontaneity was gone; and they never recorded more songs than ever before. On the verge of an extended hiatus, this depth of songs would have to tide the three over.