Advanced Music Analysis: 'Prisoner of Society'

The mood of 'Prisoner of Society' is best described as...

• Gentle and thoughtful

• Rebellious, energetic, and aggressive

• Joyful and celebratory

• Sad and reflective

Answer explanation

The mood of 'Prisoner of Society' is characterized by themes of rebellion and defiance, reflecting a youthful energy and aggression against societal norms, making 'Rebellious, energetic, and aggressive' the best description.

The lyrics of the song mainly express a feeling of...

• Belonging and community spirit

• Love for school and rules

• Frustration with authority and not wanting to conform

• Happiness about growing up

Answer explanation

The lyrics convey a strong sense of frustration with authority and a desire to resist conformity, highlighting themes of rebellion and individuality rather than belonging or happiness.

How does the very fast tempo (speed) of the song affect its mood?

• It makes the song feel calm and sleepy.

• It creates a sense of high energy, urgency, and rebellion

• It makes the song easier to dance to slowly.

• The tempo has no real impact on the mood.

Answer explanation

The very fast tempo of the song creates a sense of high energy, urgency, and rebellion, making it feel lively and intense, which contrasts with calmness or sleepiness.

Which term best describes the timbre of the lead vocalist's voice?

• Soft and whispering

• Smooth and melodic

• Shouted, raw, and intense

• Low and humming

Answer explanation

The term 'shouted, raw, and intense' best describes the lead vocalist's voice, indicating a powerful and emotionally charged delivery, contrasting with softer or smoother options.

This style of music, which often features fast tempos and rebellious lyrics, is known as...

• Classical

• Jazz

• Punk Rock / Rockabilly

• Folk Music

Answer explanation

Punk Rock / Rockabilly is characterized by fast tempos and rebellious lyrics, making it the correct choice. Classical and Jazz are more structured, while Folk Music typically has a different thematic focus.

The Living End is a trio. What are the three instruments they play?

• Keyboard, drums, and bass guitar

• Electric guitar, drums, and upright bass

• Two electric guitars and drums

• Acoustic guitar, bass guitar, and saxophone

Answer explanation

The Living End is known for their energetic rock sound, which features electric guitar, drums, and upright bass. This combination is distinctive to their style, making the correct answer 'Electric guitar, drums, and upright bass'.

What is the distinctive timbre of the main bass line?

• A smooth, deep hum

• A sharp, electronic sound

• A percussive and rhythmic 'slapping' sound

• A very quiet, almost silent pulse

Answer explanation

The main bass line is characterized by a percussive and rhythmic 'slapping' sound, which distinguishes it from smoother or quieter options. This choice captures the energetic and dynamic quality of the bass line.

How would you describe the timbre of the electric guitar, especially during the intro and solo?

• Clean and gentle

• Distorted and gritty

• Muffled and distant

• Bright and acoustic

Answer explanation

The electric guitar's timbre during the intro and solo is best described as distorted and gritty, which is characteristic of many electric guitar performances, adding a raw and powerful edge to the sound.

What is the main role of the drummer in this song?

• To play a quiet, simple beat in the background.

• To drive the song forward with fast, loud, and energetic rhythms

• To play lots of complex, quiet cymbal patterns.

• To follow the vocals with a soft beat.

Answer explanation

The drummer's main role is to drive the song forward with fast, loud, and energetic rhythms, providing the necessary energy and momentum that enhances the overall feel of the music.

The term 'texture' in music refers to the different layers of sound. How would you describe the texture of this song?

• Thin and raw, built around the three core instruments

• Very thick, with many synthesisers and backing vocalists.

• Complex and constantly changing.

• Made up of only string instruments.

Answer explanation

The correct choice describes the song's texture as 'thin and raw,' indicating a simple arrangement focused on three core instruments, which aligns with the question's definition of texture in music.