I often wonder at music reviewers and their ability to spot influences in songs from earlier times. To be fair it doesn’t require great skill, but it does require time, attention, and knowledge. In my less gracious moments I am affronted by how similar songs are. As a non music prodcucing person I need to remind myself to pump the brakes and not be so easily triggered. Folks are out there making things, and that is what should be exciting. I do love the knowing nod to former times. Two such instances I thought of recently.


Howlin Rain / Ty Segall - 30th Century Man

I have to assume a knowing nod to T. Rex’s 20th Century Boy?

One of my all time favorites. Bad Religion paying homage or at least taking inspiration from King Crimson.



Perhaps Yes were cribbing from the above King Crimson song (released 1969) when they composed and released Heart of the Sunrise in 1971. The end result is two amazing classic songs. Sure they have a couple of sonic similarities, but just like people, no two will ever be the same. We should all learn to appreciate the similarities, and the differences.