I’ve previously explored different kinds of music on this blog, diving into the realm of pretty songs, to be exact. While I appreciate the image of myself as a contemplative writer, constantly immersed in Nick Drake’s melodies and gazing wistfully at autumn leaves, the truth is, pretty songs aren’t my ultimate musical passion. They hold a place, but they don’t ignite my soul quite like my favorite genre: Freak Out Songs.
Yes, I confess, I’m a bit of a spaz at heart. Excitement courses through me, and headbanging is a natural response. I know it might not be the epitome of cool, and perhaps I should claim to only listen to minimalist Nordic soundscapes or something equally obscure, but that’s simply not me. I crave music that compels me to do handstands, sprint around my apartment until my girlfriend pleads for mercy. This is the power of the freak out song.
(It’s important to distinguish the freak out song from its cousin, the pump up song. They share a similar origin, but are distinct species. Pump up songs can inspire, evoke chills – Explosions in the Sky’s “Your Hand in Mine” is a prime example. But it lacks the raw, unbridled energy of a true freak out song. Freak out songs serve one singular, crucial purpose: to make you absolutely lose your mind.) (Obviously.)
These are the anthems for the final stretch of a long run, when exhaustion battles determination, and you need a sonic surge to propel you home. These are the tracks to blast when heartbreak hits, and you feel the urge to tear down the wallpaper. These are the sounds to unleash when your neighbor’s nocturnal activities have robbed you of sleep for nights on end, and they simply must endure your guitar-fueled catharsis. These are unequivocally songs to lose your shit to.
Andrew W.K. is practically the architect of the freak out song (it’s the foundation of his career). Japandroids and Titus Andronicus also master this exhilarating genre.
However, the realm of freak out songs extends far beyond punk rock. In my humble opinion, Outkast’s “Bombs Over Baghdad” reigns supreme as the ultimate freak out anthem. M.O.P.’s “Ante-Up” and Busta Rhymes’ “Break Ya Neck” are also undeniable contenders.
Even The Isley Brothers’ “Shout” possesses incredible freak out capabilities. And, much to my music snob chagrin, LMFAO’s “Party Rock Anthem” and the sonic chaos of Skrillex also qualify as fantastic freak out tracks.
So, I’ve provided a starting point. The Spotify playlist is ready for your contributions. But I crave more. We created an amazing playlist for Prettiest Songs of All Time and I’m aiming for something even bigger, even better.
(Let’s get wildly diverse here. I’m not just seeking punk rock. I want country freak out songs, R&B freak out songs, rap freak out songs, house, Zef, Dance Hall, Basque traditional music (Kepa Junkera, I see you!), Gbedu, opera, K-Pop – let’s explore the spectrum! That’s the entire essence, isn’t it?)
Once again, the Spotify playlist awaits your input. Share your song suggestions in the comments below, and I’ll keep adding them throughout the day. LET’S GO!
