Listening: Style 1

Monday 14th January

Q1.  In the first song, describe the melody (especially saying what notes it uses - feel free to use a keyboard to help you with this).

The melody in the first song alternates between the root note and the perfect 4th at the beginning of the song and the verses.

Q2. For each song, name the style/genre of the song and list three things (musical and/or sonic) that support your assertion.

The first songs genre is Reggae because the guitars are using the skank technique on the 2nd and the 4th beat, the bass guitar is playing the main melody and the there is syncopation

The second songs genre is Reggae, it almost sounds the same as the first song apart for the fact that there are different effects used in the that version. 

Listening: Style 3



Monday 21th January

Q1.  Give an account of the vocals in this track. Things to consider: effects, timing, style, articulation/phrasing, improvisation etc.

The vocals in the track have a unique feel to it, Amy Winehouse isn't exactly singing in time, she may start singing just before the beat or just after, this gives it a relaxed feel to it. Another effect she has in the track on her voice are the improvised sound effects she adds, e.g. do's, be's, boo's.

Q2.  Compare this track with the other version above. Does the track feel different? If so, why?

In the original version, The tempo is a lot slower than Amy Winehouse's version, also this version is more guitar based and has a more latin feel to it.

One of the most obvious differences is the fact that the original is in a different language.

Whereas, Amy Winehouse's version has drums, bass and Amy has added improvised vocals.

Also in Amy Winehouse's version, it sounds like the bass and drums are carrying the melody on their own.

Listening: Style 5

Monday 28th January

Q1. Give as clear as possible an account of all the different sounds and instruments in the first 3 minutes and 35 seconds. You probably won't know exactly how each sound is made but you should be able to make an educated guess whether something is sampled, synthesized or actually recorded in.

Answer: Drum Machine, Sampled Bass, Synth, Electric Guitar, Sampled Choir Vocals, Recorded Vocals, Various Sampled Sounds

Q2. What is this song about? How do the electronic instruments / sounds help to create the mood?
Answer: The song talks about how someone is feeling