All too often we read music reviews that tell us what to think.
Before we even listen to an album, we’re given the results of a rating system, think Pitchfork’s zero-through-10 judging scale or RollingStone’s five-star rating system, that all but dictate how we take in the music.
Whether the rating is too low, too high or we agree with it, we’ll be conscious of it when we listen until there’s no separation between this arbitrary marker and the instruments themselves.
Let’s face it. Review metrics are the loud drunk guy at the concert, and it’s time we told him to sit the fuck down and stop requesting “Sandstorm.”
Our intent with Both Sides of the Coin is to present the album review in a less dictatorial fashion by giving Thought Pollution reviewers a chance to take opposing stances on an album.
By posting both a positive and negative review, we aim to allow you to listen to an album and assess which side you agree with.
We’ll tell you what we think at the end though, so don’t skip ahead if you want to play along.
Which is better ‘Heads’ or ‘Tails’?
Albums that are given a ‘Heads’ distinction have received a positive review. ‘Tails’ indicates that the author sided with his negative opinions on the album (duh).
Can an album review be split?
Can a coin land on its side? It’s possible. We’ll have to wait and see.
How can I weigh in?
If you’ve read one of our Both Sides of the Coin reviews and listened to the album, take a second to reply to our post with your opinion. Even if it’s just a ‘Heads’ or ‘Tails’ to voice your preference, we want our readers to add to the pollution.