musicbriefs
Topic

Conspiracy theories

Explanations that are too neat, and why they satisfy.

1
in music
11:50
average
12 min
in total
3
across the network
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11:50

Rust in Peace

Megadeth · 1990

Rust in Peace is Megadeth’s 1990 studio album, recorded at Rumbo Recorders in March 1990. It is the first Megadeth album completed with a producer who wasn’t fired — Mike Clink — though Mustaine later said most of the work was done by himself, Max Norman, and engineer Micajah Ryan.

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9:24

A Rainbow in Curved Air

Terry Riley · 1969

A Rainbow in Curved Air is a solo studio construction: keyboard and percussion overdubs on the A-side, saxophone drone and tape manipulation on the B-side. Made in 1968 on one of CBS’s first eight-track recorders. It established repetition, delay, and modal layering as core tools for electronic composition — not as texture, but as architecture.

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9:11

Aida

Giuseppe Verdi · 1989

A studio recording of Verdi’s Aida, made in 1989. Contains all vocal and orchestral numbers across four acts. Omits Verdi’s rejected overture. No source material describes performers, conductor, recording venue, or engineering choices.

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9:33

Akhnaten

Philip Glass · 1987

A low, dark opera built by deleting violins — and a Western fantasy dressed as ancient ritual.

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9:41

Aladdin

Alan Menken · 1992

A technically assured, narratively precise soundtrack built for mass appeal and cinematic utility. It delivers exactly what it promises: songs that advance plot, underscore emotion, and vanish from memory once the credits roll.