As I trudged on through piles of notes and rhythms, I developed certain traits and strategies that helped me method every album with the appropriate set of tools for their dissection—tools that helped me carry an eloquent, yet concise critique of a particular musical compilation. And, even though I am currently on an indefinite hiatus from the scenes of music journalism, I enjoy spreading wisdom about the workings of this brilliant medium. Therefore, following the publication of a brief guide on interviewing professional musicians see the link at the base of the page, I decided to also offer up some insights on how to put music into words when reviewing a record. So, pop that tape in and let’s have at it.
You may have already got a writing kind of your own and that’s great, but I’m not employing this point in order that people automatically recognize that gifted wordsmith who has written the review. No. After all, you mustn’t ever forget that it is in regards to the music, not you. Yes, your review should praise it, but it must not overshadow it. The reason I advise you to develop a distinctive reviewing style is since you’re going to be writing a lot of reviews if here’s indeed anything that you’re fond of and it’ll make it much easier to handle the quantity if you have already got a strategy in place—your modus operandi. This is a vital one.
An album review is a spot for objective opinions, not indoctrinated bias. Granted, when the music is up to your selection, you’re going to recommend its virtues at every cost. But, for those who’re writing for a ebook, your editor in chief will slip you information that you’re not fanatical about. Nonetheless, you’ll need to give them an analogous amount of attention as the others. Of course, if they’re bad, feel free to rip them a new one.
But, despite the displeasure they can cause in your eardrums, you need to stay professional, keep cool, and grit your teeth in the course of the manner. That’s what it’s all about. And, if you don’t like the genre, the message, or the ostentatious frontman, well, tough luck.