Thanks for checking out my March Of The Pigs breakdown! For song & album requests and to support my channel and musical projects, please consider joining my Patreon (I can't monetize my videos): www.patreon.com/iximusic 🙌 You can also commission me to analyze your original music or do a piano cover. 🎹 And I teach private & group lessons, do film/video game scoring, and music transcriptions 🎶 TIPS: www.buymeacoffee.com/iximusic 💄
Side trivia: the "doesn't it make you feel better" piano piece is typically played live by the drummer, who then runs around from the keyboard, sits at the drums, grabs his sticks and comes in perfectly on time without tripping over cables, knocking the stool over, elbowing a cymbal or mis-handling a drumstick. Legendary show of dexterity and spacial awareness!
I’m a classically trained piano teacher who grew up on early industrial music in the 80’s, and I remember the excitement of 1989 when Ministry’s Land of Rape & Honey and NiN’s Pretty Hate Machine were killing dance floors. Those (few) of us music school nerds who loved that chaos rejoiced at it all coming together in a commercial & very musical way. Trent took piano and knows theory. I live for moments when I meet a new student who wants to learn, say, Head Like a Hole or this song!
Some years ago... I read something wherein the writer remarked that (for many young boys of my quarrelsome tribe,) "Nitzer Ebb was like the gateway drug from Depeche Mode to full on Ministry." And I thought... "That actually sounds like a reasonable abbreviation of my adolescence." NIN opened the door to so many musical experiences for me. I scoured libraries for the right equipment to listen to Stockhausen per his own diagrams... Heard and saw Monsters Of Grace performed at the Brooklyn Academy of Music... Helped Jamie Stewart and Caralee McElroy set up chairs in a Philly dive bar before they got on stage... I'll never be able to thank him enough for opening the door.
The day the March of the Pigs video premiered on MTV, I was about 15. I went to a local punk show that night and everyone was going crazy talking about it. Then the following year, NIN played a show in our hometown. The opening acts were Pop Will Eat Itself, and The Jim Rose Circus Side Show!!!!! It was right after Natural Born Killers came out.
@@Josh-ff1zm I saw them (Topeka, KS) on that tour! Only PWEI was absent - they were on the bill but had car trouble in Colorado and couldn't make it - so we got The Melvins instead. I was not disappointed. Still one of the best memories of my life. =)
It's funny to see someone describe the "inner workings" of March of the pigs so elegantly, you are uncovering a diamond in the rough. I love your videos, keep em coming!
@@iximusic Yes, in Trent Reznor's creations you can see his great mind at work, I'm happy a pianist (like me) noticed it. Maybe you also know the solution of another song tricking me, by Korn: "Freak on a leash". When I play it on piano, with the chords I hear in the refrain, it sounds so joyful and happy, though it shouldn't be! Can you find it why? Maybe the bass line?
@@langolodigibo Hey just saw this comment! I'm very familiar with that track, kinda defined my 14th year of life! Maybe this video will help some, it's one of my 90s videos! ruclips.net/video/Uqt4gM_C380/видео.html. but as for why it sounds joyful, best guess would be the melody he's singing is the major scale emphasizing the 4th and 3rd relationship ("amen" sound)! The chords are more sinister beneath his beautiful melody. Lots of those conflicts in KoRn music too!
@@iximusic as a non-musician it really brings these tracks to life in a way we can’t normally access without a music theory class, thanks so much ixi 🙏🏽 !
@@iximusic ...just don't forget that Trent can't sing, so no much intentional tritons haha (believe it or not, he'd said that himself in private to the sister of my ex girlfriend, who was Trent's girlfriend at the time).
When my friend and I hit the pause after “Doesn’t it make you feel better”, on first listen, he turns to me and says “oh this is gonna hit REAL HARD”...and then it did.
@@Zealant Read again. I said when my friend and I hit the pause after the lyrics. You obviously know the song. You misread my statement. Admittedly poor phrasing on my part.
Trent had a way of creating an energy within you almost like controlling your emotions through trance like beats followed by subtle piano tones then violently throwing you into the distorted guitar riffs. He was a master of transition.
past tense? while im not *as* crazy about his post-spiral releases they have definitely grown on me and he certainly absolutely is still an absolute musical genius.
@@wentzr He's still good of course, post spiral, and sometimes great, but DWS his ability to do what the orginal comment said was out of this world and likely due to the use of drugs to induce heightned state, stream of consciousness, plus his band mates at the time, especially the drummer, and his producer flood and enginner moulder to make it all pristine. Trent quit using drugs to write music after DWS because of the toll it took on his brain, he could no longer think, as he's said in interviews, lost his creativity, couldn't really even get out of bed he said. I also wonder if it was trent or his drummer who came up with the beat for march of the pigs? I've heard it was the basist who came up with the bassline for Closer. Lot of synchronicity in this album, that makes it so otherworldy....Absolute work of genius
@@barneyrubble8255 Trent struggled with drug addiction for quite some time after Downward Spiral (what I think you are referring to as “DWS”?). He didn’t actually hit rehab until 2001. Regardless if you are insinuating that drug use is necessary to write compelling music you couldn’t be further from the truth. While yes many musicians struggle with addiction it is not the drugs that fuel their talent. They write incredible music in spite of the drugs.
@@wentzr if you look closer at the details i believe you will see that, trent quit drugs before starting to write and record the fragile, he relasped only after the fragile hit number 1 to celebrate its success...... then he quit again for good.
One of the best albums ever written! The fact that the harmonic structure follows the lyrics so well is wonderful. I am talking about the "but doesn't it make you feel better" bit. Trent is such a genius and you have done an excellent job breaking down his composition again.
It really is. I have a CD player in my car still and this one is always in the rotation, even after 20 years. Thanks again, so glad we are musically connected now, Harleen!
I made the same discovery a while ago myself. This isn't the only song he does this in. MOST of his songs are in major keys...and it's crazy, because they don't sound it until you actually tear apart the song like you did. (Great job by the way). I've actually done the same on some of my music now. It's crazy how that works! He's a genius, but most people don't understand the full weight of just how much he is unless they truly understand the music theory behind what he is doing. Love what you did here! Subbed!
This is just so weird - you look and sound so gentle and kind and yet here you are insightfully deconstructing this abrasive masterpiece of a song/album. You get instant sub. ❤
I wish I had this channel in Highschool when I studied music and also had a sick obsession with NiN. I have a greater appreciation of Trent's music after this analysis.
When I was at music school a million years ago, I used to walk around campus playing Downward Spiral nonstop on a cassette walkman. It completely blew my mind. I actually arranged one of the songs for full orchestra at one point for a class. NIN music theory is right up my alley!
@@iximusic Yeah somewhere in a closet, handwritten on giant orchestra score paper. It's "A Warm Place". The one and only time I wrote a full orchestra score in my life. My professor said the marimba and harp doubling the melody was one of the most beautiful things she'd ever heard, and I was so proud of myself.
