In a world where complicated riffs, over-the-top production values are at their highest peak, La Need Machine decided to take us back to the days of just pure rawness and grit in music. Join me as I discuss their newest track, ‘Rock and Roll Show,’ and understand why this is a great reminder to slow down and serve the song.
The track began with a palm-muted guitar technique that has been a staple move, specifically in the early 2010s. It has been in a lot of jaunty, indie rock tracks, creating its own identity, but what made it stand out in this track is that without it, it feels and sounds like it’s missing something. What I’m saying is, the palm muted technique created an identity in the track
The guitar riff in the intro works hand in hand with that straight pocket drum beat. Simplicity is and will always be key. One thing that I like about ‘Rock and Roll Show’ is its chorus. It’s short, repetitive, cheesy at times, but catchy as hell, and for me, that’s a great formula for leaving a lasting impression on songs.
The chorus hook is easy to remember and sing, and that checks all the boxes. It got elevated more because of the vocal harmonies. It’s subtle, but it hits that rock and roll vibe.
‘Rock and Roll Show’ is not the most technically complicated song that you’ll hear today, but if you want to enjoy a song in its entirety, then this is the track for you. As artists, we worry too much about technical mastery, over-the-top production value that we tend to forget to serve the song.
If I may quote the great, Rick Rubin, “I’m just trying to make my favorite music. That’s how I work; I just do things based on the way they feel to me. I want to be touched by the music I’m making.” And that should be where our mindset is. If we like it, regardless of how simple it is, then we release it and not worry about a thing.
Follow La Need Machine
About the Author
He has been in the music industry for two and a half decades. Currently, he plays bass guitar for a rock-reggae band called EnjointPh and a funk-fusion trio called Banky. He also hosts a podcast titled Usapang Musiko with Ervin Besana, which explores topics such as music, arts, and philosophy.
