I say this because the bulk of Dubstep i will dare to say, does not feel musical (runs for cover
), although i like some Kode9 and more rich dubstep..enough to drop in a mix..its in the manner i like to drop in drum and bass, hardstyle and autechre..the effects and dynamics can be brilliant...but i couldn't go have it on all the time.Would i be right in saying that what the dubstep offers thats new is (when done properly) use the new technology in woofer volume, digital dynamics and computer control of low frequency oscillation to tap into areas of brain function that music could not previously (aside from some pipes on church organs) ?
I say that because most brain emotions and sensory function operate in the frequency range of 8-300hz. With the bulk under 100hz. dubstep is the only music thats modulating frequencies in this range (especially with double drops) enough to interfere with brain function at high volume. Drum and bass stared to touch on it, but mostly it didnt get into low frequency modulation. Techno of course reaches there...but again just pounds repetition rather than modulates low frequency. Car audio system builders will describe all kinds of interesting physiological and mind effects in the 12-100hz range at high volume. Obviously if a style of music emerges which can play around with these its onto something novel.
Do you think dubsteps appeal is the low frequency effect which really has to be heard at over 120db...is a mind control effect ...rather than an uplifting composition ?
Even if not uplifting, that a listener should seek mind control is in itself not a criticism, more an observation. There are plenty of times in musical history when music was not designed to be uplifting emotionally, but served a political purpose (marches, anthems, drumming etc). The population which sought this music, was priming itself for war.The fact is we are now having to live in a time where another 9/11 type incident could set of a cascade of serious WW3 type global events. In these kind of times people under such pressure sought whatever the contemporary form of mind control was to enhance our hierarchical thinking to maintain safety and power in numbers (as pointed out in Kode9's book)...that in itself could be considered uplifting (an escape from the anxiety of threat).
BTW..the above idea came as a dubstep producer was interested in remixing a pretty heavy tek trak i had made about the current war climate. Personally I was surprised as i rated it as one of the least musical tracks i ever made. It was uploaded purely for a local tekclub doing a theme night on war.
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