Their first 3 albums were all masterpieces. I remember buying the downward spiral on a Friday after school and I listened to it in my vehicle for like 4 hours completely blown away. The album was such a trip, very depressing in a lot of ways but very powerful. No album has come close since
What???!!! Major chords??!!! No way. I am blown away by that tidbit. The band geek in me is loving everything in this breakdown. Love NIN and make new discoveries every time. Every track, every album has been a winner since day one, and I continue to be amazed at Trent's genius. Thank you so much for sharing! 😊💙🖤✨
First time ever seeing your videos. Bam: SUBSCRIBED. I think the reason it's major-but-dark is the association we have with military marches. This is more overt in The Fragile, but when you take such a thing and slam the peaks like you're punching or thrusting, it comes out positively scary. That era of his music, every time he put out something new, I felt nervous for weeks listening (mostly scared that I liked it, and didn't know what that meant)! Thanks for the thorough break-down. My knowledge of music theory is pretty scant, but it's lovely to get a peak inside the machine.
This is brilliant. All I know about music is how much I love the way it makes me feel. I know nothing about chords, notes, or anything else you are talking about but it’s a true joy to watch you dissect these tracks
Back in the day I used to make remixes on the nine inch nails website for fun, and I thought I was cheeky and wanted to do a March of the pigs remix, but my adolescent mind couldn't figure out the time signature and that was the first time in my life I was musically stumped. Since then I have learned that you can alternate time signatures, but I get stumped on a million other things (I'm looking at you polyrhythm!!!)
I really love how you break this down. I remember all those hours spent listening to this album and this song in particular with all the details in it. A Masterpiece. Great work on this!!!
This album literally changed my life. I knew this is what I wanted to do, create music, and it’s because of this album. It’s such a masterpiece in so many ways and still my go to album for inspiration. Great video!
Love that VI - VII - I progression... we always called it the "Mario progression", because that's the progression every time you finish a level in Super Mario Bros
I don't even know how I came across your channel, but I am so glad I did. Your work is becoming my favorite thing to watch when I have time to devote my attention between classes. Learning the music theory behind one of my favorite musicians is so great and gives me some actual insight into his brilliance. Much love and keep it up!
This video is amazing. You have the talent and insight to deconstruct Reznor’s music in a way that tributes his genius. I feel like you explained the music theory behind what so many of us subconsciously felt and experienced with this song. After this master class into Trent’s demented audio psyche I appreciate march of the pigs so much more. THANK YOU!
Blown away, just found you right here, right now. NIN was one of the most influential artists of my young adulthood and hearing this breakdown was so satisfying! Excellent content! Subscribed
PHM came out when I was 14. I somehow just knew that I was listening to some of the best music I'll ever hear. I wasn't musically inclined but I could sense that what I was hearing was genius.
I believe I was 12 when PHM was released. But I'm pretty sure the first time I heard NIN was The Happiness in Slavery video on MTV. Not an auspicious beginning, I realize... but having never previously been captivated by any kind of pop music... I knew that I had finally found my people. I often describe Trent's work as being like a tapestry. His music has so many discreet and interacting components operating in unison. And they're all so tectonically provocative! It makes the smooth, three-chord-progression mush of his contemporaries seem featureless, by comparison.
Yo this is sick, I've never seen anyone analyze March of the Pigs before so you've earned another subscriber and then I see that you've done the entire album, goddamn I know what I'm binging at 2:30am
This has made my day. March wasn't the first song of NIN I've loved, but it's the first that made me desperate to go out and buy every album he ever released.
This album was a formative piece of music in my high school days. My dad was cool, liked NIN, took me and my friends to see this tour live. I always thought Prince was a huge influence on NIN. I hear a lot of that in DS. Thanks for these videos. I thought I knew this album in and out. You have opened my ears to a lot of new things and I've given the album a really deep listen again. Hard to believe its been over 25 years since this came out. the album still sounds "new" to me. TIme to hit the piano and guitar...
This is a great musical breakdown of the song. It is also interesting how the three main vocal sections of the song are not just performed differently but relate to three different speakers in a story. The first stanza is Trent's on stage personality yelling to the pigs, the second stanza is the pigs (old friends, fans, media, etc.), and the chorus is Trent's introverted personality reflecting on being violated.
What an incredibly profound discovery, IXI, has a true gift. I'm elated that someone, could deconstruct NIN's album with such clarity. Not bad for a kid, who starting by working for Right Track Studio as an assistant engineer, as well as its janitor, but, it's there he could use the recording equipment to make free demos. It's no secret that Reznor has been and remains an "idol" of the underground EBM/Industrial scene; nonetheless, his history with record labels is considered "contentious" at best. With the success of "Pretty Hate Machine" he wanted to really stretch out, showcasing his immense talents. NIN's second album "Broken" is officially called "The Broken Movie" as a series of gruesome and flagrantly, socially unacceptable display of horror, that, are still banned from the internet. Critics touted these materials, as an epic failure. While the music itself, was a success reaching the top 10 in the United States, however, in Reznor's mind (the obsessive perfectionist) that just wasn't good enough. He couldn't stop from envisioning the visual and musical elements as essentially -- one in the same. Four of eight music videos, thematically stitched together as a mini-series, to form a single twenty minute movie: Critiquing humanities innate thirst for voyeuristic sadomasochistic desires. In "Happiness in Slavery", Bob Flanagan the renown performing artist who specialized in S&M performances -- enters a banal sterile looking room with an ominous looking stainless-steel (apparently self automated) chair. Flanagan strips nude, neatly folding then placing his clothes aside, deposits his money and sits down. In the beginning, there's not much, as the chair's mechanical systems locks him tightly in place and first offers pleasures. The imagery, straddles the line, between pain and pleasure. NIN's music follows each phase as the chair uses all manner of torture, eventually grinding his genitals off and eventual death. As innocuous as the chair may appear, it's mastered the full and complete experience; then, self-cleans and resets for another participant. Later, mysterious bootlegs find there way out and are now, considered to be the "crown jewels" for serious NIN devotees. Some back-story to "The Downward Spiral" album, is that this was Reznor's tirade against the music industry (that's no great mystery) as when he, now famously, mailed cut-out pieces of his old TVT Records publishing rights contract, back to them. Even with 2 Grammys and a Platinum-Record his disenchantment and brooding bitter resentment will become an impetus -- his modus-operandi for "The Downward Spiral" in making this masterpiece. Now, the official Wiki-related informed will, undoubtedly dispute this recount, as Reznor started working furiously on his new Apple laptop; with, good sound editing software, attached a synthesizer, various