Is International Strange Music Day a thing?
As an expert sommelier and brewer, I have always been fascinated by the power of music to evoke emotions, create connections, and transport us to different worlds. So, when I first heard about International Strange Music Day, I was immediately intrigued. The idea of dedicating a day to celebrate and explore the realm of strange and unconventional music seemed like a breath of fresh air in a world often dominated by mainstream hits and predictable melodies.
But is International Strange Music Day really a thing? The answer is a resounding yes. This unique day was started by Patrick Grant, a composer and musician, with the aim of encouraging people to step out of their musical comfort zones and embrace the weird and wonderful sounds that exist beyond the boundaries of popular culture. It is celebrated annually on August 24th, and has gained momentum and recognition over the years.
One of the most beautiful aspects of International Strange Music Day is the way it challenges our preconceived notions of what music should be. It reminds us that music is a vast and diverse art form, with endless possibilities for experimentation and innovation. It encourages us to explore genres and styles that may seem strange or unfamiliar at first, but can ultimately open up new sonic landscapes and expand our musical horizons.
Personally, I have always been drawn to music that pushes the boundaries and defies categorization. From avant-garde jazz to experimental electronic music, I have found immense joy and inspiration in the unconventional sounds that many would consider strange. These genres may not always be easy to digest, but they have the power to challenge our perceptions, spark our creativity, and take us on unexpected journeys.
On International Strange Music Day, I urge you to embrace the spirit of exploration and dive into the vast world of strange music. Here are a few suggestions to get you started:
1. Experimental Jazz: Explore the avant-garde works of artists like Sun Ra, John Zorn, or Ornette Coleman. Let their unconventional use of harmony, rhythm, and instrumentation transport you to new dimensions of sound.
2. Electronic Oddities: Dive into the world of experimental electronic music, where artists like Aphex Twin, Autechre, or Flying Lotus create intricate sonic landscapes that defy traditional structures and expectations.
3. World Fusion: Discover the beauty of cross-cultural collaborations and genre-blending in world fusion music. From the ethereal sounds of Niyaz to the fusion of Indian classical music and jazz in the music of Rudresh Mahanthappa, there is a wealth of strange and captivating music waiting to be explored.
4. Noise and Drone: If you're feeling adventurous, venture into the realms of noise and drone music. Artists like Merzbow or Earth can take you on mesmerizing sonic journeys that challenge our notions of melody and structure.
5. Found Sounds and Field Recordings: Open your ears to the world around you and explore the possibilities of found sounds and field recordings. Artists like Chris Watson or Francisco López capture the beauty and strangeness of everyday sounds, creating immersive sonic experiences that blur the line between music and reality.
Remember, International Strange Music Day is not about judging or categorizing music as strange or normal. It is about embracing the diversity and richness of musical expression and allowing ourselves to be surprised and inspired by the unconventional. So, on August 24th, let the strange music guide you on a sonic adventure and open your ears to new possibilities.