From Adam J Weitzman Sent Fri, Oct 17th 1997, 15:45
From Adam J Weitzman Sent Fri, Oct 17th 1997, 15:45
Why do I like Orbital?
Because they're one of the few electronic artists who are strong enough
to imbue their music with emotional content. From "Belfast" to
"Halcyon" to "Are We Here?" to "The Box," it has always sounded to me
like they poured their state of mind into the beats, which are clever
and interesting enough by themselves oftentimes, but really kick when
set against the melodies.
There is a legitimate contrast between Orbital and, say, AFX. Orbital's
music is often (though not always) not as complex, and they don't really
"mess around" as much, not really taking as many chances. But despite
this, I believe they have something AFX doesn't have. We all know AFX's
purported attitude towards his music, and frankly, it shows, brilliant
though it is. But there is somthing to be said for the "soul" of a
piece of music, and Orbital has it in spades.
Often there is an association made between "emotion" and "pop," as
though it cheapens the material if there is any attempt behind it to
evoke a feeling. I don't feel that way personally. I also don't feel
that the tools Orbital uses to produce their tracks are "pop"-based, nor
generally are the results. They experiment enough to keep the music
interesting, and it's not like any of it would fit in on your local
hit-radio station, though it may be comparatively "simpler" than your
typical Autechre track. It may not be as interesting technically, but
it can be more involving on a personal level as you interact with the
music, and to me, that's not a bad thing at all.
Orbital compose music of vast energy and scope, and I respect them a
lot.
-- Adam J Weitzman -- Individual, Inc. -- http://www.individual.com --
"We need your fax number in order to respect your wishes not to
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