guitars, microphone, and a portable recording device to record the outside "industrial machinery" samples, a must have, the "hallmark standard" in the subcultures audio preferment and other samples as noted. Germany had dominated this particular "style" something the Detroit-boys, couldn't seem to really master. However, it's the Los Angeles scene that perfects the dance style, as seen all over RUclips. Layers upon layers of rhythmic pounding, interstitially framed by sweet mechanical samples, that flood your ears and mind. With "The Downward Spiral" album Rezner perfects a true dichotomy; between, an uneasiness of wanting to turn it off, and, a yearning curiosity for base instinctual wanted desires to turn it up. He alone commenced doing, what others said couldn't be done and to show his true talents as a complete Renaissance-man, setting-up the framework for countless music artists to venture in his foot steppes. Many are right here, on RUclips, such as Daniel Graves of Aesthetic Perfection, who virtually does everything himself, also a Renaisance-man of the industry, who will not compromise his creativity either. Commercial viability was "never" Rezner's goal (although the album does, become a global sensation): This was his way to unrepentantly abash and shame all the recording labels, the music industry elites, and those former managers by using "The Downward Spiral" as a musical critique, essentially saying, "F_uck You ... !!!" -- to them. According to some speculation, "March of The Pigs" is directed at the aforementioned. With his formal education, as a computer engineer, it wasn't long before he's hit with the epiphany, "I don't need anyone, or anybody, when, I can do it myself". He's the consummate perfectionist, where the word "compromise" is the worst word, a bad word, a Vampire in sunlight kind of word, that, resides in the pages of the Merriam-Webster's Dictionary. Later, Reznor dangles the proverbial carrot, before the horse with Interscope Records. Interscope, is savy and knows negotiations would be futile with Reznor. He signs with Interscope Records and is finally given the freedom, that he had feverishly craved from the beginning. Interscope gives full budgets to have the music videos filmed, all under Rezner's hawkish eye. Today, he's sought out by the movie industry; Paramount, MGM, Sony Pictures, Warner Bother's, Universal Studio's, and so on, including -- Disney, now who would have ever guessed? Sorry for the long read. Sometimes, it's better to drive and watch the scenery, than to fly and miss everything. Thank you for your time, R ---
Just phenomenal. I’m a lifelong NIN and Reznor fan and any and all analysis is welcomed. I’ve always felt my love of the juxtaposition of extremes, the beautiful and grotesque, could be seen as starting from listening to Reznor’s work (and watching the video for Closer), and your analysis highlights his ability to walk that line.
Sooooo glad I just stumbled across this. Long time NIN fanatic, with a big interest in theroy, though I don't play to well. Will definitely be catching more of your content. 😁
Hey. Just wanted to jump in quick and say this is my favourite track, and the song that got me into this band all the way back in the 90s. I've never actually sat down to do an analysis, and I'm so glad I watched this video. You really made me love the song even more. Great video. Looking forward to watching some more :)
Great video. So glad the algo sent me your way. I was living in New Orleans from 94 to around 2007 so NIN was a huge part of my life then. I saw Trent play in arenas and small clubs during this time. I was at a girlfriends house next door to the club he was playing in (Jimmy's) before the show. There's a knock at the door. She answers it and there's Trent. He says "weird question.... do you have any eyeliner I can borrow?" She goes to the bathroom and gets it and he says "I'll bring it right back." She says "keep it." No one else in the house even knew what was happening until he left and she told us. We were all like WTF??? Shit like that happens in New Orleans. Lol. The guy is an absolute mad genius. Fantastic breakdown of an absolute scorcher of a tune. I will always love NIN. Break down something from Broken. I loved PHM but Broken was the record that made me realize this guy was something special. Happiness In Slavery??? OMG!!
My first album of NIN was the fragile... Cause my record store didn't have the downward spiral at the time. But man oh man, what a great album. I love how you clearly love it as much as I do.
On account of the snare playing in double time in your 7/8 bar you can alternatively count it at twice the speed and regard it as 3 x (4/4 + 3/4) and then (4/4 + 4/4).
Really dig how much joy you get listening to Reznor's music and sharing your experience of it. Thank you for dedicating so much energy and to one of my all-time favorite bands
Hi, ixi, great. I studied music in the college, 2000-04 (didn't graduate though), and a handful of musical stuff just fell on me with your analysis of this music! (which I just came to know yesterday, by mere chance - not a big NIN's fan, but when they kick ass, they kick ass, right?) Jesus, since how many years I didn't listen to "pycardy third"! Yeah, obviously I've being listening to it lots of times... but had no one to chat about. Of all of my friends (are not so many ones), though everybody is crazy about music, only one is a musician, and he knows close to nothing of theory - he "feels" the things, but he can't "describe"em, rationally, describe what he's feeling, you know what I'm saying? Of course you do. I've seen other chanel of analysis of pop music (Bennett, I think it's his name, british)... but there was, I don't know, always something on his presentation that disliked me, made me feel unconfortable. Kinda presumption on him, I guess. Anyway. But I didn't feel this absolutely in you (that's my first time). The only friend I could talk with about these things, a huge guitarist, vocalist and composer, passed out on this januery, and... and I miss him not only for the love we shared by each other. But it's time to move on, life goes on. And, yes, "makes you feel better".
I'm stoked you're watching and enjoying! I am hoping to strike a balance between technical stuff and intuitive descriptions so lots of folks can relate and understand. :)
I love alternate versions of NIN songs. I collected all the Halo releases that accompanied the major releases. The time Signature of March of the Pigs is much more straightforward in All the Pigs, All Lined Up from the March of the Pigs EP. But I like the time sig on the original better. Thanks for talking about this.
I loved seeing this live and watching other videos of this song. I love to dwell in the couple second silence in this song. I love that that you sang. Doesn't it make you feel better and then immediately comment. " Yes it does.". Your music theory explanations are a bit beyond me but it does add another appreciation for Trent's music. Thanks alot!
This is the song that actually got me into NIN 20 years ago. It's the most visceral exposure of greed and torture I had ever heard. It's like Reznor is calling out his fans for taking everything out of him without any compassion at all. But in a wider sense it feels like he is calling out all of humanity for its greed and selfishness. The major chords make it sound almost orgiastic, its a swirling festival of pure greed and decadence. Hence "step right up".
LOVE THIS! Wow - just stumbled upon this (thanks youtube), but it was brilliant! Thanks for putting together such an informative and entertaining analysis of NIN, Ixi! Obviously going to have to play March of the Pigs right after that...
I just come across your videos. Your description of Trent Reznors musical intellect is so precise. I feel the beautiful agony is perfectly streaming through your finger tips through each key. I’d really love to see you recapture more, especially ‘March of the pigs’ in its entirety by means of keys alone. I’ve always felt it’s one of the best of the best Trent Reznor compositions. Thanks for showing such absolute genius through your musical expertise.
