Lately I’ve been wondering why I am so attracted to music in languages I don’t understand. Whether it’s colourful J-pop or earthy Icelandic folk music, I often find myself more invested in music from other cultures than I do music that’s more relevant to my own geographical area.
Perhaps it’s because it allows me to focus more on composition rather than lyrics. Which is especially relevant in a global music industry that, as of late, has been more concerned with the monetary value of music, rather than the quality of its lyrics. Hence I feel there is some sort of unknown truth to the gain from melodies, which is enormously significant due to the language barrier. So maybe it has something to do with the feeling of mysticism, and the eerie sense that though you don’t understand the words being said, you can still gain an idea of what the song is about.
Whatever the case may be, you can find some of the catchiest tunes from the the most hidden corners of the Earth if you keep an eye (or ear) out.
Image: Simer Haer/The Cascade
