The Most Unwanted Song (part 1):
You can listen to The Most Wanted Song here.
I find this project very interesting since it really demonstrates the objectivity of music taste, and how much it is influenced by culture and exposure.
I have been trying to make this experiment on myself by listing elements I like and dislike in music, but with little results. I suppose that unless I am directed in pointing out specific elements, my lists really can mean anything. I bet no one could, only by looking at my lists, pinpoint my very favourite song (also because I have many favourite songs which aren't alike), or the song I despise the most (because there are many songs I dislike).
Anyway, here are my lists just for fun:
Like:
-low notes
-syncopated rythms
-songs close to being off-tune (using bemols and dieses in unexpected ways)
-sharp ending
-voice organically mixed up with instruments
Dislike:
-fade-outs
-"80s" saxophone
-misused drum machines (very objective, I know)
-long solos that add nothing to the song
-harp in pop ballads (and pop ballads in general)
Clearly, this doesn't lead anywhere. I'll just leave you with a few songs I enjoy, (which might or might not exemplify what this post is all about, oh dear):
(Thanks to Fashion Forestry for linking Daphne Oram and her work, remember Snow?)
What about you?
I would be very interested in seeing your like and dislike lists, and feel free to include links!
Definitely must say 'no' to '80s saxophone! And inane lyrics that don't know they're inane. On the pro side, I usually like a little sprinkling of harmonica.
ReplyDeleteha, I'd have to agree with this criticism: "80s" saxophone. ugh. Actually, anything that remotely signals the 80s generally turns me off in music, apart from Bowie and Kate Bush.
ReplyDeleteSarah: I agree with you for the inane lyrics, although I must admit I used to strongly dislike harmonica (the early Beatles and Bob Dylan converted me).
ReplyDeleteHila: Same for me, although I might add (some of) The Smiths and Joy Division to your list!