It’s a funny thing, music perception. For years, I was mispronouncing “Gotye” – thinking it was “goat-tee” rather than the correct “Got-Tee-Yay.” This just goes to show how closely I was following popular music back in the 2010s. However, there was one song that cut through even my musical ignorance: “Somebody That I Used To Know.” Its impact speaks volumes about its unique place in the musical landscape.
Unpacking the Uniqueness of “Somebody That I Used To Know”
If I had to use one word to describe “Somebody That I Used To Know,” it would be “unique.” In a world saturated with songs, this track stands apart. I may not have an encyclopedic knowledge of every song ever released, but I’ve heard my fair share, and I struggle to find anything that sounds quite like Gotye’s masterpiece.
Gotye works for me meme
But being unique doesn’t automatically equate to being good. Thankfully, in this case, “Somebody That I Used To Know” is not just unique; it’s exceptionally good. It’s intriguing, highly melodic, and possesses a rare quality in popular music: dynamics.
So many contemporary songs operate at a constant level 10. Even the grunge and alternative movements, known for their dynamic shifts, often relied on a binary soft-verse-loud-chorus structure. “Somebody That I Used To Know” takes a different approach to volume, creating a captivating sonic landscape. Combine this with beautiful melodies and striking vocal performances that deliver unexpected emotional punches, and you have a truly remarkable song.
In-a-Flash score: 8/10
The Full Spectrum Review: Why “Somebody That I Used To Know” Deserves its Acclaim
Gotye encyclopedic knowledge meme
Production: 10/10
When was the last time you heard a modern pop song that seamlessly blends deep-cut samples from 60s instrumentals with a xylophone? “Somebody That I Used To Know” dares to start with Gotye’s almost whispered vocals for the first minute and a half, building anticipation before the chorus even hits. It breaks convention by presenting two verses before the chorus arrives, a bold structural choice that pays off.
And the dynamic shifts! Taking a cue from grunge but applying it to a low-key, Latin-folk-esque foundation, Gotye transitions from a whisper to a powerful, almost whaling chorus. Then, adding another layer of brilliance, the song incorporates flute melodies to complement Kimbra’s featured vocals.
Gotye xylophone modern songs meme
Kimbra’s contribution is equally transformative. She mirrors Gotye’s whisper-to-whaling approach, making her more than just a featured artist; she becomes an integral part of a beautifully harmonized duet. And let’s not forget the confident xylophone glissando that concludes the song – a truly unique outro.
Adding to the song’s mystique, all these innovative and compelling production elements were conceived and executed by Gotye himself, reportedly in his parents’ house. It’s safe to say there’s likely no other song quite like it. The production is a masterclass in subtlety and vibrancy, organic and electronic, soft and biting. It’s a sonic tapestry of contrasts that elevates “Somebody That I Used To Know” to rarefied air.
Production score 10 out of 10
Songwriting/Melody: 9/10
As Hooktheory.com expertly points out, “Somebody That I Used To Know” isn’t built on complex chord progressions. The first two verses are remarkably simple, revolving around just two chords. Yet, the compelling vocal melody of the chorus creates a dramatic shift, adding dimension despite the subtle underlying harmonic changes.
Gotye songwriting assessment by hooktheory
The real songwriting genius emerges in the latter half of the third verse, Kimbra’s section. This part functions as a bridge or pre-chorus, a structural deviation from typical pop music formulas. This unconventional choice heightens the song’s tension and lyrical weight, significantly contributing to its high songwriting score.
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The beautiful harmonies in the duet further amplify the song’s emotional impact. They create a palpable tension, expressing vulnerability, emotion, and beauty simultaneously.
Vocals: 10/10
The vocal performances in “Somebody That I Used To Know” are exceptional, largely due to the performers’ ability to embody the narrative. Many songs feature vocal performances; this song presents vocal acting. Gotye and Kimbra don’t just sing; they convey a story, a situation, through their voices. This authenticity resonates deeply, making the lyrics more impactful, especially in the chorus and during their duet.
Gotye vocal storytelling meme
The dynamic range of their vocals, moving from whispers to belts, mirrors the escalating drama of the story. This deliberate use of vocal amplitude to convey feeling and lyrical meaning is both unique and compelling.
Lyrics: 8/10
The lyrical honesty of “Somebody That I Used To Know” is refreshing. It delves into the complexities of post-relationship emotions, where love and resentment coexist:
But that was love, and it’s an ache I still remember
You can get addicted to a certain kind of sadness
I’ll admit that I was glad it was over
These lines reveal a mature understanding of complicated feelings. The shift from “love-of-his-life” to “someone” is a stark and effective portrayal of emotional distance.
Gotye harsh pronouning batman meme
However, the lyric “Now and then I think of all the times you screwed me over” slightly detracts from the otherwise masterful lyrical narrative. While aiming for “real talk,” this idiom feels somewhat jarring and disconnected from the song’s overall tone. It disrupts the immersive experience, sticking out as an awkward phrase despite its intention to build drama.
Ear Worminess: 8/10
“Somebody That I Used To Know” is undeniably an earworm. The song offers multiple hooks to latch onto: the iconic guitar riff, the distinctive xylophone, the powerful chorus vocals, and the duet harmonies.
Ear worminess score 9 out of 10
However, the chorus earworm, while catchy, can feel slightly drawn out, making it more of a persistent “brainworm” than a simple earworm you hum absentmindedly. It’s intensely memorable, but perhaps a little too insistent.
OVERALL SCORE: 9/10
TL;DR:
Gotye special song meme
A deeper analysis reveals why “Somebody That I Used To Know” transcends typical pop music. While initially perceived as just a very good song, closer examination reveals a truly special track deserving of high praise. It possesses drama, vocal acting, compelling melodies, and meticulous attention to detail.
All these elements are masterfully woven together through brilliant production that utilizes dynamics in a way rarely achieved in popular music. If only that one lyric hadn’t “screwed it over” just a tad!
Cheers!