I was younger teenager when I heard this song for the first time. I had no knowledge of time signatures other than 4/4. And this rhythm literally blew my mind. Also 8:19 made my day, thank you :)
I grew up to nails in the 90s and I just have to say, you are amazing. I also produce industrial music, and you showed me some things I could never figure out. Bravo! You ROCK! Pure genius 👏 🙌 👌
All major chords! What?! Even more respect for one of my all time favourite musical artists comes from your analysis of this intense - & now I feel, intensely beautiful! - song 😎🤪💕
“And doesn’t it make you feel better” Discovering a channel on one of my favorite bands to this day and deconstructing a legendary song like this? Yes. Yes it does. I’ll definitely binge through these videos and give a subscribe
When you find that magical RUclips channel and smash that MF subscribe button before even watching the first video (saw some other videos in the sidebar). Can't wait to watch this!
That song is GOOD. I was both in love with and disturbed by it when I was younger. I was listening to it yesterday and marveling at how he fit his lyrics so well into the unusual time signature. And the screaming people. Gotta love 'em.
Might be my favorite too. The transition of man to machine makes me think of Darth Vader. Although, Anakin was so whiney I think he was better off as a machine. I don't think the narrator here ends as well off.
I wish I had this video 27 years ago. I played ''March of the Pigs'' in my ''music appreciation'' class in 8th grade. It would have been really awesome if I could have shown this video to explain why this song is so amazing!
I love this video. I like your conversational style, expert analysis and song choice. I got this album when it came out and loved it and you are showing me why I still love it. Thank you
Fun video, glad youtube suggested your channel! Also, I love your botanical apartment. Also, you seem cool, and on a superficial note you are quite pretty (love the lipstick) and your hair is perfection!
I have long been a Trent Reznor fan and have always been impressed with his abilities and yet this video demonstration gives me an even greater level of respect for his talent. BTW, I have always said The Downward Spiral is, for me at least, the greatest album of the 90's - yes, even greater than Nevermind by Nirvana.
I Am The Walrus, by the Beatles is notably all major chords and dark and twisted. Also, liked the video and subscribed to your channel. Looking forward to more like it.
When composing in "trentian" style, you do not think about theory, it is quite pure experimentation that is then later deconstructed and analyzed, if it is needed for orchestration etc. A lot comes from the extensive use of found samples that have voices and sounds that are not in key, not always even in tune. Good sense of musical theory is absolutely necessary to quickly identify patterns, "if i drop this by half i get a resolve" but there is no need to name them on the spot... It is not easy to stay in the flow when using machines, you move on the moment you have it. I did industrial metal in the 90s, can say that the use of "random" found samples is a challenge for any composer and it forces to take odd routes...
I agree with you. In fact I'd say most composers are using their instincts and feelings to guide them, including myself! It's hard/impossible to analyze your own art while it's being created. But it's pretty fascinating to me to understand his tendencies and notice these patterns. Inspiring, illuminating, and emotional. I think about his use of samples a lot, and the notes they introduce when they have tonality. Like in Year Zero, he uses a sample that plays sort of a dominant 7th chord, a harmony he loves to use in all his music, and this weird sample just so happens to have all those tones. How much of that is coincidence, how much is even conscious. What did you play?
Love it IXI! Addicted to your channel. As an old skool NIN fan since he appeared it’s fascinating seeing the musical theory pulled apart... As a sometime mix engineer and fulltime studio support tech I have often disassembled the mix and processing in my head. I hope TR gets to see your videos, I think he would love them! Can’t wait for you to tackle Burn, it has insane timing too
The reason all those major chords sound so dark, is largely due to that tri-tone Ab. Of course that Phrygian-esq b II doesn't hurt (no bn pun intended) either. In fact the use of the b II is a heavy metal staple. Industrial may have started as blend of disco and punk, but it's evolved into a blend of metal and techno.
@@idHeretic while what you're saying isn't technically incorrect, it poops all over the fun of the joke. And no one likes poop on their joke, unless it's a poop joke, of course. Is there any way you could possibly reword your factual stab at the evils of capitalism into a poop joke? I'm pretty positive it would have better reach that way.
Thanks for checking out my March Of The Pigs breakdown! For song & album requests and to support my channel and musical projects, please consider joining my Patreon (I can't monetize my videos): www.patreon.com/iximusic 🙌 You can also commission me to analyze your original music or do a piano cover. 🎹 And I teach private & group lessons, do film/video game scoring, and music transcriptions 🎶 TIPS: www.buymeacoffee.com/iximusic 💄
Side trivia: the "doesn't it make you feel better" piano piece is typically played live by the drummer, who then runs around from the keyboard, sits at the drums, grabs his sticks and comes in perfectly on time without tripping over cables, knocking the stool over, elbowing a cymbal or mis-handling a drumstick. Legendary show of dexterity and spacial awareness!
Ilan Rubin did awesome on that
@@jojijoestar7233j
He doesn't have to run, just to turn his seat.
@@VuotoPneumaNN Not always
"It's the Trentiest thing he could have done"...
Thank you for this little gem.
“Subscribed at “the Trentiest thing he could’ve done.” Lmaoooo
😆
a
I’m a classically trained piano teacher who grew up on early industrial music in the 80’s, and I remember the excitement of 1989 when Ministry’s Land of Rape & Honey and NiN’s Pretty Hate Machine were killing dance floors. Those (few) of us music school nerds who loved that chaos rejoiced at it all coming together in a commercial & very musical way. Trent took piano and knows theory. I live for moments when I meet a new student who wants to learn, say, Head Like a Hole or this song!
hell yeah!
Some years ago... I read something wherein the writer remarked that (for many young boys of my quarrelsome tribe,) "Nitzer Ebb was like the gateway drug from Depeche Mode to full on Ministry." And I thought... "That actually sounds like a reasonable abbreviation of my adolescence."
NIN opened the door to so many musical experiences for me. I scoured libraries for the right equipment to listen to Stockhausen per his own diagrams... Heard and saw Monsters Of Grace performed at the Brooklyn Academy of Music... Helped Jamie Stewart and Caralee McElroy set up chairs in a Philly dive bar before they got on stage...
I'll never be able to thank him enough for opening the door.
The day the March of the Pigs video premiered on MTV, I was about 15. I went to a local punk show that night and everyone was going crazy talking about it.
Then the following year, NIN played a show in our hometown. The opening acts were Pop Will Eat Itself, and The Jim Rose Circus Side Show!!!!! It was right after Natural Born Killers came out.
@@Josh-ff1zm I saw them (Topeka, KS) on that tour! Only PWEI was absent - they were on the bill but had car trouble in Colorado and couldn't make it - so we got The Melvins instead. I was not disappointed. Still one of the best memories of my life. =)
Awesome comments by all!
It's funny to see someone describe the "inner workings" of March of the pigs so elegantly, you are uncovering a diamond in the rough. I love your videos, keep em coming!
NIN just seems full of interesting juxtapositions. All the songs have the prettiest guts, but especially this one! Thanks for the support!
@@iximusic Yes, in Trent Reznor's creations you can see his great mind at work, I'm happy a pianist (like me) noticed it. Maybe you also know the solution of another song tricking me, by Korn: "Freak on a leash". When I play it on piano, with the chords I hear in the refrain, it sounds so joyful and happy, though it shouldn't be! Can you find it why? Maybe the bass line?
