Numerous studies reveal the correlation between music and brain function. Researchers continually learn how various types of music enhance cognitive abilities that enable listeners to learn better. In addition, music helps the brain form, retain and recall memory. A recently performed study indicates that listening to music also has the ability to inspire creativity and increase innovative thinking. When desiring to encourage the flow of creative juices, consider the playlists of some current popular music makers.
“So Will Be Now”-John Talabot
The track comes from the Brazilian artist’s 2012 album entitled “Æ’in.” The multi-layered tune features a repetitive vibrant house beat and indiscernible vocalizations. Intermittently, other vocals make an appearance along with a variety of instrumentation. The DJ derives inspiration for electronic music from Africa, Asia, Brazil, and other world countries.
“Perpetuum Mobile”-Penguin Cafe Orchestra
A collective of musicians formed The Penguin Cafe Orchestra in the 1970s. The largely instrumental pieces created by the group demonstrate a wide variety of influences that include classical, folk, and minimalistic. The tracts also feature recognizable flavors derived from African, South American, and other world cultures. “Perpetuum Mobile” boasts a basic repeating melody. However, a wide range of instruments creates various harmonic and textural alterations that build along the way.
“Shadow Journal”-Max Richter
The hauntingly beautiful track exhibits Richter’s classical music influence, which features modernization through the instruments and sounds ingeniously situated throughout the eight-minute tune. An echoing bass line becomes accompanied by a brief poetic reading followed by a typewriter. A stark violin solo chimes and quickly grabs the listener’s attention. As “Shadow Journal” progresses, the melody welcomes accompaniment by a harp, a viola, a harpsichord, and electronic enhancements. The tune is idyllic for solemn contemplation.
“We Could Forever”-Bonobo
The tune first appeared on the 2010 “Black Sands” created and produced by the multi-talented musician, DJ, and producer Simon Green, who is more often referred to as Bonobo. The track has an upbeat throughout, which is accompanied by an almost island-like jazz rhythm created by a flute and guitar duo intermingled with occasional electronic whistling sound effects. Various other instruments make an appearance here and there to enhance and progress the underlying base theme. “We Could Forever” exudes an overall celebratory mood.