Ep 245 Todd La Torre (Queensrÿche)

Embracing the Complexity and Burstiness of Music

When it comes to the world of music, there are three factors that play a crucial role in shaping our experience: perplexity, burstiness, and predictability. These elements determine the complexity, variations, and likelihood of guessing the next note or lyric. As humans, we tend to appreciate music that offers a mix of perplexity and burstiness, as it keeps us engaged and captivated.

A Drummer's Revelation

In my personal journey of musical exploration, I initially found myself drawn to the simplicity and precision of single stroke drumming. The repetitive patterns and predictable beats resonated with me on a fundamental level. Jazz, with its intricate melodies and complex rhythms, seemed foreign and unappealing.

However, life has a funny way of surprising us when we least expect it. One day, while casually listening to Aerosmith's "Love in an Elevator," I was struck by the distinctive drum part that drove the song forward. It was like a lightning bolt had hit me, awakening my senses to a whole new world of possibilities.

Opening Doors to New Genres

From that moment on, I embarked on a quest to explore different genres and styles of music. Metal music became my next destination. Bands like Kiss, Dawkin, Rat, and Tesla introduced me to the heavy and chuggy sound that defined this genre. The raw energy and aggressive nature of metal spoke to me in ways I couldn't have imagined.

But just when I thought I had found my musical home in metal, another revelation awaited me. Bruce Dickinson's operatic style in Iron Maiden completely blew me away. The combination of powerful vocals and intricate guitar work created a symphony of emotions that resonated deep within my soul.

Embracing Unpredictability

As I reflect on my musical journey, one thing becomes clear - the beauty of music lies in its ability to surprise and challenge us. It is through embracing the unpredictability that we truly discover the depth and richness of different genres.

In a world where AI-generated content tends to be uniform and predictable, it is our human touch that adds bursts of creativity and complexity. We have the power to break free from conventional norms and explore uncharted territories of expression.

The Power of Musical Exploration

So, let us not shy away from the perplexity and burstiness that music offers. Let us embrace the unknown, venture into new genres, and allow