"Zaireeka"...

“Track number 1…track number one…track number one…track number one.” “This is CD number 1…number 2…number 3…and number 4.” Each of the four CD players placed strategically on each of the four sides of the room takes a turn in introducing the first song of our experiment. The drums and symbols begin the song with a catchy, upbeat tempo as sound beings to fill the room. The vocals enter and I hear a male voice sing the lyrics “Go On” from the CD player on my left. I hear the entrance of the guitar’s upbeat tempo to the player on my left and then an echo appears in my right. Though words can be heard distinguished at times, most of the song is powerful waves of sound that wash out the vocals. As track two begins, the CDs count themselves off in a robotic fashion. It begins with the gentleness of strings. A large crescendo takes place, followed by unexpected stillness. The vocals enter and become the main focus. The sounds of powerful drums are heard on my right and then the drums enter from the other CD players in a round, one by one. The basses enter on the left and right, as if in a duel, going back and fourth. Vocals surround from all directions and make the words in comprehendible. Light symbols and drums play as the song ends and silence returns. As track three begins the lyrics “Gone insane” describe the crazy, accelerating tempo. As the lyrics wrestle back and fourth between CD players, it becomes apparent that the CDs are even more out of synch than before. Track four enters with two definite beats of the drum and single guitar strums. The guitar clashes with the symphonic sounds that I hear to my left and great dissonance arises. Chaos of competing tempos arises and then the sounds of chirping birds fill the room. It sounds like a flock of excited birds ready to attack. The noise builds up and then a light ending calms the mood. Track five begins with gentle, light strums of a guitar bombarded suddenly by powerful drums from all directions. Track six was simply a track of high pitches and nothing else. The piano begins track 7 lightly, followed by a powerful crescendo of drums . However, the drums back down to and the sound of a powerful storm arises with much wind and rain. Track eight entered with a light and happy mood. A man’s voice is heard from across the room and he talks about stuffed animals. Then, as the song nears it ending, chaos arises and the room fills with the sound of angry barking dogs. Then suddenly, all is quiet again.