@@langolodigibo Hey just saw this comment! I'm very familiar with that track, kinda defined my 14th year of life! Maybe this video will help some, it's one of my 90s videos! ruclips.net/video/Uqt4gM_C380/видео.html. but as for why it sounds joyful, best guess would be the melody he's singing is the major scale emphasizing the 4th and 3rd relationship ("amen" sound)! The chords are more sinister beneath his beautiful melody. Lots of those conflicts in KoRn music too!
@@iximusic as a non-musician it really brings these tracks to life in a way we can’t normally access without a music theory class, thanks so much ixi 🙏🏽 !
People are going to love your content for the same reason they love NIN. You are helping them look at music in a way they never thought of before.
What a cool comment. Thank you!
I just discovered you and you’re brilliant.
Well I am psyched you discovered me! More TDS coming next weeeek.
For real. Great content. 💗
@@iximusic ...just don't forget that Trent can't sing, so no much intentional tritons haha (believe it or not, he'd said that himself in private to the sister of my ex girlfriend, who was Trent's girlfriend at the time).
@@iximusic me too. Same.
Sometimes, RUclips gets the recommendations right. 👍👍
When my friend and I hit the pause after “Doesn’t it make you feel better”, on first listen, he turns to me and says “oh this is gonna hit REAL HARD”...and then it did.
Haha that's great 😆
You paused it?? You should be in jail
@@Zealant Read again. I said when my friend and I hit the pause after the lyrics. You obviously know the song. You misread my statement. Admittedly poor phrasing on my part.
@@doccomoli Oh, you mean when you reached the pause in the song. Okay, you're free to go
@@Zealant Ya. I said it weird.
Trent had a way of creating an energy within you almost like controlling your emotions through trance like beats followed by subtle piano tones then violently throwing you into the distorted guitar riffs. He was a master of transition.
Love this analysis!
past tense? while im not *as* crazy about his post-spiral releases they have definitely grown on me and he certainly absolutely is still an absolute musical genius.
@@wentzr He's still good of course, post spiral, and sometimes great, but DWS his ability to do what the orginal comment said was out of this world and likely due to the use of drugs to induce heightned state, stream of consciousness, plus his band mates at the time, especially the drummer, and his producer flood and enginner moulder to make it all pristine. Trent quit using drugs to write music after DWS because of the toll it took on his brain, he could no longer think, as he's said in interviews, lost his creativity, couldn't really even get out of bed he said. I also wonder if it was trent or his drummer who came up with the beat for march of the pigs? I've heard it was the basist who came up with the bassline for Closer. Lot of synchronicity in this album, that makes it so otherworldy....Absolute work of genius
@@barneyrubble8255 Trent struggled with drug addiction for quite some time after Downward Spiral (what I think you are referring to as “DWS”?). He didn’t actually hit rehab until 2001.
Regardless if you are insinuating that drug use is necessary to write compelling music you couldn’t be further from the truth. While yes many musicians struggle with addiction it is not the drugs that fuel their talent. They write incredible music in spite of the drugs.
@@wentzr if you look closer at the details i believe you will see that, trent quit drugs before starting to write and record the fragile, he relasped only after the fragile hit number 1 to celebrate its success......
then he quit again for good.
One of the best albums ever written! The fact that the harmonic structure follows the lyrics so well is wonderful. I am talking about the "but doesn't it make you feel better" bit. Trent is such a genius and you have done an excellent job breaking down his composition again.
It really is. I have a CD player in my car still and this one is always in the rotation, even after 20 years. Thanks again, so glad we are musically connected now, Harleen!
@@iximusic At one point I couldn't stop listening to In Rainbows for months every day. I love NIN.
I bought THe Downward Spiral on Day 1, A Reptile is the best song
fun fact: "all you need is love" by the beatles has the same 7 7 7 4 structure.
Ah yes! In my experience it has that same feeling of just one beat being missing (instead of a groovy 4+3 situation).
As a drummer, I loved that you demonstrated how the groove works
I made the same discovery a while ago myself. This isn't the only song he does this in. MOST of his songs are in major keys...and it's crazy, because they don't sound it until you actually tear apart the song like you did. (Great job by the way). I've actually done the same on some of my music now. It's crazy how that works! He's a genius, but most people don't understand the full weight of just how much he is unless they truly understand the music theory behind what he is doing. Love what you did here! Subbed!
trent is the full package: innovative songwriter and groundbreaking producer.
This is just so weird - you look and sound so gentle and kind and yet here you are insightfully deconstructing this abrasive masterpiece of a song/album.
You get instant sub. ❤
💜
I wish I had this channel in Highschool when I studied music and also had a sick obsession with NiN. I have a greater appreciation of Trent's music after this analysis.
"it's hard to play... but that's weird!" - ladies and gentleman, Nine Inch Nails hahaha love this
Haha!
“And it does. It really does”
Perfect
😄
When I was at music school a million years ago, I used to walk around campus playing Downward Spiral nonstop on a cassette walkman. It completely blew my mind. I actually arranged one of the songs for full orchestra at one point for a class. NIN music theory is right up my alley!
Do you still have the arrangement? That's badass!
@@iximusic Yeah somewhere in a closet, handwritten on giant orchestra score paper. It's "A Warm Place". The one and only time I wrote a full orchestra score in my life. My professor said the marimba and harp doubling the melody was one of the most beautiful things she'd ever heard, and I was so proud of myself.
Trent does keep it clashy! My new favorite phrase.
Their first 3 albums were all masterpieces. I remember buying the downward spiral on a Friday after school and I listened to it in my vehicle for like 4 hours completely blown away. The album was such a trip, very depressing in a lot of ways but very powerful. No album has come close since
I'd say all of his albums are masterpieces
Bad Witch is so incredible. I wish it was longer, but I guess it doesn't need to be.
Hoping for new music soon 🤞
@@justinhunt1714 I wouldn't say all. The early ones are clearly superior IMO.
I couldn't have wished for a more fascinating and hilarious breakdown of one of my favorite songs.
What???!!! Major chords??!!! No way. I am blown away by that tidbit. The band geek in me is loving everything in this breakdown. Love NIN and make new discoveries every time. Every track, every album has been a winner since day one, and I continue to be amazed at Trent's genius. Thank you so much for sharing! 😊💙🖤✨
First time ever seeing your videos. Bam: SUBSCRIBED. I think the reason it's major-but-dark is the association we have with military marches. This is more overt in The Fragile, but when you take such a thing and slam the peaks like you're punching or thrusting, it comes out positively scary.
That era of his music, every time he put out something new, I felt nervous for weeks listening (mostly scared that I liked it, and didn't know what that meant)!
Thanks for the thorough break-down. My knowledge of music theory is pretty scant, but it's lovely to get a peak inside the machine.
