Musical Space 9/20: The Food Analogy

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KMUW / Mark Foley

This week on Musical Space, Mark Foley has a feast for the ears.

The Food Analogy

There’s an often misattributed quote—some say Elvis Costello, some say Frank Zappa, others say Martin Mull—that writing about music is like dancing about architecture. But let’s take a moment and draw a comparison between the art form and food.

So what do I like in food? Well, taste, obviously, and balance. But there are a lot of other elements, too. Classic recipes are great. I can’t help but like tastes from my childhood. But I get really excited about new tastes and food from other places. I like food that says something about the culture it comes from.

I like variation; in fact, I think I would rather not ever have a meal taste exactly the same twice.
Presentation is, of course, a major factor. Maybe most important is the social setting and the others gathered around me for the meal. There is also the issue having the time and state of mind to really enjoy it. I like knowing where my food comes from and that is was made with love. I like the satisfaction of making my own food, even knowing there are many other people way more qualified. Even better is to make food for somebody else. Sometimes I like thinking that my meal is good for my health, but not always.

OK, so take everything I said about food and substitute the word “music.” That’s what I like: harmony, balance, novelty, cultural relevance, the right setting. If it is done right, I love Cajun food, American barbecue, boeuf bourguignon, soul food, Indian food, and pizza. A good rib-eye; but then sometimes nothing beats a burger.

Music: “Mr. Green Genes” by Frank Zappa from The Best Band You Never Heard In Your Life