Monday, July 15, 2013

What is "I Don't Know Music?"

Earlier this year, a friend of mine asked me to start listening to new albums sent to our college's radio station and reviewing.  I agreed because I was eager to discover more music (especially for free), and I wanted to learn to write entertaining, functional reviews.  I sat down to review Mudhoney's new album and immediately realized I had no idea how to talk about music. At least beyond nonsensically yelling about how awesome Saves the Day (or insert other band I love) is.

About two weeks later, I thought up this blog.  I decided that I'd write reviews and just ask people for feedback.  That's where the readers come in.  I'm going to ask you to tell me what you thought of the review.  If I review something from a genre I don't know particularly well, I'm going to have to research that genre.  At the end of my review I'll ask you what you know about the genre.  What albums are classics?  What albums are considered (almost) universally bad?  
Here's an example: I know nothing about metal-core.  I actually don't know a single band that fits into that genre.  It will require research to review that music. If I don't get it quite right, I need you to tell me.  So like that stranger at the supermarket that offered me candy when I was seven, I am luring you in with the promise of sweets and fun*.  Let’s have an adventure. 

*He did not promise me more candy or any fun, but he did offer me some suspiciously wrapped tootsie rolls.