This is brilliant. All I know about music is how much I love the way it makes me feel. I know nothing about chords, notes, or anything else you are talking about but it’s a true joy to watch you dissect these tracks
I'm 5 videos into your library and this is very well done. I hope you are as authentic as you appear (as nothing on the internet is true). Thanks.
“Trentone” 🥰
I’m delighted to find your channel. Thanks for being so brilliant and wonderful while re-presenting the music that formed many of us.
Back in the day I used to make remixes on the nine inch nails website for fun, and I thought I was cheeky and wanted to do a March of the pigs remix, but my adolescent mind couldn't figure out the time signature and that was the first time in my life I was musically stumped. Since then I have learned that you can alternate time signatures, but I get stumped on a million other things (I'm looking at you polyrhythm!!!)
I really love how you break this down. I remember all those hours spent listening to this album and this song in particular with all the details in it. A Masterpiece. Great work on this!!!
It's REALLY fun to listen to NIN music with folks who notice details, layers, etc.!
You made my day! I listened to this in clubs when it came out and it always twisted our brains when it came back in....
This album literally changed my life. I knew this is what I wanted to do, create music, and it’s because of this album. It’s such a masterpiece in so many ways and still my go to album for inspiration. Great video!
Love that VI - VII - I progression... we always called it the "Mario progression", because that's the progression every time you finish a level in Super Mario Bros
I'VE DISCOVERED YOU AND I CAN'T STOP SMILING! THANKS FOR BEING A NERD AND A NIN FREAK WITH US!!!
yeahhhh!
I don't even know how I came across your channel, but I am so glad I did. Your work is becoming my favorite thing to watch when I have time to devote my attention between classes. Learning the music theory behind one of my favorite musicians is so great and gives me some actual insight into his brilliance. Much love and keep it up!
This video is amazing. You have the talent and insight to deconstruct Reznor’s music in a way that tributes his genius. I feel like you explained the music theory behind what so many of us subconsciously felt and experienced with this song. After this master class into Trent’s demented audio psyche I appreciate march of the pigs so much more. THANK YOU!
Blown away, just found you right here, right now. NIN was one of the most influential artists of my young adulthood and hearing this breakdown was so satisfying! Excellent content! Subscribed
PHM came out when I was 14. I somehow just knew that I was listening to some of the best music I'll ever hear. I wasn't musically inclined but I could sense that what I was hearing was genius.
Wow, yeah I think it transcends a lot and reaches into us deeply. I discovered NIN at 14 too. I had never heard anything like it!
I believe I was 12 when PHM was released. But I'm pretty sure the first time I heard NIN was The Happiness in Slavery video on MTV. Not an auspicious beginning, I realize... but having never previously been captivated by any kind of pop music... I knew that I had finally found my people.
I often describe Trent's work as being like a tapestry. His music has so many discreet and interacting components operating in unison. And they're all so tectonically provocative! It makes the smooth, three-chord-progression mush of his contemporaries seem featureless, by comparison.
I wish to make music worth an analysis like this one day! You’re doing great work and I’m sure Trent would appreciate this 🧡
🙌
Hey, nice to see you.
Yo this is sick, I've never seen anyone analyze March of the Pigs before so you've earned another subscriber and then I see that you've done the entire album, goddamn I know what I'm binging at 2:30am
I would like to see you interview Trent, THAT would be interesting.
!!!
I know that’s going to happen!!! Ixi you rule!
This has made my day. March wasn't the first song of NIN I've loved, but it's the first that made me desperate to go out and buy every album he ever released.
This is going to make me cry. This is so good. I can’t believe how good this is
This album was a formative piece of music in my high school days. My dad was cool, liked NIN, took me and my friends to see this tour live. I always thought Prince was a huge influence on NIN. I hear a lot of that in DS.
Thanks for these videos. I thought I knew this album in and out. You have opened my ears to a lot of new things and I've given the album a really deep listen again. Hard to believe its been over 25 years since this came out. the album still sounds "new" to me.
TIme to hit the piano and guitar...
Your breakdown/analysis of the song is very intuitive. Looking forward to future videos!
This is a great musical breakdown of the song. It is also interesting how the three main vocal sections of the song are not just performed differently but relate to three different speakers in a story. The first stanza is Trent's on stage personality yelling to the pigs, the second stanza is the pigs (old friends, fans, media, etc.), and the chorus is Trent's introverted personality reflecting on being violated.
Thanks for this insight! Your comments really highlight why Trent Reznor expressed such intense anger in this song.
What an incredibly profound discovery, IXI, has a true gift. I'm elated that someone, could deconstruct NIN's album with such clarity.
Not bad for a kid, who starting by working for Right Track Studio as an assistant engineer, as well as its janitor, but, it's there he could use the recording equipment to make free demos. It's no secret that Reznor has been and remains an "idol" of the underground EBM/Industrial scene; nonetheless, his history with record labels is considered "contentious" at best. With the success of "Pretty Hate Machine" he wanted to really stretch out, showcasing his immense talents. NIN's second album "Broken" is officially called "The Broken Movie" as a series of gruesome and flagrantly, socially unacceptable display of horror, that, are still banned from the internet. Critics touted these materials, as an epic failure. While the music itself, was a success reaching the top 10 in the United States, however, in Reznor's mind (the obsessive perfectionist) that just wasn't good enough. He couldn't stop from envisioning the visual and musical elements as essentially -- one in the same.
Four of eight music videos, thematically stitched together as a mini-series, to form a single twenty minute movie: Critiquing humanities innate thirst for voyeuristic sadomasochistic desires. In "Happiness in Slavery", Bob Flanagan the renown performing artist who specialized in S&M performances -- enters a banal sterile looking room with an ominous looking stainless-steel (apparently self automated) chair. Flanagan strips nude, neatly folding then placing his clothes aside, deposits his money and sits down. In the beginning, there's not much, as the chair's mechanical systems locks him tightly in place and first offers pleasures. The imagery, straddles the line, between pain and pleasure. NIN's music follows each phase as the chair uses all manner of torture, eventually grinding his genitals off and eventual death. As innocuous as the chair may appear, it's mastered the full and complete experience; then, self-cleans and resets for another participant. Later, mysterious bootlegs find there way out and are now, considered to be the "crown jewels" for serious NIN devotees.
Some back-story to "The Downward Spiral" album, is that this was Reznor's tirade against the music industry (that's no great mystery) as when he, now famously, mailed cut-out pieces of his old TVT Records publishing rights contract, back to them. Even with 2 Grammys and a Platinum-Record his disenchantment and brooding bitter resentment will become an impetus -- his modus-operandi for "The Downward Spiral" in making this masterpiece. Now, the official Wiki-related informed will, undoubtedly dispute this recount, as Reznor started working furiously on his new Apple laptop; with, good sound editing software, attached a synthesizer, various guitars, microphone, and a portable recording device to record the outside "industrial machinery" samples, a must have, the "hallmark standard" in the subcultures audio preferment and other samples as noted. Germany had dominated this particular "style" something the Detroit-boys, couldn't seem to really master. However, it's the Los Angeles scene that perfects the dance style, as seen all over RUclips.
