Music Album Review

FE-2: Music Album Review (evaluation of)

DUE: Monday, Feb. 14, 2016 11:59p.m

Essay Requirements:

· MLA style format (proper heading, 12-point font, double-spaced, in Arial, Calibri, or New Times Roman); approximately 400-450 words.

· Synthesize into your essay at least two (2) quotes/excerpts from the album review. Remember to “sandwich” the quotes in the text of your essay and to properly cite your source(s).

Instructions:

· Using the link http://pitchfork.com/reviews/albums/ (or Google “Pitchfork Album Reviews”), search for an album that appeals to you (these are recent releases).

· Click on the album image and read the review. .

· Then, listen to MP3 sound clips of the songs on the album.

· As you’re reading and listening, consider the following aspects:

1. Who is the reviewer and when was this review published on the web? Note also the date the album was released.

2. What is the reviewer’s opinion of the album? What is the reviewer’s attitude toward the band/artist concerning their new music? Does the reviewer seem enthusiastic about the album—or blasé and perhaps even overly-critical of the new release?

3. How does the reviewer describe the album? What likes/dislikes does the reviewer express concerning the album? Is the reviewer objective (i.e., considers all aspects, both negative and positive) or subjective (i.e., potentially biased, slanted)?

4. Does the reviewer’s description of the album persuade you to purchase the tracks?

5. What descriptive language (adjectives, imagery, metaphor, simile) does the reviewer use to communicate the vibe or essence of the music? Does the reviewer’s language accurately describe the music; help you “hear” the music, even before you listen to the tracks?

6. What other interesting details in the review leap out at you? For example, does the reviewer compare the artist’s “sound” to any other groups or musicians, past or present?

7. What do you think? Do you agree with the reviewer’s appraisal of the album? Be sure to explain your answer and give specific examples to support your assertions.

8. What do you think about the cover art featured on the album? Is it attractive; eye-catching? If so, how and why? What words/images are prominent in the artwork? Why did the band/artist select these images? What is the significance of these words/images in terms of meaning and aesthetic appeal? Do these images reflect the nature of the music and/or the band/artist?