Lyrics Without the Words

I’ve been listening to a lot of instrumental music recently. I’ve never been one to analyse lyrics that much, maybe it’s the drummer in me, but I consistently gravitate to instrumental parts. I love songs like the Verve’s “Bittersweet Symphony” and Isaac Hayes’ version of “Walk on By,” for their string parts. Weezer’s song “Only in Dreams” is arguably their best because of its impressive instrumental part. Lyrics don’t really matter that much to me. Consequently, bands like Mogwai, This Will Destroy You, Air and Sigur Ros are currently dominating my I-pod. All these bands write anthemic songs with intricate melodic and harmonic textures. So here’s a brief list of some awesome instrumental songs that I recommend.

Recommended Track List (in no particular order)

1- Radian – Air
• This is an amazing song divided into 3 parts. The middle and last parts are outstanding. Can anyone argue with a harp and melodic flute line that replaces lead vocals? Didn’t think so.

2- La Femme D’Argent – Air
• Popular music seldom emphasizes bass lines. This song features a simple and stylish bass line that makes the song.

3- Nothing Is Good Enough – Aimee Mann
• I really don’t know if there’s anything special about this song, except it’s from one of my favourite movies.

4- Green Onions – Booker T & the MG’s
• This is the gritty song of the bunch. Put this on your Ipod and try and walk down the street without a swagger. Just try.

5- Burn Out – The Cinematic Orchestra
• Look at Radian. The last section tension chord on the organ pushes the song in great ways.

6- Water No Get Enemy - Fela Kuti
• Yes, this song has lyrics that are powerful, but do they hold anything on the instrumentation? No. The horns and keys are so dirty and edgy, that they are in fact perfect.

7- Digital Vibrations- Jamiroquai
• Stuart Zender at his best. When a song features a bass and didgeridoo its unique. When it grooves like this, its special. Jamiroquai was never the same after Zender left.

8- Hunted By A Freak – Mogwai
• I don’t know how to describe this song, but I like it and the BBC is involved, so it’s on the list.

9- Auto Rock – Mogwai
• The best thing to come from the Miami Vice film was the Mogwai soundtrack. This was the featured song. It has all the elements that I look for.

10- Friend of the Night – Mogwai
• This is one of my favourite songs. Strong drum part with a beautiful piano melody. However, this song’s subtle guitar lines are what make it standout. This has to be listened to at 10!

Here's the video:



11- Marwa Blues – George Harrison
• Nice mellow song with Harrison’s signature slide.

12- In 3’s - Beastie Boys
• Awesome groove to this song. I love all the Beastie Boys’ instrumental songs.

13- Untitled 4 or Njosnavelin – Sigur Ros
• I know there are lyrics in this song, but just listen to the instruments. Simple and nothing flashy. It’s quite possibly my favourite song.

Here's the live version:



14- Festival – Sigur Ros
• Any song that uses variant dynamics and tension builds is amazing. This song might be the best of that bunch.

15- I Believe In Your Victory – This Will Destroy You
• This song goes in several different directions. The middle part’s build with the drum theme is amazing.

16- The Is Our ----_______ - This Will Destroy
• Drums and guitars dominate this song. The melody makes you keep your chin up.

17- The Great Gig In the Sky – Pink Floyd
• No lyrics, but you know exactly what message the song is trying to convey. Watch with the Wizard of Oz!