Layers upon layers of rhythmic pounding, interstitially framed by sweet mechanical samples, that flood your ears and mind. With "The Downward Spiral" album Rezner perfects a true dichotomy; between, an uneasiness of wanting to turn it off, and, a yearning curiosity for base instinctual wanted desires to turn it up. He alone commenced doing, what others said couldn't be done and to show his true talents as a complete Renaissance-man, setting-up the framework for countless music artists to venture in his foot steppes. Many are right here, on RUclips, such as Daniel Graves of Aesthetic Perfection, who virtually does everything himself, also a Renaisance-man of the industry, who will not compromise his creativity either. Commercial viability was "never" Rezner's goal (although the album does, become a global sensation): This was his way to unrepentantly abash and shame all the recording labels, the music industry elites, and those former managers by using "The Downward Spiral" as a musical critique, essentially saying, "F_uck You ... !!!" -- to them. According to some speculation, "March of The Pigs" is directed at the aforementioned.
With his formal education, as a computer engineer, it wasn't long before he's hit with the epiphany, "I don't need anyone, or anybody, when, I can do it myself". He's the consummate perfectionist, where the word "compromise" is the worst word, a bad word, a Vampire in sunlight kind of word, that, resides in the pages of the Merriam-Webster's Dictionary. Later, Reznor dangles the proverbial carrot, before the horse with Interscope Records. Interscope, is savy and knows negotiations would be futile with Reznor. He signs with Interscope Records and is finally given the freedom, that he had feverishly craved from the beginning. Interscope gives full budgets to have the music videos filmed, all under Rezner's hawkish eye. Today, he's sought out by the movie industry; Paramount, MGM, Sony Pictures, Warner Bother's, Universal Studio's, and so on, including -- Disney, now who would have ever guessed?
Sorry for the long read. Sometimes, it's better to drive and watch the scenery, than to fly and miss everything.
Thank you for your time,
R ---
Just phenomenal. I’m a lifelong NIN and Reznor fan and any and all analysis is welcomed. I’ve always felt my love of the juxtaposition of extremes, the beautiful and grotesque, could be seen as starting from listening to Reznor’s work (and watching the video for Closer), and your analysis highlights his ability to walk that line.
Amazing break down of one of my all time favourite songs! Subscribed
You should do this with every single track on The Downward Spiral. It would be interesting to hear your take on them
I am!
Sooooo glad I just stumbled across this.
Long time NIN fanatic, with a big interest in theroy, though I don't play to well.
Will definitely be catching more of your content.
😁
Not sure how YT just recommended this to me, but this is flippin’ awesome! Can’t wait to watch more!
great video. I always thought this was such a curious song. great breakdown thank you!!!
Hey. Just wanted to jump in quick and say this is my favourite track, and the song that got me into this band all the way back in the 90s. I've never actually sat down to do an analysis, and I'm so glad I watched this video. You really made me love the song even more. Great video. Looking forward to watching some more :)
When I was a kid I heard that whisper at the end of each phrase at the beginning as "ebola". Still can't unhear it.
That NIN album coincided with a changing/discovery of the teenage me. I think it was for a lot of us. I was 17
Great video. So glad the algo sent me your way. I was living in New Orleans from 94 to around 2007 so NIN was a huge part of my life then. I saw Trent play in arenas and small clubs during this time. I was at a girlfriends house next door to the club he was playing in (Jimmy's) before the show. There's a knock at the door. She answers it and there's Trent. He says "weird question.... do you have any eyeliner I can borrow?" She goes to the bathroom and gets it and he says "I'll bring it right back." She says "keep it." No one else in the house even knew what was happening until he left and she told us. We were all like WTF??? Shit like that happens in New Orleans. Lol. The guy is an absolute mad genius. Fantastic breakdown of an absolute scorcher of a tune. I will always love NIN. Break down something from Broken. I loved PHM but Broken was the record that made me realize this guy was something special. Happiness In Slavery??? OMG!!
My first album of NIN was the fragile... Cause my record store didn't have the downward spiral at the time. But man oh man, what a great album. I love how you clearly love it as much as I do.
On account of the snare playing in double time in your 7/8 bar you can alternatively count it at twice the speed and regard it as 3 x (4/4 + 3/4) and then (4/4 + 4/4).
Really dig how much joy you get listening to Reznor's music and sharing your experience of it. Thank you for dedicating so much energy and to one of my all-time favorite bands
The enjoyment is even bigger knowing so many other passionate fans are enjoying it with me!
Hi, ixi, great. I studied music in the college, 2000-04 (didn't graduate though), and a handful of musical stuff just fell on me with your analysis of this music! (which I just came to know yesterday, by mere chance - not a big NIN's fan, but when they kick ass, they kick ass, right?) Jesus, since how many years I didn't listen to "pycardy third"! Yeah, obviously I've being listening to it lots of times... but had no one to chat about. Of all of my friends (are not so many ones), though everybody is crazy about music, only one is a musician, and he knows close to nothing of theory - he "feels" the things, but he can't "describe"em, rationally, describe what he's feeling, you know what I'm saying? Of course you do. I've seen other chanel of analysis of pop music (Bennett, I think it's his name, british)... but there was, I don't know, always something on his presentation that disliked me, made me feel unconfortable. Kinda presumption on him, I guess. Anyway. But I didn't feel this absolutely in you (that's my first time). The only friend I could talk with about these things, a huge guitarist, vocalist and composer, passed out on this januery, and... and I miss him not only for the love we shared by each other. But it's time to move on, life goes on. And, yes, "makes you feel better".
You know, I don´t even really know music theory so most of this just flies past my head... but damn, I love your videos :D Great job with these!
I'm stoked you're watching and enjoying! I am hoping to strike a balance between technical stuff and intuitive descriptions so lots of folks can relate and understand. :)
This was an amazing video. So enjoyable as a musician to hear your analysis. And so enjoyable as a human to soak up your enthusiasm. You Rock!
I love alternate versions of NIN songs. I collected all the Halo releases that accompanied the major releases. The time Signature of March of the Pigs is much more straightforward in All the Pigs, All Lined Up from the March of the Pigs EP. But I like the time sig on the original better. Thanks for talking about this.
I loved seeing this live and watching other videos of this song. I love to dwell in the couple second silence in this song. I love that that you sang. Doesn't it make you feel better and then immediately comment. " Yes it does.". Your music theory explanations are a bit beyond me but it does add another appreciation for Trent's music. Thanks alot!
This is the song that actually got me into NIN 20 years ago. It's the most visceral exposure of greed and torture I had ever heard. It's like Reznor is calling out his fans for taking everything out of him without any compassion at all. But in a wider sense it feels like he is calling out all of humanity for its greed and selfishness. The major chords make it sound almost orgiastic, its a swirling festival of pure greed and decadence. Hence "step right up".
yeahhhh love this interpretation!
