So much of what we consider popular music follows a formula. Not just in style of performance, recording practices, and image, but in structure. To simply explain this idea, time signature (the rhythmic foundation of a piece of music) is often 4/4 in conventional pop music (4 beats in a measure, divided by quarter notes) or occasionally, 3/4. Think of the stereotypical rock count off: "ONE... TWO... ONE TWO THREE FOUR!" But when composers and songwriters begin to diverge from this norm, much more interesting music often emerges. It makes you think twice about how to tap your foot or sing along, and it sticks out in a sea of straight-ahead song form. There are a number of groups (prog, math rock) that make a living out of (perhaps over-) exploiting this idea. Dream Theater, Nine Inch Nails. With a few exceptions, I tried to avoid that with this mix and instead showcase some artists who are not typically known for going out of time. Enjoy.
1. "You and I Are a Gang of Losers" - The Dears
2. "Come On! Feel the Illinoise!" - Sufjan Steves
3. "First Circle" - Curnow Big Band
4. "Blue Rondo a la Turk" - Dave Brubeck (the quintessential odd meter jazz piece)
5. "Let the Rain" - Sara Bareilles (listen to the chorus)
6. "Everything in Its Right Place" - Radiohead
7. "Bastard" - Ben Folds (alternates amongst several time signatures)
8. "Hey Ya!" - Andre 3000 (Outkast)
9. "I Say a Little Prayer" - Aretha Franklin
10. "Kiss from a Rose" - Seal
11. "WTF?" - OK Go
12. "There Goes My Outfit" - The Dears
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