Music gets the best of me

There are many reasons for putting on a good tune and cranking up the bass. You're feeling low, you're feeling happy. It's sunny outside, it's tipping down with rain. You feel the urge to dance, you need to lie down. The house is too quiet, next door's is too loud. Whatever the reason is, there aren't many things which can top a pair of speakers or headphones playing the sound of music. 

There is probably some scientific or psychological basis for the benefits of music, detailing why this art form is so prominent within out culture, economy and media. In layman's terms however, the cause of this is simply that we all love it. We can't get enough of it. We crave it day in, day out. I am currently sitting at my desk listening to Industry by Jon McLaughlin and having the sudden realisation... the amount of music at this moment in time transcending across space from radio/computer/CD player/ipod to ear is phenomenal! Hurts my little brain just thinking about it. And if all of those tunes combined, now that would be one mighty clash! 

Each piece of music, I firmly believe, has a clincher moment. Now this may be an alien concept to some music lovers so I shall elaborate. Whether it's as evident as the bass line or the chorus, or as missable as a chord change or the adding of a violin in the bridge, each and every song has a moment which hooks you in as the listener. You may not notice the point at which you decided you liked the piece, but it was that element which encapsulated you just the same. And it is worth noting that one song can contain more than one clincher moment, or be different to each person. You may even discover a new one each time that you listen.    

Burgundy Shoes by  Patty Griffin

If the title wasn't beautiful enough to entice you on its own, the piece certainly does the job. Clincher moments: The chorus - exquisite over layering of drums, piano, vocals and harmony, each with their own rhythm. The instrumental - leads the listener from simple ballad to intriguing and moving piece. Perfect Second: 1.53.

Get on the Floor from FAME (2009 film)

Has the unfortunate essence of a 'film piece' but still contains those little moments of genius. Clincher moments: Rapping - underpinned by brass line, amazing rhythm. Instrumental - always love the use of the electric piano! Chorus: The bass rhythm will push anyone to get on the floor. Perfect Second: 0.33. 

Thank Goodness from WiCKED

Now, it took me a while to warm to this song; It wasn't until I discovered the music beyond the first 4 minutes! Clincher moments: The constant change of rhythm within phrases. Building up and down. The over layering of lead vocal (simple and sustained) and chorus members (staccato and fast). Ending - generally makes me smile! Perfect Second: 4.41.     

Kings and Queens by 30 Seconds to Mars

My love of this song has recently grown even more, if that were possible, since the excellent use of it within a film trailer. Clincher moments: The lead's vocal quality. The intro - simple and quiet, then explodes! A perfect marriage of vocals, guitar and drums. Contrast - the verses sustain, the chorus satisfies. The bridge - completely drops back, once again allowing the chorus to bring about its intended effect. Perfect Second: 4.17. 

Whether music gives you the urge to stand, arms outstretched, on a cliff face with the wind blowing in your hair, or to pretend you're on the catwalk as you strut down the aisles doing your weekly shop... play it loud and play it proud! 

Song of the Week: Like the Sun by RyanDan (Perfect Second: 3.08)