LOVE THIS! Wow - just stumbled upon this (thanks youtube), but it was brilliant! Thanks for putting together such an informative and entertaining analysis of NIN, Ixi! Obviously going to have to play March of the Pigs right after that...
I'm blown away. I'm glad I discovered this channel. "I have never heard a song that used only major chords that sounded so twisted." Haha
I just come across your videos. Your description of Trent Reznors musical intellect is so precise. I feel the beautiful agony is perfectly streaming through your finger tips through each key. I’d really love to see you recapture more, especially ‘March of the pigs’ in its entirety by means of keys alone. I’ve always felt it’s one of the best of the best Trent Reznor compositions. Thanks for showing such absolute genius through your musical expertise.
I was younger teenager when I heard this song for the first time. I had no knowledge of time signatures other than 4/4. And this rhythm literally blew my mind.
Also 8:19 made my day, thank you :)
I grew up to nails in the 90s and I just have to say, you are amazing. I also produce industrial music, and you showed me some things I could never figure out. Bravo! You ROCK! Pure genius 👏 🙌 👌
The RUclips algorithm pushed this onto my feed, and I am glad it did. Fantastic!
All major chords! What?! Even more respect for one of my all time favourite musical artists comes from your analysis of this intense - & now I feel, intensely beautiful! - song 😎🤪💕
Thanx for showin our boy trents song genius🤘this is my favorite song from NIN
What a fantastic breakdown...
“And doesn’t it make you feel better”
Discovering a channel on one of my favorite bands to this day and deconstructing a legendary song like this?
Yes. Yes it does. I’ll definitely binge through these videos and give a subscribe
Holy talent ! Thanks for sharing this
When you find that magical RUclips channel and smash that MF subscribe button before even watching the first video (saw some other videos in the sidebar). Can't wait to watch this!
That "startling discovery"... DAAAAMN. I got goosebumps.
The Becoming is my favorite song of all time off of TDS. MOTP is so damn good. Love your vids.
Actually, my favorite song off all time -- period. :-)
That song is GOOD. I was both in love with and disturbed by it when I was younger. I was listening to it yesterday and marveling at how he fit his lyrics so well into the unusual time signature. And the screaming people. Gotta love 'em.
@@iximusic - I've never come across a better song in my lifetime. Everything is perfection and the lyrics hit hard.
Might be my favorite too. The transition of man to machine makes me think of Darth Vader. Although, Anakin was so whiney I think he was better off as a machine. I don't think the narrator here ends as well off.
The live version on Still is also incredible... possibly the only way the song could have been better...
I wish I had this video 27 years ago. I played ''March of the Pigs'' in my ''music appreciation'' class in 8th grade. It would have been really awesome if I could have shown this video to explain why this song is so amazing!
such an entertaining, humorous and informative video!
Ah exactly how I like it! So glad you enjoyed it. More coming!
I love this video. I like your conversational style, expert analysis and song choice. I got this album when it came out and loved it and you are showing me why I still love it. Thank you
At last someone does a deep dive on NIN!
Fun video, glad youtube suggested your channel! Also, I love your botanical apartment. Also, you seem cool, and on a superficial note you are quite pretty (love the lipstick) and your hair is perfection!
I have long been a Trent Reznor fan and have always been impressed with his abilities and yet this video demonstration gives me an even greater level of respect for his talent. BTW, I have always said The Downward Spiral is, for me at least, the greatest album of the 90's - yes, even greater than Nevermind by Nirvana.
Yeah, the major chords floored me. I wasn’t expecting that. All the tritones help add to the chaos. That was such a cool analysis!
This is a really fantastic analysis.
Thank you so much! Vittles for the earholes.
I Am The Walrus, by the Beatles is notably all major chords and dark and twisted.
Also, liked the video and subscribed to your channel. Looking forward to more like it.
When composing in "trentian" style, you do not think about theory, it is quite pure experimentation that is then later deconstructed and analyzed, if it is needed for orchestration etc. A lot comes from the extensive use of found samples that have voices and sounds that are not in key, not always even in tune. Good sense of musical theory is absolutely necessary to quickly identify patterns, "if i drop this by half i get a resolve" but there is no need to name them on the spot... It is not easy to stay in the flow when using machines, you move on the moment you have it. I did industrial metal in the 90s, can say that the use of "random" found samples is a challenge for any composer and it forces to take odd routes...
I agree with you. In fact I'd say most composers are using their instincts and feelings to guide them, including myself! It's hard/impossible to analyze your own art while it's being created. But it's pretty fascinating to me to understand his tendencies and notice these patterns. Inspiring, illuminating, and emotional.
I think about his use of samples a lot, and the notes they introduce when they have tonality. Like in Year Zero, he uses a sample that plays sort of a dominant 7th chord, a harmony he loves to use in all his music, and this weird sample just so happens to have all those tones. How much of that is coincidence, how much is even conscious.
What did you play?
Love it IXI! Addicted to your channel. As an old skool NIN fan since he appeared it’s fascinating seeing the musical theory pulled apart... As a sometime mix engineer and fulltime studio support tech I have often disassembled the mix and processing in my head. I hope TR gets to see your videos, I think he would love them! Can’t wait for you to tackle Burn, it has insane timing too
Damn, I can’t read music and I don’t know any music theory and this is still super interesting.
I play guitar, but I suck! Music theory is so interesting that I don’t care I can’t play, I just enjoy learning the theory now.
ska typically uses only major chords and is so so happy, what insight. Thank you
Analyzing NIN? Instant subscribe.
i absolutely love your videos!!! been listening to NIN for years and years and it’s so nice to have someone to talk through all of the details
The reason all those major chords sound so dark, is largely due to that tri-tone Ab. Of course that Phrygian-esq b II doesn't hurt (no bn pun intended) either. In fact the use of the b II is a heavy metal staple. Industrial may have started as blend of disco and punk, but it's evolved into a blend of metal and techno.
That tritone - always adding the devil to the details!
well i really enjoyed this, love the way you explained it.
What kind of witchcraft does the RUclips algorithm use to find these videos for me?
Artificial Intelligence is here and it wants us to to listen NIN, I'm not even surprised!
No witchcraft here. Just greedy capitalism sufficiently honed to keep your attention off other matters. The pigs have won again.
@@idHeretic while what you're saying isn't technically incorrect, it poops all over the fun of the joke. And no one likes poop on their joke, unless it's a poop joke, of course. Is there any way you could possibly reword your factual stab at the evils of capitalism into a poop joke? I'm pretty positive it would have better reach that way.
@@SunraiderStudios Skynet will have good taste in music before they crush us.
seriously
Thank you for the music theory analyses, and I love the galaxy design on the mic!
13:58 "Don¡t like the sound of it" I wanna watch it come down
safely*
preferably in another city**