Ongoing History of New Music: The Kings of Quirk

Episode Release Date: January 1, 2025
Host: Alan Cross
Podcast: Curiouscast

Introduction

In the episode titled "The Kings of Quirk," host Alan Cross delves into the realm of alternative rock, focusing on male vocalists renowned for their unconventional and distinctive voices. Cross explores how these unique vocal styles have influenced the evolution of alt-rock, highlighting the balance between technical imperfection and artistic expression.

The Art of Quirky Voices

Timestamp: [00:39]

Alan Cross begins by discussing the subjective nature of beauty in music, emphasizing that what one person finds unpleasant, another might consider expressive and full of character. He states:

“Beauty doesn't mean perfect. At least not in the technical sense. Sometimes imperfection makes something more beautiful, or at least more interesting.”
— Alan Cross ([00:39])

This sets the stage for exploring singers whose voices defy conventional standards but bring a unique emotional depth to their music.

Lou Reed and The Velvet Underground

Timestamp: [05:14] - [08:29]

Cross examines Lou Reed, highlighting his minimalist vocal style characterized by a monotone drawl and irregular timing. He poses a hypothetical scenario where Reed's style might not fare well in today’s mainstream platforms like American Idol due to their preference for more polished performances. Despite this, Reed's groundbreaking work with The Velvet Underground laid the foundation for alt-rock's experimental nature.

“Where would alt rock be today if it hadn't been for Lou Reed and the Velvet Underground? Would it even exist as we know it?”
— Alan Cross ([00:39])

Captain Beefheart is also discussed as a pivotal figure signed by A&M Records. His album Trout Mask Replica (1969) is lauded for its avant-garde approach, influencing artists who embraced the unconventional.

“If he could make a record, others thought, well, then, so could I. It's okay to experiment. It's okay to be different.”
— Alan Cross ([08:29])

Sparks and Per Ubu

Timestamp: [08:29] - [11:28]

The episode moves on to Sparks, led by Ron and Russell Mael. Known for their clever lyrics and eclectic musical styles ranging from glam rock to electronic dance, Sparks exemplify the embrace of quirkiness in male vocals.

“Russell Mael's voice is really something else. It’s very distinctive.”
— Alan Cross ([08:29])

Dave Thomas of Per Ubu is another example, with his high-pitched voice providing a contrast to his band's experimental sound. Their song “Waiting for Mary” is highlighted as a near-alternative radio hit, showcasing Thomas's unique vocal approach.

“Per Ubu never ascended above cult status, but they came close to having a genuine alternative radio hit.”
— Alan Cross ([10:58])

Klaus Nomi and Tom Waits

Timestamp: [11:28] - [15:45]

Klaus Nomi, a German artist with opera training, is celebrated for his otherworldly performances that fused opera, vaudeville, and new wave. His collaboration with David Bowie on Saturday Night Live is a testament to his influence.

“Klaus Nomi became a fixture on the New York underground scene and was embraced by artists such as Keith Haring and Jean-Michel Basquiat.”
— Alan Cross ([12:00])

Tom Waits is presented as another quintessential quirky vocalist. Initially signed by Asylum Records for his folky and jazzy style, Waits's voice evolved into a gruff, soulful timbre through deliberate self-experimentation.

“Tom's vocal stylings did change over the years. He began as gruff and soulful, but according to legend, he deliberately tortured his vocal cords with lots of whiskey and cigarettes to make him sound older and more world weary.”
— Alan Cross ([15:45])

Robert Smith and The Cure

Timestamp: [15:45] - [21:22]

Robert Smith of The Cure is highlighted for his dynamic vocal range and emotive delivery. Smith's ability to switch between high falsettos and low growls exemplifies the versatility of quirky male vocals in alt-rock.

“Robert Smith is a tenor who has experimented with several different styles of singing. He goes up for a D6 and down for a D3.”
— Alan Cross ([19:00])

The discussion includes Smith’s self-awareness regarding his non-traditional singing approach:

“In the early days, I never cared about giving a performance. I just worked myself up into the state of mind needed for the song.”
— Robert Smith (Quote)

David Byrne and Talking Heads

Timestamp: [21:22] - [24:53]

David Byrne of Talking Heads is portrayed as a pioneer of quirky male vocals with his hollow-eyed, frosty verve. His vocal style, described as more of a shouter or chanter, complements his avant-garde stage presence.

“Byrne has a withdrawn, disembodied, sci fi quality, and though there's something unknowable and almost autistic about him, he makes autism fun.”
— Alan Cross ([21:22])

Byrne’s influence on the new wave scene is acknowledged, showcasing how his unconventional vocals paved the way for other bands like Devo and The B-52s.

Leonard Cohen and Justin Hawkins

Timestamp: [24:53] - [26:08]

Leonard Cohen is included for his baritone voice that prioritizes emotional delivery over technical precision. Cross contemplates the disparity in how male and female unconventional vocalists are received in the industry.

“Leonard Cohen, very unusual voice, yet his songs transcend what he can do with them.”
— Alan Cross ([22:50])

Justin Hawkins of The Darkness is featured for his powerful vocal range and theatrical style. Despite initial skepticism, Hawkins’s head voice technique and impressive range have garnered both criticism and acclaim.

“Justin Hawkins... sings so that he feels the tone resonating in his head rather than in the throat or the chest.”
— Alan Cross ([24:53])

Conclusion

Timestamp: [25:59]

Alan Cross wraps up the episode by summarizing the ten "Kings of Quirk," emphasizing their roles in shaping alternative rock through their unique vocal styles. He encourages listeners to explore further information through his website and various social media platforms.

Key Takeaways

• Subjectivity in Music Appreciation: What is considered unconventional by some can be deeply expressive and influential to others.
• Influential Figures: Artists like Lou Reed, Tom Waits, and David Byrne exemplify how distinctive voices can drive musical innovation.
• Evolution of Alt-Rock: The willingness to embrace the unusual has been crucial in the development of alternative rock.
• Gender Dynamics: The episode underscores a disparity in the acceptance of unique vocal styles between male and female artists.
• Enduring Legacy: These quirky vocalists not only challenged norms but also inspired future generations to experiment and express individuality in music.

Notable Quotes

• Alan Cross:
  “Beauty doesn't mean perfect. At least not in the technical sense. Sometimes imperfection makes something more beautiful, or at least more interesting.”
  — [00:39]

• Alan Cross on Captain Beefheart:
  “If he could make a record, others thought, well, then, so could I. It's okay to experiment. It's okay to be different.”
  — [08:29]

• Robert Smith:
  “In the early days, I never cared about giving a performance. I just worked myself up into the state of mind needed for the song.”
  — [19:00]

Further Engagement

Listeners interested in exploring more about the "Kings of Quirk" can reach out to Alan Cross via email at alan@ancross.ca or visit his website ajournalofmusicalthings.com for extensive archives and a daily newsletter. Social media connections are also encouraged through platforms like Twitter, Facebook, Google, and Instagram.

Technical Production: Rob Johnston
Host: Alan Cross