An estimated 92% of us experience earworms. Despite the annoying times we can’t get a chorus or a hook of an overplayed pop song out of our heads, getting a really good earworm stuck can be one of the best things, ever. We here at Nerdist are dead set on bringing you those types of songs—even if only for the weekend. So shove this into your grey matter!
Alright, full disclosure. This week’s songs have been legitimately stuck in my head, but roughly about 100% of the real reason for sharing them was the fact that I could make the image for the article that beautiful man turtle. It’s my new favorite picture in all of the world and I really need someone to needlepoint it onto the back of a jacket for me so I can have it forever. People will think I’m in the very weirdest of gangs.
Strangely, that picture isn’t the only amazing visual in today’s fist song:
The Avalanches – “Frontier Psychiatrist”
Released in 2000, this song by Australian electronic group The Avalanches is a collection of samples from old recordings mashed together in an oddly catchy tune. The video itself is beyond insane having each sample acted out in some way in almost literal terms. Why have just a ghostly sounding chorus of backing vocals when you can have it performed by a chorus of people dressed as ghosts? The video is strange and beyond creepy but remains absolutely mesmerizing. Plus, it gave me turtle man to love forever.
The Avalanches –Â “Since I Left You”
Their video for “Since I Left You” off the same album doesn’t reach the same strange levels as the previous tune, but still manages to provide some weird delight. It follows two miners who find themselves digging beneath a dance studio where one realizes his true calling is performing. I would argue that the song is catchier, but there are points deducted for lack of a turtle man.
For whatever reason, hearing anything electronic along these lines makes me always want to listen to…
Ratatat – “Loud Pipes”
This song by Brooklyn-based electronic rock duo Ratatat is, in my opinion, a shining example of what an earworm can be. There are no vocals, and the song rarely deviates from the steady repetition. The song drills its way into your brain and finds a nice place to stay. Other songs by Ratatat like “Lex,” “Cream On Chrome,” and “Abrasive” are equally as catchy and I find them ideal for background music at parties or, better yet, while exercising. Who wouldn’t do well at the gym with upbeat video game-esque rock music pumped into their ears?
I’d love to hear what songs these lead you to listen to. Share your favorite similar ones in the comments below!
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Image: The Avalanches
Blake Rodgers writes for Nerdist from Chicago, IL where he lives happily with his Guinness World Record for High Fives. Be his pal by following him on Twitter (@TheBlakeRodgers)
